Alexis Kestler
Throwing an outdoor party is a great way to have fun with friends and family. Whether it‘s a pool party, BBQ, or just a casual get-together in the backyard, good music can take the event to the next level. But playing music through your phone‘s small speakers just won‘t cut it. What you need is a powerful outdoor speaker system that can fill the space with crisp, clear sound and pumping bass.
The right outdoor speakers allow you to play music as loud as you‘d like without distortion. They‘re designed to handle the elements while delivering exceptional audio quality. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky finding the best outdoor speakers for your needs. We‘ve done the research and rounded up the top speakers for outdoor entertaining.
Key Considerations When Choosing Outdoor Speakers
There are a few key factors to keep in mind when selecting outdoor speakers:
-
Durability – Since these speakers will be exposed to the elements, it‘s crucial to choose an option with weatherproofing and water resistance. Look for speakers made from long-lasting, UV-resistant materials.
-
Sound quality – Don‘t sacrifice audio performance just because it‘s outdoors. Seek speakers that produce clear highs, full mids, and deep lows even at high volumes.
-
Power – More wattage means louder, fuller sound. Look for speakers with at least 50 watts of power handling.
-
Connectivity – Bluetooth and WiFi enable wireless streaming from your phone or tablet. Having multiple connectivity options offers more flexibility.
-
Placement – Carefully consider where you‘ll position the speakers for optimal sound distribution throughout your space.
With the right outdoor speakers, you can have dance parties by the pool, rock out during backyard BBQs, or just relax to music on the patio. Here are our top picks to liven up your next outdoor gathering.
1. Bose FreeSpace 51 Outdoor Speakers
Key features:
- High-excursion 5.25” woofer and 1” tweeter
- Advanced Environmental EQ for optimal sound
- Weather-resistant IP55 rating
- Die-cast aluminum enclosure
- Built-in 3-channel mixer
The Bose FreeSpace 51 are all-weather outdoor speakers designed to deliver exceptional sound quality in any outdoor environment. Advanced EQ technology helps maintain tonal balance even at high volumes. A durable aluminum enclosure and mesh grille make these speakers impervious to rain, dust, UV rays, and more. With 100 watts of power handling each, these can pump out room-filling sound perfect for parties.
Check Price on Amazon
2. Klipsch AW-650 Indoor/Outdoor Speakers
Key features:
- 1” titanium dome tweeter
- UV-resistant ABS enclosure
- Swiveling bracket for directional sound
- High sensitivity and power handling
- Rustproof aluminum grille
With their rugged UV-resistant design and excellent sound quality, the Klipsch AW-650 outdoor speakers are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. The 1-inch tweeters deliver crisp highs while the woofers provide impactful bass. Aim the speakers wherever you want sound thanks to the swiveling brackets. They can play loud enough for patio parties but maintain clarity even at high volumes.
Check Price on Amazon
3. Polk Audio Atrium 4 Outdoor Speakers
Key features:
- Dynamic balance driver with polymer composite woofer
- 1” polymer dome tweeter
- Weatherproof enclosure with stainless steel mounting hardware
- Delivers powerful bass and clear highs
- Omni-directional and broad sound coverage
The Polk Audio Atrium 4 speakers are designed for enduring outdoor performance thanks to their waterproof construction. A 5.25” composite woofer works with a 1” tweeter to deliver full-range audio with vibrant bass and crisp details. The tilted baffle design ensures wide sound distribution that’s great for outdoor spaces. Despite their robust build, these speakers still look stylish.
Check Price on Amazon
4. Anker Soundcore Rave Neo Bluetooth Speaker
Key features:
- Powerful 80W output
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- BassUp technology for deep lows
- PartyCast enables syncing 100+ speakers
- Built-in handle for portability
The Anker Soundcore Rave Neo is engineered to deliver booming sound for outdoor parties thanks to two high-sensitivity drivers and patented BassUp technology. A waterproof IPX7 rating means splashes and rain are no concern. Sync the lighting and audio with other PartyCast-enabled speakers for an epic experience. The built-in strap offers easy carrying between yard, beach, or pool.
Check Price on Amazon
5. JBL PartyBox Encore Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Key features:
- 100W powerful sound
- IPX4 splashproof rating
- Lighting effects sync to music
- Wireless Bluetooth streaming
- Mic and guitar inputs
- 10-hour battery life
Weighing just 18 pounds, the JBL PartyBox Encore delivers an epic audio experience you can take anywhere thanks to its integrated handle and battery-powered operation. Vibrant RGB lights pulse in time with the music, adding to the party vibe. The IPX4 rating ensures splashes from the pool or rain are no issue for this speaker.
Check Price on Amazon
6. OontZ Angle 3 Bluetooth Speaker
Key features:
- Rich stereo sound with enhanced bass
- IPX5 water-resistant rating
- Portable and lightweight triangle design
- Easy Bluetooth connectivity
- Built-in microphone for hands-free calls
- Up to 14 hours playtime on a charge
The OontZ Angle 3 offers surprisingly great sound quality in a compact and affordable package. Its triangular shape helps project full bass and loud volume. Connect your smartphone, tablet, or laptop easily via Bluetooth to stream music or take calls with the built-in mic. With an IPX5 rating, this speaker is ready for pool and beach parties. The 14-hour battery life keeps the music pumping.
Check Price on Amazon
7. DOSS SoundBox Touch Portable Speaker
Key features:
- 20W powerful 360° surround sound
- Touch control panel
- Built-in power bank charges devices
- Rugged and waterproof design
- 12-hour playtime on a charge
- Great value under $50
Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the DOSS SoundBox Touch delivers 20 watts of impressive 360-degree audio thanks to dual drivers and a passive bass radiator. Its durable waterproof silicone casing makes it ideal for outdoor use. You can even charge your phone from the built-in 8000mAh power bank.
Check Price on Amazon
8. Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth Speaker
Key features:
- Compact and ultra-portable size
- IP67 fully waterproof rating
- 8-hour playtime on one charge
- Deep bass via XBass tuning
- Sturdy strap for easy attachment
- Microphone for hands-free calls
Don‘t let its tiny size fool you – the Tribit StormBox Micro pumps out impressive crystal clear audio with thumping bass. Thanks to its IP67 rating, this speaker is fully waterproof and dustproof, so you can bring your tunes poolside without worry. The attachable strap makes it super easy to clip onto backpacks, bike handles, and more for on-the-go listening.
Check Price on Amazon
9. Anker Soundcore Motion+ Bluetooth Speaker
Key features:
- 30W output with deep bass
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- 12-hour continuous playtime
- Bluetooth 5.0 with 66ft range
- USB-C quick charging
- Sturdy strap for portability
The Anker Soundcore Motion+ delivers surprisingly powerful audio performance thanks to 30W drivers and Anker‘s advanced digital signal processing technology. With an IPX7 rating, prolonged water exposure is no concern for this speaker. It can serenade pool parties for over 12 hours on a single charge. The convenient strap lets you take the booming sound on the go.
Check Price on Amazon
10. Sonos Outdoor Speakers
Key features:
- Architectural design made for outdoors
- High durability against elements
- Wall mount, satellite, and subwoofer options
- Clear detailed sound even at high volumes
- Seamless integration with other Sonos speakers
- Voice control compatible
For a permanent outdoor audio solution, the Sonos architectural speakers are designed to withstand the elements while blending into any exterior aesthetic. Get immersive surround sound by pairing the satellite speakers with the Sonos subwoofer. Control them using the Sonos app or a voice assistant. Once installed, these speakers require zero maintenance while providing many years of stellar audio.
Check Price on Sonos.com
11. Vava Voom 23 Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker
Key features:
- 360° surround sound
- IPX6 water-resistant rating
- Powerful 40W output
- Built-in 8800mAh power bank
- 15 hours of continuous playtime
- Sturdy aluminum alloy enclosure
With 360-degree sound powered by two tweeters and two woofers, the Vava Voom 23 fills any outdoor space with rich vibrant audio. Its large 8800mAh battery keeps the booming sound going for 15 hours. The durable aluminum construction is rated IPX6 for protection against heavy sprays of water. Integrated power bank functionality means you can charge devices right from the speaker.
Check Price on Amazon
12. AOMAIS Life 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Key features:
- 30W total output
- IPX7 fully waterproof
- Floats in water
- 20-hour playtime at moderate volume
- PartyCast enabled for pairing speakers
- Rugged and shockproof casing
The Aomais Life 2 delivers powerful 360° sound thanks to 30W drivers and advanced bass technology in a buoyant, waterproof design perfect for pool and beach parties. An IPX7 rating means it can be submerged in water with no damage, and it conveniently floats too. With a 20-hour battery life, you can keep the party going day and night.
Check Price on Amazon
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Speakers
With so many options for outdoor speakers now available, it can be challenging to determine exactly which model is right for your needs. Here are some tips on choosing the best outdoor speakers for your home:
Match the Speaker Quality to the Space
First, consider the size of your outdoor space. For especially large gatherings areas, choose more powerful speakers that can adequately fill the entire space with full-range, high-fidelity sound. For more intimate patios and gardens, more compact speakers can provide sufficient coverage without overwhelming the area.
Consider Placement and Mounting Options
Take into account where and how you will install the outdoor speakers. Wall-mounted designs are great for directing sound exactly where its needed. Freestanding or patio speakers offer more flexibility in placement. Make sure the wiring for permanent installed speakers can be safely routed outdoors.
Ensure Durability for Outdoor Conditions
Since these speakers will face the elements year-round, be sure to choose an option with sufficient weatherproofing and water resistance. An IPX4 or IPX5 rating is ideal for splash resistance, while IPX6/IPX7 ratings indicate speakers that can handle total submersion.
Choose for Sound Quality, Not Just Volume
When it comes to party speakers, it’s tempting to simply look for the loudest option. But more volume doesn‘t always equal better sound. Seek speakers that can play at party levels without distortion while still delivering clear treble, warm midrange, and clean bass – not just loudness.
Consider Connectivity and Control
Many outdoor speakers now feature both WiFi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Multiple connection options provide more flexibility. Also consider if you want integrated voice control, multi-room audio streaming, or stereo pairing capabilities.
Balance the Budget
Outdoor speakers span a wide range of pricing from less than $50 to over $500. Consider how much you’re willing to spend and choose the best model that fits your budget. With higher prices come increased power, durability, and better sound so weigh your options accordingly.
Read Reviews Before Deciding
Research speaker options and read reviews from sources you trust. This can reveal important details about real-world performance, pros/cons, sound quality, and value that spec sheets don’t always convey. Take customer feedback into consideration before choosing.
Conclusion
Adding great outdoor speakers can transform a small patio into an entertainment oasis or make your next pool party the event of the season. We hope our picks for the best outdoor speakers provide options to suit any outdoor space and budget. Just be sure to consider sound quality in addition to volume, weather resistance, placement, and connectivity when choosing speakers to deliver booming audio outside. Party on!
