Budget beats: The best budget Bluetooth speakers in 2024

Anker is a reliable brand for quality budget speakers, and the Soundcore mini is a great example of that. It has above-average playtime (15 hours), and despite its compact design, it has quite an impressive IPX7 waterproofing rating. Look no further if you want an affordable speaker for a day at the beach.

One of the great things about miniature speakers is pairing them up, and the Soundcore mini really shines in that regard. It allows connectivity up to 66 feet, meaning you'll have no trouble listening even if your phone is across the house. If you run out of battery on your phone, you can tune in with the included FM radio function, or utilize the micro-SD card slot that allows you to play music without any signal at all.

They offer an updated Mini 3, for extra speaker linking, USB-C charging and more powerful drivers, though if you're looking for the better budget option, for the size and cost of what you're getting, there's no better option on this list.

Amazon's Echo Pop is an excellent, more affordable alternative to the Echo Dot. Despite its compact size, it delivers punchy sound and works well in minimal spaces. It is easy to set up and use, and, like other Echo products, it comes with Alexa, who can assist you with weather updates, music requests, and timers, among others.

However, due to its smaller size and lower price point, there is a compromise on sound quality and coverage compared to the Dot and Echo. It also requires wall power to function, so it isn't ideal for out and about, but for around the house is just right.

The slightly larger cousin of the mini, the Anker Soundcore Speaker delivers crisp audio at a lovely budget-friendly price. The clever digital signal processor can adapt your music's bass on the fly, ensuring you're always getting the best audio possible.

The real strength of the Anker Soundcore is its battery life. Simply put, 24 hours is incredible for any Bluetooth speaker, and even more so for a budget one. If you want to spend a day outdoors partying with friends or need some music to relax across multiple camping nights, this has you covered. The IPX7 waterproof rating means that if you accidentally leave it outside overnight in the rain, you won't be down a speaker.

The large buttons are very user-friendly, and the included cord is great for portability and storage. Though the price is on the higher end, it's currently on offer for a person conscious of budget.

We think the Tribit StormBox 2 offers impressive performance for its size and price. Released in 2024, this compact Bluetooth speaker delivers 34W of power through its two drivers and features passive radiators that enhance its bass response. Standing 18cm tall and weighing around 580g, the StormBox 2 is highly portable and designed for on-the-go use with its durable, hound-tooth-like fabric exterior and handy carrying strap.

This speaker boasts powerful sound and portability. It also includes the latest Bluetooth 5.3, a battery life of up to 24 hours, and compatibility with the Tribit app for customizable audio experiences. With an IPX7 rating, it's water-resistant, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities.

This was tried and tested by David Ker, who has this to say about their experience: "I found the Tribit StormBox 2 to be a straightforward yet powerful Bluetooth speaker. Its compact design doesn't compromise sound quality; the bass was especially notable, thanks to the pulsating passive radiators. The battery life exceeded my expectations, lasting up to two weeks with intermittent use. The integration with the Tribit app was seamless, allowing for easy control and customization of the audio output."

"One of my favourite features is the 'XBass' mode, which noticeably boosts the bass. However, the speaker's performance with spoken word content, like audiobooks and podcasts, could have been better. The build quality feels premium, with durable materials and well-designed buttons, though the lack of colour options and the somewhat awkward carrying strap were minor drawbacks. Overall, for its price, the Tribit StormBox 2 delivers a lot of value and is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly Bluetooth speaker."

You can read his full review here.

Resident audiophile Harvey Isitt tested the Sony SRS-XB100 and found it an absolute steal, especially since it's 24 per cent off on Amazon. This portable speaker offers an elegant design, great sound, deep bass, and up to 16 hours of battery life, making it the perfect at-home or on-the-go companion.

From the moment the device is powered on, users are greeted with a chime that's as premium in sound as the speaker is in build quality. The speaker features five sleekly labelled, user-friendly buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, mic/calling, and volume control. In terms of performance, it offers everything you need in a speaker the size of a tennis ball.

Its durable IP67 certification allows for safe use during outdoor adventures. The multi-way strap makes it easy to attach to your backpack, ensuring its safety and your peace of mind. The speaker also offers hands-free calling, making it an excellent option for improving video call quality with its built-in mic and echo-cancelling technology.

The USB-C to A charging cable provided is a convenient bonus should you not have a compatible connection. Sony also offers a dedicated Music Centre app for wireless device management, including streaming, device pairing, and multiroom speaker grouping.

The Tribit XSound Go is a fantastic option in the budget speaker market. It offers impressive sound and reliable durability at an affordable price. This compact Bluetooth speaker is perfect for those who want powerful sound in a portable and waterproof package. It features a rugged design, an IPX7 water and dustproof rating, and reliable battery life, ensuring a full day of music on a single charge.

With its balanced sound profile and surprising bass response, the XSound Go defies expectations for a speaker of its size. It's ideal for outdoor use and capable of handling rain, splashes, and even complete submersion without missing a beat, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.

This was tried and tested by Chris Duffill, who has this to say about his experience: "For my money, the Tribit XSound Go is up there with the best speakers a relatively small amount of money can buy. I've taken this on picnics, into the garden in the rain, and in the shower. It performed reliably from my paired iPhone on the other side of the house, and it's powerful enough to cut through the sound of a power shower with ease."

"The bass response is way beyond what I expected for the size and the highs and mids pop. Even at the highest volume, the speaker was never unlistenable, just a little rough around the edges. The rubberised exterior is prone to marks and fingerprints, but that's a small price to pay for such a small yet powerful waterproof speaker. If you want a great balance between power and true portability with an amazing bass response, the Tribit XSound Go is a bit of a superstar.

You can read his full review here.

The Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is a compact yet mighty Bluetooth speaker perfect for those on the go. We think it's ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and budget-conscious shoppers. With the ability to pair multiple speakers for a richer sound experience, this ultraportable device delivers impressive audio quality and volume, defying its small size. The rugged design includes a sturdy strap for easy attachment to bikes or bags, and it doubles as a power bank, making it a versatile companion for any adventure.

This was tried and tested by Olivia Sheed, who has this to say about her experience: "After a month of daily use, I was thoroughly impressed by the StormBox Micro 2. Its surprising weight adds durability, and its sound is powerful enough to fill multiple rooms. The bass is particularly notable, with deep responses that are unexpected from such a portable package. However, the high frequencies could use some improvement, and I found myself adjusting the EQ via the Tribit app to get the best sound."

"The additional features make it stand out in the budget category. The built-in strap is convenient for outdoor activities, and the waterproof design means it can withstand the elements. Using it as a power bank is a huge plus for camping trips. Despite some minor downsides, like button latency and app connectivity issues, the value for money is unbeatable. At £50-£60, it's a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable Bluetooth speaker."

You can read her full review here.

The JBL Flip 6 is a portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers powerful and balanced sound in a compact design. The speaker is dust-proof, waterproof, and built to last, making it a reliable choice for outdoor adventures, from beach trips to camping. It can also pair with other Flip 6 speakers, perfect for parties or larger gatherings. The speaker's robust bass, clear highs, and practical features, such as its easy setup and long battery life, ensure you're getting excellent value for your money.

Olivia Sheed tried and tested the JBL Flip 6 and said about her experience: "I was thoroughly impressed by the JBL Flip 6. Setting it up was a breeze, and within minutes, I was enjoying my music with a quality that rivalled even some high-end speakers. The bass response, powered by dual passive radiators, is deep and satisfying, making it a joy to listen to a wide range of genres. Even when tested with bass-heavy tracks, the sound remained clear and distortion-free."

"The speaker's durability was another highlight for me. I used it as a shower speaker, and it handled water exposure with no issues. The design is sleek yet rugged, perfect for on-the-go use. Whether you're blasting music in the backyard or taking it on a hike, this speaker delivers exceptional sound in a portable package. For a mid-tier Bluetooth speaker, it's an outstanding choice that won't disappoint."

You can check out her full review here.

If waterproofing is the make-or-break factor for you, the Creative MUVO Play has a robust IPX7 rating and can easily handle the occasional dunk or submersion. The bass is on the weaker side, but it's difficult to stand out compared to the previous speaker we discussed. If that isn't an issue for you, then you have an excellent shower speaker that's right at home in a bathroom.

The Bluetooth connection with the MUVO Play is reliable and consistent, so you shouldn't have any issues connecting it to other speakers. The build also features USB and AUX ports – the latter being somewhat of a rarity. The USB-C connection makes charging the 10-hour battery life a quick and easy process.

The XSound Plus 2 is another fantastic speaker from the team at Tribit. Although it is heavier and bulkier than other Bluetooth speakers on this list - noticeable in a backpack - the extra weight is worth it for its unmatched battery life. With up to 24 hours of listening, this speaker is perfect for day gatherings, weekend getaways, and parties that can easily last through the night.

Enhanced by Tribit’s signature XBass tuning, this speaker offers impressive sound quality, crisp vocals, and a powerful bass for its size. Additionally, its Bluetooth 5.3, the most advanced on this list, provides a strong connection with a range of up to thirty meters.

As with many Tribit products, the XSound Plus 2 offers its Party mode. This feature allows you to pair two speakers, enhancing sound coverage to create an even more immersive audio experience. Tribit is fast making a name for itself in the audio scene, and it's not hard to understand why...

We've mentioned portability as a handy factor for days out, like going to the beach or camping, but the JBL GO 3 is the best for smaller outings. Along with being incredibly compact, it features a little loop that makes it easy to attach to a backpack.

Don't mistake the small size for a lack of power. Like many top JBL speakers, if desired, the GO 3 can produce thunderous and bassy sounds. The only drawback of the size is the battery life. Five hours of playtime isn't impressive, but the quick charge time helps compensate for it.

We also want to acknowledge the variety of colours and patterns this speaker is available, making it a fantastic gift option for a friend or family member. The Go 3 ECO also utilizes recycled materials in the construction, a bonus for climate-conscious people.

This was tried and tested by Chris Duffill, who has this to say about his experience: "As soon as I unboxed the JBL Go 3 and saw those bold orange accents and light-purple logo, the design of this little oblong sprang to life. The controls are tactile and oversized, making them easy to use even when hanging from the loop. The two-sided orange rubber grips prevent slipping, and the recessed power and Bluetooth buttons prevent them from getting accidentally pushed. However, the battery status light placement could be better."

"Pairing the speaker with my iPhone was seamless, and I could play, pause, alter the volume, and skip tracks easily. The sound quality is impressive for its size, delivering a well-rounded sound with decent bass. It survived drops, water immersion, and rain while dangling from my bike. Although the battery life of around five hours was adequate, I wished for a couple more hours for longer outings. Overall, a tough little speaker that sounds great for its size."

You can read his full review here.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on sound quality, the Jumbo Marshmallow is an excellent choice. Whether you're enjoying music in the garden, bringing tunes to picnics, or upgrading from your phone's speaker, this speaker offers a decent audio experience at a fraction of the cost of high-end speakers.

Due to its compact size and lightweight design, it's incredibly affordable and highly portable. Likewise, it has a convenient pouch for easy transportation in a backpack.

Although it only has a four-hour battery life and a range of 10 meters, which cannot compete with other options on this list, it's still impressive considering its low price. Remember that this product is decent but won't blow you away.

We think the Anker Soundcore Motion 300 is an excellent choice for those seeking a portable yet powerful Bluetooth speaker. Priced at £89.99, it offers great value with impressive audio quality, long-lasting battery life, and outstanding waterproofing. Its lightweight build and handy strap make it perfect for outdoor activities like camping and picnics, ensuring you can take your music anywhere without hassle.

With an IPX7 waterproof rating, this speaker can withstand rain showers and even function as a shower speaker. Its versatile design allows for both upright and horizontal placement, enhancing its usability in various settings.

This was tried and tested by Kyle Purves, who has this to say about his experience: "The Motion 300 is great for parties, camping, and on-the-go use. It's light, easy to carry with a strap, and even IPX7 waterproof rated, so you needn't worry about using it in the shower. The controls light up when turned on, making it easy to use in any lighting condition."

"When it comes to sound, the Motion 300 delivers rich audio for all kinds of music. You can also adjust the sound using the app to suit your preferences. However, the bass may not be as strong as other Soundcore speakers. Nevertheless, the Motion 300 is a fantastic, budget-friendly option, perfect for those who want to take their music with them wherever their adventures may take them."