Best Bluetooth Speaker Under $50
- What Makes a Bluetooth Speaker Stand Out?
- What should you expect for $50?
- Meet the Winners!
- How did we select these speakers?
- The Best Bluetooth Speakers Under $50
- 1. Anker Soundcore 2
- Connections
- Sound
- Conclusion
- 2. Tribit StormBox (Black)
- Connections
- Sound
- Conclusion
- 3. OontZ Angle 3 (3rd Gen)
- Connections
- Sound
- Conclusion
- 4. DOSS SoundBox Touch
- Connections
- Sound
- Conclusion
- 5. COMISO Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
- Connections
- Sound
- Conclusion
- 6. Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speaker
- Connections
- Sound
- Conclusion
- 7. Echo Dot (3rd Gen) – Smart Speaker with Alexa
- Connections
- Sound
- Conclusion
- What to look for when buying a Bluetooth speaker
Are you on the hunt for an exceptional Bluetooth speaker that won’t break the bank? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we’ve scoured the market to bring you the best Bluetooth speakers for under $50. Get ready to experience impressive audio quality, remarkable portability, and unbeatable value. Whether you’re gearing up for an outdoor adventure, a poolside party, or simply want to elevate your music experience, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and explore the affordable world of Bluetooth speakers!
What Makes a Bluetooth Speaker Stand Out?
Before we unveil our top picks, it’s essential to understand the key factors that make a Bluetooth speaker exceptional. Here are a few crucial features to consider:
Sound Quality
Despite their compact size, the best Bluetooth speakers deliver outstanding audio performance. Look for models with advanced audio technologies, such as enhanced bass, 360-degree sound, and balanced frequency response. You’ll be amazed by the immersive and vibrant sound that these speakers can produce.
Portability
One of the main advantages of Bluetooth speakers is their portability. Opt for a lightweight and compact design that you can easily carry in your backpack or pocket. Additionally, check for features like a durable build, water resistance, and ruggedness to ensure your speaker can handle outdoor adventures.
Battery Life
Long-lasting battery life is essential, especially for extended listening sessions on the go. Seek out speakers that offer at least 8 hours of continuous playtime, ensuring your music keeps going throughout the day without interruption.
What should you expect for $50?
No matter how expensive a Bluetooth speaker is, we outline what to look for in our buyer’s guide at the end of this article. But what can you reasonably anticipate when looking for a Bluetooth speaker under $50? What are the current standards and what are the compromises?
Power: The majority of speakers in this price range typically produce around or slightly less than 30W. Higher wattage equals more expensive.
Waterproofing: Manufacturers must pay to implement waterproofing, so occasionally you will see IP ratings like IPX4, IPX5, to keep the price under $50. While some of the speakers on this list are IPX7, we believe the average is closer to IPX6. If you require a speaker to have a high IPX rating, look at our article on the best waterproof Bluetooth speakers.
Battery Life: Most of the speakers on this list are relatively small due to obvious production cost considerations, and a small battery can only fit inside a small casing. Although battery technology has advanced significantly in recent years, you should still anticipate the batteries in a speaker under $50 to last around 24 hours on a full charge, with a few welcome exceptions.
All speakers have different user interface designs and connection options, so trust your instincts and choose a speaker design that you find both aesthetically pleasing and useful. The same holds true for the sound signature of the speaker. I personally believe some speakers costing $30 sound better than those costing $100, but everything is very subjective!
- Overall Best Bluetooth Speaker Under $50
- Best IPX7 Waterproof Speaker
- Best Value for Money
- Best Smart Speaker Under $50
The Anker Soundcore 2 is a powerful all-around performer with excellent sound quality, enticing visual appeal, and a fantastic low price. The Soundcore 2 Bluetooth speaker is a great option for a low-cost Bluetooth speaker.
Although the Tribit StormBox is not the only IPX7-rated waterproof Bluetooth speaker under $50 on our list, it is our top pick for beach/poolside listening due to its powerful bass, which will drown out ambient noise wherever you are.
Tribit’s XSound Go is incredibly affordable but in a good way. The majority of the competition’s clarity and portability are present in this speaker but at a lower cost.
Speaker or personal assistant using Bluetooth? The second-smallest speaker in the Amazon Echo lineup, the Echo Dot 3, can pair with many other speakers—including some that are listed here—via Alexa functionality. Cheapest Smart Speaker
How did we select these speakers?
When the market is so crowded with various products, some of which advertise honestly while others blatantly oversell their own capabilities, it can be very difficult to choose the right speaker. Since we all have different backgrounds, our team has already done the legwork for you, and we have chosen these speakers for a variety of reasons.
Some of these gadgets simply have fantastic audio quality, while others provide excellent value for the money, look cool, or simply have a ton of endearing extras and practical features that set them apart from the competition. The majority of these speakers combine a variety of different strengths that each helps them shine in their own special way.
In the end, we examine the same features of the speaker that you do when you shop, and in my opinion, each of these speakers has merit. In the end, trust your instincts!
The Best Bluetooth Speakers Under $50
1. Anker Soundcore 2
Specs & Features
Battery: | 24 hrs |
IPX: | 7 |
Weight: | 0.91 lbs |
Dimensions: | 6.5 x 2.2 x 1.8 in |
With its sleek and covert design, the Anker Soundcore 2 is a capable yet portable Bluetooth speaker that costs under $50. One thing is clear from the raving reviews of this speaker from both audio professionals and hobbyists: music lovers all over the world adore this simple solution to great-sounding, portable music. In order to keep the price low and focus on the music, the Soundcore 2 makes the most of its small size and straightforward design. It looks great and has great audio quality.
This speaker is advertised as being “Outdoor-Proof,” so you can take your music with you wherever you go. You can enjoy the day outside while listening to the Soundcore 2 within 66 feet. The Soundcore will have your back whether you’re hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the pool because of Anker’s renowned reliable Bluetooth connectivity and, on more recent Soundcore 2 models (SKU A3105013 and newer), an IPX7 waterproof rating. For outdoor use and frequent travel, the Soundcore 2 is a dependable speaker with a respectably long signal range.
I can’t emphasize enough how perfectly Anker has achieved portability, ease of use, and sound quality with this speaker, which is why it is our top choice if you’re looking for a Bluetooth speaker for under $50!
Connections
Given the low price point, the Anker Soundcore 2’s connection options are limited but perfectly acceptable in the spirit of being straightforward but effective. A Micro-USB port for charging the device and a 3.5mm auxiliary port for wired line-in listening are both located on the right-side panel of the device, both hidden behind waterproof seals. The ability to wirelessly pair two Soundcore 2 speakers for effortless stereo sound is a neat feature to take note of. However, just like the IPX7 waterproof rating, this feature is only available on Anker’s more recent models of this speaker.
Sound
If you are reading this, it is likely that you want to improve the way you listen to music but don’t want to spend a lot of money. With the Soundcore 2, Anker did not skimp on sound quality; for less than $50, you can hear all of your favourite songs in an entirely new way.
For such a low cost, the Anker Soundcore 2 has an impressively detailed sound profile. It’s not the first time that I’ve heard the Soundcore 2 and been a little surprised by how much better it sounds than one would anticipate from a speaker with this sort of straightforward design and compact size. The sound quality of this device is clearly the focus of Anker’s efforts and expertise, not the feature set or aesthetic appeal, and this is what we want in a good value speaker: no frills, just great sound.
Conclusion
Do you need a Bluetooth speaker with great sound but have a budget of less than $50? Our recommendation for you is the Anker Soundcore 2. You’ll be able to tell as soon as you turn up the volume that Anker invested all of its resources into the interior of this speaker, despite its straightforward appearance.
Specs & Features
Battery: | 20 hrs |
IPX: | 7 |
Weight: | 1.2 lbs |
Dimensions: | 7.08 x 2.70 x 2.70 in |
Award-winning Tribit StormBox 360-degree speakers are a perfect fit for the “beach speaker” market I discussed in the Zamkol ZK202 review. A unique breed of Bluetooth speakers, these outdoor-oriented, bass-filled beasts have amusing & quirky designs, powerful bass, a sturdy build quality, user-friendly interfaces, and good sound quality. If you’re looking for your next portable outdoor party speaker, the Tribit StormBox is a fantastic option because it completely nails all of these areas.
The StormBox has many great features for a reasonable price, including bass-boost technology, an IPX7-rated waterproof design, a fashionable appearance, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a 66-foot Bluetooth signal range. With only 3 buttons on the user interface and fantastic looks and audio, anyone can easily control the music on this device.
Connections
The Tribit StormBox has a waterproof seal that covers a 3.5mm aux port and a DC 5 volt charging port in addition to Bluetooth connectivity. For stereo sound, the StromBox can also be connected to another StromBox.
Sound
Tribit’s exclusive XBass setting makes sure that this speaker has fantastic bass. I like bass-driven music, so this speaker is perfect for me. Even at maximum volume, this speaker’s audio quality is crystal clear and distortion-free. The StormBox is ideal for loud pool parties and barbecues because it has an impressive 360-degree spatial sound signature with a warm low-end that makes drums punchy and present.
Conclusion
A really good Bluetooth speaker for “everyday” use is the Tribit StormBox. This is unquestionably a choice for you to take into account if you’re looking for the best Bluetooth speaker under $50 that has excellent audio quality, great bass, and a completely waterproof design. In the end, it will depend on your personal preferences for sound signature, but I really love the warm low bass sound of this speaker. You have some basic connectivity options available because you can connect two of these together for stereo sound (I can’t wait to try it) and via an auxiliary cord.
The StormBox is, all things considered, a fantastic option for the best Bluetooth speaker under or around $50.
3. OontZ Angle 3 (3rd Gen)
Specs & Features
Battery: | 14 hrs |
IPX: | 5 |
Weight: | 0.56 lbs |
Dimensions: | 5.30 x 2.80 x 2.60 in |
For some of you, the Oontz Angle 3 may be the best option because it is the least expensive Bluetooth speaker on our list. Sometimes, getting the best sound quality isn’t the priority; rather, getting perfectly adequate audio for a reasonable price is the goal. If this describes you, stay with us as we examine Angle 3.
This Bluetooth speaker costs between $25 and $30, and as a result, it has a fairly ordinary build made of plastic with a silicon cover. The Oontz Angle 3 is available in seven different colour combinations, including two distinct black designs, blue, orange, white, red, and even an image that was inspired by Coca-Cola! The speaker is quite small in comparison to other portable speakers on this list, and there is a water-repellent rubber flap covering the charging port and an auxiliary port. Be aware that this speaker cannot be submerged; it is water-resistant but not waterproof.
The Oontz Angle 3 has a design that is reminiscent of the mini speakers that were popular about ten years ago, but thanks to its low price and respectable audio quality, this speaker has triumphantly survived on store shelves and received positive reviews.
Connections
The Angle 3 has a Micro-USB charging port and a 3.5mm auxiliary port hidden beneath a water-resistant rubber flap. Given the price, it’s amazing that this speaker includes both a Micro-USB cable and a 3.5mm line-in cable for charging and wired listening. The Angle 3’s Bluetooth range of 100 feet is interesting because it almost doubles that of some other speakers.
Sound
Unfortunately, this was not one of the many occasions when you will turn on a brand-new Bluetooth speaker and be astounded by the sheer volume that is produced by such a tiny little speaker. Having said that, the sound quality is fine for such a low cost; it’s just not particularly noteworthy.
The Oontz Angle 3 is a great purchase if you want a Bluetooth speaker for a really good price but don’t necessarily need an impressive listening experience. I don’t think a speaker needs to have the perfect sound quality to be a good purchase. The Oontz Angle 3 will perform just as well as any other speaker for a much lower cost when taking calls and listening to music at a moderate volume.
Conclusion
Every speaker does not need to have perfect sound; occasionally, a product has other advantages. The Oontz Angle 3 comes in a variety of colours, has a very long Bluetooth range, and has a fairly sturdy and water-resistant build. It is also extremely affordable. Not too bad for less than $30!
4. DOSS SoundBox Touch
Specs & Features
Battery: | 12 hrs |
IPX: | 4 |
Weight: | 1.23 lbs |
Dimensions: | 6.60 x 2.90 x 2.70 in |
Another “jack-of-all-trades” speaker that made our comprehensive list of the best Bluetooth speakers under $50 is the DOSS SoundBox Touch. A desirable quality in the Bluetooth audio market is a universal appeal, and DOSS really outdid itself with the SoundBox in that regard. The SoundBox costs around $30 and features a straightforward user interface (UI) on top of the device, four eye-catching colour options, excellent sound quality, and a variety of connectivity options.
The DOSS SoundBox is an attractive update to the typical Bluetooth speaker that consumers have become accustomed to over the past 10-15 years, in my opinion. Instead of attempting to appear revolutionary, this speaker captures a straightforward practicality that is somewhat welcome in today’s oversaturated Bluetooth audio market. Its design is not quite as straightforward as Anker’s Soundcore line, but it is priced similarly to Anker’s goods.
Connections
The DOSS SoundBox is a Bluetooth speaker that I adore because it accepts SD cards! A mini-SD card slot, a Micro-USB port, and a 3.5mm auxiliary line-in port are all included on the SoundBox.
Sound
The DOSS SoundBox significantly exceeded my expectations! Typically, I’ve assumed that the best bass in the world of Bluetooth speakers is always found in those cylindrical “360-degree beach speakers.” The SoundBox’s sound signature produces bass tones that are surprisingly warm and impactful, which is exactly what we want from a speaker’s low-end signal. As a result, you experience the well-known “I can’t believe that music is coming from that tiny speaker” effect.
The low bass sounds much better than I anticipated for such a small product, and the treble is also much clearer and crisper than I had anticipated.
Conclusion
Although the DOSS SoundBox Touch has a similar appearance to many other speakers, it has superior audio quality! We listened to a lot of cheap speakers that cut corners and overstated their capabilities as we conducted our search for the best Bluetooth speaker under $50. Given this, we always appreciate it when a speaker surprises us!
Give the SoundBox a try if you’re looking for a very reasonably priced, aesthetically pleasing speaker that will exceed your expectations!
Specs & Features
Battery: | 36 hrs |
IPX: | 4 |
Weight: | 1.2 lbs |
Dimensions: | 3.20 x 3.20 x 10.50 in |
With the COMISO Waterproof Bluetooth speaker, we re-enter the specialized speaker market that is occupied by cylindrical 360-degree waterproof speakers like the Zamkol and Tribit StormBox. I’ve already mentioned my personal preference for this kind of speaker, but what distinguishes the COMISO from its rivals?
This is the third “beach speaker” we’ve seen on our list of the best Bluetooth speakers under $50, but it’s the first to advertise a whopping 36 hours of playtime! The COMISO is extremely portable and simple to use, just like other similar speakers on this list; I had no issues with the user interface or the fundamental setup. This speaker’s IPX4 rating makes it slightly less water-resistant than the other speakers on this list.
The COMISO is a very attractive speaker on the outside. The COMISO looks good enough to use as a portable speaker while travelling or just for playing music around the house.
Connections
On the bottom of the speaker is a Micro-USB port for charging the COMISO. Additionally, this Bluetooth speaker supports TWS, allowing you to connect two COMISOs for stereo listening.
Sound
The COMISO Bluetooth speaker has pretty decent sound quality! This speaker is as clear and distortion-free as any other on this list, but I thought the sound lacked a little in overall volume and bass compared to speakers at a similar price point. Aside from a few minor issues, the COMISO’s audio quality is flawless; however, you should be aware that it is not as loud and less bass-oriented than speakers of a comparable price and design.
Conclusion
You can save some money by choosing the COMISO Bluetooth speaker even though it isn’t quite as loud or water-resistant as the Zamkol or the Tribit StormBox. The sound quality is excellent, but be aware that compared to other speakers with this well-known cylindrical design, this speaker’s sound signature is more treble/high-end oriented.
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced speaker that will last longer on a single charge than the competition, this one might be the one for you. Its 36-hour battery life is quite impressive.
6. Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speaker
Specs & Features
Battery: | 24 hrs |
IPX: | 7 |
Weight: | 0.84 lbs |
Dimensions: | 6.7 x 2.2 x 2.3 in |
Our top choice for the speaker with the best value is the Tribit XSound Go! A high-quality Bluetooth speaker is available for just $30, which is significantly less than the $50 price cap we’ve set for this list. This 12W speaker punches way above its weight class and offers a listening experience far superior to that of the competition in its price range. It has deep bass tones and incredibly clear treble, fantastic waterproofing, and a simple user interface.
In my opinion, this Bluetooth speaker is the pinnacle of the straightforward but effective Bluetooth speaker design that we have all grown accustomed to over the past ten years. It looks great and sounds great. Just has good sound and a great price, no extras.
Connections
This speaker uses a 3.5mm line-in port for wired connections and a micro-USB port for charging, similar to many other speakers on this list. Stereo pairing is not supported by the Tribit XSound Go.
Sound
You probably don’t expect much after spending $30 on a new Bluetooth speaker, aren’t you? Out of all the speakers on this list, the Tribit XSound Go was the most unexpected to listen to; it completely gave me the positive first impression I always seek out when I first hear a new speaker.
I would characterize the XSound Go’s sound signature as having exceptionally clear high frequencies and an excessively beefy low end. The fact that this speaker sounds so good for only $30 actually blew me away. It could easily compete with speakers that cost twice as much or are twice as big.
Conclusion
If you want a great-sounding speaker that is incredibly portable and hassle-free, all for an unbeatable price, then this underdog speaker is my pick for you. You cannot match the deal you receive when buying the Tribit XSound Go. This speaker exemplifies the idea of “simple but effective design,” which I’ve mentioned several times in this list. In a nutshell, the Tribit XSound Go is a fantastic speaker in general. This speaker would come out on top if there was a list of the best Bluetooth speakers available for under $30!
This is unquestionably your best choice if you don’t have a lot of money to spend but still want a Bluetooth speaker.
7. Echo Dot (3rd Gen) – Smart Speaker with Alexa
Specs & Features
Battery: | AC Power (Battery Base) |
IPX: | Unspecified |
Weight: | 1 lb |
Dimensions: | 3.89 x 3.89 x 1.68 in |
The Amazon Echo Dot has its own market, so I wouldn’t classify it as a direct rival to the other speakers you can read about on this list. The Echo Dot, on the other hand, is a fantastic addition to many of these speakers, and here’s why…
The only item on this list that serves as both a speaker and a personal assistant by utilizing Amazon’s Alexa service is the Echo Dot. With Alexa, you can shop, research the local weather or business hours, manage smart home devices that are integrated into your home, and even play games while listening to music. This speaker is the only one on this list that will satisfy your need for a digital personal assistant.
So what sets this speaker apart from the others on this list? First, the Echo Dot is not portable on its own. You will need an attachable “battery base,” which will cost you an additional $20 to $50 on top of the Echo Dot’s price. Be aware of that before you purchase this product as it functions more like a Bluetooth speaker and personal assistant hub. This speaker isn’t for you if all you want to do is wirelessly listen to music.
Connections
This speaker isn’t portable, so its DC 12V power cord is always plugged into the wall. Like many other speakers on this list, the Echo Dot has a 3.5mm line-in port for wired music listening.
Sound
Other than sound quality, the Amazon Echo Dot is focused on a variety of features and capabilities. Contrary to the Anker Soundcore 2 and Tribit XSound, the Echo Dot’s strength lies primarily in its usefulness as a personal assistant rather than the caliber of the music it plays. If you want a Bluetooth speaker primarily for listening to music, you would be better off choosing a different speaker from this list. This speaker is very cool, but that doesn’t mean it’s a great speaker.
Conclusion
The Echo Dot is not the best Bluetooth speaker for under $50 dollars, rather, this speaker is the best Smart Speaker and personal assistant you can buy for less than 50 dollars! It isn’t fair to compare this device to the others on the list, so think of it in a league of its own. If you are looking for an introductory device to the world of smart personal assistants, but you also want Bluetooth listening functionality, this speaker is a great way to introduce that sort of tech into your life.
What to look for when buying a Bluetooth speaker
When shopping for a Bluetooth speaker, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when purchasing a Bluetooth speaker under $50:
Sound Quality
The most crucial aspect of any speaker is its sound quality. Look for speakers that offer clear, balanced audio with good bass response and minimal distortion. Check customer reviews and expert opinions to gauge the sound performance of the speaker you’re considering.
Portability and Design
If you’re planning to use your Bluetooth speaker on the go, portability becomes a significant factor. Consider the size, weight, and durability of the speaker. Compact and lightweight speakers are ideal for travel and outdoor activities. Additionally, pay attention to the design aesthetics and choose a speaker that suits your style and preferences.
Battery Life
The battery life of a Bluetooth speaker determines how long you can enjoy your music before needing to recharge. Look for speakers with a decent battery life that can last through your intended usage. Consider the manufacturer’s claimed battery life, but also check user reviews for real-world experiences.
Connectivity Options
While Bluetooth is the primary wireless connection for these speakers, it’s beneficial to check for additional connectivity options. Some speakers also support wired connections through auxiliary ports or have built-in microSD card slots or USB ports. This versatility can be useful when you want to connect devices without Bluetooth capability.
Waterproof or Water-Resistant Features
If you plan to use your Bluetooth speaker near water or in outdoor environments, consider models that offer waterproof or water-resistant features. These speakers are designed to withstand splashes, rain, or even full submersion, ensuring durability and peace of mind during your adventures.
Bluetooth Range
The range of the Bluetooth connection determines the distance between your audio source and the speaker. A longer Bluetooth range provides greater flexibility and convenience. Check the specifications for the Bluetooth version and range of the speaker to ensure it meets your needs.
Additional Features
Some Bluetooth speakers offer extra features that enhance their functionality. These can include built-in microphones for hands-free calling, integrated voice assistants, NFC pairing, LED lights, and even the ability to connect multiple speakers for a stereo or surround sound experience. Consider which additional features are important to you and choose a speaker that aligns with your requirements.
Price
Lastly, consider the price of the Bluetooth speaker in relation to its features and performance. Look for speakers that offer a balance between affordability and value for money. Compare prices, read reviews, and consider the reputation of the brand to ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.