The Best Bluetooth Speakers in 2024

It can be daunting to invest in your next big tech purchase. It seems like each time you look there’s a new edition of a gadget with some vague techno-babble specs that differentiate it from another. Plus, you don’t want to sink hundreds of dollars into something that isn’t going to last, or skimp on price only to take a severe hit to quality. When it comes to Bluetooth Speakers, there are different reasons for picking one over another, depending on how you’re most likely to use it. If you’re planning to buy this as a gift for someone else, or won’t be able to test how the speaker sounds when it plays your favourite tunes, it helps to know what you’re looking for and how the speaker is or is not catering to that specific need. First, let’s clear up some common terms. 

Bluetooth is a wireless connection that enables you to exchange small amounts of data over short distances between devices. These speakers use this technology to receive music signals from your device to play them out loud. No cables needed! Since it is proprietary software (someone owns it), the components and software needed to make it work must be paid for by the manufacturer. That’s why, if you find a deal that’s too good to be true, it likely means that the speaker hardware is inferior quality. And inferior quality means inferior sound. 

High-Fidelity (Hi-Fi) is the ability of the speaker to playback the sound without noise (any unwanted sounds) or distortions. Distortions typically occur —or become more prominent— when sounds are played at higher volumes. So, if you plan to bump one of these at your next block party, look for one that can withstand the louder volumes without warping the sound. 

Yes, we know, a lot of new information, but don’t worry, we’ve gone through dozens of Bluetooth speakers in detail so you don’t have to do so. Read on to find the top-rated Bluetooth speakers available in Canada.

How do I know which is the best Bluetooth speaker for me? If you’ve ever asked yourself that, there are several factors that you should consider when purchasing your speaker. As arcane as these specifications seem, they do tell you important details about what you can expect from the speaker. So, you need to know what they mean, so you can determine what you can splurge and skimp on.

Battery Life 

This includes both the time your device needs to charge, and how many hours of playtime you get between charges. This could be the difference between having a speaker on for the entire duration of the party or dying halfway through your hike.

Size 

This is the biggest factor you should consider if you want your speaker to be more portable. It includes the dimensions and weight of the speaker, as well as any straps or handles to allowing to be carried from a variety of places.

Sound Quality 

This is the most technical aspect of your choice, especially if you are unable to test the device before purchasing it. The ideal speaker will be capable of a volume of roughly 80 dB or have 15-20W of output power, and has the largest range of the audible spectrum of 20 Hz – 20 kHz.

Design 

While it isn’t up to us to tell you which speaker is prettier than another, we can tell you the range of colour options that a brand might offer. Design isn’t just aesthetics, however. It also includes the ergonomic and construction of the device, such as any grooves that increase its portability or hardware that can withstand any accidents.

Compatibility 

Wireless speakers can have other connectivity options available in addition to Bluetooth, but some speakers are capable of other features, such as stereo sound (the ability to pair 2 to play simultaneously for a richer sound) or handsfree (the ability to answer phone calls that may interrupt your music).

Durability 

Obviously, if you plan on listening to your speaker while you shower, you’ll want to make sure it has Ingress-Protection (IP). Better speakers can withstand both water and dust, as well as resist damage from impact and falls.

This article is fact-based and thoroughly researched. Our dedicated music junkie spent more than 48 hours crunching the numbers and tabulating several tables of specs to compare different speakers across different categories.

We scoured online and combed through hundreds of reviews, over several days to discover what purchasers, users, critics and the like had to say about a range of top-rated wireless speakers. Our in-house music junkie analyzed and translated the specs to save you the time of comparing digits and techie ratings. As we delved deeper, certain names were echoed throughout the internet over and over again, and that’s how it became clear which one is widely considered the best and what goes into a good speaker.

We also took into consideration the many different reasons why one would buy a Bluetooth speaker. For example, some people want a speaker for streaming services, such as Spotify and Apple Music, whereas others are looking for sporty, resistant products.

What is a Bluetooth speaker?

A Bluetooth speaker is an audio gadget that uses Bluetooth software to play music from a device wirelessly over a short distance. They can be as tiny as an apricot and as large as a watermelon. Most tech brands currently have Bluetooth speakers available, including JBL, Apple, Google, Amazon, Bose and Ultimate Ears.   

READ MORE: The Best Wireless Headphones in Canada

UE Megaboom vs Bose Revolve Plus: Which one is the best?

The Megaboom is smaller, and a lot cheaper than the Revolve Plus, so it’s passable if your feeling a bit thrifty. 

How much are Bluetooth speakers?

Bluetooth speakers can cost as low as $19.99 and as high as $3,000. It all depends on your goals. If you want a simple speaker to play music from your phone, you will probably find a reasonable option for less than $100, $50 or even $25. If you’re concerned about high fidelity and quality audio, you must prepare to spend a bit more (at least $120). On average, the best Bluetooth speakers can be found with prices from $100 to $300. If you want something exceptional or professional, then you should prepare to spend a bit more.  

Are Bluetooth speakers worth it?

Bluetooth speakers are usually affordable, portable and easy to use, which makes them some of the most searched tech gadgets on the internet. They would probably be worth it to anyone who really likes music, podcast listeners, radio enthusiasts and many other types of consumers. They are also considered a safe bet in case you want to surprise someone with a nice gift.  

Which are the top Bluetooth speaker brands?

These are often considered as some of the top-rated brands for Bluetooth speakers:  

• JBL 
• Bose 
• Sonos 
• Anker 
• Amazon 
• Ultimate Ears 
• Sony 
• Philips
• Logitech 

Are cheap Bluetooth speakers good?

It all depends on what exactly you consider “cheap” and “good”. For example, if that means a speaker from a trusted brand for less than $60, then, yes, there are some cheap and good options available.  

The three Bluetooth speakers below are considered cheap yet they collect positive reviews from users: 

• Anker Soundcore Flare Mini Bluetooth Speaker 
• OontZ Angle 3 Ultra: Portable Bluetooth Speaker 14-Watts 
• Sony SRSXB01/W XB01 Bluetooth Compact Portable Speaker Gray 

And now it is time for the honourable mentions. Here are other Bluetooth speakers that didn’t fit into our main list for one reason or another that we still thought may be of interest to you. 

JBL Flip 5 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Released in 2019, the JBL Flip 5 is one of the most talked-about Bluetooth speakers out there. This gadget is available in at least 10 different colours, and it is already as popular as the JBL Flip 4 used to be some years ago. As of January 2023, the JBL Flip 5 had a score of 4.6 stars on Google reviews from more than 2,136 consumers. People often highlight this speaker’s music playing time (around 12 hours) and its output power (20W), which is not bad at all for a wireless speaker that costs around $100.

Ultimate Ears BOOM 3 Portable Wireless Speaker

The UE Bluetooth speakers have been getting a lot of praise since they started hitting the shelves some years ago, and it wouldn’t be different with the UE Boom 3. This wireless speaker can reach a maximum sound level of 90 dBA and has an immersive 360-degree system, which makes the sound clean and powerful at the same time. The UE Boom 3 is also waterproof (it can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes) and it has what some consider an “indestructible design”. Speaking of design, like most Ultimate Ears speakers, the UE Boom 3 has a unique shape that makes this device a decor item as well.

Oontz Angle 3 Ultra

The Oontz Angle 3 Ultra can be a safe choice when you want a good Bluetooth speaker without spending more than $60. The Angle 3 Ultra averages 4.4 stars out of 5 on Google Reviews, and people seem to like how portable this audio gadget is. However, it is important to note that “good” in this case means good for the price. Bluetooth speakers in such a price range probably won’t offer you a perfect audio experience. That’s why it’s not surprising to see some users complaining about this device’s low volume or how the sound gets a little distorted when turned up.

Tribit MaxSound (24W)

The Tribit MaxSound speaker is one of the most powerful gadgets in its price range. With a maximum output of 24W, multidirectional sound and around 20 hours of playtime, this could be a nice pick for those who want a bit more quality without breaking the bank. The Tribit 24W averages 4.6 stars from more than 2,686 customer reviews on Amazon, and most consumers seem to be happy about how good the Tribit MaxSound 24W sounds, especially taking its price (usually less than $90) into consideration.

DOSS Soundbox 

The DOSS SoundBox 12-watt speaker is one of the cheapest options available on Amazon, and that doesn’t mean that this device is not going to deliver a good audio experience. With up to 12 hours of playtime and an IPX4 waterproof certification, this portable speaker is resistant and has a powerful battery. The DOSS SoundBox is going to be useful for outdoor activities such as going to the beach or playing at the park. However, this may not be ideal if you’re looking for high-fidelity audio or the perfect music experience.

Anker SoundCore Mini 

This member of the Soundcore family packs some big bass in its small size. It can be carried around easily in your palm and lasts up to 15 hours on a battery charge, and has an IPX7, meaning you can bring the party around with you all night long. Unfortunately, it’s not as powerful as some other mini speakers, judging by some user complaints. But with a price-point as small as its size, it’s worth it.

UE ROLL 2 Wireless Portable Bluetooth Speaker

This mini speaker is so thin, it practically disappears when you turn it sideways. Its narrow profile comes with a set of elastic straps so it can attach it to wherever to bring it with you. Like its other siblings, the Roll 2 is submergible and packs a 9-hour playtime, meaning the music doesn’t have to stop (for a while, at least). It has a small size, lightweight, with a big sound… but a big price tag.

JBL Clip 3 

This one is a more affordable alternative to the UE Roll, listed above, being less than half the price. Sure, it has a slightly larger profile, but it’s also just as waterproof and portable. For its modest size, it does offer decent sound. Audiophiles, however, may not be as impressed.

JBL Charge 3 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Charge 3 speaker is still a good buy! If you’re going on any long treks it can not only keep you entertained, but also charge your devices. No need to worry about it not being able to withstand the terrain, either: it’s waterproof. The bass and volume packs a punch for 20 hours of playtime. And, for all the pros, the price isn’t too high. Unfortunately, the trade-off with a built-in power bank means that this speaker can be a bit chunky and heavy.