These high-end units promise to deliver premium audio outside your abode
Written by Barry Samaha and William Goldman
Basking under the warm sun can feel euphoric—doubly so when you have music to accompany the moment. A perfectly curated playlist is a critical additive to frolicking outdoors, allowing you to fully enjoy the day with Mick, Freddie, Stevie, Bey, Ariana, or Hova. Or maybe you’re hosting a party or poetry gathering. Or maybe you’re planning on giving a speech of some kind. Whatever the scenario, make sure all sounds are clear and audible with the best outdoor speakers.
What differentiates indoor and outdoor speakers? Well, premium indoor speakers are designed to be used in controlled conditions and emphasise clarity and acoustics overall. Outdoor speakers, on the other hand, are meant to be heard in variable conditions. They typically produce better quality sound, the result of higher-end construction and internal parts that yield better vibrations. Additionally, the external frames are built to ward off the elements, so you can leave them out and not worry about Mother Nature spoiling the party.
The best outdoor speakers, essentially, ensure that the good times will continue to roll come rain or shine—and we’ve gathered the 15 of the finest below.
What to consider before buying the best outdoor speakers:
Weather Resistance: This is the big one. Outdoor speakers, above all, need to hold up against the elements. Look to see if the units have any sort of IP rating, which will provide information on how splash-proof (or not) they are. Additional characteristics to consider include temperature ranges that indicate whether a speaker can get damaged in the blazing hot or freezing cold.
Size: This goes without saying, but you’ll need to ensure the speakers you’re purchasing match fit in a given area. If you’re looking to mount them, the anchoring point must be supportive enough to hold the speakers in place without falling. Speakers that are too big might cause structural damage if there’s insufficient support, so you might need to do some testing to figure out how load-bearing the anchor points are in your space.
Design: Looks aren’t always everything, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t important. Some outdoor speakers definitely have a rough-and-ready appearance, white others are sleeker and better suited on a wall mount. It’ll largely come down to your taste.
Special Features: Are you looking for a minimalist setup that just allows you to play music? Or are you looking for something that might pair well with an existing interior audio setup? Most outdoor speakers are bare bones and straightforward, but other units can add value by including features such as Wi-Fi connection or Bluetooth.
Best overall portable outdoor speaker: JBL Boombox 3
This isn’t the scratchy, heavy, and cumbersome boombox that many of us carried during the mid-80s. Nay, JBL, a brand synonymous with quality sound, offers a sleek design with a three-way speaker, two midrange drivers and dual tweeters, and powerful built-in subwoofer. Even as you’re bopping along, your music won’t skip a beat. And you also don’t no need to worry if, on said stroll, the weather takes a turn for the worse, because the device is IP67 waterproof and dustproof. Bring it to the beach, the pool, or a picnic, and rest assured that this item will keep the party going.
Dimensions: 19 x 10.1 x 7.9 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: Portable.
Best waterproof outdoor speaker: Outdoor Tech Turtle Shell 3.0 Bluetooth
Speaking of waterproof, Outdoor Tech, as its name clearly suggests, has created a device that’s as hard-wearing as a turtle shell. Not only is the unique shape designed to withstand an accidental fall, it can also be submerged under water for up to three feet, all thanks to the IPX7 waterproof construction. And if that isn’t enough, the compact speaker, connected wirelessly to your phone or laptop, can float. Again, it can float! Which makes it the pitch-perfect speaker for any water-bound destination.
Dimensions: 5.86 x 2.45 x 4.17 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: Portable.
Most durable portable outdoor speaker: Demerbox DB2 Indestructible Waterproof BT
Appearances aren’t everything, but when it comes to the best speakers, they count for a lot. Case in point: This appropriately named speaker from Demerbox, a device that definitely looks indestructible. It is encased in an ultra-rugged Pelican case, meaning that it could take a pretty good beating, and it is completely waterproof. You’d think with qualities like these, they’d be pretty hefty—but they aren’t, weighing a mere five pounds, one of the lightest on this list. This alone warrants a purchase, but if you need more convincing, the DB2 also features 50-plus hours of battery life that’s easily chargeable via a USB port.
Dimensions: 10.62 x 9.68 x 6.87 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: Portable.
Best compact two-piece outdoor speaker: OSD AP650 Audio Patio Pro
Standing at around six inches each, the OSD Patio Pro speakers may not seem like much, but they certainly pack some power in a small package. These speakers sound quite strong and cover large spaces with ease. They are also easy to move around, as they can be mounted either vertically or horizontally depending on the area. What’s more, the IPX6 rating means they’re dustproof and weather-resistant, so tuck them under the lip of a roof, so they’re a little more protected during intense rain.
Dimensions: 7.6 x 12 x 8.6 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire.
Mounting Type: Built-in mounting brackets.
Most durable mounted outdoor speaker: Polk Audio Atrium 4
Polk’s Audio Atrium 4 outdoor speakers are made to withstand all types of weather. Thanks to the combination of stainless steel and brass on the speaker wire hubs and an aluminum grille and bracket on the exterior, the set can easily withstand heavy rain and other extreme weather conditions. What’s inside the Atrium 4 isn’t a slouch, either; the long-throw driver and aluminum tweeter provide rich sounds that fill a space accordingly, so you can keep the tunes rolling.
Dimensions: 7.5 x 6.3 x 9.5 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire.
Mounting Type: Built-in mounting brackets.
Best sizeable outdoor speaker: Klipsch AW-650
Go big or go home, right? If your party needs to pack a punch, the Klipsch AW-650 outdoor speakers clock in at a can’t-miss 15 by 9.5 inches to help you make your songs resonate outdoors. Complete with a 6.5-inch driver, the speaker has an exterior treated with UV-protection and weather-resistant coating. Note: You will need an amplifier to power the speaker. But if you’ve got one already or are willing to make that purchase, the AW-650 delivers big sound in a big way.
Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 9.5 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire to amp.
Mounting Type: Built-in mounting brackets.
Best value outdoor speakers: Yamaha NS-AW150W Outdoor Speaker
Yamaha is one of the most trusted names in audio, which mean you can feel good about turning to them for a pair of outdoor speakers. Decently sized, the set emits a clear sound, allowing your favorite songs to be heard in crisp detail. This is thanks to the half-inch tweeter and five-inch woofer. However, the speakers are only water-resistant instead of waterproof, so you’ll need to tuck them under an awning or inside a screened-in porch to protect them better.
Dimensions: 10.2 x 6.2 x 5.4 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire to amp.
Mounting Type: Built-in mounting brackets.
Most reliable outdoor speakers: Sonos Move
In addition to sounding great, part of the appeal of a Sonos speaker is how easy it is to use and link with other devices—more so if you’ve already invested in the brand’s sound system. The Sonos Move is a battery-powered smart speaker with an IP56 rating and a shock-absorbent design that can tackle humidity, rain, snow, sun, and extreme temps with ease, all while providing superior sound and super-easy connectivity. Again, getting a pair of Moves may not be the best idea if you don’t already have a Sonos system, but if you want to stay within the architecture, the Move is a slam dunk.
Dimensions: 9.44 x 6.29 x 4.96 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: Wall hook sold separately.
Sleekest outdoor speaker: Bowers & Wilkins AM-1
Bowers & Wilkins’s audio products always have strikingly elegant designs, and the AM-1 is no exception. With the ability to mount the set of speakers either vertically or horizontally, the AM-1 is sealed entirely, which allows for better protection from the elements. Additionally, the one-plug mounting system is quick and easy to install and provides 220-degree rotation so you can position the speaker best for your setup. But that simple, all-in-one design makes these speakers a real hit—just like the audio at your next party.
Dimensions: 12.25 x 7 x 8.25 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: Built-in wall mount.
Best concert-level outdoor speakers: Soundboks 3
Looking just to get one outdoor speaker and call it a day? The Soundboks 3 is a massive (both in weight and size) unit that could substitute a PA system at a bar. With the set’s rechargeable 40-hour battery and a concert-level decibel volume, you may drive your neighbors insane with how loud it can get. The Soundboks 3 is also dent-proof and water-proof, making it so you can play music anytime, anywhere without worrying about the elements getting in the way.
Dimensions: 31.5 x 19.69 x 15.75 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: None.
Most hassle-free outdoor speaker: Bose 251
Bose automatically conveys a certain level of craftsmanship, so rest assured the 251 outdoor speakers are more than a compelling set. A heavy-duty composite casing makes them strong enough to handle both heat and cold swings, while the water-resistant metal will protect them against rain. The simple mount also allows the 251 to angle slightly downward, not unlike speakers you’d see in a movie theater or mounted in the ceiling at a concert. Plus, they’re super easy to set up, so you won’t need to take too much time away from lounging outside.
Dimensions: 4.49 x 5.98 x 12.4 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire.
Mounting Type: Wall mounts.
Best budget outdoor speakers: Dual Electronics LU43PB
If you’re in the market to outfit a massive outdoor space with several budget-friendly options, the Dual Electronics LU43PB speakers are a fantastic budget option. The high-performance units provide quality sound through an amplifier, and the speakers include a four-inch woofer. Also, the swivel brackets allow for versatility in mounting and positioning, while the all-weather coating ensures you’ll be able to use the speakers in any environment.
Dimensions: 8.25 x 5.25 x 5.25 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Speaker wire.
Mounting Type: Wall mounts.
Best outdoor soundbar: Samsung HW-LST70T Terrace Outdoor Soundbar
Don’t want to go with individual speakers? Then Samsung’s Terrace Soundbar is the way to go, which is part of the brand’s Terrace product line made for outdoor entertaining. With Dolby sound included in the unit, the Terrace’s quality is the best of the best. It can also be mounted easily underneath your television set with ease. Last but not least, the IP55 rating helps with weather resistance against water and dust. Additional features include distortion cancelation, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth streaming and adaptive sound.
Dimensions: 48 x 5.5 x 2.1 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Mounting Type: Wall mounts.
Best illuminating outdoor speakers: Pohopa
With a deceptively simple lantern-like exterior, Pohopa’s multipurpose outdoor speakers actually double as garden lights. The two speakers each deliver 10 watts and can be paired together for powerful and rich surround sound. They are also fitted with built-in LED lights that will brighten up any outdoor space, literally. Since the speakers are compatible with Bluetooth, you can control them via your phone while you’re up to 33 feet away. Each speaker also packs a rechargeable lithium battery which means you needn’t worry about pesky wires. Naturally, they’re also water- and dustproof.
Dimensions: 7.75 x 7 x 11.75 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless.
Mounting Type: Portable.
Best incognito outdoor speakers: Anerimst
Like the pick above, Anerimst’s outdoor speaker doubles as a light and delivers far more than superior stereo sound. In fact, the three-in-one design can be used as a table lantern, a hanging lamp, or a torch depending on which kind of atmosphere you wish to create. The LED even creates warm yellow light that flickers like a real flame. The wireless speaker delivers five watts for clear and crisp sound. It also features a rechargeable battery that offers 18 hours of playtime. To top it off, this speaker can connect to smartphones, tablet, or computers and is also weatherproof for year-round enjoyment.
Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 7.09 inches.
Weather Resistance: Yes.
Connectivity: Wireless or USB.
Mounting Type: Portable.
This story was first published on Robb Report USA
