10 Best Waterproof Speakers 2025 in the United States

The JBL FLIP 5 stands out in the waterproof speaker category with its IPX7 rating, making it a reliable choice for poolside use, beach activities, and other wet or dusty environments. Its compact and lightweight design enhances portability, allowing users to easily carry it to various locations. With 12 hours of battery life, it can support extended use without frequent recharging, which is suitable for small to medium gatherings. However, the charging time of 12 hours might be inconvenient for those needing quick recharges.

The speaker delivers good sound quality with a maximum output power of 20 watts, ensuring that music is loud enough for personal use and small events. Connectivity is straightforward with Bluetooth 4.2, though the range is limited to about 33 feet, which might be a restriction if you intend to move around a lot. The speaker allows pairing with other JBL speakers via the 'PartyBoost' feature, which can enhance sound coverage during larger gatherings.

A minor drawback is the lack of a built-in MP3 player, meaning it requires external devices like smartphones or tablets to stream music. Additionally, the simple controls and Bluetooth connectivity make it easy to use, but it lacks advanced features like voice assistants or app-based customization.

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is a well-rounded portable waterproof speaker designed for outdoor and travel use. Its IP67 rating ensures it is both waterproof and dustproof, protecting it from drops in water or dirt and making it ideal for beach days, hikes, or poolside activities. The speaker delivers clear, balanced sound with deep bass, which is impressive for its compact size and provides an enjoyable listening experience.

It offers versatility through the ability to link two units for stereo sound or an enhanced party mode. The battery life lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge, sufficient for a full day of use, and recharging takes about 4 hours via USB-C. Portability is a key strength; the speaker is lightweight, small enough to clip onto a bag, and durable due to its silicone wrapping. Connectivity is facilitated by Bluetooth 5.3, which provides a stable connection up to 30 feet and supports connecting two devices simultaneously.

While the sound quality is high for its size, it does not match larger speakers in loudness or bass power. Additionally, the price may be higher compared to some competitors. For those seeking a reliable, easy-to-carry waterproof speaker with solid sound and good battery life, this Bose model represents a smart choice.

The JBL Charge 5 is a strong contender in the waterproof speaker category, particularly appealing to those who enjoy outdoor activities or pool parties. With an impressive IP67 rating, it is both waterproof and dustproof, making it suitable for various environments without the worry of damage. The sound quality stands out thanks to its optimized drivers and dual bass radiators, delivering rich audio that can fill larger spaces, which is a significant advantage for outdoor gatherings. With a remarkable battery life of 20 hours, users can enjoy music throughout the day without needing to recharge frequently, enhancing its portability and convenience. The ability to wirelessly connect two devices simultaneously is a nice touch, allowing users to share control of the music, while the PartyBoost feature lets you pair with other JBL speakers for an even richer sound experience.

While the speaker excels in many areas, it does have some drawbacks. At 2.1 pounds, it may be a bit heavier compared to other portable options, which could be a consideration for users looking for ultimate lightweight portability. Additionally, while it is designed for outdoor use, it lacks advanced features like voice assistant integration that some competitors offer. The JBL Charge 5's charging time of 4 hours might feel lengthy to some, especially when in a hurry to hit the road. Although it has a built-in power bank for charging devices, the limited number of USB ports (just one) may not suffice for those needing to charge multiple devices at once.

The JBL Charge 5 is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and music lovers looking for durability, quality sound, and long battery life in a portable speaker. It successfully meets the needs of those who prioritize both performance and convenience, while also providing a fun social aspect through its connectivity features.