The 7 Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers — Summer 2023 Reviews
If you want to play audio at the pool or outdoors, or you’re looking for the best beach Bluetooth speaker, you’ll most likely want a waterproof Bluetooth speaker you can easily bring along with you. Many speakers have an IP rating: dust and water resistance scores tested by independent and accredited third parties. When looking for a waterproof speaker, an IP rating of IPX4-IPX7 is ideal, but it ultimately depends on your needs. A speaker with an IPX4 rating can tolerate splashes of water. In contrast, speakers with an IPX7 rating can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. An IP rating is the most surefire way to know how a speaker handles water.
Despite their IP rating, some product manuals advise against using waterproof speakers in certain situations, like the beach or shower. IP ratings don’t account for different types of water exposure like salty, soapy, or chlorinated water; depending on manufacturer specifications, you may need to rinse the speaker off with fresh water after exposure or avoid exposure completely. Frequent exposure to soapy, salty, or chlorinated water tends to deteriorate the speaker’s surface build with time, particularly if it’s covered in fabric instead of sturdier materials like silicone or plastic. As a general rule, it’s good to rinse or wipe off any substance the manufacturer hasn’t explicitly deemed safe for your product and double-check that the speaker’s ports are completely dry before using and recharging them.
We’ve tested over 115 speakers; below, you’ll find our picks for the best waterproof speakers. If you’re looking for more speakers, check out our recommendations for the best shower speakers, the best outdoor speakers, the best speaker brands, and the best cheap speakers.