Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker review small portable waterproof speaker with deep bass

Description

Compact Design with Impressive Durability

The Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker really lives up to its “micro” name, fitting comfortably in the palm of my hand. Its compact dimensions of 1.37″ x 3.87″ x 3.87″ make it ridiculously portable, and I’ve found it easy to toss into my bag or clip onto my backpack using the tear-resistant silicone strap. That strap, by the way, is no joke—it’s sturdy enough to stay attached through all kinds of movement, whether I’m hiking trails or biking around town. Plus, the rubberized silicone exterior gives it a rugged quality that seems to laugh in the face of drops and scratches.

I was pleasantly surprised by how the soft-touch finish doesn’t show marks or fingerprints. It’s rare to find something this small that feels this tough. A true testament to its durability? I accidentally dropped it in the sand at the beach, and it brushed off like nothing happened. Even water poses no threat, thanks to its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. This is a speaker that’s clearly made for adventure.

Sound Performance That Defies Its Size

I honestly didn’t expect such a small speaker to deliver such rich and deep bass. The custom-designed transducer and passive radiators inside this thing somehow produce a sound that punches way above its weight. Whether I’m listening to podcasts or blasting my favorite playlists, the audio clarity remains consistently impressive. Even outdoors, where sound can often feel thin or lost, this speaker holds its own.

For those who love to tweak settings, the Bose Connect App is a neat addition. It lets you pair the speaker with others for Party Mode or Stereo Mode, which is a game-changer if you’re hosting a small gathering. Using Stereo Mode to separate left and right channels adds a dimension to music that’s just delightful. And if I’m being honest, I’ve used it for Netflix marathons, and it’s made dialogue so much clearer.

Key Benefits

• Ultra-portable size with a tear-resistant strap for easy attachment to bags and bikes.
• Shockingly deep bass and balanced sound for its size.
• Durable materials that resist dents, cracks, and scratches.
• IP67 rating ensures it’s both waterproof and dustproof.
• Seamless integration with the Bose Connect App for added features like Party Mode.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery life is a mixed bag for me. On one hand, the six-hour playback time is perfect for casual use, but during longer outings, I’ve had to bring along a power bank. Charging is done via a Micro-USB cable, which feels a bit dated when compared to the USB-C standard that many devices use nowadays. Still, it gets the job done, and I guess you can’t have everything in such a compact device.

Bluetooth connectivity is solid, with a maximum range of 30 feet. Pairing it with my phone was straightforward, thanks to the voice prompts that guide you through the process. Plus, it supports voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, which is handy when I want to skip songs or check the weather without touching my phone.

Areas for Improvement

• The six-hour battery life could’ve been longer for extended use.
• Micro-USB charging feels outdated compared to modern USB-C.
• No included carrying case for extra protection during travel.

Other Options

Looking at competing brands, the JBL Clip 4 comes to mind as a direct rival. It has a similar form factor and also boasts an IP67 rating, but it offers a slightly longer battery life. However, I found the sound to be less balanced compared to the Bose speaker. The bass on the JBL feels a bit overpowering at times, while the Bose manages to keep everything clear and crisp. Another competitor is the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3. While it delivers impressive 360-degree sound, it lacks the same soft-touch finish and durability that the SoundLink Micro offers. It’s a matter of preference, but for outdoor use, I’d take the Bose any day for its rugged build.

Price Performance

In terms of cost-efficiency, this speaker delivers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the combination of sound quality, portability, and durability makes it feel like a worthwhile investment. Compared to similarly priced competitors, the Bose SoundLink Micro stands out with its rugged design and ability to handle the elements without compromising on sound. If you’re someone who values both performance and durability, this is a speaker that justifies its price tag.

All in all, this portable speaker is a small but mighty companion that you can rely on, whether you’re at home, on the beach, or trekking through the wilderness. It’s not perfect, but it sure tries its best to be.

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