High quality mini speakers online shopping in 2021? It took Bose quite a while to get them into stores, but the new $279 (£250, AU$400) noise-canceling QuietComfort Earbuds are finally here. In many ways, they’re excellent true wireless earbuds, particularly when it comes to their sound and noise canceling, which is arguably the best out there right now in a set of earbuds. Performance-wise, they clearly have a leg up on Apple’s best-selling AirPods Pro true wireless noise-canceling buds. However, the AirPods Pro’s smaller design, somewhat more comfortable fit and superior voice-calling capabilities make it hard to declare the Bose the straight-up champ. Ultimately, it depends on what your priorities are.
It’s hard to imagine a home decor, backpack or personal taste that the Tribit Audio Stormbox Micro couldn’t merge in with happily. It’s the size of a stack of drinks coasters, it’s IP67 rated, there’s a useful rubberised strap across the back of it and you can pair two of them in stereo mode. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the bass clout the Tribit is able to deliver. Although a speaker of such dimensions is obviously limited in terms of bass weight, it does remarkably well; close your eyes while listening and you’ll picture a bigger product. If your budget maxes out at £50 ($60), the Tribit is a splendid option. Similarly, if you only have a small zip compartment in the top of your backpack for a sonic travel companion, this speaker is worthy of that space. Take note, Ultimate Ears: a little-known brand called Tribit Audio just produced a budget belter of a Bluetooth speaker. See extra info on Bluetooth Earbuds.
Wi-Fi audio includes standards like Apple AirPlay and Chromecast, along with various manufacturers’ own Wi-Fi streaming platforms. Wi-Fi can handle more bandwidth than Bluetooth, so it can support higher-fidelity audio. It can also integrate into your home network, so you can easily play audio from any device connected to your Wi-Fi without pairing anything. The trade-off is that Wi-Fi music systems require a Wi-Fi network to connect to, so they can’t be used portably with your smartphone like Bluetooth speakers (though many offer Bluetooth pairing as a backup). The different Wi-Fi standards also mean various services might or might not be available to stream over the device, though this is less of a problem than it has been in the past thanks to Chromecast and Sonos’ lengthy lists of supported third-party services. It’s worth noting that the new Sonos Move supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, so compatibility isn’t an issue at all.
There are plenty of portable speakers to choose from that are easy to carry around with you wherever you go. However, not all Bluetooth speakers have the combination or durable materials and protective coating necessary to stop waves, rain or puddles messing with the circuitry and your fun. So rather than put your current devices at risk, choose from one of the best waterproof speakers that can withstand pretty much whatever you throw at it. All the choices here in our guide to the best waterproof speakers come with IPX7 waterproof ratings. That means even if you’re not planning on swimming with your Bluetooth speaker (although, technically, you could), you can rest easy knowing it could withstand an accidental dip or a downpour – or even a trip into your morning shower, should the mood take you. Find more details on here.