Bluetooth speakers have come a long way. Modern options boast impressive sound quality, increased range and even protection against the elements. While it’s true that a handful of Bluetooth speakers can survive being submerged in a pool during a backyard BBQ, some folks need a speaker that can really take a beating. Whether you want to use it in the snow, on the beach, in the shower, these Bluetooth speakers have earned the “rugged” distinction.
FYI: looking to take a speaker on a hiking with you? Also bring one of these iPhone hiking apps.
1. Best Rugged Speaker Overall: Turtlebox Gen 2
Price: $399
Do you consider yourself the adventurous type? A self-professed adrenaline junkie? Are you looking for a Bluetooth speaker that can keep up with your active lifestyle and survive to crank out tunes another day? Look no further, as the Turtlebox Gen 2 is exactly what the doctor ordered.
The Turtlebox speaker is built like a tank. The rubberized housing is impact-resistant and rated IP67, making it a great waterproof speaker. The Turtlebox can take a licking and keep on ticking. Drop it, submerge it underwater, expose it to dirt and grime, and the Turtlebox will shrug it off. It even boasts corrosion-resistant stainless steel hardware. Furthermore, the Turtlebox can handle extreme temperatures, from 32 to 113º Fahrenheit (0 to 45º C).
The Turtlebox is tough, but it’s no one-trick pony. The Turtlebox also lays claim to excellent sound quality. The conical fiberglass woofer and titanium tweeter can produce 120 dB of distortion-free audio. In addition, the speaker is designed to cut through wind and carry over long distances. Between the superior audio quality and tough-as-nails construction, the Turtlebox is the perfect companion for an ultra-active lifestyle.
Pros
- Built-in molded handle
- Pair two for stereo sound
- Excellent battery life
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavier at 10 pounds
2. Best for the Jobsite: DeWalt MAX
Price: $94
DeWalt is best known as the manufacturer of professional power tools. They’re also no stranger to speakers that can take a beating – they’ve been making jobsite radios for years. With the DeWalt MAX, they’ve added Bluetooth functionality to their tried and tested rugged speakers.
The DeWalt MAX is powered by DeWalt’s 20V Lithium-ion batteries, which are the battery packs used by over 180 different DeWalt tools. The 20V battery can supply 8 to 10 hours, more than enough to get through the workday. In addition, it can be powered by DeWalt’s 12V and FlexVolt batteries, but be aware that run times will vary when using these battery packs.
The DeWalt MAX features two 3-inch speakers for stereo sound housed in a rugged, impact-resistant housing that can survive the rigor of a construction site. Furthermore, the 100-foot Bluetooth range means that the speaker is suitable for virtually all job sites.
Pros
- Built-in phone holder
- USB charging port
- Wired AUX port
Cons
- No waterproofing
3. Best for Camping: TurtleShell 3.0
Price: $70
The TurtleShell has one of the most unique designs of any Bluetooth speaker, taking its inspiration from, you guessed it, a turtle’s shell. The look is more than just a conversation starter. There is a functional purpose, as the design allows it to sit, stand or lean on virtually anything. You can prop the TurtleShell speaker against a rock or log and be confident that it will remain stable.
Additionally, the TurtleShell features multiple mounting options. There is a standard 1″ thread to mount the speaker on tripods, as well as handles on either side that allow you to feed a strap through – effectively allowing you to mount the speaker to any surface.
In addition, the TurtleShell boasts a water-resistant build and an incredible 20-hour battery life. If that wasn’t enough, it can also be used as a power bank to charge phones and other mobile devices. This makes the TurtleShell perfect for a night or two of camping under the stars.
Tip: need more of a high-capacity power bank? We have found the best options.
Pros
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- Submersible up to 3 feet for 30 minutes
- Floats
- Pair two for stereo sound
Cons
- Bluetooth range only 32 feet
4. Best for Hiking: Muzen Wild
If you’re an avid hiker, you know how important it is to pack light. The last thing you want to do is burden yourself with a heavy and cumbersome pack. When every ounce counts, a Bluetooth speaker isn’t a priority. Thankfully, with the Muzen Wild, you don’t have to sacrifice your tunes while enjoying the fresh air and the beauty of nature, thanks to the Muzen Wild being small and light.
Measuring a mere 2.38 by 1.26 by 2.93 inches and weighing only 0.5 pounds, the Muzen Wild is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. But don’t let its diminutive size fool you. The rare Earth magnet speaker boasts excellent sound quality, and the zinc alloy housing can take a beating. It also enjoys an IPX5 water resistance rating.
In addition to eight hours of playback time, the Muzen Wild features a built-in flashlight with three modes of illumination. These include high, low, and a flashing SOS beacon. After all, when you’re out hitting the trails, it’s always a good idea to be prepared.
Pros
- Bluetooth 5.0
- All metal construction
Cons
- Expensive
- Buttons are not intuitive
- Battery life is mediocre
Good to know: want to take your data on the go too? Check out the best portable external hard drives.
5. Best Water Protection: ECOXGEAR EcoExtreme 2
Price: $79.99
Are your fingertips perpetually pruned? Do you know the difference between the port side and the starboard side? If so, you need the EcoExtreme 2 Bluetooth speaker. The EcoExtreme 2 boasts an IP67 rating, guaranteeing the best protection against both water and dust. Headed to the beach? You don’t need to worry about sand with the EcoExtreme 2. Does the forecast call for rain? The EcoExtreme 2 will not only survive a downpour, but can also take a swim in the drink, thanks to its floating ability! Drop it in the pool, the lake, the ocean – there isn’t a body of water that the EcoExtreme 2 can’t handle.
In addition to being dust-proof and waterproof, the EcoExtreme 2 also features an innovative dry storage compartment. The compartment measures approximately 8 by 4 inches, meaning it is big enough to hold most phones, in addition to keys and other smaller personal belongings. As the compartment is water tight, you can place your items inside and not worry about them being damaged by the elements.
Furthermore, when your phone is inside the speaker, rest assured that you still have complete control over it. The rubberized face buttons allow you to skip tracks and adjust the volume. In addition, it features a hands-free call button, so you can still take speakerphone calls while your phone is inside the dry compartment.
Pros
- Bluetooth 5.0 – 100 foot range
- Built-in mic for calls
- Available in a variety of colors
Cons
- Charging port is in an awkward position
- Battery drains if not manually shut off
6. Best Budget Rugged Speaker: Klein Tools AEPJS1
Price: $39
Klein has been a manufacturer of high-quality hand tools for more than 160 years. They pride themselves on making professional grade tools that stand the test of time, and the same standard has been applied to the Klein AEPJS1 Bluetooth speaker.
This rugged jobsite speaker is small and portable, making it easy to carry between job sites. Furthermore, it boasts an IP45 rating, meaning it can withstand particles, like dust, as well as splashes of water. In addition, the speaker is encased in an impact-resistant housing that makes it suitable for virtually any work environment.
One of the handiest features of the Klein AEPJS1 is the multiple mounting options. It has a threaded base that allows it to be affixed to a tripod, as well as a locking mechanism that adheres it to Klein tool bags. However, the most useful is the strong magnetic backing. This allows the speaker to adhere to a variety of steel structures. No need to worry about tripping over a speaker or finding a shelf. Slap it on some steel, and get back to work!
Pros
- Audio control buttons
- Microphone for hands-free calls
- Auxillary port
Cons
- Louder tools may overpower the speaker
- Micro USB charging
No matter your favorite outdoor activity, there’s a Bluetooth speaker that would allow you to listen to your tunes without fear of damage to the device. Get it drenched in the rain, drop it down a ravine, or have it setting next to a jackhammer – these are the best Bluetooth speakers for the outdoors. Leaving you without concern. If you’re looking to use multiple Bluetooth speakers with your iPhone, we can help.
Image credit: Unsplash
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