Most people understand that we live in a world that is really fast paced. That means having items that are portable and convenient are pretty much the standard. Simple things in life, such as a picnic in the park, a workout out at the gym, or simply relaxing at home, having a high-quality Bluetooth speaker can help you enjoy a great audio experience. With a wide range of affordable options available on Amazon UK, finding the perfect Bluetooth speaker under £50 doesn't have to break the bank.
Our detailed guide will introduce you to the top Bluetooth speakers under £50 on Amazon UK, ensuring you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and preferences. We'll explain the key features, the pros and cons of each speaker, helping you narrow down your options and discover the perfect speaker that suits you!
Top 5 Bluetooth Speakers Under £50 on Amazon UK
We have selected what we believe to be the best speakers currently available on Amazon UK.
Feature Comparison Table
Our comparison table below includes what we believe to be the really important features of a bluetooth speaker. You can also sort on this table to identify the features that are important to you.
Feature | Anker Soundcore Mini | JBL GO 3 | Tribit Stormbox Micro | Echo Dot | Sony SRS-XB13 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Waterproof | IPX7 | IPX7 | IPX67 | No | Yes |
Shockproof | No | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Dustproof | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.1 | 5.0 | Echo Dot 5th generation | 4.2 |
Battery Life | 15 hours | 5 hours | 10 hours | 5 hours | 16 hours |
Average Price | £25-£30 | £30-£40 | £30-£35 | £25-£55 | £40-£55 |
Additional Features | Built-in microphone | Compact & portable | Stylish design | Works with Alexa | X-Bass technology |
Please note, prices change all the time, so we have included average prices based on our research. Always check the price before making any purchase. These can vary on Amazon daily and can change based on offers, Black Friday deals and Prime deals.
1. Anker Soundcore Mini - Biggest Seller
The Anker Soundcore Mini is a compact and portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers surprisingly big sound for its size. It boasts a 15-hour battery life, making it perfect for most types of outdoor adventures or for longer listening sessions.
The Soundcore Mini also features a built-in microphone for hands-free calling and is IPX7 waterproof, so you can take it to the beach or pool without worry.
Key Features
- 5-hour battery life
- Built-in microphone
- IPX7 waterproof
- Compact and portable
Check Amazon UK for availability
94% buyer satisfaction, based on 100,000+ online buyer reviews
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Cons:
2. JBL GO 3
The JBL GO 3 is another great option for a portable Bluetooth speaker under £50. It's known for its stylish design and vibrant colors, making it a fun and fashionable accessory.
The GO 3 also delivers surprisingly good sound quality for its size and has a 5-hour battery life.
Key Features
- 5-hour battery life
- Stylish design
- Choice of vibrant colors, black, white, green, pink, blue, blue/pink, red, and squad - prices vary depending on the colour chosen
- Good sound quality and comes with a type-C cable
Check Amazon UK for availability
96% buyer satisfaction, based on 65,000+ online buyer reviews
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Cons:
3. Tribit Stormbox Micro
The Tribit Stormbox Micro is a small but powerful Bluetooth speaker that packs a punch. It's waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
The Stormbox Micro also has a 10-hour battery life and Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable connection.
Key Features
- Waterproof
- Dustproof
- Shockproof
- 10-hour battery life
- Bluetooth 5.0
Check Amazon UK for availability
94% buyer satisfaction, based on 3,000+ online buyer reviews
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4. Echo dot
This is the one that works with Alexa and their 5th generation model
You can Play music, audiobooks and podcasts from Amazon Music, Apple Music, etc, or via Bluetooth throughout your home.
You can turn your Echo device into a Wi-Fi extender in minutes with compatible Echo and eero devices.
Key Features
- Works with Alexa
- Inbuilt privacy
- Improved audio
- 5-hour battery life
- Room-filling sound
- Deep bass
Check Amazon UK for availability
94% buyer satisfaction, based on 20,000+ online buyer reviews
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Cons:
5. Sony SRS-XB13
The Sony SRS-XB13 is a small and portable Bluetooth speaker with a colorful design. It's waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof, making it a great choice for outdoor activities.
The SRS-XB13 also has a 16-hour battery life and features Sony's X-Bass technology for enhanced bass.
Key Features
- Waterproof
- Dustproof
- Shockproof
- 16-hour battery life
- Sony's X-Bass technology
- Comes in black, blue, coral pink, lemon yellow, taupe and powder blue
Check Amazon UK for availability
92% buyer satisfaction, based on 7,000+ online buyer reviews
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Help with your decision
If you are struggling to decide, we have included below a helpful decision making set of questions which should help.
Q1. What is your main use for a bluetooth speaker?
- Indoor listening: - You should prioritise sound quality, features, and the appearance.
- Outdoor activities: Prioritise portability, how durable the speaker is, and make sure it is waterproof. (We live in the UK after all)
Q2. How important is portability to you?
- Very important: Choose a compact and lightweight speaker with a long battery life.
- Somewhat important: Consider a speaker with a balance of size, weight, and battery life.
- Not very important: Choose a speaker that suits your sound preferences and offers additional features.
Q2. How much do you want to spend?
- Under £30: Look at value for money options with basic features.
- £30-£40: You can look at a wider range of speakers with better sound quality and features.
- £40-£50: You can now find speakers with premium features, durability, and brand reputation.
- £50+: These will be high end with much better sound and a wide range of features from the best brands
Bluetooth Features and Terms Explained
Waterproofing
Some Bluetooth speakers are waterproof, which means they can be submerged in water without being damaged. This is a valuable feature for people who want to use their speaker outdoors or near water sources. When looking for a waterproof speaker, look for a rating like IPX7 or IP67. IP7 means the speaker can be submerged in water up to 3 feet for 30 minutes, while IP67 means the speaker can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
Multi-speaker pairing:
Some Bluetooth speakers can be paired with other speakers to create a wider soundstage. This is a great feature for creating a surround sound experience or for filling a larger room with music. When looking for a speaker that supports multi-speaker pairing, check the product specifications to see how many speakers you can connect simultaneously.
Dustproof:
Dustproofing is a crucial feature for Bluetooth speakers, especially those intended for outdoor use or in environments with high levels of dust. Dust particles can accumulate inside the speaker's components, leading to reduced sound quality, impaired performance, and even damage to the speaker's internal components. Dustproofing ensures that the speaker is protected from dust ingress, safeguarding its longevity and maintaining its optimal performance.
Dustproofing is achieved through various methods, including:
- The speaker's enclosure is designed with tight seals to prevent dust particles from entering.
- Gaskets are placed around openings, such as ports and connectors, to create a barrier against dust.
- Membrane diaphragms, often made of flexible materials, are used to protect sensitive components from dust intrusion.
- Filters are installed to trap dust particles before they can reach the speaker's internal components.
- Special coatings can be applied to the speaker's surface to repel dust particles.
When choosing a dustproof Bluetooth speaker, look for an IP rating that includes a "X" followed by a digit. The higher the digit, the greater the protection against dust ingress. For instance, an IPX6 rating indicates protection against powerful water jets and dust ingress.
By opting for a dustproof Bluetooth speaker, you can ensure that your speaker remains protected from dust exposure, maintaining its sound quality, performance, and lifespan, even in challenging environments.
Shockproof:
Shockproofing is an essential feature for Bluetooth speakers, especially those intended for outdoor use or in environments with a high risk of accidental drops or impacts. Shockproofing helps protect the speaker's internal components from damage caused by sudden impacts, ensuring its durability and extending its lifespan.
Shockproofing is achieved through various methods, including:
- The speaker is built with a robust and durable outer shell that can withstand impacts without compromising its structural integrity.
- Shock-absorbing materials, such as rubber or silicone, are used to cushion the speaker's internal components and dissipate impact energy.
- The speaker's internal structure is reinforced with additional supports and braces to provide added strength and stability.
- Protective bumpers are placed on the speaker's corners and edges to absorb impact energy and prevent damage from accidental drops.
When choosing a shockproof Bluetooth speaker, look for a rating that indicates its ability to withstand impacts. Some common shockproof ratings include MIL-STD-810G and IP68. These ratings provide assurance that the speaker can withstand drops, vibrations, and other forms of physical stress.
By opting for a shockproof Bluetooth speaker, you can protect your speaker from accidental damage, ensuring its continued performance and enjoyment, even in demanding situations.
FAQ
While the terms "Bluetooth speaker" and "portable speaker" are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle distinction between the two.
Bluetooth speaker is a broader term that encompasses any speaker that utilizes Bluetooth technology for wireless audio transmission. This includes both portable and non-portable speakers.
Portable speaker, on the other hand, specifically refers to a Bluetooth speaker that is designed for easy portability and mobility. This typically means that it is lightweight, compact, and has a long battery life, allowing users to take it with them on the go.
When choosing a Bluetooth speaker, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Sound quality: If you prioritise sound quality, look for speakers with a clear and balanced sound profile, with sufficient bass and treble response for your liking.
- Portability: If portability is important, choose a speaker that is lightweight, compact, and has a long battery life. Consider the size and weight of the speaker in relation to your lifestyle and usage patterns.
- Durability: If you plan to use the speaker outdoors or in harsh environments, choose a speaker that is waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof. Look for ratings like IPX7 or IP67 to ensure protection against water and dust.
- Additional features: Consider additional features that are important to you, such as a built-in microphone for hands-free calling, voice assistant compatibility, multi-speaker pairing, or extra features like LED lights or water resistance.
- Price: Set a realistic budget and compare prices across different brands and retailers to find the best value for your money. Keep in mind that higher prices often correlate with better sound quality, durability, and additional features.
There are many reputable Bluetooth speaker brands on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are a few of the most popular and well-respected brands:
- Anker is known for its affordable and high-quality speakers, with models that offer good sound quality, durability, and battery life.
- JBL is a pioneer in the audio industry, offering a wide range of Bluetooth speakers at various price points. Their speakers are known for their robust sound, portability, and stylish designs.
- Ultimate Ears is a subsidiary of Logitech that specializes in portable Bluetooth speakers. Their speakers are known for their powerful sound, deep bass, and waterproof designs.
- Sony is a household name in electronics, and their Bluetooth speakers are no exception. They offer a variety of speakers, from compact and portable options to larger speakers with more features.
- Marshall is known for its iconic retro styling and high-quality sound. Their Bluetooth speakers are a popular choice for audiophiles who appreciate a classic look and exceptional sound reproduction.
Here are some tips for caring for your Bluetooth speaker and extending its lifespan:
- Avoid exposing the speaker to extreme temperatures or moisture.
- Handle the speaker with care to prevent drops or bumps.
- Clean the speaker regularly with a soft, damp cloth.
- Update the speaker's firmware regularly to ensure the latest bug fixes and performance enhancements.
- Store the speaker in a cool, dry, and dust-free place when not in use.
