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Best Waterproof Speakers 2025: Top Picks for Pool, Shower & Outdoor Use

July 16, 2025
Stephanie Valente
Written by
Stephanie Valente
Lead Editor
Reviewed by
Lead Editor

Want music at the beach, in the shower, or by the pool? A waterproof speaker makes it easy - no worrying about splashes, rain, or damp backpacks.

Whether you’re after crisp sound on a hike or big volume for a backyard hang, these picks cover the best waterproof speakers of 2025 across every budget and use case.

Let’s take a closer look at what stands out and which one might be right for you.

Key Takeaways
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  • IP ratings matter: Look for IP67 or higher for full water and dust protection.
  • Battery life varies: Some models last 5 hours, others up to 20+, so match it to your routine.
  • Portability vs. power: Smaller speakers are easier to carry; larger ones offer fuller sound.
  • Extra features can help: Think straps, built-in mics, or smart assistant access.
  • Durability counts: A rugged build helps your speaker survive drops, sand, and splashes.
Why Trust Soundly
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  • 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
  • 200+ hours each month spent researching brands and care options
  • 2,000,000 people shopped on Soundly in 2024
  • 100% independently owned and operated

Read more about our company, services and process here.

Featured in this article

Best Affordable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Ultimate Ears Boom 3 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
$129.99
Best all-around mini speaker for travel and daily use
Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth Speaker
$34.99
Best for rugged, portable listening
Marshall Middleton Portable Bluetooth Speaker
$223.99
Top choice for small speaker sound quality
Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker
$99.00
Best Bluetooth Speaker Under $50
JBL Clip 3
$39.95

What should I look for in a waterproof speaker?

With so many waterproof speakers available, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. No matter your budget, here are a few key factors to keep in mind:

  • Price: Determine a budget that aligns with your needs, balancing sound quality, durability, and any extra features like voice control or multi-device pairing.
  • IP Rating: Look for a high IP rating, which indicates resistance to water and dust, so you can confidently use the speaker near water or outdoors.
  • Connection Type: Choose between Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or wired connections, depending on your preferences and where you plan to use the speaker.
  • Battery Life: Consider battery life based on your usage—longer battery life is ideal for extended outdoor use, while shorter use may be suitable for indoor or occasional outings.

These are our top picks for the best waterproof speaker on the market. 👇

Best Affordable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
 

Ultimate Ears Boom 3 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

$129.99
  • Durable Build: IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof design, perfect for outdoor use.
  • Extended Playtime: Provides up to 15 hours of battery life on a single charge.
  • Versatile Controls: One-touch Magic Button for easy music control and playlist access.
  • Multi-Speaker Pairing: Connect up to 150 speakers for an immersive sound experience.
Why We Picked It
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The Ultimate Ears Boom 3 is a versatile, waterproof Bluetooth speaker that’s perfect for on-the-go music lovers.

  1. With its IP67 rating, this speaker is fully waterproof and dustproof, even floating if dropped in water, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures and beach trips.
  2. A single charge provides up to 15 hours of battery life, ensuring uninterrupted listening throughout the day, whether at a party, camping, or simply relaxing at home.

Its rugged build and intuitive controls, paired with seamless Bluetooth connectivity, make it an excellent option for those seeking durability and convenience.

What Users Say
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  • Powerful Sound: Users are impressed with the rich, clear audio and deep bass, noting that the sound quality holds up even at high volumes.
  • Perfect for Outdoors: The compact, durable design and waterproof capabilities make it a go-to for outdoor adventures, from beach days to camping trips.
  • Long-Lasting Battery: Many users highlight the 15-hour battery life, appreciating how it powers through day-long activities without needing a recharge.
  • Seamless Multi-Speaker Pairing: The PartyUp feature is praised for easily connecting multiple speakers, creating an immersive surround sound experience.
  • Easy-to-Use Controls: The Magic Button for play, pause, and skipping tracks gets positive feedback for its simplicity, allowing users to control music without reaching for their phone.
  • Setup & Connectivity: While most users find it straightforward, a few mention occasional hiccups with app connectivity, particularly with streaming services like Spotify.
Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
  • Long-lasting battery supports up to 15 hours of continuous play.
  • Fully waterproof (IP67 rating) and floats if dropped in water.
  • Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry on adventures.
  • Seamless multi-speaker pairing through the PartyUp feature.
  • Simple, intuitive controls with the Magic Button for easy music navigation.
Cons 👎
  • Occasional connectivity issues reported with streaming apps like Spotify.
  • Requires the Boom app for full feature access.
  • Some users mention slight setup quirks for first-time use.
  • Charging dock (POWER UP) sold separately for wireless charging.
Best all-around mini speaker for travel and daily use
 

Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth Speaker

$34.99
  • Waterproof and Floats: IP67-rated design is dustproof, water-resistant, and floats — suitable for showers, pools, or beach days.
  • All-Day Battery Life: Up to 20 hours of playback supports extended use with minimal recharging.
  • Compact and Travel-Friendly: Lightweight build with strap makes it easy to carry on hikes, commutes, or clipped to a bag.
  • Stereo Pairing Option: Two speakers can be paired for wider, more immersive sound.
Why We Picked It
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The Soundcore Select 4 Go is a compact Bluetooth speaker designed with portability and durability in mind, making it a practical choice for everyday use and outdoor settings alike.

  1. IP67 waterproofing and floating design protect the speaker in wet or rugged conditions, whether you’re by the pool, on a hike, or caught in the rain — it even floats if dropped in water.
  2. Up to 20 hours of battery life supports extended listening without needing to recharge, useful for long days out, travel, or back-to-back gatherings.

With its lightweight build, carry strap, and punchy 5W sound, the Soundcore Select 4 Go strikes a solid balance between convenience and performance for users who want music that moves with them.

What Users Say
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  • Impressive Value for the Price: Many users say the Select 4 Go outperforms expectations for its size and price, with several comparing it favourably to more expensive brands like JBL.
  • Clear, Balanced Sound: While bass isn’t booming, listeners appreciate the even, detailed sound - especially when using the bass boost EQ setting or pairing two units for stereo.
  • Durable and Easy to Carry: The compact design, sturdy build, and carry options (like a strap or carabiner) make it a go-to speaker for travel, work, or outdoor use.
  • Reliable Battery Life: Users report around 18–20 hours of playtime, even at higher volumes, which helps offset the slower charging speed mentioned by a few.
  • Pairs Quickly, No Major Glitches: Bluetooth pairing is smooth, and dual-device support is a nice bonus, though some note the speaker doesn’t support phone calls.

Overall, users find it to be a dependable, portable speaker that delivers well-rounded sound and strong value for casual, everyday listening.

Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
  • Durable and compact design that fits in small bags or pockets
  • Strong waterproofing and floating capability for outdoor use
  • Reliable battery performance for day-long playback
  • Stereo pairing enhances sound experience when using two units
  • Clear, well-balanced sound for the size

Cons 👎
  • Bass response is limited due to compact form
  • No speakerphone or call support
  • Charging speed is slower than some competitors
  • Doesn’t project audio as far as larger models
Best for rugged, portable listening
 

Marshall Middleton Portable Bluetooth Speaker

$223.99
  • Immersive Audio: Delivers multi-directional stereo sound to fill indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • Durable Design: IP67-rated build resists dust, water, and rough handling.
  • Long Battery Life: Over 20 hours of playtime on a single charge.
  • Custom Controls: Includes physical bass/treble dials and app-based sound adjustments.
Why We Picked It
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The Marshall Middleton is a portable Bluetooth speaker designed for users who want solid sound and durability without overcomplicating things. Its rugged build and straightforward controls make it a dependable choice whether you’re indoors or outside.

  1. True Stereophonic audio creates a spacious, 360-like sound experience, giving listeners a fuller sense of depth and direction - ideal for open spaces or group settings.
  2. With IP67 dust and water resistance and 20+ hours of battery life, it’s built to handle rough weather and long sessions without needing constant recharging or worry about the elements.

For users who want a reliable speaker that’s both tough and easy to use, the Middleton strikes a smart balance between performance and portability.

What Users Say
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  • Durable and Travel-Ready: Users consistently praise the Middleton’s solid build and rubberized finish, noting it holds up well during travel.
  • Sound That Fills a Room: Most listeners find the audio rich and full, especially when adjusting the onboard bass and treble.
  • Straightforward to Use: Setup is generally simple with easy-to-use controls. However, the app experience is mixed - some users report connectivity issues, particularly when trying to pair multiple speakers.
  • Battery Life and Charging Caveats: Battery life meets expectations, but a few users mention slow charging with basic cables
  • Heavier Than It Looks: While still portable, several reviewers note that the speaker is bulkier and heavier than they expected, and some wished a protective case was included.

Overall: A rugged, great-sounding speaker with minor flaws, best suited to users who value durability and solid everyday performance.

Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
  • Strong build quality with rubberized exterior for grip and impact resistance
  • Custom EQ available via both hardware and app
  • IP67 rating ensures protection from dust and water
  • Stack Mode lets you connect multiple speakers for bigger sound
  • Reliable Bluetooth pairing with minimal setup

Cons 👎
  • Heavier and bulkier than many portable speakers
  • Lacks support for higher-quality Bluetooth codecs (e.g., AptX or LDAC)
  • App connectivity can be inconsistent, especially during multi-speaker use
  • No automatic battery protection - requires manual unplugging after full charge
Top choice for small speaker sound quality
 

Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker

$99.00
  • Waterproof and Dustproof: IP67 rating keeps it protected during outdoor use and accidental drops in water.
  • Durable Design: Silicone casing resists drops, scratches, and wear from everyday handling.
  • Easy to Carry: Tear-resistant strap lets you secure it to bags, bikes, or shower racks.
  • Hands-Free Use: Built-in mic allows voice assistant access and call handling directly from the speaker.
Why We Picked It
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The Bose SoundLink Micro is a small Bluetooth speaker built for real-world use - whether that’s clipped to a backpack, strapped to a bike, or tossed in a beach bag. Despite its size, it delivers impressively full sound with strong bass and clear detail.

  1. With an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating plus a rugged silicone exterior, it’s made to handle drops, dirt, and downpours without missing a beat.
  2. The tear-resistant strap and built-in mic make it easy to carry, take calls, or cue up your voice assistant — even when your phone’s out of reach.

Battery life caps at 6 hours, so it’s more suited to day trips than weekend escapes. Still, if you’re after bold sound in a compact, durable speaker that can keep up with your plans, the SoundLink Micro fits the bill.

What Users Say
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  • Compact Size, Big Sound: Many users are surprised by how full and detailed the audio sounds, especially the bass, given the speaker’s small footprint. It holds its own even compared to larger or more expensive models.
  • Built for the Elements: The waterproof and dustproof design earns high marks from outdoor users, whether it’s clipped to a backpack, mounted on a bike, or used in the shower. The silicone strap is seen as both durable and practical.
  • Clear Audio Across Genres: From classical to electronic, users report consistent clarity across different music styles. Vocals stay sharp and balanced, and the speaker avoids harsh treble even at higher volumes.
  • Battery Life is a Mixed Bag: Most users find the 6-hour battery life decent for short trips, but some wish it lasted longer. Playback time improves at lower volumes, but charging via micro-USB feels outdated to some.

Overall: A popular pick for those who want rugged portability and impressively rich sound in a speaker small enough to take anywhere.

Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
  • Clear, balanced sound with surprisingly deep bass for its size
  • Fully waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating
  • Rugged exterior withstands drops and rough handling
  • Strap adds versatility for mounting and transport
  • Bose Connect app provides optional customization features
Cons 👎
  • Battery life maxes out around 6 hours
  • Charges via micro-USB rather than USB-C
  • Volume and Bluetooth controls may be limited when used with PCs
  • Mono sound may lack stereo separation for some listeners
Best Bluetooth Speaker Under $50
 

JBL Clip 3

$39.95
  • Portable Design: Ultra-compact size with a built-in carabiner allows easy attachment to bags and belts for on-the-go music.
  • Waterproof Protection: IPX7 waterproof rating ensures durability, making it suitable for outdoor use in various weather conditions.
  • Extended Playtime: Up to 10 hours of battery life offers reliable listening for all-day adventures.
  • Hands-Free Calling: Features a noise and echo-cancelling speakerphone for clear phone calls without needing to hold your device.
Why We Picked It
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The JBL Clip 3 is an ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers impressive sound quality in a compact design, making it a convenient choice for music lovers on the go.

  1. Impressive Portability: The built-in carabiner allows you to easily attach the speaker to your bag, clothing, or belt loop, ensuring you can take your music wherever you venture. This feature enhances convenience, making it ideal for outdoor activities or travel.
  2. Waterproof and Durable: With an IPX7 waterproof rating, the JBL Clip 3 can withstand rain and splashes, giving you peace of mind during outdoor use. Its rugged fabric and rubber housing further protect it from wear and tear, making it suitable for adventurous lifestyles.

Overall, the JBL Clip 3 is a reliable option for those seeking a portable, waterproof speaker that balances sound quality and durability, making it a practical choice for active users.

What Users Say
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  • Compact & Powerful: Users consistently praise the JBL Clip 3 for its impressive sound quality in a small form factor, making it an ideal companion for outdoor activities.
  • Durability & Waterproofing: Many appreciate the rugged design and waterproof capabilities, noting that it withstands beach trips and hikes without issue.
  • Convenient Clip Design: The built-in carabiner is widely recognized for its practicality, although some users find it a bit small for certain attachments.
  • Impressive Battery Life: With up to 10 hours of playtime, customers report reliability for all-day listening, perfect for long outings.
  • Minor Concerns: A few users mentioned durability issues after drops and expressed a desire for a louder volume, along with critiques of the older charging design.

Overall, the JBL Clip 3 is considered a solid value, offering portability and performance for music lovers on the go.

Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
  • Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry, perfect for travel and outdoor activities.
  • Rugged and Durable: Designed to withstand outdoor elements and minor impacts.
  • Strong Sound Quality: Delivers impressive audio performance for its size.
Cons 👎
  • Limited Volume: Some users find the maximum volume to be insufficient for larger spaces.
  • Small Clip Size: The carabiner clip may not accommodate all attachment options.
  • Charging Port Design: Uses Micro-USB charging instead of the universal standard USB-C

So, are waterproof speakers really waterproof?

According to Soundly’s lead audiologist and audio expert, Dr. Amy Sarow, “A rating of IPX7 works in humid or moist environments while IPX8 can be submerged in at least three feet of water for a longer duration and IPX9 can withstand powerful water jets and has maximum waterproof capability.”

Waterproof speakers are specifically designed to withstand water and moisture. And even if your waterproof speaker is far away from actual water (like, on a table at a pool or on a towel far away from the wet, sandy shore), moisture and humidity can certainly affect any electronic device. That’s why you’ll want to tap waterproof speakers as your poolside streaming buddy moving forward.

Quick reminder: Whether you’re crooning along to your Spotify Wrapped in the shower or chilling outdoors by the lake, you’ll want to listen to music or sound at a healthy volume. Dr. Amy shares that volume is key. “Keeping the volume below 80 dB is best to protect your hearing,” she says.

Which waterproof speaker is right for me?

First up, you’ll want to net out where and how often you’ll use this device (think, frequency of use and/or length of time in a usage session, type of use, and location). 

Now, let’s look at the budget. It’s probably a good idea to invest in a device based on how often and how long you’ll use it. Let’s say, you really dig listening to music during your morning shower, and if you do this on a daily basis, you’ll probably want a waterproof speaker with an extensive battery life. 

Confirm what types of activities you’ll engage in (a hot soak with bath bombs versus streaming music on your deck while you swim laps), and then take a look at the IP rating* for each project you’re considering to see which one syncs up best with your lifestyle.

FYI: IP stands for Ingress Protection Marking, a system that rates the level of defense mechanical and electrical casings offer against intrusions like dust, water, and more.

IP Water Resistance Rating Guide

Understanding Ingress Protection levels for water resistance in electronic devices

IPX0
No Water Protection
Device has no water resistance at all. Should be kept completely dry and away from any moisture.
⚠️ No Protection
IPX1 – IPX2
Light Moisture Tolerance
Device will function with light rainfall or moisture. Protected against vertically dripping water when normally positioned.
🌦️ Light Rain Safe
IPX3 – IPX4
Water Spray Resistant
Device will function with water spray conditions. Protected against splashing water from any direction.
💧 Spray Protected
IPX5
Direct Water Spray
Device will remain functional in direct water spray like a hose or jet. Protected against water jets from any direction.
🚿 Jet Resistant
IPX6
Saltwater Exposure
Device is able to be exposed to saltwater environments. Protected against powerful water jets and heavy seas.
🌊 Marine Grade
IPX7
Temporary Submersion
Device can be exposed to many water sources and get submerged (approximately 3.2 feet for 30 minutes).
🏊 Submersion Safe
IPX8
Extended Underwater Use
Device is able to be submerged underwater for more than 30 minutes. Suitable for continuous submersion beyond 1 meter.
🤿 Fully Waterproof

Pro Tip

IP ratings are cumulative - a device with IPX7 rating also meets all the requirements for IPX1 through IPX6. However, manufacturers typically only test and certify the highest rating they intend to claim.

Beyond that, the decision is pretty easy. Do you want a few extra features? Like, voice-activated controls? Or, something else? With all of these options settled, you’ll be able to find the right speaker.

How to Clean Your Waterproof Speaker

Proper maintenance guide to keep your speaker functioning optimally

1
Rinse with Fresh Water
🚿
Even if your speaker is saltwater resistant, always rinse with fresh water after ocean or pool use to remove salt and chlorine buildup. This prevents corrosion and maintains seal integrity.
2
Use Mild Soap Solution
🧼
For stubborn dirt or grime, mix a small amount of gentle dish soap with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol, or abrasive cleaners that can damage rubber seals and protective coatings.
3
Clean Grilles & Ports
🪥
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean speaker grilles and remove debris from charging ports. Work in circular motions and avoid applying excessive pressure that could damage delicate components.
4
Dry Thoroughly
🌬️
Pat dry with a clean, lint-free towel and let air dry completely before charging or storing in enclosed spaces. Ensure all ports and crevices are moisture-free to prevent internal damage.
5
Test Audio Quality
🔊
After cleaning and drying, test your speaker at various volume levels to ensure water hasn't affected sound quality. If audio seems muffled, gently shake the speaker to remove any remaining moisture from the drivers.

Important Warning

Never use compressed air, hair dryers, or heat sources to dry your speaker. High pressure or heat can damage internal components and compromise waterproof seals. Always allow natural air drying.

Regular Maintenance

Clean your waterproof speaker after every few uses in harsh environments. Monthly cleaning with just fresh water will extend its lifespan and maintain optimal performance. Store in a dry place when not in use.

Final Thoughts

The best waterproof speaker for you depends on where you’ll use it most and what features matter to you.

Whether you’re headed to the beach, the shower, or just the backyard, a speaker with the right mix of sound, durability, and battery life makes all the difference.

From compact picks to room-filling options, these waterproof speakers are built to keep the music going no matter where you are.

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