Today’s meetings can be very elaborate. Sometimes there are crazy graphics, audio effects, or even people calling in from all over the world. Whether you just want to hear everyone on a conference call or pump up the volume of your presentation, having a portable speaker can be an asset.
Many of these speakers are affordable and easy to take on the go. Several newer portable speakers even have Bluetooth. It’s not always necessary, but this wireless technology allows you to pair the speaker with the types of devices you’re already traveling with, such as tablets, smartphones, and laptops. Most of these same speakers are built to travel, easy to use, and sound awesome.
There are certainly a lot of portable speakers out there. Some are cheap, but they also sound cheap. Bad sound, low volume, and spotty reception probably aren’t things you want to hear during an important meeting. Here are seven of the best portable speakers to consider for your next meeting.
Logitech UE Boom 2
This is like a party for your office or hotel room. That’s because the UE Boom 2 can rock out 360 degrees of music, presentations, and conversations via Bluetooth or a 3.5 mm audio jack. It can connect wirelessly to up to two devices at a time, but will remember eight total. It’s also made to travel, with an enclosure that’s about the size of a water bottle, waterproof (IPX 7), and drop‑proof (from up to five feet). It also has Siri and Google Now voice integration for easy use without buttons or the UE Boom app for iOS and Android devices. [$199.99]
Sol Republic Punk
The name may scream loud music, but the Sol Republic Punk is the perfect companion for any business traveler. Measuring just 5.2 × 5.1 × 2.3 inches, this little Punk fits perfectly in your palm, briefcase, or travel bag. It doesn’t have speakerphone features, but it does have Bluetooth support and a 3.5 mm jack. It’s also water‑resistant and shock‑resistant. More importantly, it promises use up to 60 feet from connected devices for up to 8 hours on a full charge. [$59.99]
JBL Charge 3
This cylinder‑style speaker has a rugged exterior that can withstand your travels—even if those take you underwater. However, the most impressive feature on the JBL Charge 3 is that it can stream up to 15 hours from up to three devices via Bluetooth. It can even charge up some of those devices using the built‑in USB port. Available in five colors, it also has speakerphone features with noise‑ and echo‑cancelling, as well as a built‑in microphone for taking calls and JBL Connect for linking other compatible speakers. [$129.95]
Jabra Speak 410
It’s been around a while, but the Jabra Speak 410 is still one of the best speaker options for business travelers. It’s not designed for rocking out music tracks, but has a 3.5 mm jack and omnidirectional microphones for conference calls. Besides being certified for Skype for Business, this small speaker also has a USB cable, HD Voice, and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology. [$69.95]
Logitech X300
This is another highly rated option from Logitech. However, the Logitech X300 doesn’t have the stylish appearance of the UE Boom 2, nor the same price. What it does have is everything you’d need to boost the sound of your meeting, including Bluetooth support, one‑touch speakerphone controls, and angled drivers to deliver sound to an open space. It also has a built‑in lithium‑ion battery, which promises five hours of continuous playback on a full charge. [$69.99]
Creative SoundBlaster Roar 2
Want to keep tabs on your meeting? Don’t rely on a person to keep precise notes. The Creative SoundBlaster Roar 2 is a Bluetooth speaker with a built‑in recorder, so you can capture conversations, interviews, and meetings at the touch of a button. It can even record calls as part of the speakerphone function. Other perks for the portable worker include five drivers, two amps, a Digital Signal Processor, the option to charge portable devices, a microSD card slot, an 8‑hour battery life, and the ability to work in horizontal or vertical orientations. [$169.99]
DKnight MagicBox II
If you’re not sure whether a portable speaker is essential, pick up the DKnight MagicBox II It’s the least expensive model on our list and an absolute steal. Despite that low price, it packs in 10‑watt drivers, a passive radiator, and Bluetooth support. Compact enough for travel, it also has a built‑in microphone and hands‑free speakerphone for business needs, as well as 10 hours of battery life and a very portable 11.5‑ounce weight. [$30.99]
Images: Logitech, Sol Republic, Creative, Jabra, JBL, DKnight
