Original price was: $149.95.$129.95Current price is: $129.95.
After spending several weeks testing the Beats Pill Portable Bluetooth Speaker, it's clear that Apple has significantly refined their portable audio offering since its release in late 2023. Let's explore why this $149 speaker deserves attention in today's crowded portable audio market.
The portable speaker category has matured significantly over the past few years, with manufacturers focusing on durability and sound quality rather than just convenience. The Beats Pill represents this evolution perfectly, building on previous generations with meaningful improvements in audio technology and build quality.
The heart of this speaker is its completely redesigned acoustic architecture. In our testing, the reengineered racetrack woofer (that's the oval-shaped driver responsible for lower frequencies) showed impressive capability. Technical specs tell us it delivers 28% more motor force than previous models, but what does that mean in real-world use?
During our listening sessions, this translated to noticeably clearer bass notes, especially in complex electronic music tracks. The speaker handled everything from subtle jazz double bass to thumping electronic beats without the muddiness often found in portable speakers this size.
The isolated tweeter design (handling high frequencies) particularly impressed us during vocal-heavy tracks. By housing this component separately, Beats has reduced unwanted vibrations that can muddy the sound - a clever engineering choice that pays off in clarity.
In practical use, we found the speaker really shines in medium-sized rooms and outdoor spaces. The 20-degree upward tilt of the drivers (the parts that actually produce sound) isn't just a design choice - it effectively projects audio to ear level when placed on a table or counter. This might seem like a small detail, but it makes a noticeable difference in sound quality compared to speakers that fire straight ahead.
Some technical specifications worth noting:
That IP67 rating means the speaker is fully protected against dust and can handle immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. While we wouldn't recommend swimming with it, it easily handled splash tests and a brief rain shower during our outdoor testing.
The Beats Pill includes several thoughtful features that enhance its versatility:
The speaker can remember multiple paired devices, making it easy to switch between your phone, tablet, or laptop. During testing, switching between devices was nearly instantaneous - a notable improvement over earlier Bluetooth speakers that often required manual reconnection.
If you're fortunate enough to have two units, you can use them in either:
We tested both modes and found the stereo separation particularly impressive for home theater use, though this requires a significant investment in two units.
The USB-C port isn't just for charging - it can also charge your other devices. While this will reduce playback time, it's a valuable feature in outdoor settings or emergency situations.
The claimed 24-hour battery life proved accurate in our testing, though volume levels significantly impact this. At moderate volumes (around 50%), we consistently achieved 22-23 hours of playback. The USB-C charging is quick, taking about 2.5 hours from empty to full.
The build quality impressed us during testing. The speaker feels substantial without being heavy (1.5 pounds), and the soft-touch materials provide good grip without attracting too much dust. The included lanyard is sturdy and actually useful - something that can't be said for all portable speaker accessories.
At $149, the Beats Pill sits in a competitive price bracket. However, several factors justify the investment:
Through our testing, we identified several scenarios where this speaker particularly excels:
The water resistance and durability make it perfect for:
While not a replacement for a dedicated home theater system, it works well for:
The combination of durability and battery life makes it ideal for:
While impressive overall, there are a few areas where future versions could improve:
The Beats Pill represents a significant step forward in portable audio. It successfully balances premium sound quality with genuine portability and durability - a combination that's harder to find than you might expect. While the price point may give some pause, the performance and feature set justify the investment for those who prioritize audio quality and versatility in their portable speaker.
For users seeking a reliable, high-quality portable audio solution that can handle various environments and use cases, this speaker delivers consistently impressive performance. The improvements in audio technology, battery life, and build quality make it a worthy consideration for anyone in the market for a premium portable speaker.
The Beats Pill offers excellent value at $149 for users seeking premium portable audio. Its combination of strong bass response, 24-hour battery life, and durable construction makes it worth the investment, especially if you value sound quality and portability. For home theater use, it can serve as a quality temporary solution or secondary room speaker.
With 12 watts of power, the Beats Pill can easily fill medium-sized rooms. It's loud enough for indoor gatherings and outdoor use, maintaining clear audio even at higher volumes. While not as powerful as dedicated home theater speakers, it provides sufficient volume for temporary setups or smaller spaces.
Yes, you can connect the speaker to TVs with Bluetooth capability. While not a replacement for a full home theater system, it provides significantly better audio than most built-in TV speakers. The low latency Bluetooth 5.3 connection helps minimize audio sync issues.
The battery lasts up to 24 hours on a single charge at moderate volume levels. Real-world testing shows about 22-23 hours of playback at 50% volume. Charging takes approximately 2.5 hours via USB-C.
Yes, the Beats Pill has an IP67 rating, meaning it's fully protected against dust and can withstand water immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. It's suitable for use near pools, in bathrooms, or during light rain.
Yes, two Beats Pills can be paired either in Amplify Mode (both playing the same audio) or Stereo Mode (true left/right channel separation). This feature is particularly useful for home theater applications or covering larger spaces.
Yes, the speaker includes a built-in microphone for speakerphone functionality, making it useful for conference calls or hands-free phone conversations.
Yes, the Beats Pill can act as a power bank to charge phones or other devices through its USB-C port, though this will reduce the speaker's playback time.
The latest Beats Pill features significant improvements including 28% more motor force in the woofer, better water resistance, and longer battery life compared to previous generations. The sound quality is notably improved, especially in bass response and clarity.
Yes, the Beats Pill works with any Bluetooth-enabled device, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs. While it offers some additional features with Apple devices, it maintains full functionality with Android and other platforms.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - staples.com - connection.com - otza.com - target.com - quill.com - jumpplus.com - beatsbydre.com - apple.com - bhphotovideo.com - beatsbydre.com - vipoutlet.com
Beats Pill Portable Bluetooth Speaker |
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Battery Life - Critical for portable use: 24 hours continuous playback |
Output Power - Determines volume capability and clarity: 12 Watts |
Bluetooth Version - Affects range and connection stability: 5.3 |
Water/Dust Rating - Important for outdoor durability: IP67 (fully dustproof, waterproof up to 1m) |
Driver Configuration - Impacts sound quality: Racetrack woofer + isolated tweeter design |
Charging Port - Determines compatibility and charging speed: USB-C |
Multi-Speaker Features - Enables expanded sound options: Amplify Mode and Stereo Pairing |
Power Bank Function - Adds versatility: Yes, can charge other devices |
Height: 2.8 inches |
Width: 2.8 inches |
Depth: 8.6 inches |
Weight: 1.5 pounds |
Additional Features: Find My device support, included lanyard |
The Anker Soundcore Mini stands out in the budget speaker segment by offering impressive features for its $20 price point. Despite being significantly less expensive than the Beats Pill, it includes versatile connectivity options like FM radio, micro SD card support, and an auxiliary input. The 5W driver paired with a passive subwoofer delivers surprisingly capable sound for personal listening, though it can't match the room-filling presence of the Beats. At just 0.44 pounds, it's also notably more portable than the Beats Pill, making it an excellent choice for travelers or commuters who prioritize lightweight convenience.
However, the price difference becomes apparent when comparing build quality and performance features. The Soundcore Mini lacks water resistance, offers shorter battery life at 15 hours, and can't match the Beats' bass response or overall sound clarity. While it provides excellent value for casual listeners who need basic portable audio, it's best suited for personal listening rather than group settings or outdoor use. The speaker represents a compelling budget option for those who prioritize price and basic functionality over premium features and superior sound quality.
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The Anker Soundcore 2
($44.99) stands out in the portable speaker market with its impressive value proposition, delivering reliable performance at less than a third of the Beats Pill's price. While it can't match the Beats' premium audio quality, it still offers respectable 12W output through dual full-range drivers and maintains a 24-hour battery life that equals its pricier competitor. The speaker's IPX5 water resistance provides adequate protection for most casual outdoor uses, and its compact 11.2-ounce design makes it notably more portable than the Beats Pill.
Where the Soundcore 2
really shines is in delivering the essentials without the premium price tag. While it lacks advanced features like stereo pairing or USB-C charging, it handles the basics competently - providing clear audio for background music, podcasts, and casual listening. The sound quality, while not as refined as the Beats Pill, remains impressive for its price point, with Anker's BassUp technology helping to maintain decent low-end response. For users who prioritize value over premium features and don't need maximum audio fidelity, the Soundcore 2 represents an excellent alternative that covers the core functionality most people need in a portable speaker.
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The Sonos Era 300 ($449) takes a completely different approach to audio, focusing on premium home listening with its sophisticated spatial audio capabilities and room-filling sound. While the Beats Pill excels at portability, the Era 300 delivers a more refined listening experience through its six-driver array, including dedicated upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos content. The Era 300's ability to integrate into a larger home theater system as rear surrounds, combined with its multi-room audio capabilities and support for high-resolution streaming services, makes it a more versatile option for dedicated home audio enthusiasts.
However, this comparison really comes down to intended use rather than direct competition. The Era 300 justifies its higher price tag with superior sound quality, home theater integration, and whole-home audio features, but it sacrifices the portability and durability that make the Beats Pill so practical. For those building a permanent home audio solution, especially one centered around movies and spatial audio content, the Era 300's premium features and sound quality make it a worthy investment. Just remember that you're paying for a different category of speaker entirely - one designed to be the cornerstone of a sophisticated home audio system rather than a grab-and-go portable solution.
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The Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen distinguishes itself through superior sound accuracy and natural audio reproduction, powered by Bose's innovative PositionIQ technology that automatically optimizes sound based on the speaker's orientation. At a lighter 1.29 pounds, it offers greater portability while maintaining the same IP67 water and dust resistance rating. The integrated utility loop and soft-touch silicone exterior make it particularly appealing for outdoor enthusiasts, while its consistent audio performance across all volume levels sets it apart from the Beats' tendency to distort at maximum volume.
While the Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen offers only 12 hours of battery life compared to the Beats' 24 hours, it compensates with features like multipoint connection for simultaneously connecting two devices and SimpleSync for easy stereo pairing. Its more balanced sound signature excels with acoustic music, podcasts, and vocal-heavy content, though it doesn't match the Beats' bass impact or maximum volume. At the identical $149 price point, the Bose makes its case through superior sound accuracy and portability rather than feature quantity, appealing to listeners who prioritize audio quality and natural sound reproduction over extended battery life and power bank functionality.
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👌Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Bose SoundLink Flex distinguishes itself with its PositionIQ technology, which automatically optimizes audio output based on the speaker's orientation - a particularly useful feature for varied listening environments. Released in 2021, it established new standards for portable audio with its balanced, natural sound signature that excels with acoustic instruments and vocals. While its 12-hour battery life is half that of the Beats Pill, its lighter 1.3-pound design and integrated utility loop make it more appealing for hiking and active outdoor use. The SoundLink Flex also frequently appears on sale for $110-120, making it a more attractive value proposition despite sharing the same $150 MSRP.
Where the Beats Pill emphasizes bass-heavy performance, the SoundLink Flex takes a more nuanced approach to sound reproduction. Its flatter frequency response and careful tuning result in clearer midrange and more controlled bass, though it won't match the Pill's maximum volume or low-end impact. The SoundLink Flex's powder-coated steel grille and silicone exterior provide equivalent IP67 water and dust protection, while its more compact form factor makes it easier to slip into a backpack or attach to outdoor gear. While it lacks some modern features like fast charging and Find My support, its core performance and sound quality remain competitive even three years after its release.
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The Bose SoundLink Max
represents a more premium approach to portable audio, with its $399 price tag reflecting significantly more powerful sound capabilities. At 4.9 pounds, it's substantially larger than the Beats Pill, but this extra size enables true stereo sound with deeper, more controlled bass and higher maximum volume without distortion. The speaker's advanced digital signal processing and custom-designed drivers deliver noticeably better sound staging and clarity, particularly in larger spaces or outdoor settings. Its ability to maintain audio quality at high volumes makes it more versatile for parties and gatherings.
While the Bose SoundLink Max
sacrifices some portability, it compensates with additional features like multi-point device connection, SimpleSync technology for connecting with other Bose speakers, and customizable EQ settings through its companion app. The 20-hour battery life is slightly shorter than the Beats Pill's, but it adds the ability to charge other devices through its USB-C port. For users who prioritize sound quality over ultimate portability and don't mind the higher price point, the SoundLink Max offers tangible benefits in audio performance and feature set that justify its premium positioning.
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The Bose SoundLink Micro ($99.99) takes portable audio in a dramatically different direction, focusing on ultra-compact design with its remarkably small 3.87-inch square form factor. Despite its diminutive size, Bose's engineering delivers surprisingly balanced sound through custom-designed transducers and passive radiators, though it can't match the Beats Pill's room-filling volume or bass response. The standout feature is its practical portability - weighing just 0.68 pounds with a tear-resistant strap, it can securely attach to backpacks, bike handlebars, or other gear while remaining nearly unnoticeable until needed.
For users prioritizing maximum portability and value over absolute sound quality, the Bose SoundLink Micro makes a compelling case at half the price of the Beats Pill. While its 6-hour battery life and older micro-USB charging show its age, the IPX7 water resistance and rugged construction make it a reliable companion for outdoor activities where carrying a larger speaker would be impractical. The smaller size does mean compromising on volume and bass response, but for personal listening or small group settings, the sound quality remains impressively balanced given its ultra-portable format. It's best suited for users who value grab-and-go convenience and are willing to trade some audio performance for maximum portability and a more affordable price point.
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The JBL Clip 5 ($59.99) takes a dramatically different approach to portable audio, prioritizing ultimate portability with its compact 285g design and innovative built-in carabiner system. While it can't match the Pill's bass response or room-filling sound, it delivers impressive audio quality for its size, particularly in the mid-range frequencies that matter most for music and podcasts. The Clip 5's 12-hour battery life (expandable to 15 hours with Playtime Boost) provides enough power for most situations, and its highly functional JBL Portable app offers EQ customization options that the Pill lacks.
Where the JBL Clip 5 really shines is in its versatility and value proposition. The integrated carabiner isn't just a gimmick - it transforms how and where you can use the speaker, from clipping to backpack straps during hikes to hanging from shower rods or bike handlebars. While it may not have the Pill's premium sound signature or extended battery life, its combination of durability (matching the Pill's IP67 rating), portability, and solid audio performance at nearly half the price makes it an compelling alternative for active users who prioritize convenience and value over maximum audio quality.
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The JBL Go 4 offers a compelling alternative at just $39.99, emphasizing ultra-portability and simplicity over raw power. At just 0.42 pounds and small enough to fit in a pocket, it delivers surprisingly clear audio from its 4.2W single-driver system. While it can't match the Beats Pill's room-filling sound, it provides more than adequate volume for personal listening and maintains the same IP67 water resistance rating. The 7-hour battery life, while shorter than the Beats Pill, is sufficient for most daily use cases, and the 3-hour charging time keeps downtime minimal.
Where the JBL Go 4 really shines is in its value proposition and everyday practicality. Its compact size makes it genuinely portable in ways the Beats Pill can't match, and its sound quality is impressive given its diminutive dimensions. While it lacks advanced features like power bank functionality or true stereo pairing, it includes modern touches like Bluetooth 5.3 and app-based EQ control. For users prioritizing portability and value over maximum sound output, the JBL Go 4 represents an excellent alternative that delivers impressive performance at a fraction of the cost.
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The JBL Clip 4 ($49.99) takes a radically different approach to portable audio, emphasizing ultimate portability with its compact, clip-on design. While it can't match the Beats Pill's room-filling sound, it excels in personal listening scenarios with impressive clarity for its size. The ingenious integrated carabiner and ultra-lightweight 0.53-pound design make it incredibly versatile for active lifestyles, and its 10-hour battery life provides enough power for most daily uses. Despite its smaller size, it maintains the same IP67 water and dust resistance rating as the Beats Pill.
For those prioritizing portability and value over maximum sound output, the JBL Clip 4 offers remarkable performance in a much smaller package at half the price. While it lacks advanced features like stereo pairing and voice assistant support, its straightforward operation and durable construction make it an excellent choice for outdoor activities, travel, and personal listening. The speaker's 5W output provides enough volume for personal use or small group settings, though it naturally can't deliver the same bass response or volume levels as the larger Beats Pill. This makes it an ideal choice for users who value mobility and simplicity over maximum audio performance.
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The JBL Flip 6 distinguishes itself with a more balanced sound signature, thanks to its two-way speaker system combining a 1.75" x 3" woofer and dedicated 0.6" tweeter. This configuration delivers exceptional clarity in the mid-range frequencies, making it particularly effective for vocal-focused music and podcasts. While its 12-hour battery life is shorter than the Beats Pill, the Flip 6's more compact size and rugged construction make it a more versatile outdoor companion. The comprehensive companion app offers valuable features like customizable EQ settings and PartyBoost functionality for connecting multiple speakers.
At $130, the JBL Flip 6 represents strong value, especially for those who prioritize durability and sound customization over maximum bass response. Its cylindrical design with protective rubber end caps and durable fabric covering has proven reliable through multiple generations, while maintaining the same IP67 water and dust resistance as the Beats Pill. Though it doesn't match the Beats' maximum volume output or bass impact, the Flip 6's more balanced audio profile and outdoor-ready construction make it a compelling alternative, particularly for users who need a speaker that can handle adventures beyond the home environment. The choice largely depends on whether you value the Flip 6's durability and sound customization over the Beats Pill's extended battery life and bass-forward signature.
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The Marshall Emberton III ($169) elevates the portable speaker experience with its True Stereophonic technology, delivering immersive 360-degree sound that fills rooms more effectively than the Beats Pill's directional audio. Its standout 32-hour battery life and quick-charge capability (providing 6 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging) offer superior endurance for extended use. The Dynamic Loudness feature automatically adjusts frequency response across volume levels, maintaining audio clarity whether you're listening quietly at home or at full volume outdoors - a noticeable improvement over the Beats Pill's sound profile.
While commanding a $70 premium over the Beats Pill, the Marshall Emberton III justifies its higher price through technological advantages and future-proofing features. The upcoming Auracast support will enable multi-speaker streaming capabilities, and its current multi-point connectivity allows seamless switching between devices. Though both speakers share IP67 water resistance, the Marshall's more compact form factor and superior sound staging make it a more versatile choice for various listening environments. For users willing to invest in premium audio quality and advanced features, the Marshall's enhanced performance capabilities make it a worthwhile upgrade over the Beats Pill.
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The $79.99 JBL Flip 5 offers a more balanced sound signature and proven durability at a lower price point than the Beats Pill. Its racetrack-shaped driver delivers clearer midrange frequencies and more natural vocal reproduction, making it particularly well-suited for genres like rock, acoustic, and podcasts. The PartyBoost feature allows connection with unlimited compatible JBL speakers for synchronized playback or true stereo pairing, offering more flexibility than the Beats' two-speaker limit. The Flip 5's more rugged construction and rubberized ends inspire confidence for outdoor use, despite sharing the same IP67 rating.
However, the Flip 5's older Bluetooth 4.2 technology and 12-hour battery life show its age compared to the Beats Pill's modern features. While the Flip 5's sound quality remains competitive, it can't match the Beats Pill's deeper bass response and air-moving capability, particularly noticeable in bass-heavy genres like hip-hop and electronic music. The $20 savings make it an attractive value proposition, but users seeking longer battery life or more powerful bass might find the additional investment in the Beats Pill worthwhile. The Flip 5 represents a solid choice for those prioritizing balanced sound and durability over cutting-edge features.
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The Sonos Roam 2 differentiates itself through superior ecosystem integration and smart capabilities, offering WiFi connectivity, voice assistant support, and seamless multi-room audio functionality. At $179, it commands a higher price but delivers unique features like automatic Trueplay tuning, which actively adjusts the sound profile based on the speaker's environment. The ability to integrate with Sonos soundbars as a surround speaker adds significant value for home theater enthusiasts, while its more compact design makes it notably more portable despite sacrificing some battery life with only 10 hours of playback.
While the Beats Pill excels in bass response and maximum volume, the Sonos Roam 2 offers a more balanced sound signature that particularly shines with vocal clarity and midrange reproduction. Its dual connectivity options (WiFi and Bluetooth) provide more versatility in how you can use the speaker, and features like AirPlay 2 support and wireless charging add meaningful convenience. However, the shorter battery life and higher price point may be dealbreakers for users who prioritize extended portable use over smart features and ecosystem integration.
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The Marshall Willen II adopts a more compact and adventure-ready approach to portable audio. At just 0.79 pounds and 4 inches square, it's significantly more portable than the Pill, with an ingenious rubber mounting strap that adds versatility for outdoor activities. While its 10-watt system doesn't match the Pill's bass response or maximum volume, the Willen II delivers surprisingly balanced audio with clear mids and highs through its 2-inch full-range driver and dual passive radiators. The implementation of Auracast technology for multi-speaker syncing offers exciting potential for future expandability, though at the cost of a higher $119.99 price point.
Despite its smaller size, the Marshall Willen II manages to pack in 17 hours of battery life and features quick-charging capability, providing 5.5 hours of playback from just a 20-minute charge. The multi-directional control knob offers more intuitive operation than traditional buttons, and the Marshall app's EQ presets help customize the sound signature. While it can't match the Pill's room-filling sound, the Willen II excels in scenarios where portability is paramount, making it the better choice for activities like hiking, cycling, or travel where space and weight are primary concerns.
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The $39.99 Sony XB100 offers a compelling alternative for those seeking an ultra-portable audio solution at a fraction of the price. Despite its compact size and significantly lower cost, it delivers surprisingly capable sound through its clever combination of a full-range driver and passive radiator system. The speaker's standout features include impressive 16-hour battery life, Echo Cancelling technology for clear calls, and an extremely portable 0.6-pound design that easily fits in a pocket. Its Sound Diffusion Processor helps create a more expansive soundstage than you might expect from such a small speaker.
While it can't match the Pill's audio performance or volume capabilities, the Sony XB100 excels in scenarios where portability is paramount. It offers the same IP67 water resistance rating and supports stereo pairing with a second unit, making it a versatile choice for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a reliable secondary speaker. The value proposition is particularly strong - while you'll sacrifice some audio quality and features compared to the Pill, the XB100's combination of durability, portability, and sound quality at this price point makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing compact size over maximum audio performance.
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The Soundcore BOOM 2 ($129.99) pushes portable audio to higher limits with its impressive 80W output system and feature-rich design. While more expensive than the Pill, it delivers substantially more power through its 2.1 channel system, featuring a dedicated 50W subwoofer and dual 15W tweeters. This translates to significantly louder volumes and deeper bass response, making it better suited for outdoor events and larger spaces. The addition of a beat-synced light show and power bank functionality adds genuine utility, while its IPX7 waterproof floating design offers more confidence around water than the Pill's IP67 rating.
However, the BOOM 2's advantages come with trade-offs in size and portability, weighing in at 4.85 pounds compared to the Pill's svelte 1.5 pounds. The additional features and power make it a more versatile choice, particularly with its ability to connect over 100 speakers through PartyCast 2.0 and its customizable Pro EQ settings. While the $30 price premium over the Pill is notable, the BOOM 2's combination of higher power output, additional features, and robust waterproofing make it a stronger value for users who need maximum volume and versatility in their portable speaker.
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The Ultimate Ears MINIROLL represents a different philosophy in portable audio, focusing on ultra-compact design and exceptional portability. At just $77, it offers remarkable value while delivering surprisingly good sound quality for its diminutive size. The disc-shaped speaker weighs only 279g - less than half the Pill's weight - and easily slips into a pocket or small bag. Its clever built-in strap design proves incredibly versatile for outdoor activities, letting you securely attach it to bike handlebars, tree branches, or backpack straps. While it can't match the Pill's room-filling sound, the MINIROLL's 86dBC maximum volume provides plenty of output for personal listening or small group settings.
Where the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL really shines is in its practical durability and portability advantages. Though both speakers carry IP67 ratings, the MINIROLL's more compact design with fewer seams makes it more resilient in challenging environments like beaches or hiking trails. Its 12-hour battery life, while shorter than the Pill's, remains sufficient for most daily use cases. The PartyUp feature allows connecting multiple MINIROLL speakers together, though most users will likely be satisfied with a single unit given its intended use case as an ultra-portable personal speaker. For those prioritizing maximum portability and value over absolute sound quality, the MINIROLL presents a compelling alternative to the Pill's premium approach.
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The Sony XE300 takes a more technically advanced approach to portable audio with its Line-Shape Diffuser technology, which provides notably wider and more even sound distribution than the Beats Pill. At $149.99 (though frequently available at $99.99), it justifies its higher price point with superior clarity at maximum volume and more robust feature set. The Sony's X-Balanced speaker design and dual passive radiators deliver clearer, more balanced sound across all volume levels, making it particularly effective for outdoor gatherings where sound needs to reach a larger area. The addition of quick charging (10 minutes for 3 hours of playback) and extensive app control through Sony's Music Center adds significant practical value.
Where the Sony really pulls ahead is in its multi-device capabilities and sound customization options. The Sony XE300 can connect to two devices simultaneously and link with up to 100 compatible speakers - a feature that puts it in a different league for larger events. While it's heavier and larger than the Beats Pill, this translates to more substantial sound output and better bass control without distortion. The Sony's LDAC codec support and custom EQ settings through the app provide audiophiles with more control over their listening experience, though these advanced features may go unused by casual listeners who might prefer the Beats' simpler approach and lower price point.
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The Soundcore Boom 2 SE approaches portable audio with an emphasis on power and versatility, delivering a notable 30W output compared to the Beats' 12W system. Its BassUp 2.0 technology and dedicated subwoofer create more impactful low-end response, making it particularly effective for outdoor gatherings and parties. While it sacrifices some of the Beats' audio refinement, it compensates with features like a built-in LED light show that syncs with music, power bank functionality, and the ability to connect up to 100 speakers through PartyCast 2.0. The IPX7 waterproof rating and floating design make it more suitable for pool-side use, though it lacks the Beats' dust protection.
At $79.99, the Soundcore Boom 2 SE represents a stronger value proposition for users seeking maximum features and volume output. Its 18-hour battery life is shorter than the Beats', but the addition of power bank functionality adds practical utility for outdoor adventures. While it may not match the Beats' premium build quality or balanced sound signature, it excels in scenarios where volume and bass impact take priority. For users prioritizing party-friendly features and raw power over refined audio quality, the Soundcore offers more bang for the buck despite its lower price point.
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👌Soundcore Boom 2 SE Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Sony XE200 takes a distinctly different approach to portable audio, emphasizing balanced sound and enhanced portability. Released in mid-2022, it features Sony's innovative Line-Shape Diffuser technology and X-Balanced Speaker Units, delivering impressively neutral audio reproduction that excels with acoustic and classical music. At $130, it presents a more budget-friendly option while maintaining premium features like IP67 water resistance and LDAC support for high-quality audio streaming on Android devices. The XE200's more compact design and lighter 28.22-ounce weight make it notably more portable than the Pill, while its Party Connect feature allows synchronization with up to 100 compatible Sony speakers.
While the XE200's 16-hour battery life falls short of the Pill's endurance, it compensates with quick-charging capability, providing 70 minutes of playback from just a 10-minute charge. The Sony XE200 may not match the Pill's bass response or maximum volume, but its more balanced sound signature and natural mid-range frequencies appeal to listeners who prefer accuracy over impact. Its smaller footprint and lower weight make it an excellent choice for travelers and commuters, though this comes at the expense of the room-filling sound that the Pill achieves. For users prioritizing portability and balanced audio over maximum volume and bass response, the XE200 offers compelling value at its lower price point.
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The Morel BIGGIE takes a more ambitious approach to portable audio with its sophisticated two-way speaker design and advanced DSP processing. At $299, it delivers audiophile-grade sound quality through its dedicated 1-inch tweeter and 4-inch woofer configuration, producing noticeably clearer highs and more controlled bass than the Pill. Its 60-watt bi-amplified system (45W woofer + 15W tweeter) provides substantial volume capability, making it more suitable for larger spaces and outdoor gatherings. The BIGGIE also offers premium features like 165-foot Bluetooth range, True Wireless Stereo pairing, and USB-C phone charging capability, though these conveniences come at a higher price point and with increased size and weight.
While the Morel BIGGIE excels in sound quality and power, its 5.7-pound weight and larger dimensions make it less practical for frequent transport compared to the Pill. The lack of water resistance also limits its outdoor versatility, though its MDF cabinet construction and removable magnetic grille suggest better long-term durability for home use. The BIGGIE's $200 premium over the Pill reflects its position as a more serious audio tool - it's best suited for users who prioritize sound quality and are willing to sacrifice some portability and weather resistance for superior audio performance. The fast-charging feature (4 hours playback from 20 minutes charging) helps offset the slightly shorter 20-hour battery life, making it a capable, if less mobile, alternative to the Pill.
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👌Morel BIGGIE Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Marshall Stockwell II distinguishes itself with superior audio performance through its True Stereophonic multi-directional sound and three-amplifier system (20W total power). Its standout feature is the exceptional 20+ hour battery life with quick charging capability that provides 6 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging. The physical analog controls for bass and treble allow immediate sound customization without needing an app, and the vintage-inspired design with its metal grille and silicone exterior provides a premium feel that justifies its slightly higher $129.99 price point.
While the Stockwell II's IPX4 rating doesn't match the Pill's waterproofing, it excels in audio fidelity with a broader frequency range of 60-20,000 Hz and better balanced sound across all music genres. The Marshall Stockwell II is heavier at 3.04 pounds, but this weight contributes to its solid build quality and acoustic performance. For users who prioritize sound quality and battery life over waterproofing, and prefer physical controls to digital ones, the Stockwell II offers compelling value despite its higher price, particularly for indoor use or covered outdoor spaces where its superior sound quality can truly shine.
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👌Marshall Stockwell II Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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