When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, there's a wide spectrum of options catering to different needs. Today, we're comparing the mid-sized Marshall Stockwell II ($129.99) with the ultra-portable Bose SoundLink Micro ($99.99) - two popular speakers that take very different approaches to portable audio.
The portable speaker market has evolved significantly since the Bose SoundLink Micro launched in 2017. While its IP67 rating and compact design were groundbreaking then, such features are more common today. However, Bose's engineering still holds up remarkably well, particularly in sound quality for its size.
The Marshall Stockwell II, released more recently, represents a more modern approach with its Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and USB-C charging. These newer features show how portable speakers have matured - offering better battery life, improved connection stability, and faster charging capabilities.
The Stockwell II implements what Marshall calls "True Stereophonic" - a multi-directional sound system that creates impressive stereo separation despite its portable size. The speaker uses three Class D amplifiers:
This configuration, combined with analog EQ controls, lets you dial in exactly the sound you want. I've found the bass control particularly useful - you can boost it for outdoor listening where bass naturally dissipates, or reduce it for indoor spaces where too much bass might overwhelm.
Bose takes a different approach, using a custom-designed transducer (the part that converts electrical signals into sound) and passive radiators (which help enhance bass response without requiring additional power). While it's a mono speaker, meaning it combines left and right channels into one, Bose's engineering makes the sound feel surprisingly wide.
The fixed EQ tuning means you can't adjust the sound profile, but Bose has done an excellent job choosing a balanced setting that works well across multiple genres. The speaker uses digital signal processing (DSP) to prevent distortion at high volumes, though this sometimes results in slightly compressed sound when pushed to its limits.
Having tested both speakers in various settings, their different strengths become clear:
The Marshall Stockwell II excels indoors, where its stereo separation and room-filling capability shine. It's particularly impressive for:
The SoundLink Micro performs admirably indoors but doesn't create the same sense of space. However, its small size makes it perfect for:
Outdoors, both speakers face different challenges. The Stockwell II's bigger drivers and more powerful amplification help it project better in open spaces, but it's more vulnerable to weather. The SoundLink Micro's weatherproofing makes it more versatile, though it can't match the volume output.
Battery technology has improved significantly since these speakers were released. The Stockwell II's 20-hour battery life is impressive, especially considering its power output. Its quick-charging feature (20 minutes for 6 hours of playback) is particularly useful.
The SoundLink Micro's 6-hour battery life reflects its 2017 design and ultra-portable focus. While this might seem short by today's standards, it's worth considering that its small size means you're more likely to carry it daily and charge it alongside your phone.
At $129.99, the Stockwell II offers:
The $99.99 SoundLink Micro provides:
Consider these key questions:
Both the Marshall Stockwell II and Bose SoundLink Micro excel in their respective categories. The Stockwell II offers superior sound quality and battery life in a still-portable package, while the SoundLink Micro provides ultimate portability and durability.
For home use with occasional outdoor listening, the Stockwell II is the better choice. For active lifestyles or frequent travelers, the SoundLink Micro's compact size and rugged design make it the ideal companion. Either way, both speakers represent solid values in their respective price categories and use cases.
| Marshall Stockwell II | Bose SoundLink Micro |
|---|---|
| Size & Weight - Impacts portability and placement options | |
| 7.09 x 6.34 x 2.76 inches, 3.04 lbs (medium-sized, still portable) | 3.87 x 3.87 x 1.37 inches, 0.68 lbs (ultra-compact, truly pocket-sized) |
| Sound Output - Determines volume capability and audio quality | |
| 20W total (10W woofer + 2x5W tweeters), stereo sound with adjustable EQ | Single transducer with passive radiators, mono sound with fixed EQ |
| Battery Life - Critical for extended use without charging | |
| 20 hours (industry-leading for its size class) | 6 hours (adequate for daily use but requires frequent charging) |
| Water Resistance - Determines outdoor usability | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant only) | IP67 (fully waterproof, dustproof, submersible) |
| Charging - Affects convenience and future compatibility | |
| USB-C with quick charge (20min = 6hrs playback) | Micro USB (older standard, slower charging) |
| Bluetooth Version - Impacts connection stability and range | |
| Bluetooth 5.0 with multi-host (30ft range, more stable) | Bluetooth 4.2 (30ft range, slightly less stable) |
| Special Features - Adds versatility and use cases | |
| Analog EQ controls, aux input, premium build quality | Speakerphone, Bose Connect app support, tear-resistant strap |
| Price - Value proposition | |
| $129.99 (premium price for better sound/battery) | $99.99 (better value if prioritizing portability) |
| Best Use Case - Primary intended purpose | |
| Indoor/outdoor casual listening, parties, extended use | Active lifestyle, travel, water activities, ultimate portability |
The Marshall Stockwell II ($129.99) is significantly better for home theater use due to its stereo sound and higher power output. While neither speaker is designed primarily for home theater, the Stockwell II's room-filling capability and adjustable EQ make it more suitable as a temporary TV audio solution compared to the Bose SoundLink Micro ($99.99).
The biggest difference is size and power. The Marshall Stockwell II is a medium-sized speaker with 20W total power output and stereo sound, while the Bose SoundLink Micro is an ultra-portable mono speaker designed for maximum portability.
The Marshall Stockwell II offers superior sound quality with its stereo configuration, dedicated woofer and tweeters, and adjustable EQ controls. While the Bose SoundLink Micro sounds impressive for its size, it can't match the Stockwell II's fuller, more detailed sound.
The Marshall Stockwell II provides 20 hours of playback time, while the Bose SoundLink Micro lasts about 6 hours. This significant difference makes the Stockwell II better for extended listening sessions.
The Marshall Stockwell II can serve as a decent temporary TV speaker with its stereo sound and better bass response. The Bose SoundLink Micro is less suitable for movie watching due to its mono output and limited volume.
The Bose SoundLink Micro is more durable with its IP67 waterproof rating, allowing full submersion. The Marshall Stockwell II has only IPX4 splash resistance, making it less suitable for rough outdoor use.
Both speakers can connect to TVs with Bluetooth output. The Marshall Stockwell II also includes a 3.5mm auxiliary input for direct connection to TVs with headphone outputs, while the Bose SoundLink Micro relies solely on Bluetooth.
The Bose SoundLink Micro is better for outdoor activities due to its waterproofing and ultra-portable design. While the Marshall Stockwell II has better sound, it's less weather-resistant and heavier to carry.
Neither speaker is designed for permanent home theater use. However, the Marshall Stockwell II could work as a temporary solution thanks to its stereo sound and aux input. The Bose SoundLink Micro is not recommended for home theater use.
At $129.99, the Marshall Stockwell II offers better value for those prioritizing sound quality and battery life. The Bose SoundLink Micro at $99.99 provides better value for those focusing on portability and durability.
Both speakers offer pairing capabilities. The Marshall Stockwell II can connect with another Stockwell II for stereo pairing, while the Bose SoundLink Micro works with other Bose speakers through the Bose Connect app.
The Marshall Stockwell II features newer Bluetooth 5.0 with multi-host functionality, providing more stable connections than the Bose SoundLink Micro's Bluetooth 4.2 technology.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses 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 - stuff.tv - idownloadblog.com - stereoguide.com - kendallgiles.com - termagoods.com - aplaze.com - manua.ls - youtube.com - sg.tcacoustic.asia - marshall.com - youtube.com - rtings.com - mygolfspy.com - youtube.com - cnet.com - bose.com - bose.com - alwayswander.info - target.com - bose.com - bose.com
