When it comes to portable audio in 2024, two speakers frequently come up in discussions: the Soundcore BOOM 2 ($129.99) and the Sony XE300 ($199.99). Let's break down everything you need to know to make an informed choice between these popular options.
The portable speaker market has evolved significantly over the past few years. What started as simple battery-powered units has transformed into sophisticated audio devices with impressive features. Modern portable speakers need to balance sound quality, durability, battery life, and smart features – all while remaining portable enough for everyday use.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 launched in late 2022, while the Sony XE300 debuted in July 2022. Both represent the current state of portable audio technology, incorporating features that were premium just a few years ago, like advanced waterproofing and app connectivity.
The BOOM 2's audio system packs quite a punch with its 80W output – impressive for its size. It uses a 2.1 channel system (meaning two speakers for high/mid frequencies and one for bass) with:
The BassUp 2.0 technology provides an extra 20W of power specifically for low frequencies, which really makes a difference when playing bass-heavy music outdoors. I've found it particularly effective at pool parties where speakers often struggle to maintain bass presence.
Sony takes a different approach with their Line-Shape Diffuser technology, which spreads sound more evenly across a wider area. The speaker uses:
The XE300's more balanced sound signature makes it excellent for various music genres, though it doesn't quite match the BOOM 2's raw volume output. However, its sound distribution technology means everyone in a room gets nearly the same listening experience – something traditional speakers often struggle with.
Modern portable speakers need to handle everything from beach days to bathroom singing sessions. Both speakers excel here but in different ways:
Battery technology has improved significantly in recent years, and both speakers showcase this:
The Soundcore BOOM 2 offers:
The Sony XE300 provides:
Having tested both speakers in various settings, here's how they perform in different scenarios:
The Soundcore BOOM 2 at $129.99 offers excellent value for those who prioritize:
The Sony XE300 at $199.99 justifies its higher price for users who want:
Both speakers represent excellent choices in their respective price brackets. The Soundcore BOOM 2 delivers impressive performance at a more accessible price point, while the Sony XE300 justifies its premium positioning with superior sound accuracy and build quality.
For most users, the BOOM 2's combination of features and value will be the better choice. However, if sound quality is your primary concern and budget allows, the XE300's more sophisticated audio technology makes it worth the extra investment.
Remember that both speakers have come a long way from their predecessors, incorporating features that were once reserved for much more expensive units. Whichever you choose, you're getting a capable speaker that represents the current state of portable audio technology.
| Soundcore BOOM 2 | Sony XE300 |
|---|---|
| Price - Total cost consideration | |
| $129.99 (better value for features) | $199.99 (premium positioning) |
| Audio Power - Impacts maximum volume and sound quality | |
| 80W total (60W + 20W BassUp boost) | 65W approximate total output |
| Speaker Configuration - Determines sound characteristics | |
| 2x 20mm tweeters + 90x120mm woofer with dual passive radiators | X-Balanced Speaker Unit with Line-Shape Diffuser and dual passive radiators |
| Water/Dust Protection - Critical for outdoor use | |
| IPX7 (waterproof, floatable, no dust rating) | IP67 (waterproof and dustproof) |
| Battery Life - Affects portable usage duration | |
| 24 hours (at moderate volume) | 12 hours (with quick charging support) |
| Bluetooth Version - Impacts connection quality and range | |
| 5.3 with 100m range | 5.2 with 30m range |
| Additional Features - Extra functionality beyond audio | |
| LED light show, power bank function, PartyCast 2.0 (100+ speakers) | LDAC codec support, Multipoint connection, Party Connect |
| Size and Weight - Portability consideration | |
| 3.75 lbs (larger form factor) | 2.87 lbs (more compact design) |
| Sound Signature - Matches different listening preferences | |
| Bass-forward, party-oriented sound | Balanced, even sound distribution |
| App Support - Customization capabilities | |
| Basic EQ and light control through Soundcore app | Advanced features through Sony Music Center and Fiestable apps |
| Charging Time - Convenience factor | |
| 5.5 hours for full charge | 4.5 hours (with 70min playback from 10min charge) |
The Soundcore BOOM 2 is notably louder with its 80W total output compared to the Sony XE300's 65W. For home theater applications, the BOOM 2's additional power provides better room-filling sound when used as auxiliary speakers.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 delivers stronger bass thanks to its BassUp 2.0 technology and larger woofer. This makes it particularly effective for movie sound effects and action sequences when used as a supplementary speaker.
Both are water-resistant, but the Soundcore BOOM 2 floats and has longer battery life, making it more practical for outdoor use. The Sony XE300 offers better dust protection with its IP67 rating.
Neither speaker is designed specifically for home theater surround sound, but they can function as auxiliary speakers. The Sony XE300 offers better sound distribution, making it more suitable for this purpose.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 offers superior battery life at 24 hours compared to the Sony XE300's 12 hours, though actual duration depends on volume levels and feature usage.
Both speakers support multi-speaker connectivity. The Soundcore BOOM 2 can connect with 100+ speakers through PartyCast 2.0, while the Sony XE300 supports Party Connect for multiple speaker setups.
The Sony XE300 has superior durability with its IP67 rating (dust and water protection), while the Soundcore BOOM 2 offers IPX7 water resistance but no dust protection rating.
The Sony XE300 provides more balanced sound with better dialogue clarity, while the Soundcore BOOM 2 offers stronger bass for action scenes. For movie watching, the Sony's more balanced profile generally works better.
Neither speaker is designed for wall mounting. For permanent home theater installation, dedicated mounted speakers would be more appropriate than either the Soundcore BOOM 2 or Sony XE300.
The Sony XE300 offers more sophisticated app control through Sony Music Center and Fiestable apps, compared to the Soundcore BOOM 2's more basic app functionality.
At $129.99, the Soundcore BOOM 2 offers better value with its feature set and power output. The Sony XE300 at $199.99 justifies its higher price with better build quality and more balanced sound.
Both can connect to TVs via Bluetooth if available. The Sony XE300 performs better for TV audio due to its more balanced sound profile and Line-Shape Diffuser technology, which provides better dialogue clarity.
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: soundcore.com - audioholics.com - community.anker.com - trustedreviews.com - soundcore.com - manuals.plus - soundcore.com - youtube.com - community.anker.com - soundandvision.com - bestbuy.com - sony.co.uk - soundguys.com - bestbuy.com - cgmagonline.com - sony.com - sony.com - bestbuy.com - sony.com - electronics.sony.com - helpguide.sony.net
