When it comes to portable audio, the market has evolved dramatically in recent years. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of two popular options: the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL ($49.99) and the Bose SoundLink Micro ($99.99), exploring how they stack up in today's competitive landscape.
Portable Bluetooth speakers have become increasingly sophisticated, with even the smallest units now delivering impressive sound. The key technological advances in recent years include:
The MINIROLL leverages newer audio technology with its Bluetooth 5.3 implementation, supporting advanced codecs like AAC and LC3. This means cleaner wireless audio transmission and potentially better sound quality when paired with modern smartphones. Its 87dBC maximum volume is impressive for its size, achieved through a clever combination of a 45.6mm active driver and a rectangular passive radiator for bass response.
The SoundLink Micro takes a different approach, using Bose's proprietary digital signal processing to achieve a more balanced sound signature. While it doesn't get quite as loud, its custom-designed transducer and passive radiators create what many consider a more refined sound, especially in the mid-range frequencies where vocals live.
Here's where we see a significant difference. The MINIROLL's 12-hour battery life is double that of the SoundLink Micro's 6 hours, likely due to more efficient components and a larger battery capacity. The MINIROLL also uses USB-C charging, while the SoundLink Micro still relies on the older micro-USB standard.
Both speakers feature IP67 ratings, meaning they're:
However, the MINIROLL adds specific drop testing certification up to 4 feet (1.2 meters), providing extra peace of mind for outdoor use.
The MINIROLL's Bluetooth 5.3 provides several advantages:
The SoundLink Micro's Bluetooth 4.2 is serviceable but limited to about 30 feet of range and older codec support.
Each speaker offers unique capabilities that might sway your decision:
MINIROLL:
SoundLink Micro:
Having tested similar speakers in various environments, I can say that both perform admirably for their size, but in different ways. The MINIROLL excels in outdoor settings where its extra volume and battery life make a noticeable difference. Its greater Bluetooth range is particularly useful at pool parties or backyard gatherings.
The SoundLink Micro shines in more intimate settings. Its speakerphone capability and voice assistant integration make it more versatile for home office use or small indoor gatherings. The sound quality, while not as loud, tends to be more detailed and balanced.
When considering value, we need to look beyond just the price difference:
MINIROLL advantages:
SoundLink Micro advantages:
The MINIROLL represents a newer generation of portable speakers, with features like Bluetooth 5.3 and USB-C charging that will remain relevant longer. Its support for advanced audio codecs and Auracast technology suggests better compatibility with future devices and features.
The SoundLink Micro, while slightly older in design, offers proven reliability and integration features that remain valuable, particularly within the Bose ecosystem. However, its older Bluetooth standard and charging port may feel dated sooner.
For most users, the MINIROLL represents the better value proposition. Its combination of newer technology, better battery life, and lower price point makes it hard to beat. The only compelling reasons to choose the SoundLink Micro are if you specifically need its premium features like speakerphone capability or voice assistant integration, or if you're already invested in the Bose ecosystem.
The decision ultimately comes down to your specific use case and priorities. If you're primarily looking for a durable, loud, long-lasting portable speaker for outdoor use, the MINIROLL is the clear choice. If you're more focused on indoor use with integration features and balanced sound quality, the SoundLink Micro might be worth the premium price.
Remember that both speakers represent significant improvements over older portable speakers, particularly in terms of durability and sound quality relative to size. Whichever you choose, you're getting a capable device that can handle most portable audio needs with impressive performance for its size.
| Ultimate Ears MINIROLL | Bose SoundLink Micro |
|---|---|
| Price - Base cost before any accessories | |
| $49.99 | $99.99 |
| Battery Life - Critical for portable use | |
| 12 hours (full day of use) | 6 hours (may need mid-day charging) |
| Bluetooth Version - Affects range and stability | |
| 5.3 with 40m range (newer, more stable) | 4.2 with 30ft range (older standard) |
| Water/Dust Rating - Important for outdoor use | |
| IP67 (fully waterproof, tested for 4ft drops) | IP67 (fully waterproof) |
| Maximum Volume - Key for outdoor listening | |
| 87dBC (outdoor mode) | 86dBC (typical) |
| Speaker Configuration - Impacts sound quality | |
| 45.6mm driver + 37.75mm x 65mm passive radiator | Custom transducer + dual passive radiators |
| Special Features - Additional functionality | |
| PartyUp unlimited speaker pairing, Auracast support | Built-in speakerphone, voice assistant, Bose app support |
| Size - Affects portability | |
| 122.67 x 105 x 48.15mm (ultra-compact) | 98 x 98 x 35mm (slightly smaller) |
| Weight - Important for carrying comfort | |
| 279g | 310g |
| Charging Port - Affects convenience | |
| USB-C (modern standard) | Micro USB (older standard) |
| Construction - Impacts durability | |
| 40% recycled plastic, silicone strap | Rubberized exterior, tear-resistant strap |
| Audio Codecs - Affects sound quality | |
| AAC, SBC, LC3 (modern codecs) | SBC only (basic codec) |
| Multi-speaker Features - Expands use cases | |
| Unlimited speaker pairing with PartyUp | Stereo pairing with second unit |
Neither the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL ($49.99) nor the Bose SoundLink Micro ($99.99) is ideal for dedicated home theater use. However, the MINIROLL's PartyUp feature allows multiple speaker pairing, making it more versatile for temporary surround sound setups.
The MINIROLL costs $49.99, while the SoundLink Micro is priced at $99.99, making the MINIROLL significantly more affordable at half the price.
The MINIROLL offers 12 hours of battery life, double the SoundLink Micro's 6 hours, making it more suitable for extended use without recharging.
While both can connect to TVs with Bluetooth capability, they aren't recommended as primary TV speakers due to potential audio lag. The MINIROLL has newer Bluetooth 5.3, which may provide slightly better latency performance than the SoundLink Micro.
Both speakers feature IP67 water and dust resistance, but the MINIROLL is specifically tested for drops up to 4 feet, while the SoundLink Micro doesn't specify drop resistance.
The MINIROLL reaches 87dBC in outdoor mode, slightly louder than the SoundLink Micro's 86dBC maximum volume.
The MINIROLL offers unlimited speaker pairing through PartyUp mode, while the SoundLink Micro only allows pairing with one additional speaker.
The SoundLink Micro offers more balanced sound with clearer mids, while the MINIROLL provides stronger bass and higher volume output.
The SoundLink Micro has built-in voice assistant integration, while the MINIROLL does not offer this feature.
The MINIROLL is better suited for outdoor use with its longer battery life, louder volume, and longer Bluetooth range compared to the SoundLink Micro.
The SoundLink Micro features a built-in speakerphone for calls, while the MINIROLL doesn't offer this functionality.
The MINIROLL features newer technology including Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C charging, and modern audio codecs, compared to the SoundLink Micro's older Bluetooth 4.2 and micro-USB charging.
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: techradar.com - businesswire.com - bestbuy.com - stuff.tv - ultimateears.com - target.com - youtube.com - ultimateears.com - ultimateears.com - rtings.com - mygolfspy.com - youtube.com - cnet.com - bose.com - bose.com - alwayswander.info - target.com - bose.com - bose.com
