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Introduction
So, you’re on the hunt for a great Bluetooth speaker that won’t break the bank? You’re not alone. With so many options flooding the market, finding the perfect balance of sound quality, durability, and affordability can be tricky. But guess what? We’ve done the digging for you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 5 best Bluetooth speakers under $100, giving you powerful sound without draining your wallet.
(Spoiler alert: budget doesn’t mean boring.)
Why Budget Bluetooth Speakers Matter
Affordability Meets Quality
Not everyone wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a speaker. Luckily, technology has come a long way. You can now grab some seriously solid Bluetooth speakers for less than a Benjamin. Whether you’re heading to the beach, throwing a backyard BBQ, or just want a portable music fix, these budget picks pack a punch.
Who Are Budget Speakers Best For?
- Students
- Travelers
- Budget-conscious audiophiles
- Anyone wanting backup or secondary speakers
They’re also perfect for those just dipping their toes into the world of wireless sound.
Key Features to Look For in Bluetooth Speakers Under $100
Before hitting “Add to Cart,” make sure your speaker has these must-haves.
Sound Quality
The first thing you want is crisp, full-range sound. Look for dual drivers, bass radiators, or tech like passive subwoofers.
Battery Life
No one wants to charge their speaker every few hours. Aim for at least 10-12 hours of playback on a single charge.
Portability and Build
A good speaker should be easy to carry and tough enough to survive the occasional drop. Look for compact designs with durable rubber or mesh casings.
Bluetooth Range and Connectivity
Go for Bluetooth 5.0 or newer for improved connection stability and range (around 30-50 ft is typical).
Waterproofing and Durability
If you’re planning to use your speaker outdoors or near water, IPX7 or higher waterproofing is essential.
Learn more about key features and specs you shouldn’t compromise on.
Our Selection Criteria
To make this list, each speaker had to:
- Be priced under $100
- Have strong user reviews
- Offer balanced sound
- Be portable and durable
- Include essential features like Bluetooth 5.0 and waterproofing
You can also explore our broader buying guides if you want more insights.
The 5 Best Bluetooth Speakers Under $100
1. JBL Flip 5
Arguably one of the most popular budget speakers around, the JBL Flip 5 brings the boom.
Key Features
- IPX7 waterproof
- 12-hour battery life
- Racetrack-shaped driver for rich bass
- PartyBoost feature to connect multiple JBL speakers
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Bold sound
- Rugged design
- Lightweight and travel-ready
Cons:
- No aux input
- Mono sound only
Related: Explore more JBL comparisons and performance reviews.
2. Anker Soundcore Motion+
The Anker Soundcore Motion+ might just be the best-kept secret in the under-$100 range.
Key Features
- Hi-Res Audio and Qualcomm aptX
- 12-hour battery
- IPX7 waterproof
- Customizable EQ via app
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional soundstage
- Adjustable EQ
- Value for money
Cons:
- Bulky compared to others
- No multi-speaker sync
Explore more portable speaker alternatives.
3. OontZ Angle 3 Ultra
If you’re after budget Bluetooth speakers that deliver, the OontZ Angle 3 Ultra is a gem.
Key Features
- 100 ft Bluetooth range
- 20-hour battery life
- IPX7 waterproof
- Dual stereo sound
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Super affordable
- Long-range Bluetooth
- Great battery
Cons:
- Bass is decent, not deep
- Lacks app support
This one deserves a spot in any Bluetooth speaker comparison review.
4. Sony SRS-XB13 Extra Bass
This mini powerhouse is for bass lovers on a budget.
Key Features
- EXTRA BASS technology
- USB-C charging
- IP67 dust and water-resistant
- Removable strap
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and rugged
- Punchy bass for size
- Affordable
Cons:
- 16W output isn’t the loudest
- No stereo pairing
For sound tips and tricks, this one responds well to placement hacks.
5. Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2
This one’s a crowd-pleaser for the outdoorsy types.
Key Features
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof
- 360° sound
- 13-hour battery
- Outdoor Boost mode
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Floats on water
- Stylish and colorful
- Great for wide-open spaces
Cons:
- No app support
- Limited bass control
It’s featured often in best speaker lists for a reason.
Comparison Table
| Speaker | Waterproof | Battery | Bass | Bluetooth Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JBL Flip 5 | IPX7 | 12 hrs | Deep | ~33 ft | ~$89 |
| Soundcore Motion+ | IPX7 | 12 hrs | Enhanced | ~66 ft | ~$99 |
| OontZ Angle 3 Ultra | IPX7 | 20 hrs | Moderate | 100 ft | ~$39 |
| Sony SRS-XB13 | IP67 | 16 hrs | Strong | ~33 ft | ~$59 |
| WONDERBOOM 2 | IP67 | 13 hrs | Balanced | ~100 ft | ~$99 |
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Bluetooth Speaker
Placement Matters
Where you put your speaker totally affects sound. Corners amplify bass. Center rooms offer balance. Outdoors? Use walls or boxes to bounce audio.
See more speaker placement strategies here.
Keep It Charged
Don’t drain the battery fully every time. These lithium-ion cells last longer if you charge between 20–80%.
Maintain Firmware Updates
Some brands offer app support for firmware. It can improve sound or fix bugs—worth doing regularly.
For more tricks, check out our usage tips & tricks.
Where to Buy the Best Budget Bluetooth Speakers
Your best bets?
- Amazon for pricing
- Walmart or Best Buy for hands-on shopping
- Manufacturer websites for warranties
Don’t forget to check out our full buying guide before checking out.
Conclusion
Finding the best Bluetooth speaker under $100 doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Whether you need big bass, waterproofing, portability, or long battery life, the five picks above deliver fantastic value.
Want even more? Dive into our library of comparisons and troubleshooting guides to keep your music flowing.
FAQs
Q1: Can cheap Bluetooth speakers still deliver good bass?
Absolutely. Models like the JBL Flip 5 and Sony SRS-XB13 offer surprisingly good bass for the price.
Q2: What does IPX7 mean for Bluetooth speakers?
It means the speaker can survive being submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
Q3: Which speaker has the longest battery life under $100?
The OontZ Angle 3 Ultra wins with 20 hours of playtime.
Q4: Can I pair two budget speakers for stereo sound?
Yes, many speakers support stereo pairing—check brand-specific apps or manuals.
Q5: Are budget Bluetooth speakers good for outdoor use?
Definitely. Just look for IP ratings like IPX7 or IP67 for water and dust resistance.
Q6: What’s the difference between IPX7 and IP67?
IP67 offers both water and dust resistance, while IPX7 focuses only on water resistance.
Q7: How do I fix pairing issues with my Bluetooth speaker?
Reset the speaker, delete the pairing on your phone, and re-pair. Visit our Bluetooth fix tips for more help.