10 Best Portable Speakers With USB Inputs 2025 in the United States

The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker is designed for people who want powerful, deep bass sound on the go, whether at outdoor parties or casual hangouts. It delivers rich, big sound that stands out, making it a great choice if you enjoy clear and strong music playback. With a solid 20-hour battery, it keeps the music playing all day without needing a recharge. Portability is well covered thanks to its manageable size, a soft climbing rope handle, and a weight of about 5 pounds, which is easy enough to carry around but not ultra-light.

Durability is another strong point—it’s IP67 rated, meaning it’s waterproof, dustproof, and resistant to shocks and rust, so it can handle outdoor adventures and unexpected weather without worries. Connectivity options include Bluetooth for wireless use, a 3.5mm AUX input for wired connections, and a USB-C port that not only charges the speaker but can also power your other devices, which is quite handy. You can customize the sound through the Bose app, adjusting bass and treble to your liking, which adds a nice personal touch.

While the speaker is robust, its nearly 5-pound weight might feel a bit heavy for very casual or long walks. Also, the Bluetooth range is about 30 feet, which is standard but somewhat limited if you want to move far from your device. Charging takes around 5 hours, which is average but not the fastest. For those seeking a dependable, high-quality portable speaker with versatile connection options and strong battery life for outdoor use, the Bose SoundLink Max is a solid pick. However, if you prioritize ultra-lightweight design or longer wireless range, you might want to consider those trade-offs.

The Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM is a portable wireless Bluetooth speaker designed for those who prioritize robust sound quality and reliable durability. This speaker stands out with its 360-degree booming bass and adaptive EQ, delivering powerful and immersive sound, making it suitable for various environments, including outdoor settings. The customizable EQ through the BOOM app allows users to tailor the sound according to their preferences, with presets like Deep Relaxation, Podcast, and Gaming Modes enhancing the versatility of the speaker. The 17-hour battery life ensures that the music keeps playing without frequent recharges, an essential feature for extended use during parties or outdoor activities.

Its IP67 waterproof rating and floatable design make it perfect for use by the pool, at the beach, or even in the shower, offering peace of mind against water and dust damage. Moreover, the speaker is drop-proof and includes a handy loop for easy carrying, further enhancing its portability. The EPICBOOM also offers a substantial range of 180 feet, allowing for significant movement without losing connection. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth technology, and the BOOM app simplifies music play and device pairing.

However, the speaker lacks a traditional USB input, which might be a drawback for users looking to connect non-Bluetooth devices directly. Additionally, while the speaker's maximum output power of 10 Watts suffices for most casual listening scenarios, some might find it less powerful compared to other high-end portable speakers. The use of recycled plastic is a commendable effort towards sustainability but does not necessarily impact the speaker's performance. In conclusion, the Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM excels in sound quality, durability, and battery life, making it an excellent choice for users needing a reliable speaker for both indoor and outdoor use, though it may fall short for those requiring USB connectivity and higher output power.