What are the best turntable brands?

There are loads of great turntable brands, but a few names consistently come up thanks to their build quality, sound, and reputation. Audio-Technica is a big favorite for beginners and budget-friendly options. Pro-Ject, Cambridge Audio and Rega are loved by audiophiles for their simple design and excellent performance. Technics is legendary, especially if you’re into DJing or want something solid and long-lasting. If you’re after something a bit more high-end, we've included brands like Rega (again!) and Vertere above that are worth a look. Whatever your budget, it's best to stick to trusted names to ensure good sound and durability.

What should I look for in a beginner-friendly turntable?

If you're looking for a beginner-friendly turntable, keep it simple. An automatic turntable handles the needle for you, which reduces the risk of you scratching your records. But if you prefer manual control, you'll have more options. Bluetooth connectivity makes setting up your record player easy, since it means you can stream wirelessly without an amp or any extra cables, to one of the best Bluetooth speakers . It's great for flexibility of positioning individual items if you don't have a lot of space, too. Otherwise, you'll need speakers and an amp (though this could be built into your speakers, or into the record player in some cases). A built-in phono stage is essential for beginners. It amplifies the signal so that your records play properly through a speakers and dedicated amp. Without one of these, you'd need a separate preamp, adding yet more complexity. The vast majority of beginner turntables include this, so you can plug and play right away – but just make sure before you buy.

What does it mean if a turntable is automatic?

An automatic turntable does the hard work of putting the needle onto the vinyl for you. Press a button and it will spin the record, move the tonearm into the correct starting position, then lower it onto your record. Once the music has finished, it will lift it back up. There are semi-automatic models, which tend to handle just one part of that process, usually the lift at the end. Manual turntables leave everything to you, which some vinyl lovers prefer for the extra control. But if you want something that’s simple and hands-free, especially to avoid scratching records if you’re new to turntables, automatic models are a good choice.

What does it mean for a turntable to have Bluetooth or wireless streaming?

A turntable that comes with Bluetooth or wireless streaming lets you play your records without cables. So instead of connecting to an amp or wired speakers, it sends audio wirelessly to Bluetooth speakers or headphones. This makes setup easier – there's no need for extra gear and no tangle of wires – but it’s worth noting that Bluetooth compresses audio, which means you will lose some detail compared to a wired connection. Some turntables include other wireless streaming tech, over Wi-Fi, which can be much higher quality, but these will be more expensive (as will the speakers they work with). However, it's worth nothing here that some record players have built-in speakers, and offer a Bluetooth connection so you that play music from your phone onto their built-in speakers. So if you're looking at buying a record player with built-in speakers and you want support for Bluetooth out to other speakers, make sure the connection works the way you want first!

Do I need to buy speakers for my turntable?

Aside from your new turntable, there are some other bits of kit you might want to invest in. First off, you'll want to check out the best stereo speakers ; after all, a turntable is only as good as your speakers you hook it up to. Or, you might want to look into the best over-ear headphones and wireless earbuds to go with your record player. If you opt for a wireless record player, you might want to invest in a Bluetooth speaker , a wireless speaker , or connect it to your existing smart speaker . If your deck of choice doesn't have built-in amplification or a phono stage and you want to connect it to passive speakers, you'll need to buy these too – check out our amplifier reviews for more information.

Are old turntables better than new ones?

The best-sounding turntable is one you enjoy listening to – and don't let anybody tell you any different! Some people prefer the rich, authentic quality of an older turntable. However, many of the newest turntables bring you that same sound, but with several new features and a more reliable experience. Price comes into play here, as you might expect. If you have an older turntable but it's much more expensive and higher quality than a newer, cheaper model, you might prefer the older sound. You should also consider whether it's in need of some TLC. Older turntables might need repairing to sound as good as they once did. Finally, what do you want to listen to? If you're looking for high-end audio that sounds exactly as intended, you might want to try a newer turntable. If you want a more gravelly sound and don't mind sacrificing some quality, use the old turntable you already have. Ultimately, new turntables are more advanced than older turntables, but it all comes down to your preferences.

Does my turntable need to have a built-in phono stage?

Your turntable doesn’t necessarily need a built-in phono stage, but it's a good idea for beginners. It all depends on your current setup and what you’re plugging it into. A phono stage, which might also be called a phono preamp, is what you need to boost the signal from your turntable to a level that an amplifiers is then able to work with. So at some point in your audio setup you’ll need one. Lots of the best turntables that we recommend have a built-in phono stage, and this makes getting yourself set up easier – especially if you’re connecting your turntable to powered speakers without a dedicated amp. But if you don’t have a phono stage built-in, you’ll need either an amp or speakers with one built in there, or an external phono stage that connect between your turntable and your amp. This is rare in wireless speakers, though the Cambridge Audio Evo One has one. Built-in phono stages tend to be better in terms of convenience, but external ones can offer better sound for the real audiophiles. If you think you'll want something futureproof for getting more hardcore in the future, several record players here have optional preamps, which you can bypass if you buy something higher-quality in the future.

What's the difference between belt-drive and direct-drive turntables?

The difference all comes down to what makes the platter spin – that’s the flat bit of your turntable that your record sits on. And the one you should choose depends on your priorities. Belt-drive turntables use a rubber belt that runs from the motor to the platter to actually spin the platter. This isolates the motor and the platter, which helps to reduce motor 'noise' and vibration leaking into your recordings. This means it’s a great choice if you’re focused on sound quality above all else. Direct-drive turntables are powered by a motor that’s directly under the platter. They tend to be quicker to start, more robust, have super-accurate timing, and are often preferred by DJs because they’re better for cueing up tracks and scratching. Both are a good choice, but generally, it’s belt-drives that are the better choice for audio quality and pure listening. Whereas direct-drives are for performance or multi-tasking.

Are high-end turntables worth it?

If you're an audiophile that can notice the subtle differences and nuances of the devices you're playing music on, and if you have the budget, you'll benefit from a high-end turntable. Premium turntables typically offer a more precise and natural sound, so your vinyl collection will come across better than ever – though you'll need to pair it with a phono stage, amp and speakers that are equally revealing, of course. If you don't have as strong an ear for music or you simply don't need perfection, you'll be just as happy with a mid-range turntable. You also tend to need pretty hefty setups with large speakers to benefit fully from the qualities of high-end turntables, so if you're tight on space, you may also be better off saving your money.

How much should I spend on a turntable?

That really depends on you. A $99/£99 turntable will do a good job of playing vinyl, but the more you spend the more premium your experience is likely to be. One of our current favourite mid-range turntable is the Rega Planar 1 , which has a list price of £299 / $595 / AU$645. But while it's an undeniably great turntable, Rega has chosen to spend its money on the core components and high quality engineering rather than gee-whiz features or fancy materials. Its more expensive models follow that philosophy too, focusing on delivering the most pristine audio quality possible. Sony's slightly cheaper PS-LX310BT comes in at £249 / $249 and adds Bluetooth to the mix – but what you gain in connectivity you lose (slightly) in visual appeal and in sound quality. It's not bad by any means, but if you're listening on high-end equipment you'll hear a difference. As with most audio equipment, it comes down to what features matter most to you. If you already have high-end audio kit then it's worth spending that little bit more to get a really premium sound. But as our guide above demonstrates, you can get a really great turntable for a lot less than you might expect.

Is it worth buying an expensive turntable?

It all depends on your budget and your needs. Casual listeners might be happy with a mid-range or budget turntable. But those deeply invested in the vinyl experience or audiophiles who can appreciate subtle audio nuances might find that investing in a high-end turntable could significantly improve their listening experience. If you have a small budget and can’t possibly consider an expensive turntable, there are more affordable options. Consider the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT in our guide above, which is great value for money. Granted, in our testing, we did say the materials the Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT is made from feel a little cheap, and there could be more detail in the audio, but they’re not deal-breakers, and there does need to be a trade-off for that more affordable price tag. Of course, expensive options, like our high-end pick, the Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 , are well worth the money. They have a premium build and a balanced and insightful sound quality. With turntables, and most tech for that matter, you tend to get what you pay for. And when it comes to turntables, higher-priced options often offer superior audio quality. They boast better components like platters, cartridges, and tonearms, which effectively reduce vibrations and noise, thereby enhancing the clarity and detail of the sound. But that doesn’t always have to be the case. You can find affordable and mid-range tech that can compete with much more expensive devices – you often just have to make a small sacrifice in one or two areas.

Can I upgrade parts of my turntable for better sound in the future?

Yes. In fact, it's one of the big appeals of vinyl. Many of the best turntables are designed with upgrades in mind. The easiest thing to upgrade tends to be the cartridge (that’s the bit that holds the needle). Switching this out can make a big difference to sound quality. You can also swap out the platter mat, upgrade the platter itself, or invest in a better phono stage (the preamp). Some models will also let you upgrade the tonearm, though that’s a bit more advanced. If you're starting with a budget-friendly or beginner deck, there might be fewer upgrade options, but with mid-range and higher-end models, there's usually lots of room to tweak and improve your setup over time.

What's the difference between a record player and turntable?

Although the terms record player and turntable are often used interchangeably, they describe two distinct types of vinyl playback devices. Turntables are the components within a larger audio system that spin the vinyl record – they're basically just a way of getting the recording off the wax. They require additional equipment – including a pre-amp, amplifier and speakers – to produce the sound you hear. People like turntables because they're usually highly customizable, allowing users to mix and match components like the stylus, cartridge, and tonearm to tailor the audio output to their preferences, which is further tailored to your tastes or budget by the other hi-fi components. This makes them a favorite among audiophiles who want high-quality sound and a way to upgrade parts over time. Record players, on the other hand, are all-in-one units that include the turntable, amplifier and even speakers. This makes them more convenient and user-friendly, particularly for casual listeners or anyone living in a small home. While they offer ease of use and portability, record players generally do not match the audio quality of a good turntable setup. They also don't provide much customization, and it's not as easy to upgrade them. Choosing between a turntable and a record player depends largely on your needs and preferences. If you prioritize sound quality and are keen to customize your audio setup, a turntable might be the better choice. If you prefer simplicity and want a compact option, a record player would better serve you. In this guide, we've chosen both turntables and record players to suit different needs.

What is the most reliable turntable?

For us, reliable means a turntable that's a fantastic all-rounder and good value for money. With that in mind, you can't go wrong with the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo that sits at the top of our list of the best turntables, with an expansive, detailed sound and impressive specs. If you're willing to spend a little more, then the Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 is our high-end option. This futuristic, fantastic-looking turntable brings you a balanced and insightful sound, as well as modern connectivity options. In contrast, the Fluance RT81 is a mid-range option with no-frills but a great sound for the price. But if by reliable you mean sheer toughness, then the Technics SL-1500C needs to under consideration, because it's built like musical tank.

What makes a high-quality turntable?

This largely depends what you're looking for – although of course, we have our opinions. We judge a high-quality turntable on the build, the different playback speeds that are on offer, the compatibility and how well-damped the deck is. It's also worth looking for extra features, like USB ports. Beginners may want to find an easy-to-use turntable rather than a high-quality, picky one requiring calibration of the tonearm and such. We recommend looking for simple setups, built-in phono stages and wireless connectivity, like Bluetooth. Style matters too, so pick out a look you like as well as a solid and dependable design.

Does vinyl sound better?

This is a big, complex question. And the answer depends on what you’re comparing it to – even among audiophiles, there’s some debate. Generally speaking, traditional vinyl, especially older pressings made from analog masters, is often praised for its warm, rich sound. That’s because it’s a fully analog format and no digital processing gets in the way of the original recording’s texture and depth. However, many modern records are pressed from digital masters. This means that the music has already been digitized to some extent before being cut to vinyl. Which means that while you still get the tactile joy of playing a record, the sound quality might not be all that different from what you’d hear on a well-mastered digital file or CD. So vinyl generally does offer more nuance and character than compressed MP3s. But whether it truly sounds all that “better” really depends on the recording, the pressing, the device you're using and your ears, because a lot of this is also down to personal preference, too.

Are there any dangers with cheap turntables?

Obviously, cheap turntables aren't likely to sound as good as more expensive models – but they also pose a risk of damaging your records. Most cheap turntables use a ceramic cartridge instead of a magnetic cartridge, which means the needle is flexible and so will cause more wear to the record's grooves. In addition, cheap turntables often don't have counterweights in the arms, which means the needle isn't balancing delicately on the grooves, it's pushing into them – and then that combines with the inflexible needle. If the motor is rocky in quality and the turntable isn't well damped against outside vibrations, the record may wobble and apply even more undue pressure. And that goes double for turntables with built-in speakers, which will be adding their own vibrations to the body. Not all cheap turntables are a disaster waiting to happen to your (not cheap!) vinyl – some will have made good decisions about putting the money into the parts that matter, and skipping other unnecessary features. But some definitely are, so be sure to buy based on the reviews of people with experience, and consider strong saving a little longer to get a step-up model if you can, because the jump in safety and quality from 'super-cheap' to 'inexpensive' is large, but the price isn't that different.

Does my turntable need a USB port?

You might have noticed that several mid-range or budget turntables include USB ports, which is obviously a relatively recent addition to the tech inside these machines. So, should you prioritize having this option on your next spinner? Well, we have a whole guide that digs into the question of whether your next turntable should have a USB port , but we'll summarize the key points here. The point of the USB port is to be able to digitize your record collection. You can connect it to a computer, and use software to record what the player plays – complete with analogue imperfections. In some cases, there may be albums or tracks on records that never made it onto the best music streaming services , so you might want to preserve these digitally, and a USB port enables you to do that. But that is essentially the only reason. You wouldn't use for direct music playback in any way, and they're not used for software updates that improve turntable performance or anything like that. If you are looking for an affordable turntable with a USB port, read our Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB review – that's an excellent option for the price.

Is a soft office chair best for back pain?

No - and that answer may surprise you. While a softer, plusher office chair feels comfortable at first, without the right support it causes your hips to sink and misaligns the spine, leading to more pain the longer you sit. It sounds counter-intuitive, but choose a seat of firm, supportive mesh, cold-cure foam, or high-density foam found on chairs like the Steelcase Leap. The feeling of suspension is better for back pain relief than a sofa-style office chair that swallows you.

How can the best office chairs support healthy workplace routines?

TechRadar's former Senior Fitness & Wearables Writer, Stephen Warwick, explains the potential health issues related to long hours of sitting in an office chair and how to support a healthy workplace routine: “The best way to maintain a healthy lifestyle working at home or the office is to regularly move throughout the day - it’s about creating a balance when using an ergonomic office chair. Remember, sitting for too long puts you at risk of CVD like coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. Standing desks and under-desk treadmills can promote a more active workplace routine, while the best fitness trackers and smartwatches will also support activity with movement reminders and step-counts.” We've also explored the benefits in our in-depth report Sitting vs. standing for work: we take a comprehensive look at what the science says .

How can I improve my posture while using an office chair?

The main key to maintaining and improving your posture while using an office chair is to set the adjustments to the correct positions for your body. Most office chairs let you set the seat height, seat depth, and armrests - and many let you modify the position of the lumbar support. Alter the seat depth so your lower back is supported against the lower half of the backrest. If you're using a high-back office chair, your shoulders should also be support in this position. Set the seat height so your feet are flat on the ground with your legs bent at a clean 90-degree angle. Don't sit too far from the desk that you're forced to lean forward (or too close, so your wrists and arms are bunched up or at an awkward angle).

What is the typical lifespan of an office chair and when should I consider replacing it?

How long a desk chair lasts will generally depend on the usage and the warranty offered by the company. Expect a lifespan of 1 to 2 years for a budget chair - after this time, the seat foam can get flattened and the gas cylinder stops work. Mid-range office chairs will have a lifespan of 3 to 7 years, with a warranty that reflects that. For a premium office chair from the likes of Herman Miller and Steelcase, expect between 12 and 15 years of long, daily use.

Are office chairs good for gaming?

Yes, they can make excellent gaming chairs - brands like Herman Miller, Boulies, Secretlab, Corsair, and Razer all make gaming chairs suitable for workplaces. We've also tested and reviewed the best gaming chairs . But be careful of the 'bucket' or 'racing car' or 'bucket' seat style that most gaming chairs have. They keep you snug for long playtime sessions, but the raised sides can restrict your leg movement and can feel uncomfortable for eight-day work-days. Models like the Secretlab Titan Evo and Corsair TC100 Relaxed have flattened sides more like an office chair, which is why I've included them in this round-up.

Which brand is best for office chairs?

At the budget and mid-range end, FlexiSpot, Boulies, ProtoArc, and Sihoo are all great office chair brands. In our experience, they offer a very good comfort to cost ratio. For high-end office chairs, Branch, Herman Miller, Steelcase, Humanscale, Vari, and Autonomous produce chairs that have scored exceptionally in our reviews. When it comes to gaming chairs, Corsair, Razer, and Secretlab make very comfortable models that are perfectly tailored to long hours of gaming (and working). If you want the best chair for the office and gaming, Herman Miller's crossover office chairs are the best at the premium end of the market, while Boulies at the mid-range end.

What's the difference between Steelcase's LiveBack technology and Herman Miller's BackFit?

If you're looking for an office chair for back pain relief, two brands stand out - Steelcase and Herman Miller. Both have cleverly engineered backrests that help alleviate pressure and pain points. And they do this in two different ways. My team and I have used and enjoyed both, but despite sounding similar, and delivering extra comfort and support, there are big differences between how they work. Steelcase office chairs use the 3D LiveBack technology, a series of interconnected flexors that provide stability and support to your spine. This is a physical system that alters the shape of the backrest when you lean back, encouraging the S-shape of your spine and preventing lower back gaps between your back and the chair, so you're consistently supported. Heman Miller office chairs use the BackFit technology. Once you set the backrest to your natural, neutral sitting position, the plastic webbing within the backrest adjusts to your micro-movements to support your spine. Effectively, Steelcase's LiveBack technology moves with you. Herman Miller's BackFit is tuned to you. For that reason, I recommend a Steelcase chair like the Leap if you're suffering from serious back pain, while Herman Miller's line-up is better suited to milder back pain and improved posture correction. It's worth noting, too, that some Steelcase office chairs use an Air LiveBack instead. This is breathable geometric patterning within the backrest that flexes in multiple directions when you lean back. It offers similar fluid support. However, it's not as extensive as the 3D LiveBack technology for those looking for lower back pain relief.

Hawk testing 2

rgsdgfreg — (Image credit: Getty Images)

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My #1 overall pick
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Best party speaker

My #1 overall pick

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Man holding the JBL Flip 7 — (Image credit: Future)

1. JBL Flip 7

A compact yet mighty speaker that has it all

Reasons to buy

Punchy, detailed, and full-bodied sound

Strong battery life to match strong feature-set

Ultra durable and waterproof

Reasons to avoid

Not the fastest to charge

No built-in mic

3 reasons why this Bluetooth speaker beats the rest

✅ Unbelievable sound quality in a highly compact model: I was blown away by the Clip 7’s impactful yet regimented bass response, but also its clear midrange performance and expressive treble. For its size, the Flip 7 offers a beautifully balanced, cohesive, and dynamic listen that made me want to bump my tunes for hours on end.

✅ Top-tier durability and waterproofing: With an IP68 rating, the JBL Flip 7 isn’t just fully dustproof, but it’s also able to survive being dunked in 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. It has a drop-proof design and is scratch-resistant, making it an extremely hardy speaker indeed.

✅ Unbeatable value for money: For its mid-range price, the JBL Flip 7 is incredibly talented. I was wowed by its sonic capabilities, especially in the bass department, but it also has a great set of features, admirable battery life, and a rugged design. I also love the JBL Charge 6 for similar reasons, but the Flip 7’s unbeatable value for money helps it take top spot.

Why you can trust my picks

Written and tested by

Harry Padoan

TechRadar's review history

☑️ More than 1,300 reviews per year
☑️ 17 years of product testing
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☑️ Read TechRadar's review guarantee

For more than a year and a half, I've served as a resident Reviews Writer here at TechRadar, where I have a particular focus on audio tech. I’ve tested some of the best noise-cancelling headphones, best soundbars, and, of course, the best Bluetooth speakers on the market right now.

I built this guide from the ground up after testing a range of speakers against one another. I’m talking everything from small budget options up to premium, towering party speakers. The vast majority of the models that I’ve tested haven’t made the cut here – after all, I re-tested more than 30 in my quest to provide you with the definitive Bluetooth speaker guide!

Best Bluetooth speakers – my picks in-depth

Best budget Bluetooth speaker

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JBL Go 5 with lights off — (Image credit: Future)

1. JBL Flip 7

A compact yet mighty speaker that has it all

Reasons to buy

Punchy, detailed, and full-bodied sound

Strong battery life to match strong feature-set

Ultra durable and waterproof

Reasons to avoid

Not the fastest to charge

No built-in mic

The low-down

I won't beat around the bush; the JBL Go 5 is the best cheap Bluetooth speaker I've ever tested. Compared to its predecessor - the JBL Go 4 - the new model remains impressively affordable (even if it's 5 bucks north in the US) and boasts improvements to connectivity, battery life, and waterproofing.

While bass won't reach the considerable highs of a larger party speaker like the JBL Xtreme 5 (see below), the overall soundstage is mighty impressive for such a tiny device. Battery life still isn't exceptional, sure, but if you're after a cheap portable speaker with an attractive design, look no further than the JBL Go 5.

Scorecard

An icon of a list with a big tick mark over it

Features

What you're really getting here is an accomplished upgrade over the already excellent JBL Go 4. The JBL companion app works just as well here, opening up EQ adjustment and stereo pairing if you have another JBL speaker via Auracast. PlaytimeBoost can also provide a few more hours of listening, which you may need, given the speaker’s fairly limited battery life.

Sound quality

Like its predecessor, bass isn't perhaps as booming as we'd like given the brand's pedigree. However, I was still surprised by the overall energetic quality of the mix, particularly with those mids and trebles.

Design

The JBL Go 5 is such a smart little speaker. It comes in multiple colorways and has some nice lighting effects, which is really impressive for a device on the more affordable side of the budget spectrum. Portability is a real win here, too, as the device can fit in a pocket or a bag with little issue. An improved IP68 waterproof rating also matches its larger brethren, making it highly resistant to water damage and general wear and tear.

Value

At $54.95 / £39.99 (about AU$75), need we say more? This is incredible value for such an accomplished Bluetooth speaker. At this price, even if you're looking for something pricier and more feature-rich, I'd still handily recommend the Go 5 as a backup.

Best mid-range Bluetooth speaker

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Person holding the Edifier ES20 — (Image credit: Future)

3. Edifier ES20

The best mid-range Bluetooth speaker

Specifications

Official Price: $89.99 / £50 / AU$99.99

Target Price: $70 / £40 / AU$90

Release date: June 2025

Drivers: 1x 43mm full-range driver

Frequency response: 93Hz-19kHz

Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4

Audio codecs: SBC

Battery life: 15 hours

Weight: 0.7lbs / 0.3kg

Waterproofing: IP67

Reasons to buy

Clear audio with especially rich mids

Luxurious looks and lighting

Great waterproofing

Reasons to avoid

Noticeable compression at high volumes

Lacking EQ options

The low-down

When I tried out the Edifier ES20, I really wasn’t expecting it to be as good as it is. After all, it’s a very cheap model, often available for less than £50 in the UK (it’s typically a bit more in the US, hence its position in the $50-$100 category). On top of that, it’s ultra-compact and hardly the most powerful model on the market. But it still performs fantastically.

During a test against rivals in this price category, I was wowed by the ES20’s clean, balanced audio performance. The detail it showcased in the mid-range was something the spectacular JBL Clip 5 and Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 speakers couldn’t quite match. It also has attractive lighting, great waterproofing, and a luxurious look that far surpassed my expectations in this price range.

Scorecard

Features

The Edifier ES20 is equipped with so many tools that helped it to stand out over other options I tested in this price-range. Perhaps the most memorable was its in-built mic with integrated noise-cancelling technology. This means you can enjoy clear, hands-free calls without running for your phone. I also appreciated its strong 15-hour battery life, customizable lighting, and multi-speaker pairing options. It's just a shame about the limited EQ adjustment.

Sound quality

As I mentioned above, the mid-range performance of the ES20 is where it really shines. When comparing this to the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4, I was struck by the definition and tonal accuracy of guitars and vocals more than anything. You get natural-sounding treble too, which stays disciplined until you hit those really high volumes. Bass heads may prefer the weight of the Wonderboom 4, but the ES20 still offers a punchy and relatively clear low-end effort. Just don’t expect it to hit those deep dark notes in the sub-bass realm.

Design

The star of the show, though, is the ES20’s design. I found that a number of my colleagues really loved the retro-inspired look of this Edifier speaker, with an appealing speaker grille protecting the driver and a faux leather material used for the outer casing and button controls. Lights positioned on the reverse side of the speaker can illuminate a wall behind it, increasing immersion in your favorite tunes. Oh, and it's also IP67 dust and waterproof, meaning it's as durable as it is beautiful.

Value

If the ES20’s cost in the US were closer to its UK pricing, the ES20 would easily score a 5/5 in the value department. However, as it stands, it gets slightly marked down. I still think the ES20 is well-worth its sub-$90 list price, though, thanks to its surprising sound quality, striking design, and plentiful playtime.

Best premium Bluetooth speaker

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Man holding Bose SoundLink Max — (Image credit: Future)

4. Bose SoundLink Max

The best premium Bluetooth speaker

Specifications

Official Price: $399 / £399 / AU$599

Target Price: $300 / £300 / AU$500

Release date: June 2024

Drivers: 2 x 89mm transducers, 1 x 23mm transducer, 2 x 104x79mm ‘racetrack’ passive radiators

Frequency response: Not stated

Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, 3.5mm

Audio codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive

Battery life: 20 hours

Weight: 4.7lbs / 2.1kg

Waterproofing: IP67

Reasons to buy

Imposing yet deft sound

Robust construction and finish

It works as a power bank too

Reasons to avoid

Battery life could be better…

…and so could its recharge time

EQ options need some work

The low-down

I had so many options to choose from in the $200 and up bracket, but the Bose SoundLink Max is the true all-rounder that deserves to be top dog. It offers a nuanced listen while also packing a real punch. It looks absolutely beautiful, but still has a rugged and drop-proof build. And it has a nice set of features to keep the user experience fresh and easy.

On top of that, you can find the SoundLink Max for a great deal less than its list price, especially when large sale events come around – Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday, I’m looking at you. I adore this model’s agile, full-scale sound, eye-popping color options, and power bank capabilities – all of which make the SoundLink Max the full package for parties, home listening, or taking on the go.

Scorecard

Features

Look, I think Bose could’ve done better with the EQ adjustment tools here, but otherwise there’s plenty to like about the options at your fingertips. It can offer wired listening, multi-speaker pairing, external device charging, and multi-point connectivity. There’s also 20 hours of battery life, which is nothing special, but should be enough for multiple days of listening. The five-hour recharge time is a little slow, though.

Sound quality

I love the sound of the SoundLink Max. It supplies hefty yet agile bass, complexly layered mids, and carefully detailed highs, which kept me listening for hours on end. I considered the Bose SoundLink Plus for this category, given its lower (but still premium) price, but its low-end performance just couldn’t compare, and I found the Max offered generally more immersive, moving audio. Oh, you also get access to the aptX Adaptive codec here, opening up higher-resolution Bluetooth streaming.

Design

Drop-dead gorgeous. That’s how I’d describe the Bose SoundLink Max, which is an absolute joy to look at. It's got a smooth, rubbery exterior that protects it against tumbles, but looks very sleek indeed. You also get IP67 dust and water protection, and can pick the model up in a range of enticing colors, with some of my favorites including Blue Dusk and Citrus Yellow.

Value

This model is regularly discounted for large-scale sales events, and if you can grab it for my target price, it’s astonishingly good value for money. Raw power, intricate details, and great functionality. That’s everything you could want and more from a premium, larger-sized speaker like the SoundLink Max, and, in my view, its commitment to quality is deserving of the high asking price.

Best party speaker

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JBL Xtreme 5 with lights on — (Image credit: Future)

5. JBL Xtreme 5

The best speaker to get the party going

Specifications

Official Price: $399.95 / £329.99 (about AU$560)

Target Price: $359.95 / £2999.99 (about AU$500)

Release date: April 2026

Drivers: 1 x 90W woofer, 2 x 20W tweeters (AC power mode)

Frequency response: 40Hz - 20kHz

Connectivity: Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C

Audio codecs: SBC, AAC, and LC3

Battery life: Up to 28 hours

Weight: 6.4lbs / 2.9kg

Waterproofing: IP68

Reasons to buy

Amazing audio with exceptional bass output

Impressive clarity and detail, especially using USB-C

Phenomenally sturdy and waterproof

Great value in spite of fairly high price

Reasons to avoid

Bulkier than its predecessor

No mic for hands-free calls

Battery life isn’t class-leading

The low-down

The JBL Xtreme 5 has the power to turn any social gathering into a full-throttle party. By our metrics, it's far and away the best party speaker available right now, capable of delivering truly earth-shaking bass while delivering a waterproof rating that's able to withstand wear and tear both in and outdoors.

While this Bluetooth speaker is a touch on the bulky side, it is considerably cheaper than the previous sitter here; JBL's own Boombox 4. If you're planning a lot of gatherings out in the sun over the summer months, we can think of few greater companions than the JBL Xtreme 5.

Scorecard

Features

The JBL Xtreme 5 comes equipped with everything you could possibly want from a booming party speaker. Bluetooth 6.0 is supported here, and like other JBL devices, you've got the option for USB-C connectivity if you're after lossless audio playback (and yes, you can charge your phone with it, too). Awesome ancillary features include customizable RGB lighting and JBL EasySing Mic compatibility if you want to get your karaoke on. The only slight downside is a battery life of 24-28 hours, which falls short of the JBL Boombox 4.

Sound quality

If we had to sum up the Xtreme 5 in a word, it'd be 'powerful'. Bass heads will find so much to be excited about here, with the speaker particularly suited to house, EDM, rock, and club bangers. Amazingly, mids and trebles aren't lost in the sauce, making for a speaker with impressively well-rouded audio.

Design

JBL really knows what it's doing when it comes to chunky and durable speakers. The JBL Xtreme 5 has a hefty look and feel, it's clad in a thick fabric and has a big handle on the top. While on the bulkier side compared to other party-focused speakers, it's not absurdly so, coming in at 6.4lbs / 2.9kg which is lighter than the Boombox 4. It feels incredibly durable and there's an IP68 waterproof and dustproof rating, meaning it can take a full dunking in a pool, or withstand notable water-based accidents like spillages.

Value

The JBL Xtreme 5 is expensive, and as a relatively new product launching in 2026, it's going to hold its price quite well outside of major sales events. But it is worth pointing out that the premium you're paying here is worth the quality of the build, excellent software and big, booming sound. If you can afford it, it's worth it, is what we're saying.