Thanks to the early Black Friday deals already live on Amazon, you can buy a great Bluetooth speaker without overspending. To save your time and effort, I’ve sifted through 20+ speaker listings on Amazon and pulled a short list that covers everything from affordable speakers to ones that offer powerful sound and a vintage look.
Anker Soundcore 2 – $28.48 (37% off)
I’d tuck the Soundcore 2, one of Amazon’s most popular Bluetooth speakers (4.5 stars from 158K reviews), into a student’s stocking. Whether it’s for a first-time speaker buyer or someone looking for an inexpensive yet dependable unit, this is the one. It features IPX7 water resistance, lasts up to 24 hours on a charge, and should produce enough sound for a small room.
Tribit StormBox Micro 3 – $49.98 (23% off)
I’d pick this for outdoor activities like cycling or camping for two reasons. First, its two-in-one mount either attaches magnetically to metal surfaces or uses a silicone strap for a secure grip on handlebars. Second, its IP68 rating means it can handle rain, splashes, and even shallow submersions. The early Black Friday Amazon deal makes it a steal.
JBL Flip 5 – $89.95 (10% off)
For the party host who wants JBL’s signature punchy, powerful sound without chasing the latest model or its inflated price tag, I’d pick the Flip 5 without hesitation. Its 20W output fills medium-sized rooms, the battery lasts about 8 to 10 hours between charges (based on real-world usage), and you can link it with other compatible JBL speakers. The Flip 5 also comes with an IPX7 water-resistance rating.
Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) – $99.00 (38% off)
I’d pick the SoundLink Flex over the Flip 5 for three main reasons. First, it offers better sound quality, with tighter bass response, slightly better mid-range detail, and clearer voice reproduction. Second, it comes with a proper IP67 rating and can even float in water. Third, it has a built-in microphone that enables hands-free Bluetooth calls. The cherry on top (for some people) could be its availability in eight different colors (and the early Black Friday deal).
Marshall Acton III (Black) – $249.99 (17% off)
The guitar-amp look and real tone knobs still have a loyal fanbase, and I’d pick the Acton III for someone who appreciates that design language. With a total output of 60W, the speaker features outward-angled tweeters that deliver broader, room-filling sound. It also accounts for nearby reflective surfaces to minimize muddy bass, and you can connect it using the 3.5mm input. However, it only works when plugged in, so keep that in mind.