From pocket-sized portables to full-blown party beasts — here’s the loudest of every kind.
When you’re buying a Bluetooth speaker for sheer volume, the question isn’t just “how loud can it go?” — it’s whether that loudness fits your budget, your lifestyle, and your space. The loudest Bluetooth speaker in 2025 is the Soundboks 4, claiming 126 dB and measured at ~111 dB. That’s louder than many nightclubs. But it’s not the only answer. Sometimes you need a waterproof model, a budget pick, or something you can actually carry around.
That’s why this list breaks down the loudest options across categories, from small pocket speakers to premium audiophile designs. All rankings are based on independent measured decibel readings, not just inflated manufacturer claims.
The Loudest Bluetooth Speaker
At a Glance: Our Recommendations
What You Should Know Up Front
When it comes to Bluetooth speakers, “loudest” comes with trade-offs. The biggest, heaviest models hit the highest dB levels, while smaller ones can only be the “loudest in class.”
Decibel claims are often inflated, so we use independent measurements. A 10 dB jump is huge — roughly twice as loud — which is why numbers matter more than marketing.
Where you use a speaker changes everything: indoors sounds louder, outdoors eats volume, and some speakers are tuned to handle one better than the other. And remember, not all loudness is clean — some speakers distort badly at the limit, while others stay smooth.
If you just want the single loudest option, we’ll give you that. But if you also care about portability, durability, or sound quality, the categories below will help you pick the right kind of loud.
Hearing Health Reminder:
Sounds at or below 70 dBA are generally considered safe. Any sound at or above 85 dBA is more likely to damage your hearing over time. Protect your hearing when listening to loud speakers in close proximity.
So, What Should You Buy?
Not every loud Bluetooth speaker is built for the same kind of use. Some are made for hauling to festivals, others for slipping in a backpack, and some double as full PA systems. Below you’ll find the loudest option that actually fits your lifestyle.
Loudest Overall Bluetooth Speaker: Soundboks 4
Beyond volume, the Soundboks 4 is designed for endurance. Its massive 40-hour battery (12 at full tilt) is swappable, meaning you can run this speaker indefinitely with spares. At 35 lbs it’s heavy, but two side handles make it manageable. If your goal is simply the loudest Bluetooth speaker available today, this is it.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: 126 dB
- Measured: ~111 dB
Features and Specs:
- Measured ~111 dB loudness, louder than most club systems
- 40 hours playtime, or 12 hours flat-out at max volume
- Swappable Batteryboks keep the music going indefinitely
- IP65 weather resistance against dust and splashes
- 35 lbs with dual side handles for easier carrying
Good Alternatives:
Loudest Portable Bluetooth Speaker: Soundboks Go
It keeps the same swappable battery system as the flagship, with 40 hours at moderate levels and 12 hours at max volume. IP65 weather resistance and a rugged frame make it suitable for adventures, while its punchy sound profile is tuned for open-air spaces. For anyone who wants serious loudness without needing a dolly, the Soundboks Go is the sweet spot.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: 121 dB
- Measured: ~104 dB
Features and Specs:
- Real-world ~104 dB output from a 20 lb frame
- Up to 40 hours of playback, 12 hours at max volume
- Swappable battery system for unlimited runtime
- IP65 splash- and dust-resistant for outdoor use
- Compact design with grab handle for transport
Good Alternatives:
Loudest Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker: Turtlebox Gen 3
It’s built for punishment with IP67 waterproofing, a 25-hour battery, and a durable shell. At 10 lbs it’s surprisingly portable given its performance, making it a favorite for boating, camping, and hunting. The Turtlebox Gen 3 is a loud, rugged, no-nonsense choice when durability and weather resistance matter as much as raw output.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: 120 dB
- Measured: ~102 dB
Features and Specs:
- Delivers ~102 dB of outdoor-tuned loudness
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof for all-weather use
- Up to 25 hours of battery life per charge
- 10 lbs with built-in handles for portability
- Rugged housing built to handle drops and rough handling
Good Alternatives:
Loudest Small Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Clip 5
With IP67 waterproofing, a 12-hour battery, and JBL’s typical durable build, it’s ideal for personal listening on hikes, picnics, or travel. The Clip 5 is proof that even the smallest category has a “loudest” winner, and it does it without sacrificing ruggedness.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: No Claim
- Measured: ~88 dB
Features and Specs:
- Compact frame producing ~87–88 dB loudness
- Built-in carabiner clip attaches to bags or belts
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof for worry-free use
- Up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge
- Ultra-light at 0.6 lbs for true pocket portability
Good Alternatives:
Loudest Mid-Size Bluetooth Speaker: UE Hyperboom
It offers a 24-hour battery, splash resistance, and multi-device connectivity, making it versatile for indoors and outdoors alike. Its tall, rectangular design delivers wide sound dispersion, giving it more reach than most mid-size competitors. For those who want something between a Clip and a Soundboks, the Hyperboom nails the balance.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: No Claim
- Measured: ~98 dB
Features and Specs:
- Measured ~98 dB loudness in a portable form factor
- Up to 24 hours of battery-powered playback
- Splash-resistant IPX4 rating for casual outdoor use
- 13 lbs with a carry strap for easier transport
- Tall design disperses sound widely for group settings
Good Alternatives:
Loudest Bluetooth Speaker Under $200: EcoXgear Defender
With IP67 waterproofing, EQ presets, and up to 25 hours of battery life, it’s rugged and practical for outdoor use. While it won’t match the finesse of premium models, the Defender delivers sheer decibel-per-dollar value better than anything else in its price class.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: 110 dB
- Measured: ~100 dB
Features and Specs:
- Verified ~100 dB loudness at an affordable price
- Up to 25 hours of playtime on a single charge
- Full IP67 waterproof and dustproof protection
- ~10 lbs with rugged carry handles for mobility
- Built-in EQ and lighting modes for customization
Good Alternatives:
Loudest Party Speaker (AC-Powered): JBL PartyBox Ultimate
With Dolby Atmos, a full-panel light show, and Wi-Fi streaming support, it’s more than just volume — it’s an event centerpiece. At over 80 lbs, it’s built for permanent setups or serious parties where AC power is no issue. For sheer party dominance, the Ultimate is JBL’s loudest yet.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: 110 dB
- Measured: ~108 dB
Features and Specs:
- Measured ~108–110 dB loudness for large events
- AC-powered for unlimited runtime at max output
- Full-panel lighting system with customizable effects
- Dolby Atmos and Wi-Fi streaming built-in
- Weighs over 80 lbs, designed for permanent setups
Good Alternatives:
Loudest Compact PA System: JBL EON ONE Compact
For performers, buskers, or presenters who want real loudness with pro-grade flexibility, the EON ONE Compact is in a class of its own. Its rechargeable battery runs up to 12 hours, and the swappable design means you can hot-swap in a fresh pack without missing a beat. At just under 18 lbs, it’s far more portable than typical PA setups, making it an unbeatable choice for those who need both volume and versatility in a single box.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: 112 dB
- Measured: ~112 dB
Features and Specs:
- Reaches 112 dB peak output with extended low end to 37.5 Hz
- Fully integrated PA with mixer, effects, and Bluetooth control
- Tool-free swappable battery offering up to 12 hours runtime
- Lightweight at 17.6 lbs with ergonomic handle for one-hand carry
- Pro connectivity: XLR/TRS, Hi-Z, aux inputs, phantom power, and USB charging
Good Alternatives:
Loudest Premium / Audiophile-Grade Speaker: Devialet Phantom I
Inside, Devialet’s ADH amplification and pressure-balancing drivers ensure deep bass extension (down to 14 Hz) without breaking up, even at high volume. This isn’t a portable speaker — it’s a high-end statement piece meant for home or studio listening, but it’s easily the loudest option in the premium category. For those who want hi-fi sound with near-PA levels of volume, the Phantom I stands alone.
Decibel Levels:
- Claimed: 108 dB
- Measured: ~108 dB
Features and Specs:
- Delivers 108 dB loudness with hi-fi clarity and control
- Ultra-wide frequency range (14 Hz–27 kHz) with strong bass
- Devialet ADH amplification for low distortion at volume
- Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth support
- Luxury design, available in Gold, Black, and White finishes
Good Alternatives:
How Many Decibels Do You Actually Need?
Loudness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s a quick guide to help set realistic expectations:
| Setting | Ideal dB Range | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor background music | 80–90 dB | Small Bluetooth speaker (JBL Clip, Go) |
| Kids’ party indoors | 95–100 dB | Mid-size speaker (UE Hyperboom, Tufton) |
| Backyard gathering (20–30 ppl) | 100–105 dB | Turtlebox Gen 2, Soundboks Go |
| Outdoor party (30+ ppl) | 105–110 dB | Turtlebox Grande, PartyBox 710 |
| Large outdoor event | 110+ dB | Soundboks 4, PartyBox Ultimate |
Hearing health reminder: Anything above 85 dB for extended periods can cause damage. Always keep distance from high-SPL speakers and use ear protection at events.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Loud Bluetooth Speaker
Buying a Bluetooth speaker for loudness isn’t as simple as grabbing the one with the highest number slapped on the spec sheet. Decibels are only part of the story — and even those numbers can be misleading. To pick the right model for your needs, you need to understand how loudness is measured, what really matters outdoors vs. indoors, and how things like portability, power source, and clarity come into play.
This guide walks you through the essentials, cutting through marketing claims and focusing on what actually affects your experience when the volume is cranked.
Understanding Decibels and Loudness
Most speaker brands love to throw around big decibel figures: 120 dB, 126 dB, even 130 dB. On paper, those numbers look impressive, but here’s the catch: manufacturers often measure them in unrealistic conditions (like with a single frequency tone, indoors, or at line level).
Independent SPL tests — usually measured at 1 meter using pink noise — give a more accurate picture. These numbers are always lower than the glossy marketing claims, but they reflect what you’ll actually hear.
It’s also worth remembering that loudness isn’t linear. Every 10 dB increase represents roughly a doubling of perceived volume. So the difference between 100 dB and 110 dB isn’t small — it’s massive.
Do you Understand Loudness? Test Yourself!
How many times louder will a 100 dB speaker sound, than a 50 dB speaker?
Why We Use Measured Decibels, Not Just Manufacturer Claims
Manufacturers often publish inflated numbers — sometimes as high as 120–130 dB. These are usually measured under unrealistic conditions: single-tone tests, line-level input, or in anechoic chambers.
Independent testing is different. We rank speakers by measured SPL (Sound Pressure Level) at 1 meter, using pink noise — a far more accurate reflection of what you’ll actually hear.
The result?
- A “120 dB” claimed speaker may really deliver closer to ~102 dB in real-world use.
- Numbers are lower than the marketing hype, but far more honest.
That’s why our list is arranged by independently measured decibel output — so you know which speakers are truly the loudest.
Watts & Decibels: What’s the Relationship?
Wattage measures a speaker’s electrical power, not its actual loudness. Decibels (dB) measure the sound pressure you hear.
Here’s the catch: doubling the watts does not double the volume. It takes about 10x more watts to sound twice as loud in decibels.
Here’s the catch: doubling the watts does not double the volume. It takes about 10x more watts to sound twice as loud in decibels.
That’s why a well-designed 200W speaker can easily outplay a sloppy 500W model. When you’re shopping for volume, the number that matters isn’t watts — it’s the measured dB level.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Loudness
A speaker that sounds thunderous inside can feel underwhelming outdoors. That’s because walls and ceilings reflect sound, boosting perceived volume. Outside, there are no boundaries — sound disperses into the air, and wind or open space can swallow up frequencies.
This is why outdoor-focused speakers (like the Turtlebox series) emphasize forward mids and bass punch. Indoors, that tuning can sound a little harsh; outdoors, it’s exactly what you need to cut through background noise.
When choosing a speaker, ask yourself:
- Will I use it mostly indoors, outdoors, or both?
- Do I want room-filling clarity or open-air projection?
Battery vs. AC Power
The biggest dividing line in loud Bluetooth speakers is power source.
Battery-powered speakers give you freedom — you can take them anywhere, set them down, and play. But there’s a trade-off: the louder you push them, the faster the battery drains. A speaker that claims “40 hours” may only last 12 hours at max volume.
AC-powered models like the JBL PartyBox Ultimate or 1000 eliminate that problem. They’ll go all night, but you need a wall outlet (and usually a car to move them). These are best for permanent setups, large house parties, or events where portability isn’t a priority.
If you want true portability with serious output, look at the Soundboks series. If you don’t mind plugging in, PartyBox models can outperform almost anything on raw SPL.
Portability vs. Loudness
There’s no way around it: louder speakers are bigger and heavier. But that doesn’t mean you need to drag around an 80-lb box to get satisfying results.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Small (under 5 lbs) – Pocketable speakers like the JBL Clip or Go. Loud for personal use, not group events. (~85–90 dB)
- Mid-size (10–15 lbs) – Speakers like the UE Hyperboom or Marshall Tufton. Good for backyards and smaller gatherings. (~95–98 dB)
- Portable Heavyweight (20–35 lbs) – Soundboks Go and 4, Turtlebox Grande. Loud enough for big outdoor spaces, still battery powered. (~104–111 dB)
- Party Machines (60+ lbs, AC-powered) – JBL PartyBox Ultimate, 710, 1000. True event speakers, but not something you throw in the trunk casually. (~106–110 dB)
Think about how often you’ll be moving your speaker, and how much you’re willing to carry, before chasing max volume numbers.
The graph below plots each speaker’s measured loudness (dB) against its weight (lbs) so you can see the trade-off between portability and raw output. Smaller speakers cluster on the lower left (light but quiet), while heavyweights like the Soundboks 4 sit at the top right (very loud, but bulky).
Notice that the spacing on the vertical axis isn’t linear. In audio, every +10 dB is roughly a doubling of perceived loudness. That’s why the lines spread further apart as the numbers climb — a jump from 100 dB to 110 dB isn’t just “a little louder,” it’s about twice as loud to your ears.
Where You Can Actually Use Loudness
It’s one thing for a speaker to hit impressive numbers on a spec sheet, but it’s another to actually use that volume in real-world conditions. A fragile bookshelf-style speaker might top out at 100 dB, but you’re never going to drag it into the rain or onto a boat. On the other hand, a rugged outdoor unit like the Turtlebox Grande can deliver ~110 dB while sitting in the back of a pickup or next to a pool.
This is where durability and waterproofing tie directly into loudness. If you want to enjoy high SPL outside, your speaker needs to survive dust, water, and bumps. Otherwise, the loudest you’ll ever hear it is in the safety of your living room. Think carefully about where you want your decibels — because environment is often what decides which “loudest” speaker is right for you.
Clarity vs. Loudness
The loudest speakers aren’t always the best-sounding at max volume. Many cheap models distort badly when pushed, so while they might “hit” 95 dB, it’s not enjoyable.
Better designs manage distortion, keeping mids and highs intact even when bass is heavy. That’s why premium models like the Devialet Mania or B&O Beosound A5 don’t measure the highest in decibels, but still feel more “listenable” at high volume.
Pro tip: Look at distortion measurements (THD) or listen for clarity at max output before buying. A clean 100 dB is better than a muddy 105 dB.
Does Pairing Speakers Make It Louder?
A common question: if you link two Bluetooth speakers, does it double the volume? The short answer is no — not in raw dB. When measured at 1 meter in front of a single unit, two linked speakers don’t suddenly spike to new record levels.
What pairing does do is change how the loudness feels. By spreading sound across a wider area, the volume is more evenly distributed. That means a crowd of 20–30 people won’t just hear one blasting point source — the music feels louder and fuller throughout the space. For big outdoor parties, two mid-size speakers may give a better experience of loudness than one monster box that measures slightly higher.
So while pairing isn’t a trick for breaking SPL records, it is a practical way to scale perceived volume for larger groups.
Hearing Safety and Noise Laws
This might not be as exciting as watts and dB, but it’s just as important. Prolonged exposure to loud sound can cause permanent hearing loss.
- 85 dB – Safe for about 8 hours.
- 95 dB – Safe for about 1 hour.
- 105 dB+ – Safe for only 15 minutes without hearing protection.
Cities and neighborhoods also have noise ordinances — so while you can blast your Soundboks at 111 dB, don’t be surprised if the neighbors or police get involved.
Final Thoughts
The Soundboks 4 may be the single loudest, but the “best” speaker depends on where and how you’ll use it. From the pocket-sized JBL Clip 5 to the rugged Turtlebox Grande and the event-dominating PartyBox Ultimate, every category has a leader. By arranging our picks based on measured decibel output, not just manufacturer claims, we’ve cut through the hype to show you which speakers actually deliver.
Pick the one that fits your lifestyle — and remember: volume is addictive, but so is keeping your hearing safe.
Why Should you Trust Us?
With nearly every publication looking to sell you a product, why should you trust the validity of these selections?
- We work with retail partners to listen to and evaluate the performance across different models.
- Independent measurements are done to confirm manufacturer claims of volume.
- Our list accurately captures what speakers are truly the loudest.
- We have been curating this list for more than 6 years. We know this space.
The Loudest Bluetooth Speaker
Have you heard of the Devialet Gold Phantom?
Kenneth – we have indeed! We left it out on our original list because it was so next level (price-wise as well) from the other contenders You’ll be happy to hear we’ve included a special section about the Devialet Phantom at the bottom of the article now. Check out the video. Love that guy!
My favourite blue tooth speaker so far is my anchor soundcore 2. Compact, long battery life good sound and doubles as a charger. Waterproof and shock resestant as well.
I still really like my old BOSE Wave Music System. It didn’t come with bluetooth, but did come with a bluetooth receiver that you plugged into it. It plays music from my devices very well. The sound is really good.
We have a little Bose speaker that seems to be doing the job for us right now (well, it’s my daughter’s actually …!), but I haven’t got anything to compare it against!
So on the recommendation of a friend we got an earlier-version of the Oontz shown here…and wow! The sound quality is great, and we’ve had very long playing times. Another to take to the beach would be perfect!
I like the Anker Soundcore 2! I prefer something easy to carry around! I can bring it to the beach, toss it in the car for road trips, etc. without sacrificing volume!
I love my UE Roll 2! I take it with me anywhere I go, lot battery life, ok sound. I can strap it to anything, my kayak, backpack, mountain bike handlebars. It comes with a small life floatie for it to take in the pool. Just an all around great speaker. You can even connect 2 together for better sound.
My boyfriend has a OontZ Angle 3 portable speaker and we love it. We take this speaker with us whenever we travel because it is so small and portable. I use it every time I shower or go on an outing because the sound quality is loud enough to hear over other noises. It is easy to use and wireless which makes it so convenient for us to use with our mobile devices. In addition, the battery life is great. It lasts us weeks at a time without charging. Lastly, the price of the speaker is very reasonable for the amazing quality. Thank you for this opportunity!
I have owned the OontZ Angle 3 speaker for several years and it is fantastic. Its very small build quality is convenient for portability and sleek design with nice silicone end pieces. The speaker has excellent sound with surprisingly good bass. The big surprise is the volume. I can take a shower and still hear the sound quality perfectly over the noise of the running water. The battery life is great, and it doesn’t lose much over time either. I use the speaker on every travel expedition I take from cruises, to family getaways, to an outing to the beach with my girlfriend. We love this speaker and would love the opportunity to have another one! Thank you!
From the list my favourite would have to be Anker Soundcore 2 Bluetooth Speaker because it’s the lightest; I’ve scoliosis so I only carry lightweight things.
I’ve a speaker gifted to my by my bosses. I like it so far because I can plug-in a memory card, it’s with a bluetooth function, has blue light (though I prefer it to be red light for sleep; I’m a child care worker), it’s bottom has anti-slip thing(when we clean it before and after setting it down on a surface), and it’s very affordable (elementary school student price)
My favorite speaker is one that is small and portable with awesome, big sound capability.
I’m looking for a Bluetooth speaker that is compact yet has premium features. Quality construction is important. Of course decent power is important. Being able to deliver a rich tone is paramount to my wishes. I would want a high end speaker with all the trappings one would expect. That includes WiF, AirPlay, Spotify Connect and Web Radio. A long-lasting battery would be great. I would be listening to the speed and transfer of the speaker and it’s ability to maintain the desired frequency. I would love a built in microphone and Alexa enabled feature.
What I’m looking for in a Bluetooth speaker is sound quality, durability, reliability, an aesthetically pleasing design, reasonable cost, long battery life, short charge time, and a neutral sound signature. Good sound range is also important to me, I want one that can play the deepest bass as well as the high notes. I also need one that is easy to use and doesn’t have complicated controls. A mobile app would be nice but isn’t a dealbreaker for me. A good warranty would be another plus but I wouldn’t consider it absolutely necessary. Being waterproof would be great. I would also like Wi-Fi connectivity.
Best article on the internet about portable speakers in 2020, PERIOD.
By the way, there is a typo “Battey” instead of “Battery” on a few of the speaker profiles.
Jordan – thank you for the kind words, and thank you for pointing out that typo. Much obliged.
I have checked a few of these online forums for the best speaker, Why doesn’t anyone have the monster super blaster on their lists? This speaker is absolutely amazing. It’s high priced and heavy but so worth it. Have you checked this speaker out? Thanks for all you hard work and letting us know which ones are your best, I’m going to check into a couple of these to see how they compare to what I already have.
Hi have just received my Soundcore Mini 3.Am a young music loving 72 year old and this is a brilliant piece of kit for listening to my music collection on my phone.To get a good stereo sound would buying another of these do the trick?.One criticism is the very limited data supplied with it.Not able to understand the full capability of the Speaker..ie the Multifunction button?.As you can tell my technology knowledge is basic and would like more details.
Have you heard from the Abramtek E500 or E600? Could beat some of these for a fair price.
Jose – yes we have heard of the Abramtec E500 and E600. The 100W E600 (in 3rd party tests) produces about 95dB and the 200W E500 about 100dB. While that brings it in line with the speakers on this list, they are not the loudest by far. The biggest issue with the Abramtec speakers is that they are not that readily available in the US.