Welcome to Skimm Tested, a series where we put viral products to the test and give you our honest, unfiltered reviews.
What I Tested...
Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker (Now $299, originally $399, Bose)
Why I Tested...
How I Tested...
I used the Bose SoundLink Max portable speaker for two months. I used it everywhere from an outdoor block party to a casual get-together at my apartment, as well as a larger house party and a park picnic.
Test Results...
Sound quality. The quality of Bose’s SoundLink Max is unmatched. It managed to get the party going, even over the sound of 50+ people at a block party I hosted outside. Truthfully, it was loud enough that I was nervous we’d be asked to turn the music down (thankfully, we weren’t). The bass is deep without losing sound quality. My boyfriend — aka, my party co-host — was especially happy he could adjust the equalizer settings to his liking.
Portability. One of my favorite things about this speaker is that it’s so easy to grab and go, thanks to the thick, comfortable (and detachable) handle. I was able to carry it with two smaller fingers while I juggled drinks and grocery bags in my arms, which is standard for me while I’m prepping for a party.
Ease of use. I’m not a big instructions manual girl (i.e., I never read them), so I was happy to see that each button on the speaker was clearly labeled, making it overall pretty self-explanatory. You can control the volume, connect your phone via Bluetooth, power the speaker on and off without having to press and hold, and switch between an aux input and Spotify with a customizable shortcut button. There are also two LED lights that glow when the speaker is on and connected.
Long battery life. After the block party, I kept this speaker on for the afters — which was basically five people in a large living room. The speaker stayed on for an extra three hours after a four-hour party without needing a charge. All in all, the battery can last up to 20 hours without needing to be plugged in. A major plus when you’re busy prepping, hosting, and cleaning up afterward.
Sidenotes...
App controls. The Bose app is worth the download. When opened, it takes less than 10 seconds to find your speaker. To set up, you’ll choose a name for your device either from a list or you can create your own, and from there, you can control the volume, adjust the equalizer settings, or change the audio source. Lastly, the app shares helpful tips, like how to check the battery level and analyze the device’s moisture detection (it’s not 100% waterproof).
Interchangeable handles. A lot of speakers are bulky and cumbersome to carry around, but the detachable handle made it easy. Bose sells replacement handles for $25 if you want to go with a different look. You can also snag a longer carrying strap in different colors for $45.
The Fine Details...
Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker is available in two colors. (Now $299, originally $399, Bose)
Psst...sale ends November 10.
The Bose SoundLink Max Rope Handle is available in four color combinations. ($25, Bose)
The Bose SoundLink Max Rope Carrying Strap is available in two colors. ($45, Bose)
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