Customer Ratings & Reviews

Huge upgrade to the soundlink flex, but not that much different to the Max amazing speaker for the price plus the water and dust resistant makes it easy to just take it anywhere and not have to worry about where its placed. Battery lasts an amazing 20+ hrs depending on what volume you play it at. Great bass on stock EQ and can have even more with the bass boost option on the App, will highly recommend.

The Bose Soundlink Plus Bluetooth speaker is my pick for the best all around small to mid-sized portable that I have yet to hear. The best description I can give for the sound reproduction of this speaker is crisp clarity along with a full, but not overbearing bass. This speaker out performs for its size. It is loud enough to be heard all throughout the room. The SoundLink Plus is not a 360 degree style speaker, but it has good off-axis sound at just about any listening position. This speaker is solid, and feels quite sturdy. The soft rubbery coating is slightly slippery, but the thick loop attachment makes for a convenient carrying strap. Speaking of the coating, it shows dust and fingerprints somewhat, but fortunately it is easy to clean just by wiping with a dry cloth. As far as Bluetooth connectivity goes, I have had absolutely no problems with it at all. It easily connected to all the devices I have tried, either with or without using the Bose app. I would recommend downloading the Bose app for updates to firmware and its equalizer. The app has been flawless thus far. I have not noticed any sound dropouts or connection loss. I believe the advertised 20 hour battery life claim is probably accurate, but of course it depends on volume level used. In conclusion, I give the Bose SoundLink Plus my highest recommendation.

I've owned many Bose products and over time, I have realized that they all have a very specific sound profile. All have been very bass forward, muddy and heavy. I've become pretty weary of that sound profile but decided to give Bose one last try with this new SoundLink Plus portable speaker. The box contains the SoundLink Plus unit as well as a USB C charging cable. The speaker is small-to-medium sized and made of a rubberized exterior material along with a thick braided carrying/hanging loop. The unit is heavier than I imagined but that's not really problem. I chose the back unit but it also comes in Blue Dusk and Citrus Yellow if you want something more colorful. The function buttons are on the top and consist of: power, bluetooth pairing, shortcut, volume up/down and play/pause (skip forward, skip backward). All are self explanatory but the shortcut button is only used for Bose speaker linking or for Spotify Tap, if you have additional compatible Bose speakers or a Spotify account. I have neither so I couldn't test out this feature. For Android users, this speaker features Snapdragon Sound for optimized Android devices. The USB C charging port is on the back of the unit, and it fully charges in 5 hours while provided roughly 20 hours of playback (4 hours at full volume). There is also an auto off timer for battery management which can be disabled. The unit is rated IP67 and IP64 so it's waterproof (30 minutes up to 3.3ft) and dust-proof so you can feel safe using it by the pool or at the beach. The unit can be connected to the Bose app and it has a multipoint connection system allowing you to connect to 2 devices at once. Via the app, you can customize the sound via the equalizer. That's really about it for additional app functions worth mentioning. Honestly, it's pretty weak but maybe they will add additional features down the line. Playback was exactly as I suspected...the traditional Bose sound profile with all its heavy bass. I've been playing music from my iTunes account as well as several streaming services and generally, it sounds just like all of my older Bose speakers/headphones, very bass heavy. As I mentioned earlier, Im not a huge fan of its muddy, heavy sound but I still enjoyed the music played regardless. I have another recent Japanese brand speaker that is about the same size but it offers much more clarity, separation and still has a ton of bass. I think Bose just wants to own the heavier bass sound and there are plenty of people who love that....but Im not really one of them. One additional issue I found was spotty/choppy playback when connected to my Mac's bluetooth. It popped every 5-10 seconds or so. Hopefully that will be smoothed out in future firmware updates. Overall, the Bose SoundLink Plus is a powerful punchy small/midsize speaker that delivers the deep, rich sound that Bose has been know for. It's pretty easy to use and the Bose app allows a touch more usefulness but definitely needs more features. Unfortunately the Bose sound profile is too heavy for me and I will more than likely switch back to my other branded speaker for daily use. Even though it's not my thing, I'd still recommend it for Bose lovers.

The Bose Soundlink Plus Gen 2 speaker has a solid, substantial feel with a powder-coated steel grill and soft-touch silicone. It also has a rugged nylon rope for carrying or clipping onto gear. It comes in three colors. It would probably scratch or dent easily considering the silicone but it feels really nice and quality. It's very well made. The buttons are clicky and smooth. It doesn't attract fingerprints but it does attract dust and dirt leaving a white residue that you can only clean with a clean damp microfiber that won't leave more lint behind. The speaker is packed with one subwoofer, one tweeter, and four passive radiators, delivering sound that's loud and has the well known Bose bass response. You’ll love it or hate it like their other products. It features active EQ technology that's supposed to keep the sound consistent and balanced at any volume. It does become overwhelmed at high volumes but it's a small Bluetooth speaker so keep your expectations at bay. It offers up to 20 hours of use on a single charge and has 15W (5V/3A) charge-out compatibility to charge other devices both via the same USB-C port that you charge the speaker. Bose's website states you expect to charge mobile phones and tablets but not laptops or battery banks. The package includes a nice solid non-braided charging cable. It comes partially charged so I fully charged it for a couple hours and have used it for the last couple weeks. One thing to be aware of is that a full charge is quoted to take five hours. I assume fast charging is not supported due to how long it takes to fully charge. I'm very happy they used Bluetooth 5.4 with multi-point connectivity, allowing two devices to be paired simultaneously. It supports Google Fast Pair for Android and the AptX adaptive codec for higher definition audio with compatible devices. You can take advantage of those two features if you have an Android phone made in the last two to three years. I really like the Bose App Integration. You can customize the sound with a three-band equalizer or one of four preset profiles, you can program the shortcut button between Spotify Tap or Speaker Link, and firmware updates. The speaker also features Simple Sync technology to connect with other compatible Bose soundbars and speakers that have a shortcut button. Soundlink has two modes: Party mode and Stereo Mode (only available when both speakers are SoundLink Plus) The sound might not be as room-filling as larger speakers so it's a good fit for smaller spaces or areas where the sound travels well. I’d recommend it for those who like the Bose sound and don't mind the Bose tax, who are on the go and need something solid for outdoor activities, or want a high class looking speaker with quality sound that doesn't compromise between portability and performance. It blends in nicely with modern aesthetics. It might be the sweet spot between smaller options and the larger Max speaker. However, at a less expensive price you will find a three or four options that won't look as nice but pack similar or better sound quality and more features.

If you’re looking for a great portable speaker, the Bose SL Plus should be on your short list. This is the middle child in this SoundLink offerings from Bose. It fits between the big and hefty Max and the smaller Flex. It is amazing just how much sound quality and punch they’ve packed into a 4” x 11” x 3.5” package. There are a lot of speakers to choose from these days, so what makes this one stand out? This speaker is aimed at the outdoor and/or active lifestyle. As with all Bose products, the build quality is excellent. It’s all metal and solid with a soft-touch, easy to grip silicone finish everywhere except the front grill. The look is minimalist and attractive, and there’s a choice of colors. It carries an IP67 water resistant rating and will survive full immersion in the pool or a creek. Just shake the water out and wait for the app to tell you it’s dry enough to use again. It takes several hours to fully charge, but then it’s good for up to 20 hours of use. That big battery can also be used as a power bank to charge your phone using its single USB C port. Lastly, there’s a very stout nylon loop built onto the side for toting on maybe clipping to a backpack carabiner for hiking. As far as use and sound, it’s once again a solid performer. The sound is tight and clear, and the volume is enough for outdoor use. The bass is surprisingly strong, but it seems more tuned for mids and highs. Even at high volume there’s no distortion or muddling. It connects to the Bose app which gives a few extras such as 3 band equalizing and the ability to pair with other SoundLink speakers. There is no WIFI for casting or streaming directly. This is purely a Bluetooth speaker, and it can connect to more than one source at a time for sharing. Again, it's focused on outdoor and portable use. If remote and outdoor use is important to you, this may be the best choice out there. As with all Bose products, it’s not inexpensive, but you get what you pay for … great sound, long battery life, and a speaker tough enough to survive an active life.

It is no secret that Bose is considered elite in the audio world at just about all levels, and portable Bluetooth speakers are no exception, especially this new SoundLink Plus model. This speaker is the perfect size for portability either around the house or out and about by the beach, pool or other open spaces. It is big enough to pack a punch in terms of sound quality, power, and booming bass but still small enough to be easily packed for traveling or carrying around all day. The carrying loop feature is also a plus when it comes to the portability factory as well. I love that this speaker charges via USB-C, a convenient cable I always have ready to go, and this speaker came almost fully charged out of the box. Pairing up to my phone was very easy and navigating any setting changes was very easy as well. There really is nothing that beats the warm, crisp sound of a Bose speaker. It just sounds so much smoother than just about any other speaker on the market. As a mild audiophile who loves bass, I was thrilled with how this speaker sounds. It sounds great indoors, but I think once I got it out on the pool deck is when I was most excited about it. It just excels in open spaces like that. What also has me impressed about this speaker is the battery life, just about 20 hours on a single charge for a speaker this powerful is excellent. This makes it perfect for long pool or beach days, or long work days where you have music playing during your entire shift. Next to battery life, my second most favorite thing about this speaker is its durability and ratings. Waterproof and rust resistant? Yes please. Shock resistant and dust proof? Absolutely perfect for so many situations. Bose thought of it all with this speaker and it is ready for anything thrown its way. I cannot recommend this speaker enough, do not let the price point intimidate you.

The new SoundLink Plus Bluetooth speaker has incredible sound, gets very loud, and is heavy and tough. It’s the perfect size to take on the go, to the pool, beach, sports, back porch or anywhere else we want great sounding portable speaker. The battery life has been just fine for an all day listening session. To compare, I also have the Bose Portable Smart Speaker. The SoundLink Plus actually sounds a little better and a little less muffled right out of the box. With the Portable Smart Speaker, I actually had to turn the bass way down and the treble way up to get a better sound that is not too bass heavy. I’m a guy who likes a lot of bass, but the Portable Smart Speaker gives way too much bass without an adjustment. I don’t have that problem with the SoundLink Plus. The SoundLink Plus is heavy, but feels super rugged with tough materials. It’s also dust and waterproof meaning I don’t have to worry about it in the elements. The Portable Smart Speaker is only dust and water resistant so I have to babysit it. If you’re looking for a perfect sized and amazing sounding Bluetooth speaker to take anywhere, I would definitely go for the Plus over the Smart Speaker. However, with either, you can’t go wrong. While I am not as impressed with some of Bose’s headphone offerings, the speakers continue to impress.

To be honest, based on a previous review of a Bose Bluetooth speaker, I was not expecting much. But, when I opened the box I was surprised. Then, when I held the nice rectangular speaker in my hand, I noticed its heft and feel. There is a nice weight to the speaker, suggesting a good battery and the feel is a nice matte black textured coating. I am impressed so far. Turning it on, the pleasant voice tells me the speaker is at 60 percent so I use the included USB-c cable and charge it up to 100%. Pairing is simple and quick and you are up and running. I skipped the app and used my already set EQ music app and volume booster to get going. I started streaming and WOW! The sound is balanced yet full and rich. The highs and lows are noticeable, something I was not used to on the previous Bose. I continued to stream for about an hour and was just lost in the great sound and how it filled my large living room effortlessly. This has become my go to small to medium speaker! The strap on the side is a nice touch, I used it while placing the speaker on a wall outside to work in the garden with the wife. Excellent product and I highly recommend!

Speaker is ok, Bose is always acceptable, but not loud enough for me.

This speaker def sounds amazing. I also like how it doesn't constantly tip over like the Flex does (huge fail). The one and only complaint I have with this one, and some may not care...but I def want the grab handle to be on TOP. Having that loop on the side is kind of worthless, as it's fairly heavy and would very likely NOT be hung vertically. Although I really loved how it sounded, that was a deal breaker for me and I ended up retuning it and getting the Max. The Max is about $130 more, but worth every penny.

battery no good dies in 6 hours for this price i am not

Received my Bose SoundLink Plus Bluetooth Speaker and can’t stop using it. Connecting to my IPhone was both quick and easy with the Bose app downloaded from the App Store. Connecting was pretty straightforward. Once connected it was nothing but pure enjoyment. The sound put out by this speaker really fills the room with vibrant tones and deep base. The music is absolutely clear and the sound produced gives me a whole new appreciation while listening to my music. Whether it be hard rock which is my preference or pop music which is my daughters preference, it all sounds great. Indoors the speaker is very full but you will lose a little bit of this fullness outside which is expected. Don’t get me wrong, it still sounds amazing compared to other outdoor speakers out there and the loss I hear may just be a me thing since I am a music guy. It still produces great quality sound outside so don’t get me wrong there. The speaker is well built and solid. I’d be worried more about cracking my floor than breaking the speaker if it were to fall. Charging did not take long but to be honest, it had a lot of charge out of the box and I probably didn’t need to charge it to begin with. So far I have been using it for about a week and a half and easily put a decent number of listening hours in. The charge has held up extremely well and is nowhere close to needing to be charged. This speaker has become my go-to and I anticipate it being so for a long time to come. Don’t sleep on this one. It’s amazing and would suit the needs for most.

Doesn’t work. Makes a static noise. Wont connect to my phone. It is sad. Bose was number one when i was young

You expect good sound from Bose speakers, but the sound that comes out of this speaker is really big enough to replace all but the biggest stereo systems. I tested this with songs with some of the broadest range of sound and it hits all but the lowest bass notes. Even then, where a lot of bluetooth speakers will just clip those low notes, this speaker still hits them, just at a lower volume. The highs always remain crisp and clear. If you're not happy with a flat equalizer response, you can also use the app to adjust bass, midrange, and treble. There are four presets, but you can also dial it in to your exact preference. The size of the speaker is a little larger than what would typically be advertised as a "portable" speaker, though it's not too big to carry around. The additional size also gives it that extra ability to put out good bass volume. It can get plenty loud enough to be a "party" speaker, but it will also play softly in the background. I only tested the one speaker, though it does have the ability to link with another speaker through the app to play in true stereo. If you're looking for a high-quality portable speaker, or just something good to place on the bookshelf, you can't do much better.

Great sound and quality. Recommended if using indoor or outdoor especially travels. Love this speaker