Test the Waters: The Best Shower Speakers of 2022
Relying on a speaker that’s not water-friendly can leave you straining to decipher its garbled sounds over the sound of a running shower and from across the room. Average wireless speakers don’t offer the same level of toughness and water resistance as their shower-savvy counterparts. Don’t run the risk of ruining yet another cheap bluetooth speaker by taking it poolside. Instead, unwind and relax or get pumped up and party with one of today’s top shower speakers.
Need a little guidance on what to look for? Or maybe you’d like some help decrypting technical speaker jargon? We looked into the hype behind today’s best water-ready speakers, read through hundreds of verified reviews, and even tested a few out ourselves. The result is this tried-and-true lineup, here to steer you in the right direction in your quest for the best shower speaker. And for a deeper dive into what makes, breaks, and sets the best speakers apart from all the rest, check out our facts, tips, and FAQs after the product jump.
Ready? Let’s hop in.
- Best Value: Soundcore Flare Mini Bluetooth Shower Speaker
- Best Overall: Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 Shower Speaker
- Runner-Up: EBODA Waterproof Bluetooth Shower Speaker
- Best for the Shower: SoundBot SB510 HD Water Resistant Bluetooth 3.0 Shower Speaker
- Best Compact: JBL GO2 BT Shower Speaker
- Best for the Party: JBL Flip 4 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
- Best Portable: JBL CLIP 3 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- Most Durable: Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker
- Best Sound: Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- Best Budget: iFox iF012 Bluetooth Shower Speaker
The Best Shower Speaker
1Soundcore Flare Mini Bluetooth Shower Speaker
I’ve been using the Soundcore Flare Mini Bluetooth Speaker in several mediums for several weeks now: in the shower, working outside, the local natural springs, washing cars out front. It’s quickly become a staple product I use throughout the day, every day.
Pairing with the Soundcore Flare was effortless every time, including the first when initially recognizing my phone. The six buttons on the top are straightforward and responded immediately, including the Bluetooth pairing button. 360 degree sounds emanated from dual 5-watt neodymium drivers, powered by the Soundcore BassUp tech and dual IIP passive radiators.
I can attest the battery life was a full day or 12 hours; I used the Soundcore Flare from sun up to sun down last Saturday. Pairing immediately in the morning while I made coffee and continued to travel around with it all day until I was washing up dishes from dinner.
The sound was still crystal clear as the shower speaker was doused while washing cars, and the audio fireworks — eight LED lights with five modes — match the music’s beat, creating a concert-like atmosphere as I sang for no audience in the shower. Raed the in-depth review here.
360-degree sound
IPX7 waterproof rating
12-hour playback time
Connect with other Soundcore speakers
10W output
Audio Fireworks light show
- BrandSoundcore
- Weight1.06 pounds
2Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 Shower Speaker
If the idea is to spend endless days outside with your new portable Bluetooth speaker, the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 won’t let you down. The rugged exterior protects the speaker no matter the environment. With an IP67 rating, the Wonderboom 2 is waterproof, dustproof, and floats. And with a small sphere shape and attached gear loop, the Ultimate Ears portable Bluetooth speaker will go everywhere with you:
- Drop it in your beach bag.
- Grab it for a lap around the lazy river.
- Strap it to your pack during a trail ride.
The waterproof speaker features 360-degree surround sound with an optional outdoor volume boost for those rowdier days. The 13-hour battery life is more than enough time to start the party, keep the party going and see you through to clean up.
Controlling the music is done from the speaker itself, keeping your phone out of harm’s way at the beach or the pool. They are aesthetically pleasing with a two-toned design.
If your neighbor has the same model, have him bring it over to pair them and “Double Up” the party.
360-degree sound
Outdoor volume boost
13-hour playback time
1P67 rating
Pairing abilities
- BrandUltimate Ears
- Weight15 ounces
3EBODA Waterproof Bluetooth Shower Speaker
The EBODA Waterproof Bluetooth Shower Speaker is the marathon champion of portable shower speakers. It has a whopping 24-hour playtime with the volume at 50%, or 15-hour playtime at 70%. It is powered by a 2000-mAh rechargeable battery and connects via Bluetooth tech that boasts a 66-foot range.
It is durable and portable with a silicone case with a carabiner and loop to attach to a pack, bike, or even a sailboat. With an IP67 rating, drop it in the water, sand, or on cement, and this bad boy will still play just fine.
This top shower speaker belts out tunes with a 6W output; Jack Johnson will sound loud on the Wonderboom 2. Keep your phone out of your sweaty, sunscreen-covered hands by changing the music and answering phone calls directly from the speaker. The built-in microphone connects via Bluetooth for a hands-free phone call.
1P67 rating
15 to 24-hour playback time
66-ft Bluetooth range
Built-in microphone
6W sound output
3.5mm aux jack and cable
- BrandEBODA
- Weight9.4 ounces
4SoundBot SB510 HD Water Resistant Bluetooth 3.0 Shower Speaker
For the specific purpose of only using the speaker in the shower, the SoundBot SB510 HD Water Resistant Bluetooth 3.0 Shower Speaker is a fine choice. The price doesn’t break the bank, and the features offer enough for a shower party but not a beach party. Its low profile and suction cup keep it out of the way in smaller bathrooms.
Music controls are on the bathroom speaker’s front, along with a built-in microphone for any shower phone calls. The Bluetooth range is up to 33 feet, and 6 hours of playtime is plenty for a few days’ worth of baths.
The IPX4 rating means it is water-resistant, but fish it out fast if it falls in the tub, as it’s not submersible. The SoundBot SB510 HD does have enough power behind the sound and noise/wind reduction technology to perform well as an outdoor speaker.
33-ft Bluetooth range
IPX4 water-resistant rating
Rechargeable battery
6-hour playback time
Built-in microphone
Enhanced HD music experience
- BrandSoundbot
- Weight1.59 pounds
5JBL GO2 BT Shower Speaker
The JBL GO2 is the smallest, most portable shower speaker in our best shower speakers list, weighing less than half a pound and measuring roughly 2 x 3 x 1 inches. Its compact size and IPX7 waterproof rating make it the ideal waterproof Bluetooth speaker to take anywhere, anytime.
Five buttons along the narrow top offer easy control of the music and a charging port on the side for when the 5-hours of battery life runs low. Charging time is two and a half hours. Output is 3W, so nothing crazy, but enough for a small poolside gathering.
The speaker doesn’t have any attachment points or gear loops, but it is small enough to slide into a small beach bag, hydration pack, or bike bag.
4.1 Bluetooth
5-hour playback time
IPX7 waterproof rating
3W output
Noise-canceling speakerphone
3.5mm Audio input
- BrandJBL
- Weight6.6 ounces
6JBL Flip 4 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
I’ve never had my own, but I’ve been at large pool parties and desert gatherings with a few JBL Flip 4 Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers paired through the JBL Connect+ technology. The sound was always powerful; if the speaker was on the pool deck, you could feel the bass. In the desert, you could hear the cliffs bouncing the beat right back to us. Bluetooth was quick to connect, and with three speakers playing in stereo around the pool, there was no lag or mismatched rhythms.
The JBL Fli 4 has an IPX7 rating for a fully waterproof speaker, meaning it can withstand being a meter underwater for 30 minutes.
On a full charge (about 3.5 hours from 0 to full), it offers 12 hours of playtime. It has a power and pairing button; otherwise, control is from your phone.
For more top-quality options, check out our selection of the best tailgate speakers.
12-hour playback time
4.2 wireless Bluetooth streaming
JBL Connect+
Speakerphone with noise cancellation
Voice assistance
JBL Bass Radiator
- BrandJBL
- Weight1.14 pounds
7JBL CLIP 3 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
If you liked the JBL GO2 but need something offering more portability, JBL still has you covered with the JBL Clip 3. An eye-catching circular shower speaker with an integrated carabiner for a quick snap-on to your beach bag and you’re out the door.
With 10 hours of playtime, it’s long enough for a pool day or day on the trail — the 1000-mAh rechargeable battery charges via micro-USB in under 3 hours.
Three watts of power will light up enough space for a small group of friends. Keep your phone tucked away while taking calls by using the JBL’s built-in speakerphone with noise- and echo-cancellation.
Its small, compact size, carabiner clip, IPX7 rating, and lengthy playtime make it ideal for on-the-go and a perfect gift for audiophiles, as well.
IPX7 waterproof rating
10-hour playback time
Built-in speakerphone
Integrated carabiner
3.3W output
Rugged exterior
- BrandJBL
- Weight9.6 ounces
8Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker
With a tear-resistant strap, the Bose SoundLink Micro will stick with you through any waterlogged activity. The SoundLink Micro is IPX7 waterproof, which means it’s submersible. And it features a durable silicone exterior that absorbs dents and scratches.
The 30-foot Bluetooth range provides freedom to move around without compromising the connection. The SoundLink Micro offers up to 6 hours of playtime.
Inside this tiny waterproof Bose speaker are customized transducers and radiators to produce a crisp, bass-backed sound. A built-in microphone also connects you to your phone and your phone’s voice assistant.
And match the bass-bumping vibe on the pool deck to sounds inside the house. The Bose SoundLink Micro pairs with other Bose products with Bose SimpleSync technology, including Smart Home Family products. Users can also control the music outside with compatible smart home devices inside.
IPX7 waterproof rating
Balanced sounds
6-hour playback time
Built-in microphone
Stereo and party connectivity mode
Attachment strap
- BrandBose
- Weight10.2 ounces
9Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker looks like the best bang for your buck. A powerful 12-watt output, Bluetooth 5.0, and proprietary BassUp tech liven the lowest frequencies. And a 24-hour playback time and IPX7 rating all helped support my conclusion.
It is perfect for long weekends away at the lake or camping. The controls intuitive and located on top of the shower speaker.
Though the Soundcore 2 isn’t the most compact wet speaker on the market, it is portable. And the size is small for the impressive sound it packs — courtesy of the dual neodymium drivers and zero distortion processor.
And just for fun, our guide to the top levitating Bluetooth speakers offers some uniquely designed devices you may be interested in. Don’t miss them.
IPX7 waterproof rating
24-hour playback time
Exclusive BassUp tech
Patented spiral bass port to boost low frequencies
12W output
- BrandAnker
- Weight12.6 ounces
10iFox iF012 Bluetooth Shower Speaker
The iFox iF012 Bluetooth Shower Speaker services the middle ground between the shower and a bumping boat party. The low price, IP67 rating, 10-hours of playback time, sub-3-hour charging time, 33-foot range, 5-watt output, and attachment options mark the iFox as one excellent budget speaker.
The rugged shower speaker has a light, compact, tough design with a suction cup on the back and an optional carabiner for quick attachment to a daypack or beach bag. Clear, white outlined buttons on the front make pairing effortless and your phone out of the splash zone.
Be sure also to browse our list of the most popular bookshelf speakers on the market.
IP67 rating
5W output
Suction cup and carabiner attachments
33-ft Bluetooth range
10-hour playback time
Excellent form factor
- BrandiFox
- Weight7 ounces
Why You Can Trust Us & How We Tested
After testing a waterproof shower speaker and utilizing the experience of engaging with the Soundcore Flare Mini and its features, I compared it to other shower speakers' specs, features, product reviews, and testimonials. Also, I researched the speakers I've sampled poolside or while out on the local greenbelt. Experiencing others speakers' audio and form factors helped me gauge what would work as a waterproof shower speaker.
Who This Is for & How We Picked
If you're planning out getting out to the beach, local springs, pool, or seaside this summer, the best shower speakers offer features your average speaker won't that will protect the speaker from water and dust.
We picked models from each end of the spectrum in terms of best use and then found middle ground models. Some speakers will clearly be great for the shower but wouldn't reach their full potential until sitting poolside. Other choices are more than adequate for the shower and fail to perform in larger, outdoor settings.
Features to Look for in Shower Speakers
Not all Bluetooth shower speakers will carry the same functions. Consider the following features before choosing your new shower speaker.
Waterproofing - You'd think marketing a speaker as a shower speaker, there's no doubt it is waterproof. Right? IP ratings tell all in terms of what the shower speaker can and cannot withstand. An IP7 rating means the speaker can be fully submerged in less than a meter of water. Lower IP ratings indicate the shower speaker is water-resistant but not waterproof.
Beach bums are aware of dust proofing as well. Look out for is IP67. An IP67 rating still delivers the same amount of waterproof resistance but with the advantage of also providing dustproof protection.
Sound Quality - With the speaker's waterproofing, the speaker's driver can be muffled by the added layers used to protect the interior from moisture. The audio will still rock the party but won't match its non-waterproof competitor. Regardless, the speaker will live to see another day and the sound quality on many shower speakers is still top-notch.
Bluetooth Connection and Wireless Range - Most good shower speakers support 4.1 or 4.2 Bluetooth Wireless connection, with some pushing 5. The wireless range ranges from 30-ft to 70-ft in popular shower speaker models.
Battery Life/Playback Time - The battery life will differ from model to model, ranging from 6 hours of playtime to 24 hours.
If you're using the speaker solely in the bathroom, 6 hours is enough juice to last, depending on the amount of time spent in the shower, for a week between charges. But for the beach or poolside summer gatherings, opt for a waterproof speaker with longer battery life, so the party isn't cut short when the music stops.
Portability - Most shower speakers will not need a power source, so they can go pretty much anywhere with you. But size is a factor if plan on traveling with your speaker.
Going to the beach? Smaller shower speakers travel better, but as size decreases, so does the max volume and the sound quality at louder volumes.
Ruggedness - Chances are, if you're not only using the shower speaker in the shower, the speaker will see some rowdy days. Consider the durability and construction of the speaker. It'll see long days at the pool, beach, or local springs: tossed over lawn chairs, trading hands for a turn as the DJ, or kicked around the pool deck.
Form Factor - Before you commit to a purchase, be rational, decide where most, and how often you'll use your new shower speaker. The output, portability, range, size, IP rating, and ruggedness determine how well the shower speaker performs in the environment of your choosing.
Setup - Set up shouldn't be different from any other Bluetooth-style device. Every Bluetooth wireless shower speaker at least has two buttons: a power button and a Bluetooth pairing button. Some models will have notification sounds when actively searching and then again to confirm a successful pairing.
Shower Speaker FAQ
Q: What's the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
A: Waterproof products carry an IPX7 rating, meaning it can submerge in a meter of water for up to 30 minutes before it stops working. Water-resistant products are only splashproof and won't survive underwater, not even for a few brief moments.
Q: What's a suitable wattage for waterproof speakers?
A: Depending on the area of the space you're trying to fill with music, either 5W or 12W will do. Five watts to liven a shower, 10W for a small get-together, twelve watts to throw a party.
Q: How do you charge a shower speaker?
A: Charging a shower speaker is just like charging your phone or any modern electronic device—a small cable with the appropriate connectors.
Q: How long does a shower speaker take to charge?
A: It doesn't take much to get the shower speaker back up and running. An hour or so on, the charger should have the battery full. The shower speaker will still play on some models while on the charger; no quiet showers ever again, even if the battery is dead.
Q: Are shower speakers safe?
A: Shower speakers are safe, yes. But only shower speakers or waterproof or water-resistant speakers with an IP rating over 7. You don't want to bring just any speaker into the shower or out to the beach with you.
Waterproof or water-resistant speakers will have a protective element, a conformal coating barring any moisture from penetrating the circuit boards.
Q: How do I make my shower speaker stick?
A: The material of your shower may determine whether or not the wall-mountable shower speaker with a suction cup will stick to your shower. It will usually state appropriate materials in the description.
If the shower speaker and your shower walls are compatible, make sure the shower wall and suction cup have been wiped down off any particles or dust. Then get each component slightly wet, then stick together and release your grip slowly.
Q: Is listening to music in the shower bad?
A: What could be bad about starting your day singing along to your shower speaker or ending your day with a calming playlist as the water cascades over your shoulders?
Q: Are these speakers resistant to saltwater too?
A: The IP rating does not apply to saltwater. Waterproof shower speakers will not survive submersion in salt or seawater. The material surrounding the speaker's electrical components is not meant to fight against seawater or chemicals and will likely break down over time after a run-in with saltwater. However, most portable Bluetooth speakers will be resistant to splashes of saltwater.
Sources:
- How Weatherproof Speakers Work – How Stuff Works
- IP Code - Wikipedia