I’ve tested a whole lot of Bluetooth speakers here at TechRadar – more than 30 to be exact. And this year, I’ve got my mitts on so many amazing models, including everything from mini audio companions through to almighty party speakers.
It only seems fitting to celebrate some of the very best Bluetooth speakers released this year, although cutting it down to just 5 has been a real challenge! I’ve decided to stick to one speaker per brand, simply for the sake of diversity and choice. You’ll also find models for all sorts of budgets here – not just ultra-expensive audiophile gear!
When creating this list, I factored in a variety of attributes. Of course, sound quality is a big one – but I’ve also considered the breadth and quality of smart features, as well as the look and build quality of each speaker. Perhaps most importantly, though, I put value for money at the heart of each pick, so you can rest assured that every model will offer plenty of bang for your buck.
With all of that said, let’s dive into my top 5!
5. LG xboom Stage 301
This is one of the more unconventional Bluetooth speakers that I tested in 2025, but that really isn’t a bad thing! The LG xboom Stage 301 is modelled on a wedge-style stage speaker, and it’s a great option for getting the party started.
It’s got immersive dual-bar RGB lighting that you can customize via a companion app, nifty EQ options, and even DJ effects built-in. You also get karaoke functionality with reverb and voice-changing effects available. Combine that with a very solid battery life and effective AI-enabled sound calibration, and there’s just so much to sink your teeth into.
Although LG doesn’t always get it spot on in the sound department, I was a big fan of this model’s audio performance. Bass isn’t outrageously powerful, but this speaker still reaches down nice and low, and I was really impressed with the clean and agile low-frequency output. Mids and highs are also replicated adeptly, and there’s limited distortion and compression on show, even at higher volumes.
Yes, this speaker launched at $299.99 / £299.99 / AU$449, but I’m seeing it go for much less now in a few regions. In the UK, for example LG is regularly selling the xboom Stage 301 for less than £150! That’s awesome value for money, and seals this speaker’s position in my top 5.
Read my full LG xboom Stage 301 review.
4. Edifier ES20
My big shock of 2025 is the Edifier ES20. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting too much from this speaker given its small size and modest list price of $89.99 / £49.99 / AU$99.99. But I was very quickly impressed by what I saw and heard.
Let’s start with looks. This thing is a real beauty, with a Marshall-esque retro-style design. Its frets, faux-leather exterior, and attractive color options make it the ideal pick for those seeking an aesthetically pleasing portable buddy. Its IP67 dust and waterproofing also means it’s more than a pretty face – it’s highly durable and can survive being dunked under a meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
Sonically, this thing is also super-talented. Bass is punchy and highs are well-controlled, but the real star of the show is the mid-range. Vocals, guitars, and other instruments that play in the mids sound beautifully detailed and clear, making for a nuanced, emotive listening experience.
On top of that, the ES20 has a built-in mic for hands-free calling, customizable lighting for added ambience, and a nice carry strap for on-the-go use. This is my favorite cheap Bluetooth speaker of 2025, and it’s all too easy to recommend.
Read my full Edifier ES20 review.
3. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen
Premium audio brand Bang & Olufsen absolutely knocked it out of the park with this small-sized and circular Bluetooth speaker, which provides some of the most intoxicating audio I’ve heard all year.
The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen plates up seismic and low-extending bass output, gorgeously separated mids, and expressive treble. It even makes use of the aptX Adaptive audio codec to deliver higher-resolution Bluetooth streaming, and the inclusion of USB-C audio passthrough will suit the more detail-oriented listeners out there.
On top of that, this is one of the most luxurious-looking models I’ve ever laid my eyes on. Its hard-wearing polymer and textured pearl-blasted anodized aluminum construction is a true sight to behold. Again, this one’s waterproof, and comes in a range of tasty color options, with my favorite being Honey Tone.
The Bang & Olufsen app is also equipped with all kinds of fancy features, with integrated radio station access, multi-speaker pairing, multi-point connectivity and all that good stuff. If you’re looking for a more high-end Bluetooth speaker with all of the bells and whistles, this unit should be on your radar.
Read our full Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen review.
2. Marshall Kilburn III
Just squeaking ahead of the B&O, we have the Marshall Kilburn III, which is an astonishingly good all-round performer.
Other than its exceptional audio quality, the most impressive thing about this Bluetooth speaker is its outrageously high 50 hour battery life. The Marshall app also includes a range of battery preservation options, which means this is a seriously long-lasting speaker – you’ll barely have to charge it! When you also consider the Kilburn III’s awesome placement compensation and Auracast connectivity, this is a real beast in the features department.
Let’s go back to audio though, because I was blown away by just how good this Bluetooth speaker sounded. It makes use of Marshall’s 360-degree stereophonic sound to deliver an excellent listen from every angle, and its thumping bass never overwhelms intricately layered mids or vibrant treble. Everything from instrument separation through to dynamics is handled brilliantly.
You won’t get the high calibre waterproofing of some speakers on this list, but the Kilburn III is intended to be a statement piece as well as a portable speaker. And its classic amp-inspired look really is to die for – the Kilburn III is aesthetically pleasing to say the least. It’s a powerful, swell-sounding option, and I highly suggest checking it out.
Read my full Marshall Kilburn III review.
1. JBL Flip 7
Whether you read the headline or not, you knew JBL would make this list, didn’t you? And the model I’ve chosen for the number one spot is the JBL Flip 7.
The first time I unboxed this speaker and fired it up, I was genuinely in disbelief. How could a speaker so small, so compact – produce such powerful, audacious audio?! You get palpable bass that is as agile as it is impactful. Layered mids and razor-sharp treble also impress, meaning you get an awesome all-round listen.
On top of all of that, this speaker makes use of JBL’s AI Sound Boost tech to optimize audio, and can deliver higher-resolution listening thanks to USB-C data transfer capabilities. With plenty of battery life, unbelievable IP68 waterproofing, and a drop-proof design, this model really is the full package.
And its low price serves as the knockout blow. For just $149 / £129 / AU$179 – and oftentimes less – you get a great-sounding, durable cylinder of sound, which is proudly sitting atop my guide to the best Bluetooth speakers. It really doesn’t get any better than that.
Read our full JBL Flip 7 review.
The best Bluetooth speakers for all budgets
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