The market for Bluetooth speakers has exploded in recent years, with consumers seeking quality portable audio for their smartphones and tablets. Major electronics manufacturers have jumped into the Bluetooth speaker game, attracted by the category’s rapid growth.
They provide much better sound quality than built-in smartphone speakers. Tech-savvy consumers want options beyond headphones for enjoying their media libraries on the go. Audio quality and battery life are top priorities for Bluetooth speaker shoppers.
Market leader JBL offers popular Bluetooth speaker models at multiple price points. The Flip series of palm-sized speakers can blast surprisingly powerful sound and deliver up to 12 hours of battery life. JBL’s beefier Xtreme line features louder audio output and longer run times.
Bose, known for premium noise-cancelling headphones, has applied its audio expertise to the Bluetooth speaker category. The company’s SoundLink series delivers the rich bass response Bose is famous for. The SoundLink Revolve+ is engineered to spread sound evenly in all directions.
For budget-conscious consumers, Anker’s Soundcore speakers provide big sound at relatively low prices. The compact Soundcore Flare is an affordable option with customizable LED lights pulsing to the music’s beat. Soundcore’s larger Boombox can crank out heavy bass and offers 24-hour battery life.
Startups have also made inroads in the Bluetooth speaker market by focusing on innovative designs. Ultimate Ears makes a popular line of portable speakers with bold colors and unique shapes like cylinders and flying saucers. The Wonderboom model is designed for outdoor use with waterproofing and a bungee strap.
Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi has grown quickly thanks to Bluetooth speakers flaunting a minimalist style. Many models are available for under $50. The Xiaomi Mi Cube features a sleek cubic shape and responsive touch controls.
With the category growing so rapidly, retailers big and small are keen to profit. Large consumer electronics chains like Best Buy typically dedicate substantial shelf space to Bluetooth audio products. Specialty retailers like Brookstone offer unique speaker designs not found at mainstream stores.
Online outlets are prime destinations for Bluetooth speaker shoppers looking to compare models and prices. Amazon’s massive selection includes thousands of speakers across many brands. Discount e-tailers like GearBest import affordable speakers directly from Chinese factories.
For the vendors themselves, marketing Bluetooth speakers online provides global reach without the overhead of physical stores. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo host new speaker startups looking for production capital. Social media gives companies avenues to build brand awareness at low cost.
Manufacturing hubs in Asia supply many Bluetooth speakers sold under various brand names. Contract factories in China and Taiwan can quickly scale production to meet demand. Some brands design their products in America or Europe then outsource manufacturing to Asian partners.
With the market still expanding briskly, Bluetooth speaker Manufacturers fight fiercely for visibility among fickle consumers. As technology advancements raise performance expectations, vendors will continue innovating to deliver the richest sound in the most portable packages. For discerning listeners seeking audio gear as mobile as their music, the current bounty of Bluetooth speaker options brings welcome musical freedom.
