The Latest Showdown in Bose's Bluetooth Speaker Lineup!

Bose has unveiled the SoundLink Plus, a hefty upgrade to the beloved compact SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen). So, is the extra bulk worth the extra cash? Both speakers boast durability, impressive battery performance, and the signature Bose sound quality. Let’s dive into the details to help you make the right choice for your needs.

Size Matters: SoundLink Plus vs SoundLink Flex

The SoundLink Plus is noticeably larger, fitting seamlessly into the SoundLink family with its robust rubberized exterior, a metal grille, and user-friendly top controls. With an IP67 rating, it’s waterproof, dustproof, and even floats, making it a perfect companion for adventures. However, at a weight that rivals the JBL Charge 6, you’ll undoubtedly feel its heft when tossed in a backpack.

In contrast, the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) shines with its super lightweight design. Weighing in at just 589 grams—about a third of the Plus—it's tailored for spontaneity and easily fits anywhere. Perfect for casual outings, it also features a built-in microphone for calls and voice assistant access.

User-Friendly Controls

Both speakers are equipped with physical controls that make managing your audio a breeze. Here's a quick look at their operation:

SoundLink Plus Controls

Power On / Off: 1 Press Bluetooth Control: Cycles through devices Shortcut Access: 1 Press Volume Control: +/- adjusts sound levels, 2 Press skips tracks, 3 Press returns to previous track.

SoundLink Flex Controls

Power On / Off: 1 Press Bluetooth Control: Enters pairing mode Shortcut Access: Opens voice assistant Volume Control: +/- adjusts sound levels, 2 Press skips tracks, 3 Press returns to the previous track.

Feature Comparison: More Bang for Your Buck?

Both speakers share similar features, working seamlessly with the Bose app where users can tweak a simple 3-band EQ and assign shortcut buttons for quick access. However, for most users, the app isn’t essential—just make sure to check for updates!

Connectivity Versatility

The SoundLink Plus connects via Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint pairing and supports high-quality codecs, including aptX Adaptive for Android users. The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen), while utilizing Bluetooth 5.3, matches the Plus’s codec support, ensuring fantastic audio for both.

Battery Life Showdown: Who Lasts Longer?

Unsurprisingly, the SoundLink Plus far exceeds the Flex in battery life. With up to 20 hours of playtime on a full charge, you can count on it for long outings. Comparatively, the Flex offers around 12 hours—adequate for a beach day but still falls short.

Audio Quality: Bigger Isn't Always Better!

While both models are mono speakers, the SoundLink Plus delivers a richer sound experience suitable for gatherings, while the Flex excels in smaller settings. Both are designed with enhanced bass and treble, providing a lively sound right out of the box.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re after powerful sound, epic battery life, and plan on hosting larger gatherings, the SoundLink Plus is your best bet, despite a higher price tag and increased weight. Conversely, if you prioritize portability and typically listen in intimate settings, the Flex (2nd Gen) is an excellent compromise—offering impressive sound without the bulk.

Alternatives to Consider!

If neither option seems right for you, consider the JBL lineup. The JBL Charge 6 provides a rugged alternative to the SoundLink Plus, and the JBL Flip 7 matches well with the SoundLink Flex for those who need something compact. Each of these offers unique advantages to fit various listening styles.