The Ultimate Summer Speaker

Say hello to summer with the $269 Bose SoundLink Plus—a portable Bluetooth speaker that’s built to withstand the rigors of beach trips and summer escapades! With its IP67 rating, this sturdy beauty is not only waterproof but also dustproof, making it the ideal companion for outdoor fun.

A Pricey Choice in a Crowded Market

However, at $269, the SoundLink Plus finds itself in a unique and competitive spot among Bluetooth speakers. While it offers impressive features, it's pricier than rivals such as the JBL Charge 6, Sony ULT Field 3, and Sonos Roam 2, each priced under $200. Yet, it’s also cheaper than larger models equipped with advanced features like Wi-Fi and smart assistant integration.

Sound and Features that Impress (Almost)

The SoundLink Plus truly excels in delivering loud, powerful sound thanks to its unique build, featuring a tweeter, four passive radiators, and a rear-facing subwoofer. You can even link it up with another SoundLink Plus for stereo sound or connect it to other current Bose speakers for a dynamic party experience.

Size Matters—And So Does Sound Quality

Compact and approximately the size of a 20-ounce water bottle, don’t let its size fool you; this speaker packs a punch! With deep bass and clear vocals, it handles tracks like Billie Eilish’s “bad guy” impressively—though some distortion may creep in at high volumes.

Design That Doesn’t Hold You Back

Wrapped in a durable silicone coating, the SoundLink Plus is built to withstand accidental drops and outdoor elements. Its sleek, stylish design is available in Black, Blue Dusk, and Citrus Yellow. Plus, the buttons on top are satisfying to use, allowing easy navigation.

Unconventional Control Options

While the Bluetooth functionality connects two devices simultaneously, you’ll find limited controls directly on the speaker. The Bose app allows some customization, but you might find it easier to stick to your streaming app for volume adjustments and playback.

Your Beach Buddy—But Don’t Lose It!

Thanks to its IP67 rating, this speaker can handle splashes and even brief submersion in water. However, be careful—it floats face down, which means you won’t be able to hear it while it’s bobbing in the waves! And yes, it needs to dry before using the USB-C port.

Battery Life: Good, But Not a Powerhouse

With a generous 20-hour playback time, the SoundLink Plus keeps the tunes rolling throughout your beach day, but charging takes about five hours—so plan ahead! Additionally, it can double as a 15W power bank for your devices, which is handy but slow.

Final Thoughts: Worth the Investment?

Overall, the Bose SoundLink Plus is a solid choice for those wanting quality sound and durability. However, it faces tough competition at its price point. If you're a Bose enthusiast looking for the perfect summer acoustics, this speaker is definitely worth the investment. But if you're on a budget, it might be wise to hold out for a sale!