Outdoor speakers enhance your audio experience and provide the perfect ambiance for gatherings or relaxing in your backyard, patio, or pool area. Sound quality is important, but so is durability when it comes to these audio devices, as outdoor speakers must withstand various weather conditions and temperature changes while still performing at their peak.
Outdoor speakers come in various designs and sizes, including traditional box-shaped models, portable options, and even disguised versions that blend seamlessly with the environment, like rock-shaped speakers. Regardless of the style, a good outdoor speaker will deliver smooth audio without sacrificing volume or clarity, giving your outdoor space an immersive listening experience.
When selecting the best outdoor speakers for your needs, consider factors such as ease of installation, size, design aesthetic, and compatibility with your current audio system. Additionally, look for features like weather resistance, sound quality and performance, and wireless connectivity for a seamless setup. But above all else, durability is crucial, as you want your speakers to stand up to the elements without compromising sound.
Understanding what makes an outdoor speaker great is essential, so we’ve dedicated ample time to researching and testing various models to bring you the best options available. Discover our top picks for outdoor speakers to transform your backyard into an enticing audio haven.
Table of Contents
Best Outdoor Speakers
We have carefully researched and compiled a list of the best outdoor speakers to elevate your listening experience for any outdoor activity.
JBL Professional AWC15LF-BK All-Weather Compact Subwoofer
If you’re looking for an all-weather, highly durable outdoor subwoofer with impressive sound performance, the JBL Professional AWC15LF-BK should be on your list.
Pros
- Weather-resistant and suitable for various outdoor venues
- Powerful bass and low-frequency response
- Easy installation and versatile mounting options
Cons
- On the heavier side, at 57.9 pounds
- Not discontinued by the manufacturer
- A bit pricey for some budgets
We recently installed the JBL Professional AWC15LF-BK subwoofer in our outdoor entertainment setup, and the results were impressive. The highly weather-resistant IP56 rating made it perfect for handling different weather conditions, which was crucial for us.
The 15-inch Kevlar reinforced woofer and 500 Watt power handling allowed the subwoofer to deliver powerful bass and enhance the overall audio experience. The frequency range goes down to 45 Hz, giving it a rich and strong low-frequency output.
Despite its weight, we found the installation process straightforward, and the versatile wall mounting made it easy to find the perfect placement for optimal audio quality. Although the price may be a bit steep for some, the performance and durability of the JBL Professional AWC15LF-BK make it a worthy investment for outdoor sound systems.
Bowers & Wilkins AM-1 2-Way Indoor/Outdoor Weatherproof Speaker – Pair (White)
Experience the unmatched outdoor audio experience with the Bowers & Wilkins AM-1, a durable and versatile speaker perfect for various indoor and outdoor settings.
Pros
- Outstanding weather resistance and durability
- Superior sound quality with great bass response
- Easy and flexible installation options
Cons
- Higher price point compared to competitors
- Bass may not be enough for some users
- Requires a clean and powerful amplifier for the best results
We recently installed the Bowers & Wilkins AM-1 speakers, and we are incredibly impressed with their superb sound quality and durability. The unique design featuring a 1″ Nautilus tube loaded aluminum dome tweeter, 5″ glass fiber cone bass/midrange, and a rear-mounted auxiliary bass radiator provides room-filling, pristine audio with exceptional bass response. These speakers shined in various installations like patios, gardens, and poolsides and indoor venues like bars and restaurants.
The AM-1 speakers have an ingenious cast aluminum wall bracket with a one-plug mounting system. We appreciated the ease of installation and flexibility in positioning the speakers in landscape and portrait modes. They can be rotated 110 degrees from the center in both directions, ensuring the optimum listening experience regardless of where they are placed.
Although these speakers are on the higher end of the price range, their exceptional build quality, sound performance, and weather resistance justify the investment. Made with rust-proof aluminum and glass-filled plastic, the AM-1 speakers endure continuous testing for durability against dust, moisture, and UV exposure. For those prioritizing quality and long-lasting performance, the Bowers & Wilkins AM-1 speakers are an excellent choice for the ultimate outdoor audio experience.
Bose 251 Outdoor Environmental Speakers (Pair), Black with Music Amplifier
These Bose 251 Outdoor Environmental Speakers are a solid investment for providing rich, engaging audio in various outdoor settings.
Pros
- The expansive sound field created by the Articulated Array speaker design
- Tested for durability under harsh weather conditions
- Deep low frequencies with minimal distortion
Cons
- A high price point might not be suitable for every budget.
- A heavy weight of 30.9 pounds
- Limited mounting options
We recently enjoyed using the Bose 251 Outdoor Environmental Speakers in our backyard, and the audio quality did not disappoint. The Articulated Array speaker design disperses sound over a wide area, ensuring everyone can enjoy the music or audio content, regardless of location.
One notable aspect of these outdoor speakers is their durability. Bose subjected them to various environmental tests, simulating exposure to sunlight, rain, heat, ice, salt, and water. The results demonstrate that these speakers can handle various weather conditions and maintain reliable performance.
What particularly impressed us were the deep, full low frequencies that the Bose 251 speakers produce. The unique multi-chambered enclosure minimizes distortion, resulting in clear and natural sound.
However, be prepared for the heft, as these speakers weigh a sizeable 30.9 pounds, and mounting options are somewhat limited. Despite the drawbacks, we believe the outstanding audio quality outweighs the cons and makes these Bose 251 Outdoor Environmental Speakers a worthwhile addition to any outdoor space.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best outdoor speakers, there are several factors to consider. Let’s walk through some key features that will help you make the right decision for your needs.
Weatherproof and Durability
Since these speakers will be exposed to various weather conditions, selecting a weatherproof and durable product is essential. Ensure the speakers have IP ratings, which certify their resistance to dust and water. The higher the rating, the better protection they offer.
Sound Quality
Consider the speakers’ audio quality, as it can significantly affect your listening experience. Look for attributes like frequency response, sensitivity, and power handling. These factors will determine the audio quality and the speaker’s ability to produce loud and clear sound.
Installation and Connectivity
Choose speakers that are easy to install and can easily connect to your audio source, whether wired or wireless. Wireless connectivity options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi offer more flexibility and convenience, while wired connections may provide more consistent audio quality.
Size and Design
Outdoor speakers come in various sizes and designs. Select a speaker that blends well with your outdoor space and matches your style preferences. Remember that a larger speaker might provide better audio quality, but it might also be more challenging to install and maintain.
Power Source
Decide if you prefer a powered speaker that requires an electrical outlet or passive speakers connected to an amplifier. Powered speakers may be more convenient as they have built-in amplifiers, but passive speakers offer more flexibility in terms of placement and can handle higher power levels.
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