Tailgate parties are a blast, but they do require a little bit of planning. You’ve got the food and drinks covered. What about the music? The speakers in your car aren’t going to handle the higher volume you need. Here’s where a quality portable speaker comes in.
Here’s our review of the six speakers. Each can be the best Bluetooth speaker for tailgating, depending on your preferences. We’ve also included a short, to the point buyer’s guide to help you choose your next portable speaker for tailgating and outdoors.
Here is the list of the best Bluetooth speaker for tailgating. Some of the speakers we have included have link for you to read the full review.
- LG PK7 XBOOM Go
- Ion Block Rocker Plus
- ECOXGEAR EcoBoulder Plus
- Ion Audio Raptor
- Turtlebox
- Turtlebox
- Altec Lansing ALP-XP850 – Read Full Review Here
- The Soundbok2 – Read Full Review Here
1. LG PK7 XBOOM Go
Portable Bluetooth speakers come in every size, some small enough to fit in a backpack, some large enough that they need built-in wheels to get them to their setup location. For those who believe that bigger is better when it comes to sound, there’s the XBOOM Go PK7 by LG.
Speaker Features
The PK7 features a covered port bay that contains connections for charging, a 3.5mm jack, and a reset button. The controls on the top of the speaker are where you’ll find the power button, volume control, and Google Assistant (if you choose to connect your phone). Note that the Bluetooth app is for Android only, which is why you don’t have the option to use Siri. You can use the built-in mic to give voice commands, though you do have to walk to the unit and press the Google Assistant button first.
A fun feature is the LED light show, which pulses, flashes, and changes colors to the music. Additional features include a bass boost as well as a voice enhancer button that gives you a little more where and when you need it
How Does It Sound?
The PX7 has remarkable clarity, as it incorporates Meridian Audio into the design. You’ll get a balanced performance that delivers distinct instrument sounds as well as vocals.
The speaker has dual tweeters that expand your soundstage. The create the clarity of vocals as well as pump the bass, so you receive that balanced sound from one end to the other. The Bluetooth technology is aptX HD, which means you have 24-bit quality audio streamed from your phone.
You can adjust the settings to enhance high ends or low ends as you choose. For example, use the Clear Vocal button for podcasts and phone calls. Or, use the Enhanced Bass button to beef up the bass for certain songs. Many users leave both buttons engaged all the time for the clearest, most powerful sound.
Ruggedness
The PX7 is rough and touch, with metallic handles forming an “X” at each end. The metal finish is a textured, matte black, which is striking in terms of style, but also practical in that it provides grip as you move and set up the speaker.
This portable speaker has an IPX5 rating, which means it’s water-resistant (not waterproof) and is safe to use around the pool or outdoors during a rain shower.
Battery Life
The battery lasts you up 22 hours of normal playback. You’ll burn the battery faster at louder volumes and when using the light show feature. Still, it will last your entire outdoor party.
What’s in the Box
Your purchase comes with the speaker and an AC adapter cable. You will have to contact the manufacturer to verify the type of warranty.
Advantages
The XBOOM Go delivers quality sound for as long as you need it. It also functions as a speakerphone. Finally, it’s conveniently water-resistant and rugged enough to take with you just about anywhere, from pool to tailgating parties.
The speaker is well designed, is IP5X rated, and features apt-X HD Bluetooth support.
Disadvantages
The PK7 is affordable for the quality and number of features, especially when you compare it to the higher-end models out there. However, if you’re a die-hard audiophile, you will probably want to invest in one of those high-end models to get the true stereo sound you want.
Another downside is that the Bluetooth app is for Android only. If you have an iPhone, you won’t be able to stream from your library.
2. Ion Block Rocker Plus
The Block Rocker Plus by Ion is a budget speaker that’s built to last. It has easy portability, clear sound quality, and decent battery life. While it’s not fancy or full of the latest and greatest technology, it won’t let you down, making it a common choice for the best Bluetooth speaker for tailgating.
Block Rocker Speaker Features
The Ion Rocker has some practical features, including a rechargeable battery the manufacturer claims can run for up to 50 hours. It also has Bluetooth capability for your tablet or smartphone. It also has 15 preset options (as well as an AM/FM radio) if you choose not to use Bluetooth to connect.
You can connect audio gear with its 3.5mm stereo input and cable and one USB 2.0 port. As for sound, you have track controls and a bass boost. This speaker system also comes with one wired microphone.
How Does It Sound?
The Audio Block Rocker is a simple speaker for those of us on a budget. It provides decent sound, though professionals may opt for a more sophisticated model. For streaming music at normal volume levels, the sound quality is very good. Add the bass boost when needed to keep the sound balanced.
At the higher volumes, users have complained that the highs become harsh, and the bass doesn’t carry through even with the boost setting enabled. For a speaker in this price range, however, this is typical.
Ruggedness
Rugged is the word to describe the Block Rocker Plus, as the composite enclosure can take a beating. It has convenient wheels and a telescoping handle so you can lug it around like a suitcase. Alternatively, you can use the built-in handles to carry it. This speaker weighs 21 pounds, which makes it easily portable. Lug it around and set it up with no issues.
Battery Life
While the manufacturer states that the battery lasts up to 50 hours, you have to remember they mean under normal operating conditions. If you’re playing music at high volumes or using the mic on top of streaming music, for example, you’ll burn through your battery faster. You can still expect the Block Rocker to last your entire day, but you’ll want to recharge those batteries before kicking off day two.
What’s in the Box
The Block Rocker comes with the speaker, rechargeable battery, stereo input cable, and wired microphone. It also comes with a standard 90-day warranty from the manufacturer.
Advantages
For the price, this outdoor speaker is an excellent value for your money. It’s perhaps the best Bluetooth speaker for tailgating due to the price alone. For smaller outdoor gatherings like tailgating, camping, or even an at-home pool party, you can’t go wrong with the Block Rocker. It has good battery life and a powerful tweeter and woofer for quality sound.
Disadvantages
For a large outdoor event, you won’t get professional-level sound quality at those higher volumes. The highs start to become harsh, and the bass doesn’t pump as hard as some like. Also, some users don’t like the fact that the microphone is wired.
Overall, the Block Rocker is a no-frills, durable, and practical Bluetooth speaker for smaller outdoor events. It’s an economical speaker for outdoor events like camping and tailgating parties.
3. ECOXGEAR EcoBoulder+ GDI-EXBLD810
Bluetooth speakers come in all sorts of varieties and with prices that range from $50 to hundreds of dollars. The EcoBoulder+ GDI-EXBLD810 comes in at around $200, which is a good midrange for a wireless speaker. It offers excellent value for the price, including water resistance for reliable outdoor use.
EcoBoulder Speaker Features
The EcoBoulder Bluetooth speaker meets the standards set by IP67 International for being waterproof and dustproof. It is 100% submersible, and it even floats! Bluetooth technology means you can stream your music from up to 100 feet away. It has a large LED with back-lit buttons for easy night viewing.
This speaker is designed with a 100-watt dynamic amplifier and an adjustable EQ that has five preset EQ modes You can tune the output to customize your listening preference. This is a three-way speaker system, replete with one 8” full-range speakers, one 8” woofer, and one 3” tweeters.
Another neat feature is a built-in microphone with a speakerphone, which you can use with Google or Siri. There’s also a jack for an external microphone if you have one, turning your speaker into a karaoke machine.
The EcoBoulder has a unique disconnect feature that allows you to connect to speakers together and place them up to 30 feet apart. You can pair with any other ECOXGEAR speaker.
How Does It Sound?
Like all midrange Bluetooth speakers, the EcoBoulder has its limitations, though, for outdoor use at a smaller event like a pool party or boating trip, it delivers the sound quality and volume you need. Don’t worry. It goes as loud as you need it to with no distortion. And if you pair speakers together, you get an immersive sound experience.
Ruggedness
Despite its smaller size of 12” x 15” x 20,” the EcoBoulder is surprisingly durable. Because it’s waterproof, it’s an excellent choice for outdoor events, especially the pool or beach. At just under 29 pounds, it’s also easily portable.
Battery Life
With the included 12V batteries, you get over fifty hours of music at regular volume or over ten hours at high volume levels. The speaker will be ready to go in standby mode for about 100 hours. If the speaker doesn’t play music for a half-hour, the EcoBoulder shuts off automatically to save on battery power. You will need about eight hours to recharge. In the meantime, you can plug the speaker in for continuous play.
What’s in the Box
The EcoBoulder speaker comes with the speaker, rechargeable batteries, and USB cable. It also comes with a three-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Advantages
Most outdoor speakers are water-resistant, though the EcoBoulder is entirely waterproof and it can float. Thus, you have peace of mind when you tote along on your next outdoor adventure. It’s compact enough to toss in with your gear but big enough to deliver a sharp sound.
Disadvantages
While the sound is clear and balanced, many users have stated that they get better results when pairing two speakers together. Of course, that’s a double investment. Also, the EcoConnect technology only supports Bluetooth audio, as the AM/FM and auxiliary are not supported.
4. Ion Audio Raptor
The Ion Audio Raptor Speaker is a durable, water-resistant speaker suitable for any terrain. Licensed by Ford and named after their Raptor model, you can take this wireless speaker on any adventure, from a road trip to camping to a weekend on the beach.
Raptor Speaker Features
The Raptor features Bluetooth capability with NFC pairing, AM/FM radio presets, and a bass port. It also has two-way monaural playback and a three-inch tweeter and an eight-inch speaker. The amplifier has 100 watts of peak power.
This Ion portable speaker has an auxiliary input, USB charging ports, and a 1/4-inch microphone jack and wired microphone. As a fun bonus, it also comes with a colored light bar that provides a light show synchronized to the beat of your music.
How Does It Sound?
The Raptor is designed for outdoor recreation, specifically near a truck, ATV, or even a motorcycle. It’s not meant to support professional DJs and musicians. For recreational use, then, the sound is spot-on.
Ruggedness
The manufacturer states on the box that the Raptor is an all-weather speaker designed after its rugged Ford namesake. They aren’t lying. This speaker has a sturdy housing and style to boot.
At 26 pounds and 18” W x 11” D x 18.5” L, the speaker is solid with two side handles, a telescoping handle, and bottom wheels to help transport. There are even two cupholders at the top for your convenience. The sides and back panels have a cool tire tread design, and the front grill is, as you’d expect, metal.
Battery Life
The rechargeable battery has a formidable 75-hour life, though you can also power the speaker from the wall or your truck. A cigarette lighter cable and AC cord are included.
What’s in the Box
Your purchase includes the Raptor speaker and two power cables. One cable is an IEC and the other is a 12 VDC. Also included is a microphone with attached cable and a 3.5mm stereo audio cable. The Raptor also has a 90-day limited manufacturer warranty.
Advantages
The Raptor’s durability can’t be beat. With the rugged, water-resistant design, you can lug this thing with you just about anywhere. And, with its 100 watts of power, you’ll have a powerful sound for every outdoor event.
Disadvantages
Because of the 75-hour run time, recharging the battery takes a few hours. The durability of the design also means it’s heavy and bulky. Though, once it’s in place, you can pretty much leave it there until it’s time to go.
5. Turtlebox Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker
Turtlebox may be the best Bluetooth speaker for tailgating simply because it’s a small speaker with a loud sound, and it’s damn near indestructible. It’s one of our favorite choices for an outdoor speaker because it’s rugged and throws enough volume for any outdoor excursion.
With the Turtlebox, you get up to 120dB of sound with no distortion. Even better, the sound cuts through distance and wind, so it’s ideal for off-road adventures, camping, etc. Oh yes, and it has an IP67 rating, which means it’s completely waterproof, will float on its back, is dustproof, and shock-resistant.
Speaker Features
Don’t let to compact size (eight pounds) fool you. The Turtlebox is a substantial, big-magnet speaker that delivers on sound. The box user-friendly and has an intuitive panel. You can wirelessly pair any Turtlebox speaker with another Turtlebox, thus creating true L/R stereo sound.
In addition, it’s Bluetooth-enabled so you can link to your device as long as they are within 100 feet of one another.
How Does It Sound?
Simply put, the Turtlebox clear and loud. The design features a precise driver and speaker, plus a 50-watt internal amplifier. You can crank it up to 120dB without distortion or losing clarity.
The Turtlebox separates the right and left channels, giving you true stereo sound. If you connect two boxes, you get both in stereo rather than a daisy chain. Further, this speaker employs a high-end frequency curve that cuts through travel distance and wind. This means you get that clear sound even though storms and across distances.
Ruggedness
The Turtlebox is about as impenetrable as any portable speaker can be. It’s dustproof, waterproof, and shockproof. Drop it, drown it, toss it in the sand, and it won’t miss a beat. The box is also UV-resistant and does not fade in the sun.
The Turtlebox contains stainless steel hardware, which makes it tough as well as resistant to corrosion. So, saltwater, no problem!
Another feature unique to the Turtlebox is built-in tie-down anchors. So, you can strap the speaker down when needed. Tie it to your truck bed, canoe, speedboat, whatever. The Turtlebox is ready to ride.
Battery Life
The mighty Turtlebox has over 20 hours of battery life when playtime is at half volume. Of course, that’s going to be shorter at full volume. Keep in mind that 50% volume is sufficient for tailgating. The batteries within are a 15,600 mAh/57.7W lithium-ion six-cell battery pack.
What’s in the Box
Your order will come with one Bluetooth speaker, one auxiliary cord, and a 120V AC charging cable. You’ll have to contact the manufacturer for warranty information.
Advantages
The most significant advantage the Turtlebox has is true portability. You can tote and toss this speaker anywhere, in any outdoor condition, and it holds up, delivering clear sound. Between the tough, waterproof construction and built-in tie-downs, this little turtle hangs on and hangs tough.
Disadvantages
Some users point out that the bass on this unit isn’t as strong as they like. While the sound is clear and the volume adequate, it doesn’t have a bass boost like its larger cousins. If rugged is what you need, then you won’t be disappointed with the Turtlebox.
6. DemerBox Bluetooth Speaker
The DemerBox is a lunchbox size, portable Bluetooth speaker built into a Pelican case. It’s resistant to dust, dirt, and water. Plus, it provides storage for any number of accessories you may need for a road trip. The sound quality is excellent and sounds good both indoors and outdoors. If you’re a bass-head, you’ll love the bass on this speaker.
DemerBox Speaker Features
The DemerBox is about the size of a basketball and has a handle to make carrying it easier. It’s not small enough to toss in your backpack, but that’s ok given the sound quality.
Inside the lid is a coated circuit board that powers the speaker through two three-inch speakers, each with 8 ohms impedance. The coating protects it from water and corrosion.
You can pair the speaker to your phone using the Bluetooth technology, or you can plug devices into the speaker using the included auxiliary audio cable. Don’t forget. You can always store the cable in the storage compartment when you don’t need it.
How Does It Sound?
The DemerBox takes whatever you throw at it and keeps playing music at top volume. It maintains a quality playback. Many Bluetooth speakers suffer from distortion when jostled or played at higher volumes. Not the DemerBox. The dual speaker design lets you play it loud and with clarity, even indoors.
When used outdoors, the music is widespread, so you can hear the music clearly even if you’re not close to the speaker. You get a great lower-end response because the design included a porthole on the front that releases air pressure as the music plays. Also, there is additional volume inside that allows the air to move freely, producing a deeper boom as the air escapes through the porthole.
Ruggedness
As we have discussed earlier, the DemerBox is a tough speaker, probably one of the toughest outdoor speakers around. The Pelican hard case makes the speaker virtually indestructible.
The speaker can handle extreme temperatures, and a pressure equalization valve provides a watertight and airtight seal that protects it against water and debris. This means whatever you store inside the case is protected as well.
Battery Life
The DemerBox takes a 2600mAh Lithium-Ion battery that lasts you up to 40 hours on a single charge. Of course, that amount is shorter, depending on volume and other factors. Nonetheless, you can run it for days on a single charge. And, you can also use the speaker’s USB port to charge your cell phone.
It will take about four hours to recharge the battery using the included AC adapter.
What’s in the Box
Your purchase comes with the speaker and an AC adapter cable. You will have to contact the manufacturer to verify the type of warranty.
Advantages
Just about everything we have covered so far are advantages of the DemerBox portable speaker. It’s super tough, waterproof, has great sound, and extra-long battery life. Simply put, you can’t kill it or do anything to compromise the sound quality, even at top volume.
Disadvantages
The only disadvantage we can find is that you cannot recharge the speaker using a USB charging cable. You can only use the AC adaptor that plugs into the wall. That means you can’t charge it in your car or another vehicle as you travel.
Another downside is that there’s no battery indicator to let you know how much battery life remains.
Best Bluetooth Speaker for Tailgating Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best Bluetooth speaker for tailgating, it pays to do a little homework first. Take some time to understand what features you want, and which models fall within your budget.
Power and Loudness
You need a speaker that’s loud enough to handle your tailgating party. Most of the time, you don’t need the sound to cover a great distance, so most portable speakers will do. However, if you plan to use your speaker for more than just tailgating, more power and coverage may be in order.
To determine the volume, take a look at the wattage in the product description. Low wattage could still mean the sound is fine, but if you want to pump that bass or play music loud, you want the volume to keep up.
Sound Quality
Low-quality speakers can kill a party. Check the reviews and make sure the sound quality is consistently clear on the speaker you buy, even at top volume. Even the smaller, lower-priced speakers can have the technology inside to sound great at a great price. So, you can spend less without sacrificing sound quality.
Portability
For tailgating and other outdoor events, speakers must be portable. While that’s a no-brainer, still check the product descriptions and reviews. Check the battery life for the speaker. Also, check whether you can recharge the speaker or power it from a car charger. Many models do not come with either option.
Other things to consider in terms of portability are size and design. Can you transport a large speaker? Some are so big that they don’t fit inside the cab of your truck. That may not be a problem, unless, of course, you also want to take the speaker on your next hiking trip.
Also, does the speaker have convenient handles and wheels? Some of these speakers are over 39 pounds, so lugging it around and setting it up can be problematic without these features.
Battery Life
Most portable speakers are battery-powered by design. However, some are not outfitted for the outdoors. Again, check to see how you charge the speaker to be sure it fits your needs. Also, check the battery life, keeping in mind that whatever hours the manufacturer lists are for regular use. If you play at top volume or use other features that draw power (such as a phone charging port or light show), that number is significantly reduced.
Some models are battery power only, and some give you the option of plugging into a wall for indoor use. A few models even have the option of powering the speaker from your truck’s cigarette lighter, which is excellent for long road trips.
Weather Resistance and Ruggedness
Tailgating means you will be using your speaker outdoors. If you’re a die-hard tailgater, then you’ll want a water-resistant speaker. You may even want a fully waterproof model to cover all scenarios.
Plus, you will be hauling your speaker all season long, so solid construction is a must. Again, reading reviews will reinforce (or dispute) the manufacturer’s claims for durability and ruggedness. Finally, you’ll want to see that the speaker has an IPX rating of IPX4 or higher.