Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 Bluetooth Speaker Review Waterproof Design with Big Bass and 360 Sound

Description

Rugged Design Meets Portability

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 4 Waterproof Bluetooth Outdoor Speaker has a design that screams durability and portability. I immediately noticed how compact it is, fitting perfectly in my hand while maintaining a lightweight build. It’s great how the IP67 rating ensures this speaker is waterproof, dustproof, and even floatable. I tested it by tossing it into a pool, and not only did it float, but it also kept playing music without skipping a beat. The shockproof exterior proved useful when it accidentally tumbled off a picnic table—it survived without a scratch. Its sleek black finish gives it a modern, understated look, making it as stylish as it is practical.

Sound Quality That Surprises

What stands out most is the 360-degree sound this little powerhouse delivers. I cranked it up during a backyard BBQ, and the bass was surprisingly deep for its size. It’s not just about the bass, though—the mids and highs are crisp, and there’s no distortion even at higher volumes. Using the Outdoor Boost feature, I noticed a significant enhancement in sound clarity when I moved the speaker from indoors to an open outdoor space. Whether you’re into podcasts, thanks to the Podcast Mode, or EDM tracks with heavy basslines, this speaker adapts to your needs effortlessly. It even paired seamlessly with my phone via Bluetooth without any hiccups.

Ease of Use and Connectivity

Setting up and using this speaker couldn’t be simpler. With a 131-ft Bluetooth range, I could roam around the house without worrying about losing the connection. The pairing option to “double up” with another Wonderboom 4 is a fantastic feature. I tested it with a friend’s speaker, and the stereo effect was genuinely immersive. The controls on the speaker are intuitive, with large, tactile buttons that make adjusting volume or switching modes a breeze. I also appreciated that it works with multiple devices like smartphones, tablets, and even my laptop.

Key Benefits

• Durable and waterproof: With an IP67 rating, it’s built for any adventure.
• Impressive sound quality: Delivers 360-degree audio with rich bass and clear vocals.
• Outdoor Boost mode: Enhances sound clarity in open environments.
• Long Bluetooth range: Keeps your music going while you move.
• Pairing option: Sync two speakers for stereo sound.

Areas for Improvement

As much as I enjoyed the speaker, a few things could be better. For example, the battery life, while decent at 14 hours, might not satisfy users planning long weekend trips without access to charging. Additionally, there’s no app integration for customizing sound profiles, which some competitors offer. The lack of a USB-C charging port feels slightly outdated in 2024, given how widespread USB-C has become. Lastly, while the floating feature is fun and practical, it’s not the loudest option when used in water.

Critiques

• Battery life could be longer for extended outdoor use.
• No USB-C charging port, which is less convenient.
• No customizable EQ via an app for sound tweaks.
• Volume output could be better when floating in water.

Competing Products

Compared to the JBL Flip 6, the Wonderboom 4 has a slight edge in portability and shockproof durability, but JBL offers better app support with customizable EQ settings. The Bose SoundLink Micro, while delivering excellent sound clarity, doesn’t match the Wonderboom 4’s waterproofing and floating capabilities. Another rival, the Sony SRS-XB13, is more affordable but lacks the Wonderboom’s 360-degree sound and Outdoor Boost mode. I found the Wonderboom 4 to excel in its rugged design and ease of use, though it could benefit from some features competitors provide, like USB-C charging or app-based controls.

True Value for Outdoor Enthusiasts

For anyone who loves music on the go, this speaker offers fantastic value for the price. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who need a sturdy, waterproof, and portable speaker. Whether you’re at the pool, beach, or hiking through dusty trails, this speaker keeps up without compromising sound quality. While it may not have every feature under the sun, the robust build, immersive sound, and easy connectivity make it a worthwhile investment.

Additional information