Ultimate Ears EVERBOOM Portable Bluetooth Speaker Review Big Bass and Waterproof Durability

Description

Introduction to the EVERBOOM Bluetooth Speaker

I recently had the chance to test out the Ultimate Ears EVERBOOM Wireless Bluetooth Portable Speaker (model 984-001872) and, honestly, I’m impressed. As someone who loves having music accompany every aspect of my life—whether it’s during a hike, a pool party, or just while cooking at home—this speaker hit a lot of the right notes, so to speak. While there are some areas that could use improvement, the 360-degree sound and IP67 waterproof rating make it a strong contender in the portable speaker market.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the EVERBOOM is practical yet stylish. It comes in a sleek charcoal black finish, which feels premium and blends well in any setting. Despite being fairly compact at 7”D x 5”W x 5”H, it feels sturdy in hand, and the weight of about 3.12 pounds gives it a solid, durable vibe. What really stood out to me, though, was the IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. I accidentally dropped it in a pool during a barbecue, and watching it float while still pumping out music was oddly satisfying. This feature makes it perfect for outdoor adventures, especially around water.

The buttons on top are tactile and easy to use, even if your hands are wet. And the recycled plastic components are a nice touch for those who care about sustainability—58% post-consumer recycled plastic by weight, according to Logitech.

Sound Quality and Performance

The sound performance of this speaker is where things get exciting. The 360-degree sound ensures that no matter where you are in the room—or outside—you’re getting a consistent audio experience. I tested it with everything from bass-heavy hip-hop to acoustic indie tracks, and the customizable EQ settings (accessible via the BOOM app) let me tweak the sound to my liking. The bass is deep and punchy without being overwhelming, and the mids and highs are clear enough to pick out individual instruments.

I also tried the Outdoor Boost mode, which amplifies the sound for open spaces. It’s not just a gimmick; it genuinely enhances the listening experience when you’re outside, especially in noisier environments like parks or beaches. The 55-meter (180-foot) wireless range was another feature I didn’t know I needed until I experienced it. I could leave my phone on the patio and roam freely without losing connection.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life on this thing is a beast. The advertised 20 hours of playback held up during testing. It managed to keep playing music for an entire day without needing a recharge, which is a dealbreaker for me with portable speakers. I didn’t have to worry about it dying mid-party, and that alone makes it a reliable option for longer outdoor events or road trips.

The downside? Charging isn’t as fast as I’d hoped. It uses a standard corded electric power source, which feels a bit outdated compared to some competitors offering USB-C fast charging.

Key Benefits

• Immersive 360-degree sound ensures consistent audio quality from all angles.
• Outdoor Boost mode optimizes sound for open, outdoor environments.
• IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, perfect for poolside or beach use.
• 20-hour battery life delivers all-day performance without interruptions.
• Eco-friendly design includes recycled materials, aligning with sustainable practices.

Areas of Concern

• The charging time could be quicker, especially for a device this modern.
• While the bass is solid, audiophiles might find the higher frequencies not as crisp in certain genres.
• Button controls are functional but lack backlighting, making nighttime use a bit tricky.
• Weight might feel heavy to some, especially when compared to lighter competitors.

Product Competitors

Comparing the EVERBOOM to other popular portable speakers like the JBL Charge 5 or Bose SoundLink Flex, there are some clear distinctions. The JBL Charge 5 offers similarly rugged durability and even has USB-C fast charging, which the EVERBOOM lacks. However, the EVERBOOM’s floatable design and customizable EQ give it an edge for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize versatility.

The Bose SoundLink Flex, on the other hand, excels in sound clarity and sleek design but falls short in terms of battery life, offering less playback time compared to the EVERBOOM. Where the EVERBOOM truly shines is its party pairing feature, letting you connect it with other Ultimate Ears speakers for a more immersive sound experience—a feature neither JBL nor Bose nails quite as effectively.

Bang for the Buck

This product does deliver excellent value for its price in terms of durability, sound quality, and versatility. While it may not be the cheapest speaker out there, the features—like 360-degree sound, the 55-meter wireless range, and the IP67 waterproofing—justify the investment. If you’re someone who values reliability and performance in a portable Bluetooth speaker, this is definitely worth considering.

Additional information