The Anker SoundCore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker has impressive sound quality, long battery life, and durability, all packed into a compact design. Whether you’re looking for a speaker to enjoy music indoors or take with you on outdoor adventures, the SoundCore 2 offers a reliable and affordable solution.
In this detailed review, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Anker SoundCore 2, from its unboxing to its features, performance, and comparison with other speakers in the same category.
Quick Highlights
- Battery Life: Up to 24 hours of continuous playtime.
- Waterproof: IPX7 rating, allowing the speaker to be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep.
- Sound Quality: 12W output with clear highs, mids, and solid bass.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2 with a range of up to 66 feet.
- Design: compact, portable, and lightweight.
- Price: Affordable, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Anker SoundCore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Release Date
The Anker SoundCore 2 was released in 2017 as an upgraded version of the original SoundCore speaker. It was designed to provide better sound, longer battery life, and improved portability. Since its release, it has become one of Anker’s most popular portable Bluetooth speakers, thanks to its quality performance and value for money.
What’s in the Box?
Opening the box of the Anker SoundCore 2 is a satisfying experience. Inside the box, you’ll find:
- The SoundCore 2 speaker
- A micro-USB charging cable
- A 3.5mm audio cable for wired connections
- A quick start guide
A warranty card. The packaging is well organized, and the speaker is securely moderated to prevent damage during shipping.
Design, Display, and Controls
The Anker SoundCore 2 features a sleek, minimalist design. Its rectangular shape is compact, measuring just 6.5 x 2.1 x 2.2 inches and weighing about 12 ounces.
This makes it easy to carry in a backpack, purse, or even in your hand. The matte finish feels smooth to the touch, and the speaker is available in two primary colors: black and blue, which suit most personal styles.
On the front of the speaker, you’ll find the large Anker logo, while the top panel houses all the physical controls. These include the power button, volume up/down buttons, play/pause button, Bluetooth pairing button, and a built-in microphone for hands-free calls.
The buttons are well-spaced and easy to press, even if you’re outdoors or on the go.
At the back, you’ll find the charging port, an auxiliary input (for wired connections), and a small rubber flap that covers the micro-USB charging port and 3.5mm aux jack. This flap helps protect the speaker from water and dust, ensuring durability in outdoor conditions.
Differences Between Sizes and Variants
The Anker SoundCore 2 is available in a single size, which strikes a balance between portability and sound quality. However, Anker offers other Bluetooth speakers that differ in size and features.
For example, the Anker SoundCore Flare is larger and delivers more powerful sound, while the Anker SoundCore Mini is much smaller and more compact, though it sacrifices sound quality and battery life for portability.
Available Colors
The Anker SoundCore 2 comes in three colors:
- Black
- Blue
- Red
The black version is sleek and professional and blends well with most environments. The blue version adds a pop of color for users who prefer a bit more vibrancy in their gear. Both colors feature the same durable matte finish, giving the speaker a premium feel without being too flashy.
Features: Anker SoundCore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The Anker SoundCore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker offers high-quality sound with deep bass, delivering an immersive audio experience. Its compact, lightweight design makes it perfect for travel, while its long battery life and water-resistant build ensure durability wherever you go.
Here’s a breakdown of various features:
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Waterproof and Dustproof
One of the key features that make the SoundCore 2 stand out is its IPX7 waterproof rating. This means the speaker can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes, making it perfect for use at the beach, poolside, or even in the rain. Additionally, it is dustproof, which helps protect it from dirt and sand during outdoor activities.
The IPX7 rating ensures that the speaker can withstand a variety of environments, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy outdoor adventures or like to listen to music near water.
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Rich and Clear Sound Quality
The Anker SoundCore 2 delivers impressive sound quality for its size. Equipped with dual 6W drivers, the speaker produces 12W of total output, delivering rich, clear sound with balanced bass, mids, and highs. The bass is deeper than you might expect from such a compact speaker, providing a satisfying listening experience for most music genres.
While the SoundCore 2 may not match the sound output of larger, more expensive speakers, it holds its own in its price range. The clarity and fullness of sound make it a great choice for casual listening, whether you’re indoors, outdoors, or on the move.
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Better Connectivity
The Anker SoundCore 2 supports Bluetooth 4.2, which provides stable wireless connections within a range of up to 66 feet (20 meters). The pairing process is quick and straightforward, and once connected, the Bluetooth connection remains stable, even when moving around or keeping the speaker away from the device.
The speaker also includes a 3.5mm aux input, allowing you to connect wired devices like laptops or older smartphones that do not have Bluetooth.
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Long-Lasting Battery Life
Image Credit: Amazon.com
Battery life is one of the standout features of the SoundCore 2. With a 5200mAh battery, this speaker offers up to 24 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge. This is more than enough for a full day of music, whether you’re lounging by the pool, having a picnic, or just relaxing at home.
It charges via micro-USB, and a full charge takes around 4 hours. This long battery life makes the SoundCore 2 an ideal choice for anyone who needs a speaker that can last throughout the day without needing constant recharging.
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Customization App
Unlike some other Bluetooth speakers, the Anker SoundCore 2 does not have a dedicated app for customization or controlling sound profiles. However, it works seamlessly with third-party music apps like Spotify or Apple Music. The speaker is designed to deliver high-quality audio out of the box, so there is no need for an app to adjust the sound or settings.
Price and Availability
The Anker SoundCore 2 is available for purchase on Amazon, Anker’s official website, and other online retailers. It is typically priced at $44.99, making it an affordable option in the Bluetooth speaker market. Compared to other speakers with similar features, the SoundCore 2 offers excellent value for its price.
Comparison: Anker SoundCore 2 vs. SoundCore Boost vs. Anker SoundCore Mini
The Anker SoundCore 2, SoundCore Boost, and SoundCore Mini each offer unique features. The SoundCore 2 delivers clear sound and long battery life; the Boost adds extra bass and volume; while the Mini provides a compact design without compromising audio quality.
Now, let’s compare each device:
1. Anker SoundCore 2 vs Anker SoundCore Boost
When comparing the “Anker SoundCore 2” to the “Anker SoundCore Boost,” the Boost offers more powerful sound due to its 20W output, which includes a dedicated bass radiator for deeper bass. However, it is larger and bulkier than the SoundCore 2, making it less portable. The Boost also comes with Bass Up technology, which enhances low-end frequencies, but this feature comes at a higher price.
If you prioritize portability and value for money, the SoundCore 2 is the better option. But if you’re looking for more bass and a louder sound for larger spaces, the SoundCore Boost might be worth the extra investment.
See Full Comparison
2. Anker SoundCore 2 vs. SoundCore Mini
The Anker SoundCore Mini is a much smaller and more compact option. While it is highly portable, it has lower sound quality and battery life compared to the SoundCore 2. The Mini has a smaller battery (8 hours of playtime) and less bass depth.
However, it’s perfect for users who want a super portable speaker and don’t mind a reduction in sound quality and volume. If you’re after a good balance between sound and portability, the SoundCore 2 is the better choice.
See Full Comparison
Is it Worth Buying the Anker SoundCore 2?
Yes, the Anker SoundCore 2 is worth buying for anyone looking for an affordable Bluetooth speaker with great sound, durability, and long battery life. It delivers excellent value for money, and its waterproof, dustproof design makes it a versatile option for various outdoor activities. If you don’t need the loudest or most bass-heavy sound and prefer a more compact, budget-friendly option, the SoundCore 2 is ideal.
Conclusion
The Anker SoundCore 2 is an outstanding Bluetooth speaker that combines portability, excellent sound quality, long battery life, and durability at a budget-friendly price. Whether you’re enjoying music indoors or outdoors, this speaker is a solid option that delivers great value. For anyone looking for a reliable, affordable Bluetooth speaker, this smart speaker is worth considering.
Can I use the Anker SoundCore 2 while charging?
Yes, you can use the Anker SoundCore 2 while charging. The speaker allows for continuous use during charging, so you don’t have to worry about stopping the music while you recharge it.
Is the Anker SoundCore 2 waterproof?
Yes, the Anker SoundCore 2 is IPX7-rated, which means it is waterproof and can be submerged in up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) of water for up to 30 minutes. This makes it ideal for outdoor use, especially in wet conditions like rain, at the pool, or in the shower.
How long does the Anker SoundCore 2 battery last?
The Anker SoundCore 2 offers an impressive 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, depending on the volume level and the type of audio being played. This long battery life makes it perfect for extended listening sessions, whether you’re at home, at a party, or on the go.
