In the world of portable audio devices, Bose has always been a leading name. With the release of the Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker, the brand has yet again delivered a powerful and versatile product. This review will delve into all the key features of the SoundLink Max, and its specifications, and provide a comparison with other popular speakers in its category.
Quick Highlights
- Price: $379.00
- Dimensions: 4.13″D x 10.41″W x 6.38″H
- Weight: 4.9 lbs (2.2 kg)
- Battery Life: 15.5 hours
- Waterproof and Dustproof: Submersible (IPx7), Dust-Proof (IP6x)
- Maximum Output Power: 120W
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Range of 334.6 feet
- Charging Port: USB-C
- Compatibility: iOS and Android via the Bose Music app
Release Date
The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker was officially released on May 2, 2024. Since its release, it has generated a significant amount of attention from audiophiles and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bose SoundLink Max Speaker Unboxing
When unboxing the Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker, you’ll find:
- The speaker itself
- AUSB-C to USB-A charging cable
- A quick start guide.
The speaker is ready to impress with its sleek design and easy-to-use features right out of the box.
Quick Specs: Bose SoundLink Max Speaker
- Speaker Type: Outdoor
- Maximum Output Power: 120W
- Battery Life: 15.5 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4
- Dimensions: 4.13″D x 10.41″W x 6.38″H
- Weight: 4.9 lbs (2.2 kg)
Design and Display
The design of the Bose SoundLink Max is both functional and stylish. It is a portable outdoor speaker, with a robust build that offers impact resistance. Despite its powerful features, the speaker remains compact, measuring just 4.13 inches deep, 10.41 inches wide, and 6.38 inches high. Additionally, it is IP6x dustproof and IPx7 waterproof, ensuring durability even in tough outdoor conditions.
Bose SoundLink Max Speaker Controls
The Bose SoundLink Max offers physical buttons for volume control, track navigation, and a call answer/end function. The interface is intuitive, making it easy to operate while on the go. There’s also a Party Mode and Stereo Pair Mode, allowing you to sync multiple speakers together for an enhanced listening experience.
Differences Between Sizes and Variants
The Bose SoundLink Max is larger compared to some other portable models, making it ideal for those who need more powerful sound for outdoor use. It provides a louder output, which is not available in the smaller models such as the Bose SoundLink Flex. The Max is also submersible, which is a feature not available in all variants.
Bose SoundLink Max Speaker Colors
The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker is available in classic colors such as black and Blue. These color options are both elegant and versatile, matching various outdoor and indoor environments.
Features: Bose SoundLink Max Speaker
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Waterproof and Dustproof
One of the standout features of the SoundLink Max is its water and dust resistance. With an IPx7 rating, the speaker can be fully submerged in water, making it perfect for poolside use or beach trips. Additionally, its IP6x dustproof rating ensures that no dirt or debris will harm its performance, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures.
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Sound Quality
Bose has a reputation for delivering superior sound quality, and the SoundLink Max is no exception. The speaker delivers deep, rich bass and clear highs, thanks to its 120W output. The integrated equalizer, which includes presets and graphic equalization, ensures you can fine-tune your listening experience to your preferences.
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Connectivity
The Bose SoundLink Max features Bluetooth 5.4, providing an impressive wireless range of up to 334.6 feet (102 meters). It supports multi-device pairing, allowing you to connect up to two devices simultaneously, ensuring uninterrupted playback. Additionally, it has an aux input for wired connectivity, giving you the flexibility to choose between wireless and wired connections.
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Battery Life
The battery life of the Bose SoundLink Max is remarkable. You can enjoy up to 15.5 hours of playback on a full charge, making it ideal for long trips, outdoor parties, and more. With a quick 3.7-hour charge time via USB-C, you can be back to enjoying your music in no time.
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Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker App
The Bose SoundLink Max is compatible with the Bose Music app, which allows you to customize sound settings, update software, and enable features like Party Mode or Stereo Pairing. The app is available for both Android and iOS users.
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Other Important Features
- Impact Resistance: The SoundLink Max can withstand drops and rough handling, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- Stereo Pairing: You can sync two SoundLink Max speakers together for an immersive sound experience.
- Party Mode: Pair multiple speakers for a larger sound output, making it the perfect addition to a party.
Price and Availability
The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker is priced at $379.00, and it is widely available through Bose’s official website and major retailers such as Amazon. While this price might be on the higher end, it’s justified by the speaker’s durability, sound quality, and advanced features.
Comparison: The Bose SoundLink Max vs. JBL Boombox 3 speakers
| Feature | Bose SoundLink Max | JBL Boombox 3 |
| Price | $379.00 | $499.95 |
| Maximum Output Power | 120W | 180W |
| Battery Life | 15.5 hours | 24 hours |
| Charging Time | 3.7 hours | 6.5 hours |
| Speaker Dimensions | 4.13″D x 10.41″W x 6.38″H | 19.5″ x 10.6″ x 10.3″ |
| Weight | 4.9 lbs (2.2 kg) | 13.8 lbs (6.3 kg) |
| Water Resistance | Submersible (IPx7) | Waterproof (IP67) |
| Dust Resistance | Dust-Proof (IP6x) | Dust-Proof (IP67) |
| Impact Resistance | Yes (IK rating unspecified) | Yes |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.4 | 5.3 |
| Bluetooth Range | 334.6 ft (102.0 m) | 196 ft (60 meters) |
| Multi-Device Pairing | Yes, up to 2 devices | Yes, up to 2 devices |
| Aux Input | Yes | Yes |
| USB Charging Port | USB-C | USB-C |
| App Support | Bose Music app | JBL PartyBoost app |
| Voice Assistant | No | No |
| Stereo Pairing | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | No | No |
| Party Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Microphone | No | No |
| Portability | Highly portable and compact, lightweight at 4.9 lbs | Larger and heavier at 13.8 lbs, less portable |
| Charging Other Devices | No | Yes, via USB out |
Side By Side Comparison
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Price:
- The Bose SoundLink Max is priced at $379.00, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the JBL Boombox 3, which costs $499.95. The price difference reflects the additional power and features of the Boombox 3.
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Maximum Output Power:
- The JBL Boombox 3 delivers 180W of sound output, which is notably louder and more powerful than the 120W output of the Bose SoundLink Max. This makes the Boombox 3 a better choice for larger events or outdoor gatherings where higher volume is needed.
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Battery Life:
- JBL Boombox 3 wins with its impressive 24-hour battery life, perfect for extended outdoor use without worrying about recharging. The Bose SoundLink Max, while still respectable, offers 15.5 hours of battery life, making it less suitable for all-day events.
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Charging Time:
- The Bose SoundLink Max charges faster at 3.7 hours compared to the JBL Boombox 3, which takes 6.5 hours to fully charge. If quick recharges are important to you, the Bose model has the edge.
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Speaker Dimensions and Portability:
- The Bose SoundLink Max has a compact design at 4.13″ D x 10.41″ W x 6.38″ H, and it weighs just 4.9 lbs, making it easy to carry and ideal for more mobile use.
- The JBL Boombox 3, on the other hand, is significantly larger and heavier (19.5″ x 10.6″ x 10.3″ and 13.8 lbs), which makes it less portable, but better for stationary or less frequent transport use.
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Durability (Water and Dust Resistance):
- Both speakers offer excellent protection from the elements. The Bose SoundLink Max is IPx7 submersible, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The JBL Boombox 3 is IP67-rated, offering a higher level of protection, being fully dustproof and waterproof (submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes as well). The JBL Boombox 3’s superior rating makes it slightly more resilient in harsh environments.
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Bluetooth Range:
- The Bose SoundLink Max stands out with its 334.6 ft Bluetooth range, much greater than the 196 ft of the JBL Boombox 3. If you need a speaker with a long-range Bluetooth connection, the Bose model is the better choice.
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Connectivity and App Support:
- Both speakers offer Bluetooth 5.3/5.4 and multi-device pairing capabilities. However, the Bose SoundLink Max uses the Bose Music app for sound customization and stereo pairing, while the JBL Boombox 3 works with the JBL PartyBoost app for managing multiple speakers in a connected system. Both apps enhance the user experience but are limited to their respective ecosystems.
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Power Features:
- The JBL Boombox 3 has an additional USB out port, allowing you to charge other devices like your phone or tablet while on the go, which the Bose SoundLink Max does not offer. This makes the Boombox 3 more versatile for extended outdoor trips.
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Voice Assistant and Smart Features:
- Neither speaker has built-in voice assistant capabilities (such as Alexa or Google Assistant), limiting their smart home integration. They both feature party modes and stereo pairing for multi-speaker setups.
Conclusion:
- JBL Boombox 3 is the better choice for users who need powerful sound (180W), longer battery life (24 hours), and the ability to charge devices via USB out. Its IP67 rating and extra loud volume make it ideal for large events and outdoor adventures.
- On the other hand, the Bose SoundLink Max is a more portable, lightweight option with a superior Bluetooth range (334.6 ft), making it perfect for users who prioritize mobility and extended connection range over sheer power and size.
For larger gatherings, JBL Boombox 3 is the superior option, while the Bose SoundLink Max serves well for smaller, more dynamic use cases where portability and Bluetooth range are key.
What’s Good About the Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker?
The Bose SoundLink Max excels in sound quality, durability, and connectivity. Its long battery life and resistance to water and dust make it a great outdoor speaker. Furthermore, the Bluetooth range and Party Mode add extra convenience for users.
What’s Not So Good About the Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker?
While the Bose SoundLink Max is fantastic overall, its price may be a bit high for some buyers. Additionally, its weight may make it less portable for those looking for something lighter.
Should You Buy Bose SoundLink Max Speaker?
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or someone who appreciates high-quality sound, the Bose SoundLink Max is an excellent choice. Its durability, sound quality, and range of features make it a solid investment. However, if portability and budget are your main concerns, you may want to explore other options.
Conclusion
The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker is a standout option for those who prioritize sound quality, durability, and connectivity. Its impressive battery life, water and dustproof features, and compatibility with the Bose Music app make it a versatile companion for any adventure. While it’s priced higher than some alternatives, the quality and performance make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking the best in portable audio.
Is the Bose SoundLink Max waterproof?
Yes, the Bose SoundLink Max has an IPx7 rating, making it submersible in water.
Can I pair multiple Bose SoundLink Max speakers?
Yes, the SoundLink Max supports Party Mode and Stereo Pairing for syncing multiple speakers.
What is the Bluetooth range of the Bose SoundLink Max?
The Bluetooth range of the SoundLink Max is an impressive 334.6 feet (102 meters).
