Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 4: Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Category: Budget-Friendly Picks

Key Features

360-Degree Sound: Offers immersive sound experience with a wide-angle speaker.
Waterproof Design: IP67 rating makes it suitable for use in various weather conditions.
Long Battery Life: Up to 14 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge.
Broad Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth and can be paired with multiple devices.
Durable Construction: Drop-resistant and shockproof, built for durability.

Overview and First Impressions

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 4 is a portable waterproof speaker that delivers impressive sound quality in a compact design. Its larger-than-average speakers create a 360-degree audio experience, making it ideal for parties and outdoor gatherings. Despite its small size, the speaker offers substantial volume and bass, which is surprising given its dimensions.

Design and Build Quality

The WONDERBOOM 4 boasts a sleek black design that makes it both stylish and discreet. The build quality appears solid, with a sturdy construction that can withstand accidental drops. The speaker's dimensions are compact at 4 inches in diameter, making it easy to carry around. However, the weight is still substantial at 1.2 pounds, which might be challenging for individuals looking for lightweight options.

Setup and Ease of Use

The setup process for the WONDERBOOM 4 is straightforward. It pairs easily with most Bluetooth devices via a simple tap on the speaker’s display. The user interface is intuitive, and you can control playback and volume through the touch-sensitive screen or by using voice commands if the device supports it. However, there's no physical button to manually adjust settings, which could be cumbersome for users who prefer tactile controls.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the WONDERBOOM 4 is exceptional. It delivers clear and detailed audio with good bass response. The 360-degree design ensures that the music fills the entire space around you, making it ideal for parties or outdoor events where everyone needs to hear clearly. However, in very quiet environments, some users might find that the speaker's sound can be a bit overpowering.

Bluetooth Performance

The Bluetooth performance of the WONDERBOOM 4 is reliable and fast. It maintains strong connections with most devices over its impressive 131-foot range. This ensures that you won't lose signal even when moving around within your home or outdoor space. The speaker can be easily paired with multiple devices, making it a versatile addition to any audio setup.

Battery Life

The battery life of the WONDERBOOM 4 is one of its standout features. It delivers up to 14 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge, which is more than enough for most use cases, especially considering its size and weight. This long-lasting battery makes it ideal for travel or long outdoor adventures without the need for constant recharging.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The durability and weather resistance of the WONDERBOOM 4 are excellent. Its IP67 rating means it can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, making it suitable for use near pools, beaches, or showers. The speaker is also drop-resistant, with a drop test from a height of 5 feet, ensuring its longevity.

Features and Extras

The WONDERBOOM 4 comes equipped with several useful features. It supports outdoor boost mode, enhancing sound quality in open-air environments. There's also a new Podcast Mode that makes the vocal clarity richer and clearer. Additionally, you can double up two speakers for stereo sound or use them independently for true stereo from both channels. The speaker includes a handy loop for easy carrying.

Performance in Use

I've used the WONDERBOOM 4 extensively for parties, outdoor concerts, and even while working from home. Its compact design allows me to easily move it around without any hassle. During outdoor events, the speaker performed exceptionally well, providing clear audio that filled up the entire space. The battery life was more than adequate, allowing me to enjoy music for hours without needing a recharge.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros: - Excellent 360-degree sound quality - Water-resistant design (IP67 rating) - Long-lasting battery of up to 14 hours - Reliable Bluetooth performance - Durable build with drop resistance Cons: - Somewhat heavy for a portable speaker - No physical buttons for tactile controls - Potentially too powerful in very quiet environments

Final Verdict and Recommendation.

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 4 is an outstanding portable waterproof speaker that delivers exceptional sound quality, durability, and performance. Its long battery life and wide range make it a perfect choice for parties, outdoor adventures, and travel. The only drawbacks are its weight and lack of physical buttons. If you're looking for a reliable, high-quality portable speaker that can withstand various weather conditions, the WONDERBOOM 4 is definitely worth considering.

Overall Rating

4.5

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