A Tale Of Two Bluetooth Speakers

I recently got the chance to try out two rechargeable bluetooth speakers and since they are so similar – yet are aimed towards different markets – I thought I would present them together in the hopes of helping those of you out there looking to pick up a wireless speaker this winter. 

Both speakers offer the same basic functionality; a built-in rechargeable battery and the ability to connect wirelessly via Bluetooth (or wired with a regular plug) to the speaker. Other than the very different form factors, the big difference between these two devices is that one is aimed squarely at the outdoor enthusiast market, looking for a speaker system that can stand up to the outdoors, and the other is made for indoor use, choosing instead to focus on sound quality and a higher-end design. They're both rad and great products, you just need to decide which is right for you.

Other than the facts, there's not a whole lot to talk about here so in an effort to keep it simple, please find below my pros and cons of each system and happy listening!

Philips Shoqbox – $150 from Apple Store

– One of the most popular speakers out there
– Decent sound
– Can be paired with another Shoqbox for true stereo sound – cool!
– Rubber coated to ensure ruggedness
– Water resistant
– Cool "touchless" gesture control system
– Small and portable

– Loud bass can be a bit iffy
– Gesture control hit-and-miss at best
– All your friends will want to borrow it

Soundfreaq Sound Kick – $90 from Future Shop

Pros: 

– Made for indoor use, looks great in the living room
– Classy looks
– Deep rich sound
– Great value

– Pop-out section at the back can be a bit wobbly
– Pretty large to be packing around in a backpack
– Not very rugged, don't drop it!

So which one is for you? Well, only you can decide! Personally I'm partial to the Shoqbox as it's rubber exterior seems made for clutz's like me. That said, the Sound Kick looks great in my living room and has pumped up the jam to more than one dance party already! This is a crowded market segment and there are a lot of choices but I can say with confidence that if you pick up either of these babies, you won't be disappointed!