

We didn’t feel as though it overwhelmed any of the other elements, and we rarely had issues with “muddy” sound. Though the bass on the BOOM 2 wasn’t our favorite of the speakers we tested, it was definitely present. That speaker offered a more powerful bass, and we think it did better justice to our hip-hop tracks. While the bass wasn’t entirely lacking, we did find that we were craving a little more oomph - something we found in models like the $110 JBL Charge 3 ( full review here ). Regarding the low-end, we weren’t quite as impressed as we were with the highs. The BOOM 2 is beat by the MEGABLAST for power | The Master Switch

With the two side-by-side, we had a clear winner. We were able to directly compare this to the $79 JBL Flip 4 ( full review here ) which we found to be lacking clarity in the high-end, while also distorting at louder volumes. It was a tonal aspect of the speaker that we wish every portable speaker could pull off - crisp highs that aren’t too bright or jarring. We were taken aback by how crisp and clear the detail in the high-end was, and were able to thoroughly enjoy many genres that included stringed instruments and effects. The high-end of the BOOM 2 is where the speaker really shines: the treble on this model is almost as bright as the colorful skin the speaker comes in. If you are, then we have a special treat for you in a moment. However, keep in mind that this speaker is meant for casual listening while on-the-go or outdoors - you aren’t looking to power an entire party with this one. We don’t recommend blasting this speaker as you would with a larger model - like the $200 UE MEGABOOM ( full review here ) - but we can say that the BOOM 2 can get quite loud before distorting the sound. The BOOM 2 is fairly powerful for its size, and delivers a volume that one wouldn’t expect from such a small package. The BOOM 2 has a winning combination of sound, design, and usability | The Master Switch But we can certainly say that it’s in our list of the best portable Bluetooth speakers for its winning combination of sound, design, and usability. The Ultimate Ears (UE) BOOM 2 might not be designed for audiophiles, and we don’t expect it to perform like a stationary wireless speaker. If you want alternatives, see our list of the best wireless speakers.

In this review, we break down the sound, design, accessories and packaging, specs and more of the UE BOOM 2 portable Bluetooth speaker. We’ve been compiling a list of the best portable Bluetooth speakers, and this little number has found itself near the very top. Whether it be hiking through rugged forests or a simple day at the beach, we want to be able to take our music everywhere we go. And we’ve spent months hunting down our favorite one. Here at TMS, we’re a unique blend of adventurer and nerd, making our lives the perfect test for portable Bluetooth speakers.
