"Preparing for an upcoming garden soiree and in need of a powerful outdoor speaker? Our audio specialist reviewed Bose's top-tier portable device and almost awarded it a perfect evaluation."
The Bose SoundLink Max, priced at £399.95, is a premium portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers exceptional sound quality, robust durability, and versatile features, making it a top-tier choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
### Features
The SoundLink Max offers louder output, deeper bass, and stereo playback options, surpassing many smaller portable speakers. It includes a 3.5mm auxiliary input and USB-C charging, expanding connectivity beyond just Bluetooth. Battery life is solid, offering up to 20 hours of playback, though a full recharge takes about 5 hours via USB-C.
The speaker is built with silicone and a rugged design, making it durable for outdoor use at places like the garden or beach. It features an integrated, color-matched handle for portability, despite its bulkier size. Physical controls on the top (power, pairing, playback, volume) plus a customizable shortcut button enhance ease of use without needing to rely on apps or voice assistants.
However, it lacks AirPlay support and smart assistant integration.
### Sound Quality
The SoundLink Max is noted for excellent sound performance with clear, rich audio and notably strong bass, suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. It provides a somewhat stereo sound experience and enough punch to satisfy users wanting fuller, louder sound than smaller portable speakers. Compared to Bose’s other portable speakers, it is seen as the “top of the portable portfolio” in terms of sound quality and performance.
### Ease of Use
Its tactile, physical controls make it simple and intuitive to operate without frequent app interaction. The build quality, such as silicone coating and handle, help with portability although it is comparatively heavier and larger—making it less convenient to toss into a bag than more compact models.
### Value for Money
While the SoundLink Max costs significantly more than smaller options, users who prioritize sound quality, louder volume, deeper bass, and solid durability will find the value worthwhile. However, if ultimate portability or budget is the priority, smaller speakers offering reasonable sound and easier transportability could be preferable.
### Summary
The Bose SoundLink Max is best suited for users wanting premium sound and robust outdoor use, who don't mind trading portability and price for performance. Its sound quality and build exceed many competitors, but the size and cost make it less ideal if mobility and budget are key concerns. Overall, it offers excellent sound, ease of use, and durability, making it a top-tier choice in the higher-price portable Bluetooth speaker segment.
The Bose SoundLink Max can charge other devices through its USB-C port. It comes in three colours: Black, Blue Dusk, Citrus Yellow. The SoundLink Max has connectivity of Bluetooth 5.3. It delivers an exciting, punchy sound performance that exceeds its size. It has connections of USB-C and 3.5mm. The SoundLink Max has an interchangeable handle for easy transportation. It weighs 2.13kg.
The SoundLink Max can stereo pair two speakers together and has a Party Mode for grouping with other Bose portable speakers. It does not have a built-in microphone for taking calls. The SoundLink Max has a physical shortcut button that can be programmed to switch between Aux In and Spotify. It is larger than the JBL Charge 6, the Sonos Roam 2, but smaller than the Sonos Move 2. It has a central Bose branding on the front and easy-to-use controls on the top. The SoundLink Max is a portable Bluetooth speaker with dimensions of 120 x 265 x 105mm. It has EQ adjustments available through the Bose app. The SoundLink Max is louder and more impressive than the Sonos Roam 2.
- The SoundLink Max, available in three colors – Black, Blue Dusk, and Citrus Yellow – is not just a portable Bluetooth speaker, but also a piece of home-and-garden furniture with its integrated, color-matched handle and durable design suitable for outdoor-living.
- Art enthusiasts might appreciate the Bose SoundLink Max, as its exceptionally loud sound can serve as a backdrop for their creative pursuits, indoor or outdoor.
- Completing the lifestyle statement in one's home-and-garden, the Bose SoundLink Max, with its diverse features and impressive sound, complements the aesthetic appeal of furniture and enhances the overall ambience.
