The 11 best portable Bluetooth speakers that we use and love

If you find a Bluetooth speaker that you enjoy, the chances are high that you won't be able to picture life without one. Bluetooth speakers have been around for quite some time and are now one of the larger product categories in the tech world. Mashable's tech and shopping teams stay up-to-date on the latest Bluetooth speaker releases from various brands and test them in their own homes, evaluating sound, portability, and price.

For 2026, Mashable's top picks include bass-thumping party speakers from Sony, the nearly indestructible JBL Charge 6, and the charmingly retro Marshall Emberton III. The JBL Charge 6 is large enough to produce sound that can fill an outdoor party, yet small enough to live on your bookshelf. It also has the ability to charge other devices with a USB-C connection, making it a great choice for beach days or camping trips.

The JBL Charge 6 offers superior sound and versatility compared to its predecessor, the Charge 5. It has a USB-C to USB-C cable that allows you to charge phones, earbuds, and even other speakers. The speaker's sound is clear and balanced, even at low volumes, and it offers four different equalizer presets and a custom equalizer for adjusting the sound to your liking. There are also options to amplify the sound with Auracast technology or PlaytimeBoost mode for extra battery life.