While good company and great food are essential for a top party, what really makes the party rock is excellent music. For this, you need the right speakers. We look at the 10 best party speakers to make your function the party of the year.
While all of the models we reviewed are the very best options on the market, our first prize, for the best party speaker, has to go to the JBL PartyBox 1000. It has all the features you want in a quality party speaker. It is a leading brand, delivers plenty of power, and is extremely tough.
We look at a few more great options to get your party hopping.
The 10 Best Party Speakers:
1. JBL PartyBox 1000
Dimensions | 45.59 x 18.42 x 18.58 inches |
Weight | 76.50 lbs |
Connectivity | Bluetooth |
Pros:
- Plenty of power
- Trusted brand
- Tough and durable
- Looks good
- Cool light show option
- Excellent frequency range
Cons:
- On the heavy side
- Needs AC power
JBL speakers always stand out and deliver great performance. There are several options in the PartyBox range but the powerful 1000 stood out to us as a clear winner. It is loud! With 1100 watts of power it can handle even large parties with plenty of guests.
Being a quality JBL speaker there is no compromise on quality. It has an integrated subwoofer for that heavy bass so necessary at most parties. It also has an impressive frequency response range of of 30Hz–20kHz.
While it is not the lightest party-speaker on the market it is highly robust so even if the party gets crowded or rowdy the JBL PartyBox 1000 should be perfectly safe.
To add to the party atmosphere is has a very cool light panel that creates an amazing display. It works off Bluetooth so is easy to position but due to the volume and features of this speaker, it needs AC power.
It has a host of added features that any DJ will love. It also has inputs for a mic, guitar, or other inputs. This makes it extremely versatile and a pleasure to use.
2. Sony XB72
Dimensions | 27.5 x 17.19 x 16.42 inches |
Weight | 20.00 lbs |
Connectivity | Bluetooth & NFC |
Pros:
- Bluetooth and NFC
- Light and portable
- Speaker lights and strobe
- Easy to use
- USB ports
- Looks impressive
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than average
- Needs an AC connection
Sony is another brand that most people trust. They make reliable products that perform well, are easy to use, and last for many years. The XB72 is no exception. The bass is impressive and the overall sound is powerful and clear. It has a live sound mode as well for that extra party element with the right music.
The unit is light and compact making it perfectly portable without a reduction in power. The integrated speaker lights and bright strobe light give you an instant party all in one compact unit.
This is further enhanced by the microphone input. Now you can DJ your party professionally and effectively. The speaker is versatile and can be placed horizontally or vertically according to your needs.
Adding to the versatility is that it works on Bluetooth as well as the rapidly developing NFC technology. It also has a very useful USB port to connect or charge other devices when you need to. Using Bluetooth, you can connect up to 3 devices.
If you need more sound or want to cover a larger area you can connect additional speakers using a chain connection.
It does require AC power due to the features and the power. While slightly more expensive than some of the other options this is a great speaker that gets many rave reviews. It also looks amazing and is user-friendly.
3. SOUNDBOKS 2
Dimensions | 12.6 x 26 x 17 inches |
Weight | 35.83 lbs |
Connectivity | Bluetooth |
Pros:
- Excellent power
- Comes with BATTERYBOKS
- Durable
- Portable
- Fully wireless
- Dust and dirt resistant
Cons:
- One of the more expensive options
This is a highly rated and popular option for many reasons. One of the first things is the awesome power. It kicks out a volume of up to 122 dB. The frequency range is impressive and you will hear crystal clear treble and deep rich bass.
One of the most exciting features of this part speaker is that it comes with a BATTERYBOKS. This adds to the price a bit but allows you to use this speaker anywhere without the need for AC power. The swappable battery pack will give you roughly 40 hours of party time which should be more than enough.
It connects via Bluetooth for a fully wireless solution and is easy to use. The design is appealing and the unit is durable. It is even resistant to slashes and dirt so will handle all part environments.
4. W-KING 80W
Dimensions | 9.37 x 8.19 x 18.11 inches |
Weight | 9.39 pounds |
Connectivity | Bluetooth & USB |
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Rugged
- Water-Resistant
- USB connection
- Funky lights
- Lightweight
- Colored flashing LEDs
Cons:
- Power cable not included
- 2 Lithium-ion batteries required
This nifty little speaker weighs less than 10 pounds so is easy to move or take to the party venue of your choice. It is great value for money but you will need to purchase the lithium-ion batteries separately as well as the power cable should you want one. The batteries will give you up to 24 hours of music.
You can expect crisp and clear stereo sounds from the Cool W-KING Bluetooth speaker. Despite the lightweight and compact design these guys still pack a punch with volume up to a remarkable 105dB. They sport a dual 4-inch woofer as well as a 1.2-inch tweeter. This will allow you to appreciate all styles of music or audio while enjoying a good frequency range.
To add to the party vibe the speaker has neat flashing LED lights in different colors. You can adjust these according to your needs and the style of music.
The speaker is solidly built and highly durable. You will not have to worry about it while you enjoy the party, it is built to last.
The Bluetooth connection is reliable and works well. It is also a breeze to use. You can also use it with a USB drive or TF cards which makes it highly versatile. If need be, it even works with a good old AUX cable.
If necessary, you can always pair an additional speaker for greater coverage and better stereo sound. Many customers report great customer service so this gives you added peace of mind.
5. ION Pathfinder 280
Dimensions | 15 x 6.69 x 21 inches |
Weight | 27.3 pounds |
Connectivity | Bluetooth & USB |
Pros:
- IPX5 Water-Resistant
- Built-In Bottle Opener
- Excellent bass
- Wide 280-degree sound delivery
- Value for money
Cons:
- Some might want more volume from a party speaker
- Some found the battery life poor at high volume
If you are looking for a budget party speaker but still want quality sound, take a look at the ION Pathfinder 280. It has a lot to offer at a brilliant price. It is a compact unit that connects via Bluetooth and also has a USB connection. While the sound is the important aspect, this is also a good-looking speaker.
One thing that is impressive is that the design allows for a sound delivery of 280-degrees. This is great for larger parties when you do not want to have massive speakers or multiple speakers. It pushes out 120 watts which should be ideal for most environments.
Something else that makes it ideal for parties is that it has an IPX5 Water-Resistant rating. The battery will give you up to an astounding 100 hours. Like most part speakers, it has amazing lighting effects that will rev up your party.
It is user-friendly and comes with an app that allows you to control the speaker. It also has a built-in bottle opener, not something you see every day. The time will come when you will be glad it is there and it will impress your guests.
6. QFX PBX-61081BT/RD
Dimensions | 12.4 x 12.4 x 20.9 inches |
Weight | 12 Pounds |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, RCA, SD Card, USB, Infrared, Auxilliary |
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price
- Light and portable
- Built-in radio and microphone
- Remote control
- Multiple connectivity options
Cons:
- Some found the bass slightly lacking
- It could be louder
Another budget speaker that still delivers is the QFX PBX-61081BT/RD Portable Bluetooth Party Speaker. It will give you 2 600 watts of power. What is more, is that the quality and clarity are spot on. You even get great bass thanks to the woofer. It also sports an equalizer as well as an integrated amplifier.
This is such a popular option and, especially considering the reasonable price, is very hard to fault. Sure, it could be a bit louder and perhaps have a bit more bass but for most parties, this is a great option. It is quick and easy to set up and comes with remote control. You also get an Aux cable as well as a power cable.
It is compact, light, and portable. This allows you to take it to wherever a party is needed. The retractable handles make it easy to move when necessary. It is light and not too large yet delivers good volume. It even has caster wheels making it easier to move from place to place.
Apart from a good Bluetooth connection, you can also connect via a USB connection or a micro-SD card. If you do not feel like looking for the music, simply use the FM radio receiver and connect to a decent radio station. Another option is to pop in an SD card packed with your favorite party tunes.
The battery is rechargeable making it more portable. You can expect around 5 to 6 hours depending on the volume. If you have a power outlet handy, it can simply be plugged in for continuous entertainment.
This is a great portable party speaker that will not break the bank. It is effective and affordable as well as easy to move. It is a top-seller that is well-loved by the public.
7. Olafus Party Speakers
Dimensions | 16.53 x 7.87 x 13.33 inches |
Weight | 5.16 lbs |
Connectivity | Bluetooth |
Pros:
- Unique and attractive design
- Value for money
- Fair bass
Cons:
- Not as durable as some models
- Moderate volume
For those looking for funky speakers that not only deliver good sound but add to the party atmosphere, the Olafus Outdoor Bluetooth Speakers are the way to go. They are affordable, deliver fair sound, and look amazing. They will immediately create a party atmosphere wherever you might be.
The sound might not be as loud as some of the larger options we have reviewed but these are ideal for smaller gatherings. They are indoor or outdoor speakers that deliver 25 watts of power. Don’t expect them to rage for a large part but for a few friends around or an intimate venue they are perfect.
As they come in a set of two so you will get more coverage. This gives you more volume despite the relatively low power output. The bass and treble work in harmony to produce quality sound that is pleasurable. If you need more power ad volume, simply add additional speakers to the system. This is easy to do.
To can expect quality bass, as well as a good range in the mid to higher frequencies. They work perfectly well outdoors for a good party sound.
They look like stunning lanterns so will add some ambiance to the party mood while delivering excellent music. You can always add additional speakers for more sound.
Back to the lights – There are 5 timer settings as well as 8 lights that change color. What more could you ask for? The colors and lights can be controlled according to the vibe and your needs.
The unit also has a good IPX5 waterproof rating. The battery takes around 3 hours to charge and delivers roughly 10 hours of playtime, even more at lower volumes.
For peace of mind, there is a 60-day money-back offer and their customer support appears to be very good. The speakers support Bluetooth and also come with 2 Aux cables.
8. PRORECK PARTY 12
Dimensions | 28.5 x 16.3 x 25 inches |
Weight | 60 pounds |
Connectivity | Bluetooth/USB/SD |
Pros:
- Strong stands for improved sound delivery
- Good value for money
- Awesome power
- Radio tuner
- Supports SD Cards
- USB Port
- User-friendly controls and LCD screen
- Remote control
Cons:
- Not the lightest party speakers available
If you are planning a serious party for a larger crowd, these are a great option to consider. The stands elevate the speakers and this helps to deliver sound over a larger area. They are sturdy and stable, as are the speakers themselves. The speakers deliver a decent 1000 watts of power, more than enough for even a large party.
You have multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth, SD Card, and USB. It also has an FM radio. There are multiple controls that are all easy to operate. A nifty feature is an LCD screen, making it even more user-friendly. Yet another handy feature is the remote control.
While it is not the lightest option on the market it comes with sturdy wheels that make it easy to move around. All around, you get a lot of bang for your buck with these excellent party speakers. They sell well and customer feedback is very positive.
9. LEDVANCE Sylvania
Dimensions | 7 x 8.3 x 15.5 inches |
Weight | 1.00 lbs |
Connectivity | Bluetooth & Aux |
Pros:
- Amazingly low price
- Light and portable
- Fast USB charging
- Decent battery life
Cons:
- Not the greatest volume
- Lacks powerful bass
OK, if you are on a super-tight budget but still want a decent party speaker these are the ones to consider. It will not be ideal for a large party where you really want to blast the music but for small gatherings, it will work well.
It has a decent battery life and will connect to your device over Bluetooth. It also comes with an Aux cable if that is what you need. It is light, compact, and highly portable. You can control the settings but do not expect deep bass from this speaker. The blue LEDs around the speaker look pretty cool.
It comes with a USB charging cable and chargers pretty quickly. The speaker looks good and performs remarkably well in this price range. If you have realistic expectations you will not be disappointed by this well-priced party speaker.
10. Alphasonik Party Speakers
Dimensions | 14 x 12 x 22 inches |
Weight | 24 pounds |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, SD Card, USB |
Pros:
- Exceptional power
- Extremely versatile
- Wireless remote
- Sturdy stand
- Wired microphone
- LED strobe lights
- FM Radio
- Durable
- Multi-Directional Microphone (including cable)
Cons:
- Audio quality is not perfect at high volume
Think of this option as a party in a box. If you are keen to DJ your party or simply want good sound, look at this model. The power is impressive at 2000 watts. It comes with a speaker stand which will help to distribute the sound over a large area.
The fact that it works over Bluetooth and also accommodates SD cards, as well as a USB connection, makes it highly versatile. There is also an Aux input.
This user-friendly party speaker has a digital LED display as well as a wireless remote. It also comes with a quality Multi-Directional Microphone. This makes it perfect for DJ announcements as well as Karaoke. It also boasts an FM radio tuner when you want to let others do the music selection.
What makes this part speaker even more versatile is that you can connect a guitar or other instruments with ease. The dual-band equalizer will allow you to set the music according to the style and your preference.
It is a durable speaker that looks great. The LED strobe light will ramp the party mood up.
It has Heatsink that helps with the dissipation of heat. The dual-side air ports improve the quality of the sound. You get a lot of value for money with this party speaker and it can be used for many occasions.
Buyer’s Guide
Here are the important factors to consider before investing in the best party speakers.
Power and volume
Yes, they are the same thing but this is one of the most important aspects of your party speaker. You need to consider the size and environment where you plan to use the speakers. If you invest in small speakers that do not have great power they will not work well outdoors for larger crowds. For small indoor parties, you do not need massive power.
At the same time, look at your amplifier. There is no point in purchasing speakers that will not be able to perform to the capacity of the amplifier. You also want to ensure that the clarity is good at higher volumes. You do not want to blast loud music that is distorted.
Audio quality
Volume is pointless if the music is not clear. You want to ensure that the speakers have a good frequency range and crystal clear clarity. This normally means that a woof and tweeter are necessary. The quality of the speakers and the design will determine how clear the audio is, especially at higher volumes.
Bass is particularly important for good party speakers. Some models deliver the lower tones better than others.
Battery power
While some of the more advanced and powerful speakers will need AC power, most party speakers rely on battery power. Your party will end quickly if the music dies. Consider the amount of time you intend to play your music and run the party. Invest in a party speaker that is up to the job.
Err on the side of caution to ensure you never run out of battery power. Remember that the higher the volume, the more power the speaker will consume.
Portability
You might want permanently placed party speakers but most people prefer them to be portable. This allows you to take the party wherever you want to enjoy good vibes and excellent company.
The size and weight are the main factors to consider. Battery power, as mentioned above, is another important factor. Some are compact and easy to move while other models require a bit more effort to move. Many sports a carry handle which makes them easier to move around.
Give some thought to where and when you intend to use your party speakers to determine how important portability is.
Durability
Party speakers can take a bit of a hammering, especially if you move them around. You want to ensure that quality materials are used and that the build quality is good. Protective grills and other features will ensure that your speakers last many years.
Dust, dirt, and splashes are common issues at good parties. Look at how well the speaker can handle these issues. The IPX rating is a good indicator of how much it can handle.
Connectivity
While Bluetooth is the standard, it is great to have other options. This will make the speakers more versatile. NFC is a relatively new technology but could come in handy, especially in the near future. A standard Aux connection might also be useful.
USB ports allow you to connect other devices and most speakers will also charge you mobile devices which is handy at a party.
Other connectivity issues include an option for a microphone to make DJ announcements or speeches.
Lights
OK, so the music is important but cool lighting will instantly add to the party vibe. It means that you do not need to invest in or carry additional lighting. Many of the good party speakers have impressive lights that will instantly add to the mood. Some even have strobe lights.
This feature allows you to have a ready-to-go party in one unit.
Input for a karaoke mic
Many parties will benefit from a bit of karaoke, especially later in the evening. The ability to use your party speaker for karaoke is a great advantage for many.
FAQs
During our extensive research, we came across several frequently asked questions. Here they are:
How loud is loud enough?
This all depends on your needs and your neighbors. A small venue can get away with a decent 30 to 50-watt speakers while larger outdoor venues will need much more power. For these parties, look for something with 1000 watts or more.
You can often add additional speakers which will increase the sound and ensure that it is distributed over a larger area.
Why choose a party speaker?
Home speakers are great for typical home use. For a party, there are a few additional retirements. Firstly, it needs to be loud. If you are planning a large party, louder is better. You also want them to be robust and durable. They need to stand up to the occasional bump or liquid splash.
Other benefits are that most are light and portable allowing you to party anytime and anywhere. Most have wireless connectivity making the setup even easier.
Is wireless better?
Well, this solution gives you more flexibility. If you want party speakers purely for home use, wires might not be a major issue. If, however, you want more portability, then a wireless connection is a big plus. It allows you to take the party to wherever you need good music.
Note that many wireless speakers, especially the more powerful models, might still need AC power.
How long will my speakers last?
Well, this will depend on the build quality, the materials used, and the protection they have. Parties can get rough and speakers often suffer as a result of this. Look at the design and also consider the IPX rating. This will give you some indication of the durability as well as how much dirt and liquid splashes they can handle.
Sadly, even the best speakers will eventually wear out. If you invest in quality products and look after them, they should give you many years of enjoyment.
Will playing your speakers too loud cause damage?
This is certainly possible, yes. The first step is to match them to the power output of your amp. Music played too loud for the speakers will cause damage and will probably not sound too great.
Conclusion
A party is not a party without good music. Your choice is up to you but ensure that you deliver clear quality sound at a decent volume. All of the speakers we have reviewed will help you to do this. Some are louder, some are tougher, some have better clarity. There is something that will work within all budgets and needs. You can’t go wrong with any of the above choices.
*Note: Not all products are available for sale on Walmart.com. In cases where the exact product was not available a similar product, from the same brand, was selected.