As a tech enthusiast and audio aficionado, I've had the pleasure of testing countless Bluetooth speakers over the years. Today, I'm excited to share my in-depth review of the Bose SoundLink Micro, a tiny powerhouse that's been making waves in the portable audio market since its release in 2020.
This compact speaker measures just 3.87 inches in height and width, with a depth of 1.37 inches, making it truly pocket-sized.
Despite its diminutive size, the SoundLink Micro packs a punch with its impressive audio performance. It boasts a balanced sound profile with clear vocals and lead instruments, though it does struggle with deep bass, as expected from a speaker of this size. The IP67 rating for dust and water resistance makes it a rugged companion for outdoor adventures, while the built-in silicone strap adds to its portability.
One of the standout features is the 6-hour battery life, which, while not industry-leading, is respectable for its size. The speaker also supports Bluetooth 4.2 with a range of up to 30 feet, ensuring stable connectivity for most users. For those looking to amplify their sound, the SoundLink Micro can be paired with other Bose speakers using the Bose Connect app.
In this review, we'll dive deep into the SoundLink Micro's performance, design, and features to help you decide if this ultra-portable speaker is the right fit for your audio needs.
Bose SoundLink Micro Review: Ultimate Portable Bluetooth Speaker for Adventure Seekers
Design and Build Quality
The Bose SoundLink Micro is a compact and rugged Bluetooth speaker designed for on-the-go use. Measuring just 3.87" x 3.87" x 1.37" and weighing a mere 0.68 lb (290g), this speaker is incredibly portable. Its small size belies its durability, boasting an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. This means the SoundLink Micro can withstand submersion in up to 3.3 ft (1 m) of water for 30 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
The speaker's exterior is constructed from a combination of metal, plastic, silicone, and steel, providing a robust feel. A standout feature is the tear-resistant strap, allowing easy attachment to backpacks, bike handlebars, or other gear. Available in various colors, including Black and Stone Blue, the SoundLink Micro offers both style and functionality.
Sound Quality
Despite its diminutive size, the Bose SoundLink Micro delivers impressive audio performance. The speaker produces a balanced sound profile with clear vocals and lead instruments, thanks to its well-tuned mid-range. This makes it suitable for a wide range of music genres and vocal-centric content like podcasts.
However, like many small speakers, the SoundLink Micro struggles with low-bass frequencies. This means you won't feel the deep rumble in bass-heavy genres like EDM or hip-hop. The treble response is slightly veiled, which can make higher-pitched audio sound a bit dark and dull.
It's worth noting that the SoundLink Micro is a mono speaker, meaning it downmixes stereo content. While this doesn't provide the most immersive listening experience, the speaker still manages to create a soundstage that feels large and wide for its size.
Features and Connectivity
The Bose SoundLink Micro comes equipped with Bluetooth 4.2, offering a stable wireless connection up to 30 ft (9 m). It supports various Bluetooth profiles, including A2DP for audio streaming and AVRCP for remote control functions.
One of the standout features is the ability to pair multiple SoundLink Micro speakers. Users can enable Party Mode for synchronized audio playback or Stereo Mode for a wider soundstage. Additionally, Bose's SimpleSync technology allows pairing with other Bose smart speakers or soundbars for an enhanced audio experience.
The speaker includes a built-in microphone, enabling hands-free calling and voice assistant support for both Apple Siri and Google Assistant. The Bose Connect app provides additional functionality, including the ability to disable voice prompts if desired.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance is perhaps the SoundLink Micro's weakest point. Bose claims up to 6 hours of playtime on a single charge. However, real-world testing by some reviewers suggests it may fall short of this mark, with one test reporting just 5 hours of battery life.
Charging is done via a Micro-B USB port, with a full charge taking approximately 4 hours using a 1-amp power source. Using a 1.5-amp source can reduce charging time to about 3 hours. It's important to note that charging times may increase if the speaker is in use during the process.
Usability and Controls
The Bose SoundLink Micro features intuitive controls on its top surface, including volume buttons and a multi-function button for playback control and call management. Some users have noted that the buttons can be difficult to distinguish visually, requiring a bit of tactile familiarity.
The speaker's voice prompts provide guidance during Bluetooth pairing and identify connected devices, simplifying usage with multiple source devices. These prompts can be disabled if preferred, either through the Bose Connect app or by simultaneously pressing the volume up and down buttons.
Comparison to Competitors
When compared to other portable Bluetooth speakers in its class, the Bose SoundLink Micro stands out for its combination of ultra-portability, rugged design, and sound quality. Its IP67 rating surpasses many competitors, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
However, its relatively short battery life may be a drawback for some users, especially when compared to speakers that offer 10+ hours of playtime. Additionally, the lack of customizable EQ settings might disappoint audiophiles who prefer to fine-tune their listening experience.
Price and Value: $119
The Bose SoundLink Micro is priced at $119.00, positioning it in the mid-range of portable Bluetooth speakers. While it may be more expensive than some alternatives, its build quality, sound performance, and feature set justify the price for many users. The speaker's durability and portability make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize these aspects in their audio gear.
Note: This speaker is great for biking. I have two portable BOSE speakers. This smaller mobile speaker is perfect for my bike or toting around on my backpack. Sound quality is 5 star. If you turn the volume up there is a little distortion, but that is to be expected from a small lightweight speaker. Base is perfect. Well worth the money.
Is the Bose SoundLink Micro Made for You? My Opinion
The Bose SoundLink Micro is an impressive feat of engineering, packing surprisingly good sound quality into an ultra-portable and durable package. Its rugged design and waterproof capabilities make it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures, while its clear audio reproduction ensures enjoyable listening across various content types.
However, potential buyers should consider the limited battery life and lack of deep bass when making their decision. For those who prioritize portability, durability, and balanced sound in a compact form factor, the SoundLink Micro is a strong contender in the portable Bluetooth speaker market.
Essentials about the Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker: FAQs
Can the Bose SoundLink Micro be used for video playback?
Yes, the SoundLink Micro can be used for video playback when paired with a smartphone or tablet. It offers low latency, minimizing audio-video synchronization issues.
Is the SoundLink Micro suitable for outdoor use?
Absolutely. With its IP67 rating, the SoundLink Micro is dust-tight and can withstand water immersion up to 3.3 ft (1 m) for 30 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Can I pair multiple SoundLink Micro speakers together?
Yes, you can pair two SoundLink Micro speakers using Party Mode for synchronized playback or Stereo Mode for a wider soundstage. This is done through the Bose Connect app.
Does the SoundLink Micro support voice assistants?
Yes, the speaker supports both Apple Siri and Google Assistant when connected to a compatible device.
How many devices can the SoundLink Micro remember for pairing?
The Bose SoundLink Micro can remember the last eight devices it has paired and connected with, dropping the least recently used when a new one is paired.
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