The best outdoor speakers for every occasion

From a highly-rated brand of outdoor speakers, the Polk Audio Atrium 6 cut out the hard work of installation. They feature a single-click speed-lock mounting system for easy and safe one-handed installation. 

Beyond that incredible convenience, the internal tech features a broad soundscape and acoustic design that make them sing with a full-range of sound in large areas. They'e not the most advanced tech-wise, but the speakers each come with a 5.25-inch Dynamic Balance driver and 1-inch dome tweeter to maximise audio and bass that delivers across wide, open spaces. 

Best of all, the speakers’ rugged durability exceeds baseline industrial and military specifications, earning them an all-weather certification that makes them pretty much immune to rain, snow, and extreme heat. 

The Bose 251 environmental speakers are built for two specific purposes: to sound incredible and provide resistance against extreme conditions.

A clear, powerful, high-end sound comes via 2.5-inch full-range drivers and 5.25-inch woofers, which are encased in a multi-chamber bass enclosure. As part of Bose's Articulated Array speaker design, the drivers are precisely positioned to create a large, consistent sound field.

Weighing in at almost four kilograms each, they’re sturdy, durable, and easy to mount (the mounting hardware is included). They're also made with the elements in mind, boasting a water-resistant and all-weather resiliency.

In fact, they’ve been battle-tested by the manufacturer to withstand very rough conditions and extreme temperatures from 60 degrees down to -30 degrees celsius, all while delivering the best and brightest sound.

Who it's for:

Some people want a Bluetooth speaker that's first and foremost a way to listen to music, and some people want a better audio experience than other run-of-the-mill smart speakers might be able to manage. If you fall in the later group, we recommend the Sonos Move.

Why we picked this:

This durable, battery-powered speaker is a great Bluetooth speaker for your home, especially if you want one you can move around with you — say, from the pool area to your office to the dining room. It's also strong enough to take the occasional drop or bump.

While it is portable, this speaker might not be the easiest to travel with over long distances due to its weight and bulky size. The battery lasts up to 11 hours and comes with a charging base. You can also recharge it with a USB-C charger. 

This speaker is simple to set up, can be controlled through the Sonos app, and can switch from WiFi to Bluetooth streaming when needed. It’s also weather-resistant and able to stand up to humidity, rain, snow, dust, sun rays, and salt. 

The JBL Flip 6 doesn't have the best features, but it’s a rugged, great-sounding portable speaker that has everything you need. With Bluetooth-only playback, it’s easy to connect and use at home and on-the-go — indoors and outdoors.

It has IP67 waterproofing, so you can splash it worry-free at the poolside. In fact, this speaker is perfect for taking on your holidays — easy to stash in a suitcase without compromising much luggage space, while boasting solid battery power and audio. Indeed, the sound is punchy and balanced, with a touch more bass than the previous JBL Flip models.

The price might seem high but for the convenience and performance, it delivers. It's actually a steal. Good value is what JBL does best.

The Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II is the next-gen version of Bose's already impressive Revolve. It's handily portable and delivers true 360-degree surround sound for an all-round listening experience. Quite literally.

It's significantly smaller that other high-end 360-degree audio speakers. But don't be fooled by the size. The Revolve Series II packs plenty of volume. It's made to go loud, with zero distortion at top volume. That makes it great for outdoor shindigs — not to mention water resistance in case of poor weather.

If you're already a Bose fan, the SoundLink Revolve Series II can pair with a second speaker to create a stereo sound, or to integrate into the Bose audio system via SimpleSync technology. You can also access your voice assistant.

The speaker is controlled with the Bose Connect app, which allows you to switch between Stereo mode or Party mode (yes, the Revolve Series II is very much a speaker for all occasions) with enough battery for 13 hours.

The Sony SRS-XP700 is all about fun. But unlike other colourful party speakers, it's far from cheap and cheerful. This speaker is a serious piece of tech from the best-known audio brand in the world.

Serious, yes, but its party credentials are impressive, with pulsing lights that set the mood. It also has two inputs, which allow you to plug in microphones for a karaoke session (or even plug in a guitar for your Ed Sheeran impression).

Omnidirectional sound comes courtesy of front and rear tweeters, with a mega bass button that gives it an instant oomph — deep, rich, and punchy. Perfect for when the garden party turns into a full-on rave.

Don't worry about the weather, either. It's water resistant and splash proof — which is handy when you have drunken revellers on hand — making it an all-round party essential. If there's a downside, it's the price. At £400-plus, you might expect a few more smart features.

If you’re looking for a cheap sound solution for your outdoor space, the Pyle Mini Box Speaker System represents excellent value. The sound is solid — though not refined — and they pack plenty of volume to keep the garden party jumping.

Built with heavy-duty ABS construction and marine grade waterproofing, this pair of speakers will withstand the elements.

Installation is relatively straightforward. They come with all the necessary wires and mounting kit. Best of all, they’re small enough that you can mount them in any spot and in any position. That goes for indoors — you can use them as general indoor speakers or as a low-budget home cinema system, too.

Reviewers rate the sound quality though don’t expect top end audio — these speakers are made for pumping up the volume and creating some background atmosphere. For under £30, these are a great low-cost option.