Bose SoundLink Color Wireless Speaker Review
Coming fresh off the heels of reviewing the JBL FLip 2 wireless speaker, I landed the Bose SoundLink Color wireless speaker. Because they are both so similar in what they are used for, I figured I would review the Bose SoundLink Color by making comparisons to the JBL Flip 2, which I have already reviewed.
SEE ALSO: JBL Flip 2 Review: Portable wireless speaker
The most visual differences between the Bose SoundLink Color and the JBL Flip 2 are the size and shape. The Bose SoundLink Color is taller and more box-shaped while the JBL Flip 2 is shorter, wider and more pill-shaped. I don’t know if this matters to anyone. It certainly doesn’t matter to me so there’s no advantage either way on this one for me.
Like you would expect from its name, the Bose SoundLink Color comes in five different colors—black, blue, red, mint and white. If yellow is your thing, you’re only choice is the JBL Flip 2.
The Bose SoundLink Color connects via Bluetooth while also accepting any standard auxiliary inputs as does the JBL FLip 2. But the JBL Flip 2 also doubles as a Bluetooth speakerphone, something the Bose SoundLink color does not do.
Sound quality
But let’s get down to what most people really care about—the sound quality. This is where the Bose SoundLink Color shines. Like most Bose products I have tested, the SoundLink Color has deep bass tones that really help you feel the music. This is really what sets it apart from most other wireless speakers.
But it’s not just the bass that sounds good. The whole range of tones sounds good. But this doesn’t mean the SoundLink Color is the hands-down winner. For most people, it will come down to price. You can get pretty decent sound with the JBL Flip 2 for around $80. Or you can go for really good sound for $129, the cost of the Bose SoundLink Color.
Other features
One thing I did like about the Bose SoundLink Color was that it announces the device it is connected to when you power it on. This can cure a lot of headaches if you connect multiple devices in your house to your wireless speaker.
Finally, the controls are more accessible on the Bose because they are on top of the device, compared to the side of the device on the JBL Flip 2. I guess some people may like the buttons on the side but I preferred them on the top.
Final thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with either of these speakers. For me, the JBL Flip 2 is a great choice if you want decent sound at a decent price. But if it’s in your budget to spring for $129 and you don’t want/need the Bluetooth speakerphone feature, go for the Bose SoundLink Color.
Note: The Bose SoundLink Color wireless speaker in this review was provided to me by Verizon Wireless and can be purchased at your local Verizon Wireless store or at www.verizonwireless.com.
