Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3, Small Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker, Big Bass 360-Degree Sound for Outdoors, Waterproof, Dustproof IP67, Floatable, 131 ft Range – Active Black
The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 stands out as a fantastic portable Bluetooth speaker, offering a blend of durability, impressive sound, and thoughtful design. Whether you’re hosting a house party or embarking on a wilderness adventure, this compact speaker aims to deliver a delightful audio experience. However, like any product, it comes with its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros:
Cons:
Features & Functionality
Image credit: Ultimate Ears
The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 excels in features that enhance its versatility and user experience. One notable feature is the Outdoor Boost mode, specifically designed for open spaces. Activating this mode adjusts the audio profile to suit outdoor environments, ensuring clear and projected sound without the presence of walls. The speaker’s robust durability, marked by an IP67 rating, makes it resistant to dust and capable of withstanding submersion in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes—ideal for outdoor activities and adventures.
A distinctive aspect of the WONDERBOOM 3 is its reliance on physical buttons for controls, offering dedicated options for playback, volume adjustment, and the activation of Outdoor Boost. This design choice ensures compatibility with a wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices, including laptops, game consoles, and media players. Despite the closely spaced drivers limiting full stereo separation, the speaker attempts to provide a stereo audio experience, further enhanced by the option to pair a second WONDERBOOM 3 for improved stereo performance.
The Bluetooth multipoint functionality allows the WONDERBOOM 3 to connect with up to two source devices simultaneously, facilitating seamless transitions between audio sources. While the speaker exclusively relies on Bluetooth for audio connectivity and lacks a wired option, its wireless convenience and compatibility with various devices make it a suitable choice for diverse usage scenarios. In summary, the WONDERBOOM 3 offers a robust set of features, from outdoor-optimized audio and durable construction to user-friendly controls, making it an appealing option for both casual users and those with an adventurous spirit.
Design & Build Quality
Image credit: Ultimate Ears
The design of the WONDERBOOM 3 is noteworthy for its emphasis on physical controls and portability. The attached loop allows for easy attachment to a backpack, catering to hikers and adventurers. The fabric-swathed orb design, coupled with large volume controls, gives it a distinctive appearance. Its durability, indicated by the IP67 rating and claimed resistance to drops, adds to the overall build quality, making it suitable for various environments.
Power & Performance
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The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 impresses with its powerful yet balanced audio output, catering to users seeking a portable Bluetooth speaker with a notable emphasis on sound quality. Despite its compact size, the speaker delivers ample volume without compromising clarity, making it suitable for diverse listening scenarios, from small gatherings to outdoor activities. The well-balanced frequency response ensures an enjoyable audio experience across various genres, although it may not match the deep bass of larger speakers.
The inclusion of the Outdoor Boost mode enhances the speaker’s adaptability in open environments. Activating this mode adjusts the sound profile to optimize clarity and projection, addressing the challenges posed by outdoor settings with minimal sound-reflection surfaces. Coupled with the speaker’s durability, marked by an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, the WONDERBOOM 3 proves to be a reliable companion for outdoor adventures, poolside relaxation, and other scenarios where exposure to environmental elements is a consideration.
Beyond its audio capabilities, the WONDERBOOM 3’s attempt at delivering rudimentary stereo sound with two drivers is notable. While it may not replicate the expansive stereo experience of larger setups, the pairing option with a second WONDERBOOM 3 enhances the stereo effect. This design choice, coupled with the speaker’s sturdiness and drop resistance, makes it a compelling choice for users prioritizing both audio performance and durability in a portable Bluetooth speaker. In summary, the WONDERBOOM 3 excels in delivering a robust audio experience, outdoor adaptability, and durable construction, making it a standout option for users on the move.
Compatibility & Connectivity
Image credit: Ultimate Ears
The WONDERBOOM 3 relies on Bluetooth for audio connectivity, and while it lacks a wired option, it supports Bluetooth multipoint, allowing connection with two source devices simultaneously. The absence of support for the Ultimate Ears app might be a downside for users who prefer app-based control and customization. The speaker’s compatibility with a wide range of devices, including laptops, game consoles, and Bluetooth-enabled media players, adds to its convenience.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3?
The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 is a compelling choice for those seeking a portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers on durability, sound quality, and user-friendly features. Priced reasonably, it stands out for its impressive build, versatile outdoor use, and well-balanced audio. The outdated micro-USB charging port is a notable downside, but for users prioritizing portability and outdoor functionality, this may be a minor trade-off. If you’re considering other options, such as the JBL Flip 6 or JBL Charge 5, factors like charging convenience and specific use cases may influence your decision. Ultimately, the WONDERBOOM 3 earns its place as a reliable and stylish companion for both casual and adventurous audio needs.
