Which 360° portable-speakers would you recommend in 2026?
While I know the 360° portable-speaker trend of the late 2010s and early 2020s has largely passed, I’ve always had a soft spot for them.
My first portable Bluetooth speaker was the Soundcore Flare+, and for its time, I thought it was an exceptional speaker. Even today, Soundcore continues to make some great products at reasonable prices. But when it comes to 360° speakers in general, it feels like everyone has forgotten just how popular they once were. I certainly haven’t.
I’m currently looking for a new speaker as I’m going away soon, and I’d still really like to stick with the idea of a 360° speaker. The problem is that it seems like most manufacturers have moved away from that form factor.
There is, however, one major issue I’ve always associated with 360° speakers: Bass.
I primarily listen to hip-hop, so clear vocals and punchy, thumping bass are particularly important to me. I remember looking for a new speaker a few years ago and coming across Ultimate Ears. Their speakers definitely caught my attention, but at the time I remember seeing quite a few reviews criticising both the bass and overall sound quality.
More recently, though, I’ve seen a lot of positive reviews for the UE EPICBOOM and EVERBOOM, particularly when it comes to those two areas. That’s made me reconsider them.
I’m certainly no audiophile, which is why I’m turning to strangers on the internet for advice!
So, given what I’m looking for, a portable 360° speaker with good overall sound, clear vocals and, most importantly, strong bass for hip-hop, are there any speakers you’d recommend as a replacement for my old Soundcore?
I’m open to suggestions outside of Ultimate Ears too. I’d really appreciate any recommendations or insight!