Bose SoundLink Max
Score: 87/100
JBL Charge 6
Score: 86/100Rankings
The Bose SoundLink Max is a premium portable Bluetooth speaker delivering up to 20 hours of playback and powerful stereo sound with app-based EQ. Its large size and lack of a built-in microphone make it less convenient for ultra-portable or hands-free use. Ideal for parties and outdoor gatherings where volume and customization matter.
The JBL Charge 6 is a rugged, feature-rich Bluetooth speaker with AI Sound Boost, 28-hour battery life and IP67 waterproof, dustproof and drop-proof durability. Its heavy weight and bulkier size, plus the lack of an included charging cable, are drawbacks. Perfect for outdoor parties and users who need a built-in powerbank.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
20 hours | 28 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2,130 g | 990 gbest |
89 mmbest | 53 mm | |
— | 45 Wbest | |
9 mbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 300 minutes | 180 minutesbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 20 hours | 28 hours |
Charging Time (minutes) | 300 minutes | 180 minutes |
Audio(1) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 89 mm | 53 mm |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.4 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 2130 g | 990 g |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 120×265×105 mm mm | 99×229×94 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
TechRadar praises the SoundLink Max for its punchy audio, premium materials and IP67 ruggedness, while noting its sizable footprint. RTINGS.com highlights the sturdy design, loud low-compression output and 15+ hour battery, but criticizes its average directivity, lack of voice assistant and missing room-correction.
Everyday users consistently applaud the speaker's room-filling, bass-heavy sound, durable construction and long battery life, especially appreciating the detachable handle and USB-C passthrough. Recurring complaints focus on its bulk, absence of a mic or voice assistant, and occasional Bluetooth dropouts at longer range.
Professional reviewers hail the Charge 6 as the top portable Bluetooth speaker for 2025 outdoor use, emphasizing its bold JBL Pro Sound with AI Sound Boost, industry-leading 28-hour battery life, rapid USB-C charging, and IP67 drop-proof durability. They also commend the full EQ control via the JBL Portable app and the new Auracast multi-speaker pairing, noting these features set it apart from earlier models.
Everyday users consistently praise the deep bass, marathon-long battery, and reliable powerbank function, especially for beach parties and poolside gatherings. Recurring complaints focus on the speaker's heft, the absence of a charging cable, occasional app connectivity hiccups, and its bulkier footprint compared to previous Charge models.
“deep bass, long battery for parties/beach days”
