Bose SoundLink Max
Score: 87/100
Marshall Emberton III
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 Marshall Emberton III offers marathon-long battery life, 360° True Stereophonic sound and rugged IP67 durability in a vintage-styled package. Its limited EQ presets and lack of deep bass compared with larger speakers are trade-offs for its compact form. Best suited for listeners who value balanced audio, long endurance and classic design.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
20 hours | 32 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2,130 g | 673 gbest |
89 mmbest | — | |
— | 38 Wbest | |
9 mbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 300 minutesbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 20 hours | 32 hours |
Audio(1) | ||
Built‑in Microphone | false | true |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | LE |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 2130 g | 673 g |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 120×265×105 mm mm | 80x190x110 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.
“competes head-to-head with the best.”
“the one to beat”
Professional reviewers consider the Emberton III a top-small Bluetooth speaker, lauding its 32+ hour battery, authentic Marshall tone, and phenomenal 360° audio while noting the limited EQ presets and lack of smart features as the main drawbacks.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the Emberton III for its rich, clear sound, impressive bass for its size, premium build quality, and marathon-long battery life, often saying it competes head-to-head with higher-priced options. The most common complaints revolve around the restricted EQ presets and a bass response that isn't as deep as larger speakers.
