The Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Bluetooth speaker, launched alongside the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus, has quickly gained recognition for its exceptional value proposition. At a remarkably affordable price point of around $45, this compact speaker delivers a compelling audio experience that punches well above its weight class, making it one of Xiaomi’s most attractive offerings this season. Its impressive feature set and robust performance make it a standout choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking a portable and durable audio companion.
Designed with portability in mind, the Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Bluetooth speaker boasts a compact form factor and lightweight build, measuring 196.6 x 68 x 66mm and weighing just 597 grams. Its compact size allows it to easily fit into backpacks or travel bags, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures, trekking expeditions, or simply enjoying music on the go. Its rugged construction is further enhanced with an IP67 rating, guaranteeing resistance against dust and water ingress, ensuring its resilience in challenging environmental conditions. A rubberized lanyard provides a convenient way to attach the speaker to bags or hooks, although some might prefer a more versatile threaded lanyard for enhanced attachment options.
The speaker’s control layout is intuitive and comprehensive. Three dedicated buttons – Power, Bluetooth, and Link – are conveniently located above the lanyard, providing quick access to essential functions. The top panel houses volume controls and a multi-functional play/pause button that also serves as a call answer button, thanks to the integrated microphone for hands-free calling. Call quality is reportedly clear and echo-free, further enhancing the speaker’s versatility.
Pairing the Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Bluetooth speaker is a seamless experience. Upon initial power-up, it automatically enters pairing mode, simplifying the connection process with smartphones or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. A standout feature is its ability to pair with another Sound Outdoor speaker for a stereo output, achieved through a simple press of the Link button. Furthermore, a multi-speaker mode allows for the connection of more than two speakers, offering a broader sound distribution, although this mode results in a standard mono mix rather than true stereo. Xiaomi claims a connectivity capacity of up to 100 speakers, though this remains untested in this review. The stereo pairing process is reportedly smooth and efficient, producing a well-synchronized audio output with minimal latency.
The Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Bluetooth speaker defies expectations with its impressive sound quality, especially considering its budget-friendly price. Its 30W power output surpasses that of similarly priced competitors, delivering a rich and dynamic audio experience. While the soundstage may not be as wide as some higher-end options like the JBL Flip 5, the Xiaomi speaker delivers a comparable listening experience at a significantly lower price, making it a remarkable value proposition. The dual woofer radiators contribute to a powerful and energetic bass response, adding depth and richness to the overall sound profile. While the speaker’s tuning leans towards bass emphasis, vocals remain clear and distinct, and the mids and highs maintain a balanced presence. The speaker can achieve surprisingly high volumes without noticeable distortion, ensuring a clear and enjoyable listening experience even at higher output levels.
Xiaomi has implemented a smart volume balancing feature that further enhances the listening experience. This feature dynamically adjusts the audio output across different volume levels, ensuring a consistent and balanced sound profile. This intelligent volume management addresses the common issue of higher frequencies overpowering mid-range frequencies at lower volumes, resulting in a more harmonious and enjoyable listening experience regardless of the volume setting.
In terms of battery life, the Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Bluetooth speaker delivers a respectable performance. While the company claims a 12-hour battery life at 50% volume, real-world testing suggests around nine hours of playback at 60-80% volume, which remains competitive within its price range. This battery endurance provides ample playtime for extended outdoor activities or travel excursions, minimizing the need for frequent recharging.
Overall, the Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Bluetooth speaker presents an exceptional value proposition, combining impressive sound quality, robust build quality, and a comprehensive feature set at a remarkably affordable price. Its IP67 rating, hands-free calling functionality, and multi-speaker pairing capabilities further enhance its appeal, making it a versatile and compelling choice for anyone in search of a portable and durable Bluetooth speaker. The option to pair two speakers for stereo sound significantly elevates the listening experience, making it a highly recommended purchase for individuals seeking an affordable yet immersive audio solution for outdoor adventures or everyday use.
