Review of the Ultimate Ears Boom 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
The Ultimate Ears Boom 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker is a standout contender in the realm of portable audio devices, offering a combination of impressive sound quality, durability, and user-friendly features. From its sleek design to its robust performance, the Boom 4 has gained a reputation as an ideal companion for music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Below, we delve deeper into its features, benefits, and some of the user feedback that might help prospective buyers make an informed decision.
1. Design and Build Quality
The Boom 4 is crafted with a robust yet stylish plastic casing that makes it both lightweight and durable. With dimensions of 2.87″D x 2.87″W x 7.25″H and weighing just 620 grams (1.37 pounds), this speaker is easily portable and can be stowed away without taking much space. Additionally, the speaker is rated IPX7 waterproof and drop-proof up to 15 feet (1.5 meters), making it virtually indestructible for outdoor use. Users can confidently take it to the beach, pool, or during hikes without worrying about water damage or accidental drops.
2. Sound Quality
The sound quality of the Boom 4 is one of its most touted features. It delivers rich, 360-degree sound that immerses listeners in their favorite tracks. The deep, accurate bass is well-balanced, allowing users to hear every note clearly. This speaker is particularly favored for outdoor gatherings and parties, where high volume and clarity are essential. However, some users have reported that the bass might not be as pronounced for certain types of music, suggesting that those who prioritize deep bass may want to explore other options.
3. Battery Life and Charging
With a rechargeable battery that boasts an impressive 15-hour runtime on a single charge, the Boom 4 is designed for extended listening sessions. Users can enjoy their favorite playlists without the need for constant recharging. Charging the device is straightforward, taking approximately 3 hours to reach a full charge via the included USB-C cable. However, there have been mixed reviews regarding battery performance, with some users claiming that high volume levels significantly reduce battery life, suggesting a discrepancy between advertised and actual performance.
4. Connectivity and User-Friendly Features
Equipped with Bluetooth technology, the Boom 4 offers a wireless range of up to 45 meters (147 feet), allowing users to move freely without losing their connection. The speaker includes a unique “PartyUp” feature that enables pairing with other Ultimate Ears speakers, creating an even more immersive sound experience for larger gatherings.
The Magic Button feature allows users to control music playback and create one-touch playlists from popular streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music. This convenience is appreciated by those who prioritize ease of use while enjoying their favorite tunes.
5. User Feedback
User reviews for the Boom 4 highlight a range of experiences, from enthusiastic praise for its sound quality and durability to criticisms regarding battery life and volume output. Many users commend its compact design and ease of synchronization with various devices, including smartphones and tablets. For instance, one reviewer noted that the speaker is great for podcast listening due to its sound clarity, while others expressed disappointment regarding the bass response when playing music.
Some users have reported battery lifespan issues, particularly at high volumes, which raises concerns regarding the accuracy of the 15-hour claim. This has led to mixed feelings about its overall value, especially when compared to previous iterations like the UE Boom II, which some users found to have better battery longevity.
6. Conclusion
The Ultimate Ears Boom 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker is a robust and reliable option for anyone seeking a quality portable speaker that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Its combination of impressive sound quality, user-friendly features, and durable design make it a suitable companion for various activities, from beach outings to backyard barbecues. However, potential buyers should carefully consider the reported battery performance and volume issues before making their purchase.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
While the Boom 4 excels in many areas, slight inconsistencies in battery life and sound performance could influence the decision for audiophiles or those with specific audio preferences. For the casual listener or outdoor adventurer, however, it remains an excellent choice.
Gmram –
I absolutely adore the color of this blue speaker! The music quality is fantastic, with deep bass that I really enjoy. I haven’t tested it with an audiobook yet, so I’m unsure if the bass might overpower it, but it truly shines when playing my favorite songs. The sound is clear, and it can get really loud—I haven’t even cranked it up to 75% yet!
Jorge Lara –
I previously owned a Wonderboom that unfortunately got lost. My last one lasted seven years before it was either stolen or misplaced. This new model is sleek and doesn’t have the annoying power-up noise of the previous one. However, after finding my old Wonderboom, I compared the sound quality, and the old one definitely sounded better. I decided to return this one for a refund.
Cactus Gramby –
Excellent sound quality! I tried the app, but it doesn’t allow me to adjust the bass levels, which is disappointing. It doesn’t occupy much space on my desk and is very user-friendly. I really love this color!
AROD –
Great compact design. Effortless syncing with my iPhone and user-friendly. Impressive sound quality for such a small size.
J.Li –
I use this speaker frequently, and it’s perfect for moving around the house. I even bought a second one to pair them. The battery life is impressive, charging is a breeze, and as an audiophile who loves music, I appreciate being able to take it outside while gardening or use it in the bathroom—it’s versatile for any activity!
Sai Bhanu Teja –
I really liked it; it’s easy to use and has decent sound for a party, just don’t expect high-end audio.
Daniel D –
I couldn’t be happier with this purchase! The sound quality is outstanding, and the battery life has been excellent so far. I feel that the investment was definitely worthwhile. It paired effortlessly with my phone. I highly recommend it!
denise –
The sound quality is just okay; it’s not very loud. At maximum volume, the battery drains completely in four hours, and at three-quarters volume, it lasts about five hours. It also doesn’t charge while connected to a USB car charger. I purchased a certified refurbished Mega Boom 3 after a coworker sent me the link. After just three songs, the speaker started rattling, and by the time I got home from work, it had filled with water. As a city letter carrier in Vegas, I spend at least seven hours outdoors daily. I left a cooling towel on the already rattling speaker, and somehow it managed to fill with water, rendering the waterproof feature useless. Whether new or refurbished, I can honestly say that both the Ultimate Ears Boom 4 and Mega Boom 3 are disappointing. I once had a $28 JBL speaker that was just as loud and lasted two years before it blew out. I have a feeling the Mega Boom 4 won’t be any better.
Renee DeLaPorte –
I really enjoy the sound quality, but the battery life is significantly shorter than my previous UE Boom and UE Boom 2. I experienced only 2 hours of playtime instead of the advertised 15 hours. When I inquired about this, AI suggested it might be a high volume issue, but that’s not the case! My UE Boom II lasts about 5 hours longer at maximum volume. It’s frustrating to see such a discrepancy—2 hours at high volume is unacceptable for a product that claims 15 hours. This feels like false advertising! Additionally, the pricing is misleading; Amazon inflated the price and then offered a “Black Friday discount,” while the UE Boom site lists it at $129, marked down to $114.
Chris Ligi –
I’m a big fan of Ultimate Ears. The Boom 4 is an excellent choice for a bedroom speaker. The sound quality is impressive, the clarity is sharp, and the bass is definitely noticeable. I give it a 5/5!
J.Li –
This speaker is excellent for podcast listeners, offering outstanding sound and quality. However, it falls short for music, lacking any bass. If you prioritize music listening like I do, I recommend investing in a Bose.
Claire H –
Excellent product!
Craig –
I purchased this speaker because a friend has the older version, which is fantastic. The sound quality is excellent, and the battery life is impressive. It also comes with some great features like a PA system and party mode. However, I rated it only 2 stars due to misleading advertising. The listing indicated it was the Megaboom 4 at an incredible price, but what I received was the Boom 4 instead. I even checked all the color options to confirm I was getting the Megaboom, but unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Be cautious about what you click on and thoroughly review the entire listing before making a purchase.