Watching a movie underneath the stars sounds like the perfect way to unwind!
But more often than not, outdoor movie theaters or projectors do not offer good sound quality. And with an outdoor setting, the already low audio gets dispersed, becoming even more inaudible.
Hence, it wasn’t long after my husband gifted me a mini projector that I went on my hunt for an ideal set of speakers to go with it. I was able to find products from different renowned brands belonging to different price ranges. So, I thought, why not share my findings with my regular readers?
Hey, it's Stacy Smith, a full-time gardener, part-time dog mom, and self-proclaimed movie critic! And today, I’ve curated this review-based guide on the best speakers for outdoor projector.
So, without further ado, let the music play…
Top 5 Speakers For Outdoor Projector
1. Cambridge Soundworks SWOA3UDLB
If superior sound quality is what you want, then these dual speakers by Cambridge Soundworks are your best bet. This product was my first buy, and I still reach out for it often for movie sessions with friends or a large group in general. Additionally, these speakers are available in three stylish color variants.
Product Highlights
Starting off with the USP of this product- these Cambridge Soundworks OontZ Angle 3 Ultra speakers allow you to enjoy loud and clear music in two different areas. The Bluetooth speakers connect to each other and then to the device of your choice within 100 ft. As such, if you purchase multiple units, you can connect them all for a surround-sound experience.
Boasting 14 W of power, each speaker combines to offer powerful, bass-rich sound for 20 hours on a single charge. Interestingly, the speakers consist of dual precision stereo drivers and a proprietary bass radiator, which further add to the richness of the audio quality.
And here’s the best part- the speakers are IPX7 certified waterproof, making them ideal for pool and beach parties. In fact, the device will not be affected even if it falls 1 meter deep into the water. But do take it out as soon as possible!
What's There To Like About It?
First off, these speakers are pretty loud! I’ve tried them outdoors and in larger rooms, and the sound quality only outdid itself each time. However, note that the ones I’m reviewing are dual speakers and not the single variant, which may not be able to cover the same amount of area.
Additionally, considering that these speakers are high on bass, I appreciate how the device sports thick, spongy pads to keep them put throughout.
What's There Not To Like About It?
These were my first pair of Bluetooth speakers, so I really didn’t know how it compared to others on the market. And even after much research, I’m still unable to point a finger at any significant drawback. I would have, however, liked a battery indicator on the device.
Pros and Cons of Cambridge Soundworks SWOA3UDLB
Pros
Cons
- POWERFUL SOUND - This portable speaker 2-pack is made to travel, with a 20-hour battery life. Each speaker features 2 precision neodymium drivers and a proprietary bass radiator to pump out crystal-clear high and mid sound, with bass beyond its size.
- IPX7 WATERPROOF DESIGN - Each waterproof Bluetooth speaker can be fully submerged up to 3-feet underwater for thirty minutes, so they are perfect for enjoying music in the shower, outdoors at the beach, or by the pool.
- STEREO SOUND - Pair up to 4 ULTRA speakers together to play your music with incredible left and right stereo via the OontZ app. Each party speaker features 14 watts of output voltage to provide high-quality sound with zero distortion even at max volume.
2. Polk Audio AM4085-A|4
Available in two classic shades, these all-weather Bluetooth speakers cost more than my previous pick. But with features like wide sound dispersion, high environmental endurance, and 80 W power, these Polk Audio speakers justify the slightly higher price tag.
Product Highlights
Right off the bat, these speakers were exclusively designed for outdoor use, so it is no surprise that they flaunt a rugged exterior. The aluminum grille bracket, and stainless steel and brass hardware offer external endurance and all-weather durability to the product. Plus, it is 100% rust-free, making it all the more durable and long-lasting.
Moving on, AM4085-A|4 is equipped with a Dynamic Balance polymer cone and an anodized aluminum dome tweeter, both of which offer a surround-sound effect and strong bass. If you’re not into bass, I highly recommend adjusting the equalizer, which is available in most music streaming apps.
Other than using these speakers in the backyard or the beach, you can take them with you while trekking, thanks to the versatile, anti-slip design. Plus, they sport a one-click speed-lock mounting bracket, allowing vertical and horizontal mounting.
What's There To Like About It?
I always opt for products that offer convenience and require low maintenance, so this product from Polk Audio was an instant hit!
I liked how it wasn’t too big and bulky but covered an impressive amount of outdoor area. And considering the super versatile mounting system, I gifted a pair to my son, who often goes on road trips with his friends. As expected, these speakers are now his go-to for any of his outdoor adventures!
What's There Not To Like About It?
The only complaint I have is that cranking the volume up sometimes distorts the sound quality, especially if the audio source is high on bass. However, it works fairly well if you’re using it with an outdoor projector for watching movies.
On the other hand, if you want to listen to music only, you might want to use this pair as accents and not as standalone speakers.
Pros and Cons of Polk Audio AM4085-A|4
Pros
Cons
- EASY INSTALLATION - One-click speed-lock mounting bracket offers anti-slip, one-handed installation. Mount these outdoor speakers wired vertically or horizontally to deliver optimal sound in different setups
- EASY SETUP - Polk outdoor speaker’s gold plated 5-way binding post can easily connect to any modern AVR or amplifier
- ALL WEATHER CERTIFICATION - Rugged durability and premium build make these Outdoor Movie Speakers ready for every season, effortlessly withstanding extreme temperatures, heavy rain, and all elements
3. BenqBot Portable Soundbar
If you’re looking for a Bluetooth speaker that doubles up as an aesthetic piece of home decor, this one’s for you. The portable soundbar from BenqBot features built-in subwoofers for clear and rich sound quality. I especially enjoyed watching concerts on this high-performance unit.
Product Highlights
The BenqBot portable soundbar offers versatile connectivity options, including Bluetooth, coaxial, TF card, AUX, and RCA. So, you can either pick the convenience of going wireless or the relatively better sound quality with a wired connection.
Consequently, the speaker can be connected to any of your multimedia devices to enjoy a 3D surround sound effect. And thanks to its 2200 mAh battery, you can enjoy 4-6 hours of uninterrupted music.
Additionally, the sleek design of the soundbar makes it ideal for indoor use. Its 16.9-inch body is also quite lightweight, making it a portable addition to an outdoor projector for movie nights with your loved ones!
Moreover, the remote control allows you to adjust the volume, change songs, and receive calls, all from the comfort of your couch. Yet, if the product fails to meet your requirements, you can request a return within 90 days of purchase.
What's There To Like About It?
Unlike other products on the list, this speaker comes with an in-built subwoofer, so you need not purchase one to enjoy a rich sound effect. Whether you use it indoors or outdoors- the volume and sound quality will never disappoint you.
Additionally, I really appreciate the easy setup process, allowing me to install it and figure out the settings within 30 minutes. I bet someone younger than me will be able to beat my record!
What's There Not To Like About It?
Considering the affordable price, I couldn’t find a significant flaw with the quality and performance of this speaker. However, one minor drawback would be the short charging cable which did not come with a wall adaptor. So, if you want to use the speaker while keeping it plugged in, it can get a tad bit inconvenient.
Pros and Cons of BenqBot Portable Soundbar
Pros
Cons
- ①【Portable Sound Bar 2 x 5W Subwoofer system Stereo surround for Small Room with 2200mAh Battery】Experience the movie at home just like in a theatre. The two built-in speakers produce crystal clear 3D surround sound to bring you the maximum movie and concert experience. 2200mAh high-capacity high-performance lithium battery, it can play music for about 4-6 hours. Perfect for small room, living room, dorm room, kitchen, parties, outdoor Activities
- ②【5 WAYS TO CONNECT: Coaxial+Bluetooth 5.0+AUX+TF Card】Multiple wireless and wired connections, easily connect to the sound bar via Coaxial, Bluetooth 5.0, AUX audio cable. No matter what devices you use, enjoy unparalleled access with multiple connection methods available. Easily enjoy the high-quality stereo experience of the home theater. Suit for 20" or above TVs or Smartphones, PC, DVD, Tablets, Projectors etcSupport TF card playback.
- ③【2 X 5W Sleek and Powerful + Built-in subwoofers】HD stereo speaker immersive music bass boost, rich in layers. So soft and shocking, internal magnetic horn, the volume is louder. With the sleek look, our soundbar is easily incorporated in your home with a fashionable take. The 16.9’’ light-weight body allows you to take the great sound experience with you anywhere you go. However, the small body does not play games! Enjoy the sound at the maximum 10W output for 4-6 hours non-stop.
4. Pohopa B210G
With its distinct shape and in-built lights, I think the Pohopa speakers are an apt party starter! I personally like the one with white LED lights for a more elegant and soft glow. However, the unit with multi-colored lights is also popular among youngsters.
Product Highlights
What drew me to these speakers was the built-in LED lights that make it a unique pick among other products on the list. While that’s a secondary feature, the fact that you can enjoy 5-6 hours (thanks to the 4,400 mAh battery) of music with the lights turned on is quite impressive. And not to forget that they look amazing under the night sky!
Moreover, since these speakers come in a pair, you can enjoy louder and richer sound quality by placing them in two different points. Once you turn them on, the speakers will not take more than 6 seconds to connect with one another, making the process easy and quick.
Notably, the speakers are dust-proof and waterproof, making them the ideal companion to your outdoor projector. As such, you’ll never have to worry about using them near the pool or while camping in rough terrain.
What's There To Like About It?
Without a doubt, I liked how these speakers combined a large capacity battery with beautiful LED lights. Plus, these speakers are shaped like lamps, so I can hang them around my patio along with fairy lights for a Bohemian vibe!
Besides, I appreciate how the brand offers a 12-month warranty on the product, making the purchase risk-free. So, if it’s your first time buying portable speakers, check these out and contact the customer care team in case of any quality issues.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Although these Pohopa speakers offer good quality sound for a “stereo” speaker, I wished it didn’t distort on increasing the volume. However, downloading an EQ app really helped me stabilize the highs and the lows, so I suggest you do the same.
Overall, the speakers sound decent but do not justify the high price.
Pros and Cons of Pohopa B210G
Pros
Cons
- WIRELESS STEREO DUAL PAIRING: Take your sound experience to the next level with the TWS function, allowing you to pair two speakers for a powerful 20W true stereo surround sound. The Pohopa EF-B210G indoor/outdoor Bluetooth speakers deliver rich, immersive stereo sound, making it feel like your favorite artist is performing live in your backyard. The Main and Secondary speakers automatically link within 5 seconds after turning them on—simple and easy to use with no hassle.
- ENJOYABLE RANGE & CONNECTION: The Bluetooth range between your device and the Main speaker reaches up to 33 feet, while the stereo dual pairing distance between the Main and Secondary speakers extends up to 66 feet. Designed with IP54 waterproof and dustproof ratings, these wireless outdoor speakers are perfect for pool areas, patios, backyards, lawns, gardens, camping trips, and more.
- LED LIGHTING & POWERFUL SOUND: Enhance your outdoor vibe with 20 vibrant LED lights built around the speakers. At the heart of each speaker is a 10W unit, delivering powerful sound with crisp highs from a big subwoofer. Advanced digital sound technology, noise and wind reduction, and a unique loudspeaker cavity structure combine to deliver premium acoustic performance. With stereo pairing, you’ll enjoy full, rich sound that fills the space, especially around a summer pool or evening gathering.
5. Pyle PDWR42BBT
Closing the list with this petite budget-buy, here’s the outdoor waterproof speaker from Pyle. Despite its small build, this dual speaker system packs a punch with its heavy-duty grill, thereby producing an impactful sound quality!
Product Highlights
Measuring merely 5.25 x 3.75 x 3.75 inches, Pyle PDWR42BBT weighs just a bit over 1 pound. As a result, it can easily fit into your travel bag or the smallest corner of your outdoor movie setup. Besides, each unit is equipped with a rustproof grill cabinet, allowing convenient vertical and horizontal mounting.
Adding to the build are the aluminum injection cone subwoofer, superior dome tweeters, wide dispersion cones, and a bass reflex vent. All of these features work synergistically to offer rich sound with bass response.
Thanks to its Bluetooth power amplifier, the speaker allows hassle-free connection and setup. You can easily connect it to any smartphone, laptop, CD player, and more. Other than that, the system features an input jack for wired connections, which provide comparatively better sound.
What's There To Like About It?
First off, I really like how the product is accompanied by a long wire, allowing easy connection and charging. Pairing these speakers to my devices via Bluetooth was also a quick process.
And considering the price of the product, I appreciate the rugged and durable build as it was able to withstand rough weather conditions in my backyard. However, I still recommend mounting them on a patio or deck to avoid any direct contact with rain.
What's There Not To Like About It?
A tiny flaw of this product is that there is no way to turn the Bluetooth feature on and off other than just plugging it in or out respectively. While it doesn’t cause a major inconvenience, I would have preferred having a tiny switch to control the Bluetooth.
Pros and Cons of Pyle PDWR42BBT
Pros
Cons
- 200 WATT POWER: Pyle’s 200-watt dual outdoor wall mount speaker system is what you need to listen to high-quality audio in your home, backyard, by the pool or patio outside! Includes (1) active and (1) passive 3.5” 3-way indoor outdoor speakers.Waterproof : Yes
- BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY: The weatherproof integrated loud speaker system is equipped w/ Bluetooth wireless music streaming. Works with today’s latest devices including iPhone, Android, smartphone, iPad, tablet, PC, etc w/ hassle-free receiver pairing
- SUPPORTS VARIOUS DEVICES: The black waterproof recessed marine speaker system has a built-in AUX 3.5mm input jack which allows you to connect external audio sources such as mobile phone, laptop, computer, MP3, and CD player
Buyers Guide
So, by now, you are already well-versed with the best speakers for outdoor projector available on the market. But to be able to choose between them, you should know the purpose behind buying them. For example, besides using them with a projector, you might want something waterproof for playing music at beach parties or something durable enough to carry for your next trekking adventure.
As such, you should be clear with your requirements and preferences. So, to make the process easier, I’ve listed some important factors you must consider before making your purchase…
1. Bluetooth Version
Since most of the options above offer Bluetooth connectivity, it helps to know the version you’re opting for. For instance, Bluetooth v.1 is the first generation and quite rare to find nowadays. On the other hand, Bluetooth 2.1 is still seen in many types of equipment.
However, the most common and latest versions are Bluetooth 4.0 and Bluetooth 5, respectively. These versions are suitable with devices that offer advanced sensors used for, let’s say, fitness tracking.
But, personally, I’d say Bluetooth 2.1 is also good enough for a simple pair of speakers.
2. Wired Inputs
Besides offering Bluetooth connectivity, the speakers must feature different ports for wired connections. This is because some devices like the iPod classic need to be connected with a cable to enjoy music from your newly-bought speakers!
Moreover, wired connectivity offers better sound quality than wireless connections in most speakers.
3. Size
Note that larger speakers offer a louder and more accurate audio experience. They even boast a longer battery life than smaller options on the market. However, smaller speakers are obviously much easier to carry for music on the go!
4. Battery Life
Since you’ll be investing in a portable speaker for a projector, you wouldn’t want to recharge it after every few hours. So, considering the battery life of the product is essential.
If you want something that can last you overnight, I suggest opting for a bulkier option over a small and stylish one. Also, keep in mind that playing the audio at a higher volume requires more current, thereby depleting your battery faster.
Another point to note is that battery health degrades with continuous use, so older batteries tend to discharge faster than newer ones.
5. Audio Quality And Power
Now, most outdoor projectors do not offer good quality speakers. So, if you’re buying external speakers to use with a projector, might as well invest in one that offers an impressive audio experience.
Here, you’ll have to check the harmonic distortion, frequency response, and watts. However, if you’re not much of a knit-picker when it comes to music, you can simply check the amount of power (watts) specified. So, the larger the area, the more power (watts) you’ll need to enjoy loud and clear audio.
6. Resistance To Damage
Thanks to wireless connectivity, you’d want to use these speakers outdoors and in various weather conditions. So, check if the speaker you choose sports a waterproof and rust-proof body. However, you can check for submersible speakers if you often conduct poolside or beach parties.
Additionally, try opting for a durable model if you are into camping and trekking. So, even if you accidentally drop the device, it wouldn’t bear any significant damage.
7. Style
Now, there are tons of styles and designs to choose from. In fact, some of the speakers on the list are available in multiple colors to cater to different tastes. As such, you could either opt for something fancy like Pohopa B210G or something minimal like BenqBot Portable Soundbar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. First of all, Bluetooth speakers are not limited to a particular area. You can fix them anywhere and change the mounting position as and when required. However, WiFi speakers are bound to a fixed area as they require WiFi connectivity to function.
Also, while WiFi-enabled speakers require a separate device (i.e., a router) to connect to the audio source, Bluetooth speakers can connect directly.
All types of speakers are equipped with a cabinet, crossovers, and drivers. These components are essential for converting electrical energy into sound waves. In addition to the aforementioned parts, waterproof speakers sport a conformal coating to protect the printed circuit boards (PCBs) from external factors.
Nanotechnology also plays a key role in adding durability to such speakers. In addition to that, all waterproof and some water-resistant speakers contain a layer of superhydrophobic coating as it repels all types of liquids and moisture.
Lastly, various types of tapes and glues are used to connect the different parts of a speaker without leaving any gaps for water and other particles to seep in.
Over a period of time, yes! In fact, I do not recommend keeping your speakers submerged in water even if they are 100% waterproof. Most of these claims regarding water resistance imply that the device can withstand splashes of water only.
Even the IPX ratings do not consider any case of drenching the device in water/seawater, so you should take suitable precautions to make the most out of your speaker.
My Final Recommendation
While a portable speaker is not a necessity, it is definitely a sensible addition to a party or a Netflix binge-watching session under the stars! So, I hope my extensive guide on the best speakers for outdoor projector helped you learn something new and make a choice accordingly.
But before I sign off, I’d like to reiterate some of my favorites. Cambridge Soundworks SWOA3UDLB is the clear winner with its long-lasting battery and top-notch sound quality. However, Polk Audio AM4085-A|4 is my go-to pick for outdoor adventures due to its durability and anti-slip mounting.
And that’s all for today, folks! I’ll be back soon with another informative guide, so until then, stay safe.