The UE Wonderboom 2 wireless bluetooth speaker is a step up from its predecessor, the original Wonderboom. It features better sound quality and more bass response than the original. The new design also includes water resistance which makes it an excellent choice for use outdoors or around areas with liquid spills.
It features a brand new “Outdoor mode” for a superior listening experience while outside, has a rechargeable battery that lasts 13 hours on medium volume, and weighs just under 0.5 kg.
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Verdict
The UE Wonderboom II is more than just your average portable speaker – Ultimate Ears has put thought into how this small device will play music for you in ways that other speakers can’t match.
It’s also designed to keep up with an active lifestyle, whether you’re out on adventures at the beach or spending time around the house. Weighing less than half a kilogram and measuring only 10cm tall, this little wonder could easily accompany you wherever life takes you! If you’re looking for a speaker that is perfect for adventures, the Wonderboom II could be an excellent option.
Comparison Table
| UE Wonderboom 2 | JBL Flip 5 | Bose Soundlink Revolve 2 | |
| Power | Not stated | 20 watts | 17 watts |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | No | No | No |
| 360° Sound | Yes | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance Rating | IP67 | IPX7 | IP55 |
| Battery Powered | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Battery size | – | 4800mAh | – |
| Playtime | 13 Hours | 12 Hours | 13 Hours |
| USB Charge Out | No | No | No |
| App | No | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 0.43 kg | 0.50 kg | 0.66 kg |
| Speakerphone | No | No | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | No | No | Yes |
| Audio Inputs | None | None | Aux |
Performance
Sound Quality
When comparing sound quality to the original Wonderboom, this speaker has a more full range of sound and improved bass response.
It has a frequency range of 75 Hz – 20 kHz, which is comparable to other speakers in this price range.
The Wonderboom has some notable sound limitations, including a lack of treble and mid-range sounds (such as voices) and that it distorts at higher volumes.
Volume
The Wonderboom 2 has a maximum sound level of 86 dBC in standard mode and 87 dBC in OUTDOOR BOOST mode. The volume may be too low for big parties, but is more than sufficient for quieter environments.
A key feature of this speaker is its 360 degree sound, meaning it sounds great from all angles.
For such a small speaker, the volume on the Wonderboom is surprisingly decent.
Connectivity
The Wonderboom 2 is compatible with any device that supports Bluetooth. It can connect to two devices simultaneously, but only one device at a time can stream music through the Bluetooth connection.
As the speaker does not have a speakerphone mode, if you’re listening to music on your phone and receive an incoming call, you’ll have to disconnect your Bluetooth connection to answer.
Battery Life
Ultimate Ears state the Wonderboom 2 has a battery life of 13 hours. It charges in an hour or less using a micro USB cable included with your purchase.
Users generally find the battery life to be adequate, but without a power bank it can run out if you’re away from home and using the speaker for an extended period of time.
Other Features
Durability
The Wonderboom is water resistant (IP67) which means it can withstand rain without damaging the speaker. It also has an impact resistance of six feet from flat surfaces like floors and tables.
Portability
This is undoubtedly one of the most portable speakers on the market. It’s lightweight and small enough to be stuffed into a backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.
It can also withstand being dropped from six feet onto concrete, which is important for those who are often on the go with their speaker.
In addition to its IP67 waterproof rating and compact design, it also features a hanging loop which allows the Wonderboom to be hung on hooks or trees.
Controls
The Wonderboom 2 has physical buttons rather than touch control so there’s no risk of damaging it by accidentally brushing against the speaker.
The top button is for pairing and power, while the other two buttons are volume controls.
What’s Changed from Previous Versions?
One difference between the Wonderboom and Wonderboom 2 is the speaker’s volume. The Wonderboom has a max volume of 86dB, but the Wonderboom II goes up to 87dB, making it more suited for larger spaces and louder music. This may not sound like much but version 2 also packs more of a punch in the bass department.
The current model has an upgraded waterproof rating (IP67 vs the previous IPX7) as well as a longer battery life, which can last for up to 13 hours of continuous playback.
This speaker has a lower weight than the previous Wonderboom, and its size is smaller too. This makes it easier to take on walks or store in your bag – plus you have more room for other things!
Alternatives
When looking at alternatives for the Wonderboom 2, we naturally need to focus on the most lightweight and portable bluetooth speakers on the market.
Bose Soundlink Revolve 2
The Revolve 2 is a great option if your main concern is sound quality.
Compared to the Wonderboom 2, the Bose Soundlink Revolve 2 has a similar battery life, and they both offer 360 degree sound.
One key difference is in their durability. The Revolve 2 has a waterproof rating of IP55 meaning it is protected from limited dust and low-pressure water, while the IP67 rating of the Wonderboom 2 gives it full dust protection and can be immersed between 15 centimeters and 1 meter in depth.
If you want to be able to connect directly to your speaker via an Aux cable, then you’ll need to go with the Revolve 2.
JBL Flip 5
The Flip 5 is one of the Wonderboom 2s closest competitors and they are two of the most options speakers in the portable bluetooth speaker space.
If you’re looking for louder sound then the JBL is your better option with a max volume of almost 100 decibels compared to 87dB from UE.
The Wonderboom 2 is, however, lighter weight, coming in at 0.43 kg vs the Flip 5 at 0.50 kg.
Finally, the Flip 5 features app compatibility (JBL Portable app), which you won’t find on the UE speaker.
Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 FAQ
How loud is the Wonderboom 2?
The Wonderboom’s max volume is 87dB, which isn’t quite as loud as the JBL Flip speakers (but then again they’re bigger).
Does Wonderboom 2 have a mic?
The Wonderboom 2 doesn’t feature a built-in mic, so you cannot take calls or use voice assistants with the speaker.
How long does it take to charge a UE Wonderboom 2?
This speaker takes 2.6 hours to charge up and will last for 13 hours of continuous playback.
Review Summary
UE Wonderboom 2
The UE Wonderboom II is more than just your average portable speaker – Ultimate Ears has put thought into how this small device will play music for you in ways that other speakers can’t match.
Product SKU: 984-001547
Product Brand: Ultimate Ears
Product Currency: AUD
Product Price: 119.00
Product In-Stock: InStock
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