Anker Soundcore Boom 3i is a rugged Bluetooth speaker that promises to stay afloat, literally, while delivering solid sound for a very competitive price. The speaker is currently listed at $75, which is $65 off its original list price, making it the lowest price seen on this portable Bluetooth speaker.
At a Glance
- $75 price, $65 off list
- Waterproof, dust-resistant (IP68) and 5x saltwater-resistant
- 16-hour battery life, 100-foot Bluetooth range
- Built for outdoor use with auto-correcting float feature
- Why it matters: A budget-friendly option that combines durability and decent audio for outdoor enthusiasts.
Overview
The Anker Soundcore Boom 3i is positioned as the spiritual successor to the Soundcore Motion Plus. While it shares a similar shape, Anker markets it as “built for the wild,” emphasizing its ability to play while floating and to auto-correct its orientation so the drivers face upward above the water surface.
Key Features
- IP68 rating: Fully waterproof and dust-resistant.
- 5x saltwater-resistant: Designed to stay corrosion-free for up to two years of beach, boat, and seaside use.
- Detachable carrying strap: Makes it easy to sling on a kayak or backpack.
- LED lighting: Colorful LEDs on each side, with a beat-synced light show that can be turned on or off.
- Buzz Clean mode: Vibrates to shed dirt and particles; can be rinsed after use.
- BassUp button: Holding for 5 seconds triggers a 96-decibel emergency alarm, audible up to 100 meters.
Sound and Performance
While the speaker is mono and not an audiophile’s dream, it delivers loud sound for its size. Weighing about 1.8 pounds and measuring 8.3 by 3.1 by 3.3 inches, it produces reasonable bass and clarity. The companion app lets users tweak equalizer settings and pair two speakers in stereo mode for a richer experience.
Waterproofing and Durability
The Anker Soundcore Boom 3i can be dropped into a pool. It flips over, keeping the drivers facing upward, and continues playing-though the audio becomes garbled when a wave passes and the drivers start spitting water. The speaker’s IP68 rating and saltwater-resistance mean it can survive beach, boat, and seaside use without rusting for up to two years.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life is rated for 16 hours at moderate volumes, which is respectable for a speaker of this size. The Bluetooth range is 100 feet, noticeably longer than the typical 33 feet seen in many other portable speakers.
Practical Use Cases
The speaker has proven versatile in various settings: from backyard hangouts and hot tubs to a bathroom or a small room. Its auto-correcting float feature makes it a good choice for outdoor adventures where you might need to take it to the water.
Price and Availability
At $75, the Anker Soundcore Boom 3i offers a substantial discount of $65 off its list price. This makes it a compelling deal for anyone looking to upgrade their mobile sound situation without stretching their budget.
Takeaways
- The Anker Soundcore Boom 3i combines durability, water-resistance, and decent audio at a very competitive price.
- Its unique auto-correcting float feature and 5x saltwater-resistance set it apart from typical portable speakers.
- With 16-hour battery life and a 100-foot Bluetooth range, it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- The $75 price point, $65 off the list, makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
The information above is based on a review by Marcus L. Bennett for News Of Los Angeles.
