Bose SoundLink Max review

The SoundLink Max is the most capable home and yard speaker we compared, and the priciest besides the Bang & Olufsen. Bose lists stereo sound with deep bass and a group size of up to 20 people, where its smaller SoundLink speakers are mono. Battery life is rated at up to 20 hours, and the USB-C port works both ways, so a phone can charge from the speaker while music plays. It carries an IP67 rating, and Bose notes that ports, transducers and passive radiators are built with waterproof materials. A removable rope handle makes it easy to carry from patio to kitchen, and two Max speakers can run in Stereo Mode or Party Mode. Bluetooth 5.4 has a 30 ft range, and SimpleSync links it to compatible Bose products. Downsides: there is no microphone, charging takes 5 hours, and at 4.9 lb it is a carry-by-hand speaker, not a backpack one. At $399, value trails the cheaper picks.

Who it is for

Home and yard listeners who want the fullest stereo sound in a speaker they can still carry by hand.

Price

$399 at Bose's US store when checked.

Blue Dusk Price is: $399.00 Quantity
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 7, 2026.

Key features

• Stereo sound with deep bass, sized for groups of up to 20 people
• Up to 20 hours of battery life
• IP67 water and dust rating
• USB-C in and out to charge your phone while listening
• Stereo Mode and Party Mode with a second SoundLink Max

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Removable rope handle for carrying
• Strength: Bluetooth 5.4 and Bose app control
• Strength: SimpleSync works with compatible Bose products
• Weakness: No microphone, so it cannot take calls
• Weakness: 4.9 lb and over 10 inches wide, not a bag speaker
• Weakness: 5-hour charge time is the longest here

Key facts

• Battery: 20 hours, 5-hour charge
• Water and dust: IP67
• Weight: 4.9 lb
• Size: 4.73 x 10.42 x 4.13 in
• Bluetooth: 5.4, 30 ft range

Where it ranks

Bose SoundLink Max is No. 6 in our Best Bluetooth Speakers verdict.