Signal-to-noise ratio
The ratio of the level of the useful signal (the actual sound being reproduced) to the level of extraneous noise provided by the speaker amplifier in normal mode.
Any amplifier inevitably creates its own noise; You cannot get rid of them, but you can reduce their level. The higher the signal-to-noise ratio, the cleaner the sound will be, the less noticeable extraneous interference will be. However, it is worth keeping in mind that the signal-to-noise ratio is far from the only parameter that affects sound quality, and its high value does not guarantee pleasant sound from the speakers.
Output power
The total power of all channels of the speaker system. The higher the power, the larger the size of the room in which the audio system can be used, however, more
powerful portable speakers usually have larger dimensions and weight.
Frequency range
The range of audio frequencies reproduced by the audio system. The wider the range, the richer the sound, the more details the speakers can convey, especially in the low and high frequencies. At the same time, we note that the average human ear is able to hear sounds in the range of about 16 – 20,000 Hz, and it makes no sense to provide a wider range in speakers — a person simply will not hear it. Also note that a wide frequency range alone does not guarantee good sound quality.
More features
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LCD display. This screen makes device control more visual: it can display the operating mode, equalizer settings, battery charge level, etc.
— Handle/strap.
The presence of a handle or strap makes wearing the speaker more comfortable. So the handle is used mainly in large stereo speakers and makes them similar to boomboxes (
cassette recorders) of yesteryear. The strap can be used both for large speakers and for miniature ones, which allows you to hang them on your hand, on elements of a backpack, etc.
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Flashlight. This feature likely won't replace a high-end, dedicated flashlight. The power of the built-in flashlight is usually enough to illuminate at least a distance of 2 - 3 meters, and models with a bicycle mount (see above) can even play the role of a headlight (although, again, they are inferior to specialized bicycle lights).
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Carabiner/suspension A device in the form of a latch that allows you to attach the speaker to items of clothing, backpack straps, etc.
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Bicycle mount. A special device designed to mount the speaker on a bicycle, usually on the handlebars, at the user’s fingertips. Such models are often complemented by a hands-free function, which allows you to communicate on the phone without taking your hands off the
...steering wheel.Battery capacity
Theoretically, a
higher capacity allows to achieve greater battery life, but in fact, the operating time also depends on the power consumption of acoustics — and it can be very different, depending on the characteristics and design features. So this parameter is secondary, and when choosing it is worth paying attention not so much to the battery capacity, but to the directly claimed operating time (see below).
Battery life
Operating time of a portable audio system without connecting to an external power source (network or USB port, depending on the capabilities). Note that manufacturers tend to indicate battery life in their specifications under optimal conditions for energy saving: at low volume, without using additional functions, etc. Therefore, in fact, this indicator may be noticeably lower than the claimed one, and
speakers with a long operating time will not sound at full volume for the specified hours.
Charging time
The time it takes to charge a fully discharged device to 100% charge.
Power bank mode
Ability to work portable acoustics in
power bank mode. This mode is only found in models with their own batteries (see "Power type"): it allows you to use this battery to power a smartphone or other external gadget. Thus, acoustics can play the role of an additional external battery, which is important in situations where it is not possible to charge a portable device in time.
Note that Power Bank speakers may only be compatible with certain phone models; this point should be clarified before buying.
