A small portable speaker is the right solution for me.

The thing is, I didn’t want to pay a ton for it.

Then I found the Anker SoundCore wireless Bluetooth speaker.

Anker SoundCore portable speaker on a craft table.

Anker SoundCore.Lifewire / Jerri Ledford

It’s under $30.

Perfect for what I need.

How It’s Built

I knew the SoundCore was a small speaker when I ordered it.

The top of the Anker SoundCore speaker with the control buttons.

Anker SoundCore Control Buttons.Lifewire / Jerri Ledford

But what I think I liked most about this speaker is how simply it’s made.

Seriously, a toddler could operate this thing.

The controls are super simple.

Anker SoundCore outside on a table

Anker SoundCore.Lifewire / Jerri Ledford

The charging port, Aux in, and mic are on the side of the unit.

But then, I haven’t submerged it, ‘cause, who listens to musicunderthe water?

you’ve got the option to see that in the pictures online.

What you want to know is how it sounds.

Here’s what I’ll say: It’s more than passable for a sub-$30 Bluetooth speaker.

I’ve tried several; this is my favorite in this price range.

Let’s start with a comparison.

The SoundCore is not that.

The sound that comes from it has enough body and detail to suit me.

I will say, I prefer my music on the flatter side, especially when it comes to bass.

Unless I’m at a concert, I don’t need my music to regulate my heart rhythm.

I just need it to sound balanced.

The SoundCore manages that.

Volume might be the one feature that the speaker fails at.

Keep in mind, it’s a portable speaker, not a full-blown stereo system.

But still, I wish that it could get a little louder for when I have it outside.

As for Bluetooth range, it does a good job there.

The specs say it’ll connect up to 66ft.

Overall Impressions

Final verdict on this portable speaker?

It’s good enough.