Soundcore Boom 3i Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker ZDNET's key takeaways The Soundcore Boom 3i is available now on Amazon for $110.
With some EQ tweaking, it produces better sound than you'd think for a waterproof speaker.
The Boom 3i does float, but playing music while half-submerged doesn't sound the best. $129.99 at Amazon
Vacation time is in full swing, which means you're probably heading to the great outdoors. When you're on the beach, fishing, swimming in a pool, or camping, you probably want to have some music, but unfortunately, many outdoor environments aren't suitable for Bluetooth speakers.
Also: One of the best portable speakers I tested is $40 off for Cyber Monday: Get this music powerhouse in a small package
You know how it goes: you accidentally drop your electronic device in the pool and someone shouts, "Get a bag of rice!"
It's a good thing there are companies out there that fully understand the ramifications of mixing water with electronics. One such company is Soundcore, particularly its new Boom 3i Bluetooth speaker, a waterproof device that won't require an emergency rice bath any time soon.
My experience
After pairing the 3i to my Pixel 9 Pro, I fired up "Signals," by Rush (because it's not only one of the greatest albums of the '80s, but also an outstanding option for testing speakers, thanks to the brilliant musicianship and mastering).
Before I go much further, understand this: the 3i isn't going to blow you away with a refined sound associated with high-end, audiophile-quality devices. It's more about being rugged and waterproof, so you have to forgive it for not having the ability to pump out defined and tight bass or crystal highs. This is especially so if you're going to have this speaker floating around in the pool as you bask in the sun.
... continue reading