Bose SoundLink Plus Review: Performance in Everyday Use Tested

The portable speaker battlefield just intensified. Bose’s new SoundLink Plus enters the fray as a scaled-down sibling to last year’s acclaimed SoundLink Max, aiming to dethrone JBL’s long-reigning champions. Priced at £249/$269/AU$429, it targets premium rivals like the JBL Xtreme 4 and Dali Katch G2. But does this rugged brick deliver enough sonic firepower to justify its price?

Design & Durability: Built Like a Tank

Resembling a sleek, silicone-wrapped brick, the SoundLink Plus prioritizes resilience. Its metal grille and rounded corners exude understated elegance, while an IP67 rating guarantees survival in dust storms or accidental sink dunks (tested by What Hi-Fi? July 2025). A thick side carry loop enhances portability, though non-adjustable sizing may frustrate some users. Weighing just 145g and compact at 9.9 x 23.1 x 8.6cm, it’s engineered for adventures. Top-mounted silicone buttons offer satisfying tactile feedback, and four color options (including Limited Edition Citrus Yellow) add personality. Unlike plasticky competitors, this feels premium in-hand.

Features: Stripped-Back But Strategic

Bose’s approach prioritizes core functionality over gimmicks. Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Adaptive support ensures high-res wireless streaming, though the absence of USB-C audio input or Auracast sharing feels limiting. The 20-hour battery outlasts many peers but requires a sluggish 5-hour recharge. Stereo pairing via the Bose app is supported, and a customizable shortcut button accesses Spotify or speaker linking. Notably, it lacks a microphone for calls—a puzzling omission at this price. For outdoor purists, these trade-offs may be acceptable, but feature-focused buyers might lean toward JBL’s Charge 6 or Xtreme 4.

Sound Performance: Punch Over Precision

Where the SoundLink Plus shines is its unabashedly fun sound signature. Testing across genres—from Muse’s “Hysteria” to Debussy’s “Claire de Lune”—revealed a rich, full-bodied profile with aggressive bass punch. Volume scaling is impressive; even at max levels, distortion remains controlled. However, nuance takes a backseat. Compared to the JBL Xtreme 4’s tighter bass or Dali Katch G2’s sophisticated detailing, the Bose favors power over refinement. Tracks like Nick Cave’s “Into My Arms” expose its weaker dynamic subtlety, but for energetic playlists, it’s a thrilling companion.

The Verdict

The Bose SoundLink Plus carves its niche through rugged reliability and bold, entertaining audio. While it trails the JBL Xtreme 4 in features and sonic finesse, its IP67 toughness, aptX Adaptive support, and addictive energy make it ideal for adventurers seeking a portable powerhouse. If you prioritize durability and lively sound over cutting-edge tech, this speaker deserves your attention. Explore it today—and decide if Bose’s gamble pays off.

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Must Know

Q: Is the Bose SoundLink Plus waterproof?
A: Yes, it carries an IP67 rating, meaning it withstands full dust immersion and 30-minute water submersion. What Hi-Fi? confirmed this via real-world sink testing.

Q: How does it compare to the JBL Xtreme 4?
A: The JBL offers longer battery life (24hrs vs. 20hrs), USB-C audio input, and more nuanced sound. The Bose counters with aptX Adaptive Bluetooth and a sturdier build.

Q: Can you pair two SoundLink Plus speakers?
A: Yes, via Bose’s Stereo Pair mode in the companion app. This creates a wider soundstage for parties or outdoor setups.

Q: Does it support voice assistants?
A: No. The speaker lacks a built-in microphone, eliminating voice control or call functionality.

Q: What audio codecs are supported?
A: It uses SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive—the latter enabling high-resolution streaming from compatible devices.

Q: Is a 3.5mm aux input included?
A: No. Wireless playback via Bluetooth is the only option, though aptX Adaptive compensates with enhanced quality.