For $199, I had moderately high expectations.
And while it’s a decent speaker with booming bass and a rugged design, I have mixed feelings.
This portable Bluetooth speaker has all the makings for a great product.
But how does it sound, and should you buy it vs. the competition?
Read on for our full review.
What’s in the Box?
Build Quality & Design
The new X-Series from Sony comes in three different sizes and models.
There’s a smallXE200, the XE300 we’re reviewing, and a bigger expensiveXG300.
The Sony XE300 has excellent build quality overall and feels very solid.
As a result, it’s shockproof, IP67 dust and water-resistant, and a durable machine.
Sony says it’s water-resistant up to a meter of water for 30 minutes.
It’s even salt water resistant.
You’ll also find the USB-C charging port behind a big rubber flap, which is nice.
While I love this thing’s durability, the pentagon shape is a bit odd.
It’s also pretty big.
At first, I wasn’t sure if I should stand it up or lay it horizontally for listening.
However, it’s designed as a stand-up speaker.
It’ll take up a lot of room in your backpack or beach bag, that’s for sure.
How Does it Sound?
Perhaps the most important aspect of any speaker is the audio quality.
So, how does it sound?
Well, it sounds pretty good, but it could certainly be better.
And while the bass doesn’t boom or shake a table, it’s a good solid bass level.
The speaker sounds best as long as you don’t go over about 75-80% volume.
Related:Sony WF-C500 Earbuds Review: Great-Sounding Basic Buds for $100
The third button serves multiple functions.
This will reduce the bass and extend battery life.
Speaking of battery life, Sony promises up to 24 hours from a single charge.
Still, that’s better than many others at this price point.
I’m just glad more speakers are finally coming with USB-C charging.
Should You Buy One?
The Sony XE300 is no doubt a solid portable Bluetooth speaker, but it could be better.
The Sony does, too, just not as well.
Despite that fact, it’s still my favorite speaker.
Bluetooth speakers at this price point have a lot of competition.
There are tons ofexcellent optionsif you’re looking to spend upwards of $200 on a portable Bluetooth speaker.
It’ll be a great option if you might catch it on sale.
