Ultimate Ears Boom 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker - 360 Sound

Our review of the Ultimate Ears BOOM 4 finds it best suited to people who want a rugged, easy-to-use portable speaker for outdoor gatherings and everyday listening. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of balanced 360-degree sound and durable, waterproof construction that lets you take it to the pool, beach, or backyard without worrying about splashes or drops. Battery life and Bluetooth range mean you can move around during parties while the speaker keeps playing, and the Magic Button makes playback quick and intuitive.

Key Features

• 360-degree sound: Delivers balanced, immersive audio so music fills a room or outdoor space rather than sounding directional.
• Waterproof and drop-proof: Rated IPX7 and drop-proof to about 5 ft, the speaker is built to survive splashes, rain, and accidental knocks outdoors.
• Long battery life: A rechargeable battery provides roughly 15 hours of playback on a single charge for a full day of listening.
• Extended Bluetooth range: Offers up to 147 ft of wireless freedom so you can move away from the source without losing connection.
• Magic Button: Play, pause, skip, and trigger one-touch playlists directly from the speaker for quick control on the go.
• PartyUp pairing: Use the companion app to link multiple compatible speakers and create a louder, surround-style experience.

Who It's For

The BOOM 4 is aimed at people who value durability and portability first: hikers, beachgoers, and hosts who need a speaker that resists water and accidental drops while still delivering strong sound quality outdoors. Its one-touch controls and long range make it convenient for backyard barbecues, poolside use, or filling an apartment living room with clear audio.

People who need studio-accurate monitoring, extremely long battery life beyond a day, or the loudest possible PA-style output should look elsewhere; the BOOM 4 prioritizes balanced, portable performance over pro audio features and extended marathon runtime.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear, full 360-degree sound with pleasing bass for its size.
• IPX7 waterproofing and drop resistance make it genuinely travel-friendly.
• Simple Magic Button controls and PartyUp pairing add convenience and expandability.
• Good value for a durable, portable wireless speaker that performs outdoors.

Cons

• Battery typically lasts up to 15 hours but may require a midday recharge during heavy use for some users.
• Not intended as a professional studio monitor or high-output PA replacement.

Specifications

Brand	Ultimate Ears
Sound	360-degree immersive sound with deep, balanced bass
Waterproof rating	IPX7 (submersible)
Drop proof	Up to 5 ft (1.5 meters)
Battery life	About 15 hours per charge
Bluetooth range	Up to 147 ft (45 meters)
Special features	Magic Button, PartyUp speaker pairing

Our Verdict

The Ultimate Ears BOOM 4 is a solid choice for anyone who wants a rugged, portable speaker with reliable outdoor performance and easy controls. It balances sound quality, durability, and convenience well, making it a strong value for casual listeners and outdoor hosts who need dependable, all-weather audio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BOOM 4 really waterproof?
Yes. It is rated IPX7, which means it can be submerged in water for short periods and is suitable for poolside use and wet conditions.

How long does the battery last in real use?
The speaker is rated for about 15 hours per charge; typical day use and higher volumes can reduce that, so heavy-party use may need a recharge after many hours.

Can I pair multiple speakers for louder sound?
Yes. Use the PartyUp feature in the Ultimate Ears app to link BOOM 4 with compatible speakers for a surround or louder multi-speaker setup.