hot tub speakers
I love music and hot tubs. So naturally, I thought it would be great to get a floating speaker. But as I researched, I saw a lot of mixed reviews. So I wondered what the best floating hot tub speakers were.
Here’s what I discovered:
COWIN, ECOXGEAR, and Altec Lansing make some of the top floating speakers that are waterproof. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to simply connect your phone and then select the music app of your choice. These are high-quality enough to sound great. But small enough to be easily portable too.
Before we jump into the list, it’s important to know how and why a floating speaker works. After all, wouldn’t they get damaged by water?
Let’s check out the details below.
Wife got me a floating waterproof speaker for the hot tub. 😎 pic.twitter.com/3B8sJIcqP3
— Conner Hafen (@Conblob) March 3, 2021
How Do Floating Hot Tub Speakers Work?
Floating hot tub speakers have three factors working in their favor:
- Weight
- Air
- Waterproof sealing
The weight of a waterproof speaker is the reason that it floats.
Most speakers these days are made with a mixture of metal, plastic, and other materials. However, these lightweight speakers only use thin, durable plastic to get the job done.
You won’t have to worry about them breaking, though. They’re actually quite tough, taking little to no damage at all from drops, scrapes, and so on. The reason that the plastic can still be a bit thick is because of the air inside.
Air makes up for the vast majority of the volume inside of most floating hot tub speakers. Since it’s so lightweight, it makes the speaker weigh less than water, hence the fact that it floats!
Another reason that the air inside benefits you and your new speaker is that it means you have fewer parts to deal with.
Fixing these speakers (if anything goes wrong) isn’t hard at all. Many of them are transparent as well, which looks amazing and makes it much easier to work on.
Finally, the waterproof sealing is what brings it all together.
Without this sealing around the outside and inside of the product, its speakers would lose their power in seconds. Air and lightweight materials allow it to float, but splashes can still cause damage without the proper sealing.
Thanks to all three of these useful factors, you can enjoy your waterproof floating hot tub speaker for years to come. But you might be asking yourself, “are these speakers worth the small investment?”
In the next section, we’ll cover the benefits of owning one of them!
The only reason it’s so feckin cold is because I got this kickass LED colour changing floating bluetooth speaker the other day and wanted to try it out in the hot tub…
Sorry guys. pic.twitter.com/xn2QRdiCiO
— Momster (@my_name_here85) February 7, 2021
Are Floating Speakers Worth It?
Floating speakers are a great investment if you spend a lot of time in your hot tub.
Even if you only go out for gatherings or monthly soaks, nobody will be upset about being able to play music in the spa! Plus they are easy to bring with you to the pool or beach too.
There are all sorts of reasons that floating speakers are worth buying if you’re a hot tub owner. Here’s a list of a handful of benefits:
- Floating hot tub speakers are actually pretty cheap. Even the high-end options won’t break the bank. Most of them cost significantly less than Bluetooth speakers that don’t float.
- These speakers use Bluetooth technology, which means that you can hook it up to your favorite playlists in only a few seconds. There’s no need for CDs, power or audio cables.
- A lot of floating spa speakers also come with lights, making your spa look like an amazing party. Some of them even brighten up the entire hot tub floor!
- Totally waterproof – Quite a few of the speakers listed at the bottom of the article can be submerged for extended periods. You’ll be able to bring your hot tub speakers underwater or into the swimming pool and listen to your music!
The simple convenience and functionality of a floating speaker are worth the investment alone.
When you add some of the unique features that come with each speaker, you’ll see why almost all hot tub owners are buying these speakers.
My JBL mini speaker floating around my pool today on what’s left of my shark Noodle…
Sorry, I thought you were talking about things that just don’t belong together… Like Medical Care and punitive measures. pic.twitter.com/pTe4OOFlRN— 🎄Clay-grown❤️ Christmas Princess🎄(ranchpanzee) (@clayprincess043) July 22, 2021
Do JBL Speakers Float?
JBL is one of the most popular and successful brands in the industry when it comes to speakers and music.
They produce fantastic results every time, but what happens if you drop your JBL speaker into the swimming pool or your spa?
Unfortunately, not all JBL speakers float, although lots of them are waterproof and sound great. So you shouldn’t go throw your speaker into the spa just yet. Some models, however, do float.
Let’s review a few of their top models to see if yours floats:
1. The JBL Boombox
The JBL Boombox (click to see it on Amazon) is a great choice if you’re looking for a speaker that has top-level bass with equally impressive volume.
And yes, this one floats!
With clear sound and classic bouncing audio membranes, it’s both visually and audibly wonderful.
If you choose to go with this speaker or you have one of your own already, you’ll be happy to know that it definitely floats. It’s also waterproof as well.
24-hour battery life and hard-hitting bass are just 2 of the reasons people love this one.
The only downside is that the speaker only sits on one side, meaning that you have to make sure that it’s always rolled to the correct side of the cylinder to hear the music. When it’s upside-down, however, you can listen to music underwater rather than above water.
On Amazon, it’s an Amazon’s Choice product with almost 1,000 near-perfect reviews.
2. The JBL Flip 4 Speaker
Another fantastic speaker by JBL is the Flip 4 (click to see on Amazon).
This model is much smaller than the Boombox, but it packs a similar punch. You might not get the same volume since it’s made for house parties and indoor environments rather than outdoor music.
That being said, this top-notch speaker is waterproof but does NOT float. It comes in lots of color choices and can even charge in your car with the included car charger.
It’s always nice to know that you won’t have to worry if it falls into the water, though!
On Amazon, it has tons of great reviews and is well under $100.
3. The JBL Xtreme
Finally, the JBL Xtreme (click to see on Amazon) continues to be a top-seller for the company.
It provides a mix of high bass and volume with the compact nature that many of us love from small speakers.
If you get one, make sure to get the Xtreme 2 or 3 as the 1st version is only splashproof and not truly waterproof. The one I link to above is the 2, so it IS waterproof.
Sadly, the JBL Xtreme sinks right to the bottom if it falls into the water. So this one also does not float.
You’ll be able to hear the music underwater, but it might sound a bit muffled. Although the Xtreme provides the high levels of bass necessary for a speaker to emit sound rather clearly underwater, it isn’t enough to provide a level of quality that most music lovers would deem acceptable.
All in all, it’s certainly not the best choice if you’re in the market for a floating speaker.
If you want a high-quality speaker that floats on the water, you’ll need to buy one specially made for that purpose. But it can sit right on the lip of your hot tub just fine and if it falls in, no big deal.
On Amazon, it has tons of great reviews and is cheaper than their Boombox.
Scientists discovered broadcasting the sound of a healthy coral reef on underwater speakers in dead areas along the Great Barrier Reef resulted in life returning and thriving. Twice as many fish visited those areas with speakers vs spots without speakers https://t.co/DxSMIaABrY pic.twitter.com/VJH7GjSSph
— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) July 10, 2020
Do Speakers Work Underwater?
Some speakers work underwater, while others don’t.
You’ll see later on in the list that many of the speakers only have sound coming out of the top, which means you won’t be able to hear the sound underwater.
However, several speakers work below the surface.
As mentioned in the previous section, the JBL Boombox and the JBL Flip 4 both play music underwater. Simply turning the cylindrical speaker upside-down will face the speakers into the water, allow people down below to hear it.
Since water is much denser than air, sound travels much quicker in a swimming pool or a spa. This is why you hear muffled sounds rather than clear, concise words, music, and so on.
Speakers that have good treble and bass with make it a bit easier for you to hear.
These frequencies have an easier time traveling through water than their mid-range counterparts. Therefore, you should look for a speaker that has boosted highs or lows if you need something that has a somewhat clearer sound underwater.
All of that being said, there aren’t very many speakers that have clear, unmuffled sound underwater.
It’s simply too challenging to make it work, but you’ll still be able to make out the words and instruments without a problem.
Lottie’s lovin it in the hot tub with @DJANDYWHITBY live at Creamfields on the floating speaker #turnitup pic.twitter.com/d6NkVWKnid
— Mark Hill (@HilchyBoy) October 1, 2015
What is the Best Floating Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker?
Each of the speakers that you’ll find in the next section are some of the best floating speakers on the market. However, you might have specific preferences.
The ECOXGEAR Speaker is a fantastic choice if you want a speaker that’s going to play with incredible volume and bass.
It’s much bigger than other models on the list, and it comes with a couple of cup holders and a bottle opener.
But it totally floats and packs an impressive 100 watts of fantastic sound.
It’s also an Amazon’s Choice product with hundreds of near-perfect reviews.
Another great option is the COWIN IPX7 Swimmer Speaker.
This speaker keeps it simple with volume and light controls.
It’s also tiny, so it won’t get in the way when you’re relaxing in the hot tub.
The colorful LED light show is an added plus.
It’s also an Amazon’s Choice product with hundreds of fantastic reviews and comes in (currently) under $50 bucks!
Finally, the BassPal IPX7 Speaker is another simple choice and great for those on a budget.
It shows the time as well as a few controls.
Perhaps the best feature is the suction cup that allows you to keep it in one place without moving around. And yes, you can also use it in the shower!
Bluetooth, but also has a built-in digital clock, FM radio and is well under $40 bucks with hundreds of great reviews!
Just click any of those links or images to see the current price on Amazon as well as additional details.
Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the . . .
@AFPAElliott look what David got me for the hot tub a floating speaker. Listening to #PhilColins #LukeBryan @DC_ARVSgt pic.twitter.com/yCYwTuIdJW
— Ann (@Mama80) September 8, 2018
15 best floating waterproof speakers
It’d be too challenging only to show a few speakers since there are so many great models to choose from.
Below, you’ll find the 15 best floating hot tub speakers to add some life to the party or a bit of relaxation to your post-work soak.
And I’ve broken them down by price range in 3 categories: budget, mid-range, and high end.
That way there’s something in everyone’s price range.
As always, I only show and recommend the good stuff!
To get my recommendation, items have to be 4 stars minimally and not have greater than 11% of the reviews be 1-star.
BEST BUDGET FLOATING SPEAKERS – $30 & Under
1. Blufree Bluetooth Speaker
The Blufree Bluetooth Speaker (click to see the current price on Amazon) comes in both blue and white.
You can also change through a few sets of lights to illuminate your entire hot tub immediately.
Connect it to your favorite Bluetooth devices to listen to music or make phone calls whenever you need to.
Another interesting feature of this speaker is that it can be submerged for up to 30 minutes as low as 3 feet.
An Amazon’s Choice product and under 30 bucks!
It’s designed to take a beating, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking in the swimming pool or the hot tub.
Pros
- Comes in two different colors
- Rugged, long-lasting design
- Built-in mic for easy phone calls or listening to music
- 50-foot range
2. DECALIFE ST-1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Whether you choose black or green, the DECALIFE ST-1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker (click to see the current price on Amazon) has plenty to offer.
This compact floating speaker is only 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.9 inches in total. It also includes a carabiner if you want to hook it up to something, so it doesn’t float away.
The total playtime of this speaker stretches up to 10 hours continuously, making it one of the best speakers if you’re throwing a long party.
It’s also one of the cheapest floating speakers that you’ll come across, at well under $20 bucks.
Pros
- Comes in two unique color combinations
- Made with Bluetooth 4.2
- Card slot for MP3 files
- Mega-Bass
- Charges quickly with a provided USB cable
3. iFox iF012 Bluetooth Speaker
The iFox iF012 Bluetooth Speaker is perfect for hot tubs, swimming pools, showers, lake trips, and all of your favorite water sports.
It lasts for up to 10 hours of playing music, and it only takes three hours to recharge it via a USB cable.
Since it comes with a 33-foot connectivity range, you can set the speaker a good distance from your laptop, computer, or phone while staying connected.
What makes it even better is the fact that the company offers a 12-month limited warranty.
Almost 5,000 great reviews & under 30 bucks!
Pros
- Can be submerged completely for 30 minutes
- Includes a suction cup
- Connects to your favorite Bluetooth devices in 6 seconds or less
- Answer or end calls, listen to music, and more
4. Bluetooth Speaker by Johns Avenue
If you’re looking for a floating speaker that includes a fully-functional FM radio, you’re in the right place.
The Bluetooth Speaker by Johns Avenue (click to see on Amazon) not only can connect to FM radio, but it also has a built-in microphone to speak through it.
The rechargeable battery is a lithium-ion, which lasts much longer than other batteries.
You can use this speaker by clicking the buttons or with the voice-activation features.
Charge it up quickly with the USB cable and enjoy the all-day performance from this compact speaker.
Pros
- 8 hours of playtime
- Pairs up to 33-feet away
- Use the buttons or voice controls
- Completely waterproof & floats
5. Bluetooth Portable Waterproof Radio by Hydro-Beat
The Hydro-Beat Bluetooth Speaker (click to see on Amazon) has ten different light moods to adjust, setting to perfect scene.
It also has a removable suction cup if you want to use it or not. The connectivity range stretches up to 24 feet, which is more than enough for a hot tub speaker.
Using silicone and ABS, this speaker is waterproof, dustproof, and shock-resistant.
It even has an IPX7 waterproof rating, which is just about as good as it gets for hot tub speakers. You can submerge if for half an hour without any damage.
Pros
- Over 500 outstanding reviews
- Includes ten light modes
- Built-in mic allows you to take calls
- Comes with a removable suction cup
BEST MID-PRICE FLOATING SPEAKERS – $31-$70
1. BassPal Bluetooth Speaker
You might also like the BassPal Bluetooth Speaker (click to see the current price on Amazon) for the multiple music-changing features.
You can fast-forward, skip, or reverse music right from the speaker. It also shows the time and the remaining life of the battery on the LED display.
As mentioned earlier, this speaker comes with a suction cup on the bottom.
You can latch it to the side of your hot tub, the shower, and almost any glass surface. It even has Bluetooth 5.0 to achieve the fastest pairing available.
Pros
- Plenty of options to cycle through
- Displays the time and remaining battery life
- Hundreds of great reviews
- Suction cup for easy sticking to the side of a shower
- Includes an FM radio mode
2. Altec Lansing Mini H2O Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
Another portable speaker that’s great for hot tubs is the Altec Lansing Mini H2O Wireless Bluetooth Speaker(click to see the current price on Amazon).
This model comes in aqua, black, mint, and a few other choices.
The waterproof rating makes it completely submersible for short periods. Float it around and listen to music throughout the 6-hour battery life.
The simple setup of this speaker allows you to adjust the volume or turn it on and off. If you don’t want too many additional settings, then this is going to be the best floating hot tub speaker for you.
Pros
- Comes in numerous unique colors
- An Amazon’s Choice product with over 1,000 great reviews!
- 30-foot connectivity range
- Charges with USB cables
3. COWIN Swimmer Floating Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
The COWIN Swimmer Floating Speaker (click to see the current price on Amazon) is the most classic representation of a hot tub speaker that you’ll find.
It has four speakers that emit sound in all directions. You’ll also be able to enjoy a few light modes.
The interface lets you change songs, adjust the volume, change the lights mentioned above, and change a few other settings.
There’s even a 10W subwoofer to increase the volume and bass of this compact speaker.
Pros
-
- Includes five color modes
- Comes with a built-in 10W subwoofer
- Omnidirectional sound output
- Includes a drain plug to release excess water
4. Poolmaster Portable Floating Speaker
The Poolmaster Portable Floating Speaker (click to see the current price on Amazon) takes hot tub speakers to the next level.
You can make calls through it or play your favorite music. Feel free to listen to YouTube videos, podcasts, and more all from this compact device.
The color display of this speaker comes with 7 unique light patterns to show off.
You can connect your Bluetooth devices to it from up to 60 feet away. Charge it up with the provided USB cable and use it for 10 hours per charge.
Pros
- Several light show patterns
- Submerge it for up to 1 hour down to 3 feet
- Massive 60-foot range
- Sync two of them together for more sound
5. ECEEN Swimming Floating Speaker
Last but certainly not least on the mid-priced list is the ECEEN Swimming Speaker (click to see the current Amazon price)
It’s perfect for hot tubs because it has surround sound that plays your music and calls in all directions.
You can connect it to your Bluetooth devices up to 120 feet away.
Another feature that you’ll undoubtedly love is the fact that it can play music for over five hours at a time.
It can be connected in only 5 seconds, which is much quicker than most other floating speakers on the market.
Pros
- Connects up to 120 feet away
- Make calls, listen to music, and jam to the FM radio
- Includes omnidirectional speakers
- Lasts for 5 hours per charge
BEST HIGH-END FLOATING SPEAKERS – Over $71
1. WOW Sports Wow-Sound Speaker
The WOW Sports Wow-Sound Speaker (click to see on Amazon) is debatably the most versatile compact speaker on the list.
It has an attachment that allows you to fit it inside of almost any cupholder, or you could simply let it float around.
Perhaps the best feature of this speaker is that it has an omnidirectional speaker.
You’ll be able to hear your favorite music from all sides rather than only from the top. If you choose to buy this floating Bluetooth speaker, you’ll be able to choose from orange, yellow, and blue.
Pros
- 360-degree LED lighting
- Impressive bass for a compact speaker
- Fits into a cup holder
- Dust, shock, and waterproof
2. ECOXGEAR EcoBoulder Speaker
Compact speakers are always a good investment, but sometimes you need something a little bit louder.
The ECOXGEAR EcoBoulder Speaker (click to see on Amazon) is a monster that allows you to be the life of the party. Surprisingly enough, this large speaker floats without an issue with a Bluetooth connectivity range of 100 feet.
It also has multiple useful features, including a carrying handle, wheels, a bottle opener, cupholders, a side pouch, and several radio buttons to adjust.
You can also change your music, the volume of the sound, and use voice-activation to control it.
Pros
- Comes with all sorts of beneficial features
- Connects up to 100 feet away
- Easy to carry from place to place
- Massive volume and bass
3. Altec Lansing Lifejacket 2 Bluetooth Speaker
If you’re looking to step it up a bit with a larger speaker system, then the Altec Lansing Lifejacket 2 Speaker (click to see on Amazon) is a nice choice.
It boasts dual 2″ neodymium drivers and audio enhancement technology backed by a massive power amp to improve the volume.
Despite all of the added features, this floating hot tub speaker only comes out to weigh one pound.
It has a 16-hour battery life, which eclipses much of the competition. You’ll also be able to make calls, use caller ID, and try out the voice commands.
Pros
- Waterproof, Shockproof, Snowproof, Everything-Proof
- 30-foot Bluetooth range
- 16-hour battery life
- Rubberized layer to prevent shock damage
4. ECOXGEAR EcoDrift GDI-EXDRFT200
The ECOXGEAR EcoDrift (click to see the current price on Amazon) is 100% Waterproof and dustproof and meets IP67 international standards. That way, there’s truly no worries with rain, dirt, snow or a hot tub.
Drop it in your pool, hot tub or even the ocean with no worries: it floats. Built-in rubber shocks protect the speaker from drops, falls, and rough use.
Answer incoming calls over the built-in speakerphone, and use it with Siri.
15 watts power drives the full-range speaker and 3-inch rear-facing woofer. You get a balanced sound with crisp highs, warm midrange, and deep, thumping bass.
Comes with 3-year parts and labor warranty, and at under $100 bucks, what are you waiting for??
Pros
- Integrated Siri & Google Voice Control
- 100-foot Bluetooth range
- Pair two units together within 30-feet of each other for TrueWireless Stereo (TWS) sound
- 15-hour battery life, recharges in 3 hours
5. Turtlebox: LOUD! Outdoor Rugged Bluetooth Speaker
Possibly the best one on the list for sound, battery life, and Bluetooth range is the LOUD! Outdoor Rugged Bluetooth Speaker from Turtlebox (click to see it on Amazon).
Jambox style makes it easy to hold, but it floats on it’s back as well. You can throw your Turtlebox into a pool, drop it in the lake, or wash it off with a pressure washer, and it will still sound fantastic.
Pairs with other Turtleboxes for true stereo sound.
This thing is RUGGED and designed for any outdoor activity no matter how wet or rough.
Pros
- Pairs when you buy more than 1
- 100-foot Bluetooth range
- 50-hour battery life (yes, you read that right!)
- Up to 120db of awesome sound!
Did I cover all you wanted to know about the best floating hot tub speakers for hot tubs?
Floating hot tub speakers are much more available than they used to be. Recent technological advancements in the industry have added lights, phone call capabilities, better sound systems, and more.
Here are a few general care tips to get the most out of your new floating hot tub speaker:
- Let it sit out of the water when you’re not using it. Water can rust the metal parts after too many days in a row of complete submergence.
- Always seal any ports on your speaker before you set it in the water. The exterior is waterproof, but the interior is not.
- Don’t blast the music at maximum volume for long periods of time since you might damage the speakers.
A lawyer never retires. So I would just say that I am not as active as I used to be. Now I simply dedicate myself to fishing, my hobby, and my grandchildren. For Business Finance News I write about legal aspects of mortgage policies, mostly regarding the rights of policyholders. I also have articles about personal injuries.
