Description
Sleek Design and Build Quality
I have to admit, the DOSS SoundBox Touch Wireless Bluetooth Speaker immediately caught my attention with its modern and compact design. It’s small enough to fit into my backpack yet sturdy enough to feel durable when handled. The black finish on the speaker is minimalist, blending seamlessly with any environment, whether it’s my office desk or a picnic table outdoors. The touchpad controls on top are a nice touch—pun intended—making it feel more futuristic and less cluttered compared to traditional buttons. I also liked that it’s water-resistant with an IPX5 rating, which means it can handle splashes, though I wouldn’t dunk it in water.
The size and weight balance make it highly portable, weighing just 1.23 pounds and small enough to grip comfortably. It feels rugged enough for outdoor use without sacrificing aesthetics, which is a rare combination. Honestly, I found myself appreciating the thoughtful design choices, especially the compact dimensions of 6.6″ x 2.7″ x 2.9″.
Sound Quality and Performance
The 12W HD sound with enhanced bass is where this speaker really shines. I tested it with a variety of music genres—from bass-heavy tracks to acoustic melodies—and it handled everything with ease. The dual high-performance drivers seem to deliver a balanced audio experience, with clear highs and a bass that’s surprisingly punchy for a speaker this size. It doesn’t distort even at higher volumes, which is a big plus for me.
I also noticed that the Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo encoding creates a more immersive listening experience compared to some competitors. Whether I was streaming music from my smartphone or playing a podcast from my tablet, the sound quality remained consistent. The signal-to-noise ratio of 55 dB might not sound groundbreaking, but in real-world use, it was clear and enjoyable.
One minor hiccup, though, is that it’s a single speaker setup. While the sound is impressive, it doesn’t quite replicate the surround sound effect you might get from dual speaker systems. Still, for its size and price range, the performance is commendable.
Ease of Use and Features
The touch controls are incredibly intuitive. With just a swipe or tap, I could adjust the volume, skip tracks, and pair devices. I liked the rotary-style volume control—a nice tactile addition to an otherwise touch-centric interface. However, the touchpad requires dry fingertips to work effectively, which can be a bit inconvenient if you’re using it near water or during a workout.
Bluetooth pairing was seamless, thanks to the Bluetooth 5.0 technology. It quickly reconnected to previously paired devices, saving me the hassle of manually pairing every time. The 33-foot Bluetooth range is decent, and I didn’t experience any signal drops within that distance.
The built-in microphone is a thoughtful inclusion, allowing for hands-free calls. While it’s not something I use daily, it’s nice to know I can answer a call without scrambling for my phone.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the key benefits of this speaker is its 20-hour battery life. I tested it at moderate volume, and it lived up to the claim. It’s powered by a 2200 mAh lithium polymer battery, which takes about 3 hours to recharge using the included Micro USB cable. While USB-C would have been a more modern choice, the current charging setup is functional and reliable. For long trips or outdoor events, the extended playtime is a lifesaver.
Good Points
- Compact and stylish design fits into any setting.
- 12W HD sound delivers clear, balanced audio with enhanced bass.
- IPX5 water resistance makes it suitable for outdoor use.
- 20-hour battery life ensures all-day playback.
- Intuitive touch controls and quick Bluetooth pairing are user-friendly.
Limitations
- Single speaker setup lacks the surround sound feel of dual systems.
- Touch controls require dry fingers, which can be inconvenient in certain situations.
- Micro USB charging feels outdated compared to USB-C.
Competitive Options
Comparing this speaker to others in its price range, such as the JBL Flip 5 and Anker Soundcore 2, provided some interesting insights. The JBL Flip 5 offers slightly better bass and a more rugged waterproof design (IPX7), but it sacrifices the touch controls and playtime. On the other hand, the Anker Soundcore 2 matches the DOSS SoundBox in battery life and sound quality but feels less premium in its build and design.
What sets this product apart is its ease of use and sleek design. While some alternatives might offer marginally better sound or waterproofing, the DOSS SoundBox Touch strikes a balance between style, functionality, and performance, making it a well-rounded choice for most casual users.
Price Performance
Considering its features, the DOSS SoundBox Touch Wireless Bluetooth Speaker provides excellent value for money. The combination of 12W HD sound, IPX5 water resistance, and 20-hour battery life is impressive for its price point. Some competitors may offer more premium features, but they often come at a higher cost. For anyone seeking an affordable, versatile speaker, this product is definitely worth every penny.
