Verdict
All guidesResearchMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

JBL Authentics 500 vs Soundcore Boom 3i

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

JBL Authentics 500 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about stylish home audio enthusiasts — read the strengths below before deciding.

JBL Authentics 500
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers
JBL Authentics 500
4 sources$449.95as of Aug 1

The JBL Authentics 500 wraps a Wi-Fi streaming platform and a 3.1-way driver array in a retro wood cabinet, and it plays loud and deep enough to fill a living room from a single box. TechHive rated it 4 out of 5, praising the sound while flagging the bulk and the price; 7Review, at 9 out of 10, was far less convinced by the midrange and found the bass compressing at higher volumes. It is a stylish, feature-complete home speaker rather than a reference listening device, and it will not pair into stereo.

Strengths
  • — Retro design with textured leather-like vinyl wrap and signature Quadrex grille
  • — 3.1-way driver configuration with 6.5-inch down-firing subwoofer for deep bass response
  • — Supports dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.3, and multiple streaming protocols including Spotify Connect and AirPlay
Watch-outs
  • — Bass can be overbearing without proper placement or EQ adjustment
  • — The Quadrex grille may be polarizing due to its distinctive angular design
$449.95 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Soundcore Boom 3i
Ranked #5 in Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers
Soundcore Boom 3i
2 sources$129.99as of Aug 1

The Soundcore Boom 3i is a rugged, bass-forward portable speaker with an IPX7 rating and a carry strap, aimed at pool decks and campsites rather than critical listening. SoundGuys scored it 8.4 out of 10 and called it the best waterproof Bluetooth speaker they had tested; PCMag was markedly cooler at 3.5 out of 5. The split is the story — the durability and the low end are genuinely good, the app and the finer detail in the mids are not. Casual outdoor listeners will be happy; anyone chasing tonal accuracy should not be.

Strengths
  • — Compact and portable design suitable for outdoor use
  • — Solid bass response and overall sound quality for its size
  • — Built-in rechargeable battery with decent runtime
Watch-outs
  • — Companion app support is limited next to rival speakers at the price
  • — No active noise cancellation and little in the way of audio tuning
  • — Mid and high frequencies lack detail, which shows on acoustic and vocal material
$129.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

JBL Authentics 500

The JBL Authentics 500 brings premium streaming features and a retro design that sets it apart from the JBL Charge 6 and JBL Boombox 4, which lack Wi-Fi and Spotify Connect. While the Bose SoundLink Flex and Soundcore Boom 3 offer simpler designs, the Authentics 500's 3.1-way driver configuration and physical controls make it better suited for audiophiles seeking a stylish home speaker. It's less portable than the portable models but more feature-rich for home use.

Soundcore Boom 3i

The Soundcore Boom 3 offers a compact design and solid bass for its size, but lacks the advanced app features and water resistance of the JBL Charge 6 and JBL Boombox 4. Compared to the Bose SoundLink Flex, it has less refined EQ options and minimal hardware upgrades, though it's more affordable. Unlike the Bose SoundLink Max, it doesn't offer premium sound quality or call functionality, making it a basic choice for casual users.

Specs side-by-side

SpecJBL Authentics 500Soundcore Boom 3i
Weight25.1 lb0.71 lb
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, 3.5mm AUX, EthernetBluetooth 5.0
Dimensions17.6 x 9.4 x 10 in8.27 x 3.35 x 3.09 in
Frequency Response40Hz - 20kHz (-6dB)56 Hz - 20 kHz
Color OptionsBlackAdventurer Black, Deep Ocean Blue, Jungle Green, Desert Rose Brown
WaterproofIPX4 (splash-resistant)IPX7
BatteryNone—
Wattage270W—
MaterialWood—
← See the full ranking of best waterproof bluetooth speakers