Output power
The total power of all channels of the speaker system. The higher the power, the larger the size of the room in which the audio system can be used, however, more
powerful portable speakers usually have larger dimensions and weight.
Speaker synchronization
The model supports the ability
to synchronize the operation of several speakers connected to one signal source. This solution allows you to realize truly stereo sound, improve the quality and power of sound reproduction, and also expand the stereo panorama. The only thing is that both speakers must support the appropriate connection type. Different brands may have their own technologies for combining speakers (JBL Connect, JBL PartyBoost, Sony Party Chain), or maybe a universal TWS.
Battery life
Operating time of a portable audio system without connecting to an external power source (network or USB port, depending on the capabilities). Note that manufacturers tend to indicate battery life in their specifications under optimal conditions for energy saving: at low volume, without using additional functions, etc. Therefore, in fact, this indicator may be noticeably lower than the claimed one, and
speakers with a long operating time will not sound at full volume for the specified hours.
USB charging port
-
microUSB. One of the miniature versions of the USB connector, still popular in portable gadgets, despite the emergence of the more advanced USB C. It has relatively limited capabilities (in particular, it is inferior to USB C in terms of the maximum possible charging power), but this point is rarely critical. At the same time, there are a great variety of cables and chargers for microUSB.
-
USB C. A relatively new type of USB connector that is actively gaining momentum. Like microUSB, it has miniature dimensions, but has a more convenient double-sided design and advanced capabilities, in particular the ability to transmit higher power, which has a beneficial effect on charging time.
Power bank mode
Ability to work portable acoustics in
power bank mode. This mode is only found in models with their own batteries (see "Power type"): it allows you to use this battery to power a smartphone or other external gadget. Thus, acoustics can play the role of an additional external battery, which is important in situations where it is not possible to charge a portable device in time.
Note that Power Bank speakers may only be compatible with certain phone models; this point should be clarified before buying.