Bose SoundLink Plus Review: Compact Design, Powerful Sound Performance

Looking for a Bluetooth speaker that balances portability and punch? The Bose SoundLink Plus delivers powerful sound in a sleek, compact design.

Introduction: Bose Steps Up in the Bluetooth Speaker Game

Last year, when Bose launched the SoundLink Max, it was a clear signal that Bose was ready to challenge JBL’s dominance in the Bluetooth speaker market. While the Max didn’t clinch the top spot against JBL Xtreme 4 in some reviews, its robust and engaging sound hinted that Bose was gearing up to compete fiercely.

Now, Bose introduces the SoundLink Plus—a smaller sibling to the SoundLink Max—that promises the same rich and powerful sound in a more portable package.

With other major brands facing challenges, is Bose becoming a serious contender in the race for the best portable wireless speakers?

Bose SoundLink Plus: Price and Market Position

The SoundLink Plus sits comfortably in the mid-range of Bose’s Bluetooth speaker lineup. Priced roughly at $360 USD, it’s more affordable compared to the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (3rd generation), which retails at around $640 USD.

Other worthy contenders in this price range include the highly rated Dali Katch G2 and the powerful JBL Xtreme 4, with the latter priced similarly to the SoundLink Plus, making it a direct rival.

Build and Design: Simple Yet Sturdy

Imagine a stylish brick with a silicone top and a metal grille on the front—that’s essentially the Bose SoundLink Plus. Its slightly rounded corners soften the rectangular shape, giving it a modern and understated look.

One handy feature is the thick, durable carrying loop on the side, making portability easier. Although the loop isn’t adjustable, it’s well-made and sturdy enough to withstand everyday bumps and scrapes.

Technical Specs and Features

• Power: Not specified
• Bluetooth Version: 4 (supports SBC, AAC, aptX adaptive codecs)
• Power Source: Battery-powered
• Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
• Waterproof Rating: IP67 (dust and water resistant)
• Connections: USB-C for charging and wired audio
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 9.9 x 23.1 x 8.6 cm
• Weight: 145 grams
• Colors Available: Black, Blue, Grey, Citrus Yellow (limited edition)

The top panel houses all playback, pairing, and volume controls embedded in a robust silicone surface with responsive buttons. There’s also a customizable quick-access button that can be programmed for either Bose’s Speaker Link stereo pairing or Spotify shortcuts via the Bose app.

The design emphasizes quality, with a premium tactile feel on the metal grille and smooth silicone body. While the exterior is minimalist, it’s far from boring—rather, it’s sleek and refined.

Durability and Portability

Bose impresses with ruggedness combined with style. The IP67 rating means the SoundLink Plus can handle dust and water exposure confidently. During testing, it survived a tumble into a kitchen sink—a real testament to its build quality.

Feature Limitations

Despite its strengths, the SoundLink Plus shows its age in some areas:

• No built-in microphone for hands-free calls, which can be a downside for group conversations.
• Lacks the popular Auracast feature (multi-stream audio sharing).
• USB-C port only supports charging and wired audio; it doesn't support high-res audio like 24-bit/96kHz streaming found in newer JBL models.
• Battery charging is slow, taking about five hours with no fast-charge option.

Still, its ability to create stereo pairs with other Bose speakers adds a social listening dimension.

Sound Quality: Rich and Engaging

Despite a somewhat modest feature set, the SoundLink Plus quickly won us over with its sound. It’s easy to listen to and brings a sense of fun and warmth to music playback.

If this speaker were a person, it wouldn’t shy away from eye contact or offer a limp handshake—it would probably give you a bear hug.

“Fun is exactly the word. Bose SoundLink Plus is fun, and it’s easy to enjoy.”

The sound is full and rich. While competitors like the Dali Katch G2 offer more detailed and refined audio, the SoundLink Plus counters with a satisfying blend of power and solidity.

It’s also more travel-friendly and rugged compared to the niche Dali speaker.

Comparisons and Volume Performance

SoundLink Plus isn’t the loudest speaker in its class. For louder, more detailed sound, the JBL Xtreme 4 is a strong alternative at a similar price point.

However, Bose holds its own when it comes to volume, delivering clarity whether you’re whispering sweet nothings or belting out ABBA classics.

At high volumes, the Bose reveals its strengths: Muse’s “Hysteria” sounds crisp and powerful, while the rhythmic claps in Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” come through with energy.

Although it may not distinguish quieter and louder tones as finely as some rivals, it remains a beloved Bluetooth speaker with a consistent and captivating sound profile.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Bose SoundLink Plus?

If you prioritize features over audio quality, the SoundLink Plus might feel too simple. It covers the essentials well but lacks some bells and whistles common on cheaper models with more functions.

Other speakers in this price bracket might deliver louder or more refined sound, such as the elegant Dali Katch G2 or the award-winning JBL Xtreme 4.

Still, the SoundLink Plus’s combination of portability, durability, and dynamic sound will appeal to many. It’s a bold, energetic, and enjoyable speaker that’s hard to ignore and even harder not to love.

Scores

• Sound: 4/5
• Build Quality: 5/5
• Features: 3/5

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the battery life of the Bose SoundLink Plus?
  The speaker offers up to 20 hours of playback on a full charge.
• Is the Bose SoundLink Plus waterproof?
  Yes, it has an IP67 rating, meaning it is dustproof and waterproof.
• Can the SoundLink Plus connect to other speakers?
  Yes, it supports stereo pairing with other compatible Bose Bluetooth speakers.
• Does it have a built-in microphone for calls?
  No, this model lacks a microphone and cannot be used for hands-free calls.
• What Bluetooth codecs are supported?
  It supports SBC, AAC, and aptX adaptive codecs for improved audio quality.

Ready to bring the powerful sound of your favorite albums into your space? Shop your favorite album cover posters and enhance your audio experience at our store.