This small speaker assumes a compact, curved form with a durable rubber body and attractive metallic-looking grille.
But its more than just a pretty face.
Bass although not delivering as much impact as a large-sized party speaker has solid depth and dynamism too.
Just download the Bose app and switch things up to your liking.
Design-wise, this really is the full-package.
And even in the features department, the SoundLink Flex Gen 2 has a solid amount to work with.
Its very similar to the originalBose SoundLink Flex.
Not only does it look almost identical, but it also has a like-for-like sound profile.
Having said that, the addition of EQ options and a more up-to-date Bluetooth version is a noticeable improvement.
Is it worth upgrading for owners of the original SoundLink Flex?
Otherwise, you may be better served by an alternative in our guide to thebest waterproof speakers.
Given it only launched in September 2024, thats quite an enticing price though it still has hot competition.
So, let’s start with the most important function EQ parameters.
These were absent last time, and although its nice to have some customizability, theyre actually pretty disappointing.
So what else does the app have?
But theres more: the SoundLink Flex Gen 2 continues the use of PositionIQ.
Although this speaker has a USB-C port, youre not able to use this for music output.
Theres also no 3.5mm port, so its going to be wireless play only, guys.
For me, this isnt an issue, but the option would be a nice touch.
Finally, this speaker offers fairly average battery life.
Just look at theBeats Pill, for instance, which supplies an awesome 24 hours of playtime.
And for many, that may well be true this speaker does offer balanced, pleasingly nuanced audio.
But despite its talents, I would argue that audio isntquiteS-tier quality.
One reason for this is that music can be a little rough around the edges at high volumes.
Although bass is responsive and sharp, it can be a touch thin, especially out of the box.
A significant factor here is, of course, the SoundLink Flex Gen 2s size its no beefy Boombox.
But anyway, thats enough moaning.
Well there are a few key reasons.
First of all, instrument separation is pretty strong.
On top of that, instrumental and vocal elements sound natural and detailed.
For instance, the drum solo inSt.
Thomassounded authentic with even the weight of each drum hit sounding discernible and true to life.
Vocals also had a breathy, delicate quality that many cheap alternatives miss out on.
Ill circle back to bass as well.
And bass clarity was one of the key improvements.
Another song with a lot of low-end emphasis Black Eyeby Allie X produced similar results.
This speaker has smooth, curved corners, a rubbery body and beautifully finished speaker grille.
Its available in a really nice set of colors too.
These arent eye-poppingly vibrant, more-so classy and refined.
The unit I reviewed came in Blue Dusk a really beautiful medium-blue color that is neither boring or overbearing.
Finally, the SoundLink Flex Gen 2 has a solid set of onboard controls.
You get power, Bluetooth, shortcut, volume up/down and play/pause buttons.
All of these are perfectly sized and are super clear theres no second-guessing what does what.
And Id argue that the quality you get here matches that price profile nicely.
it’s possible for you to already get this bad boy on sale too.
Thats really not too bad given the quality on show and given its predecessor was only a touch less.
Should I buy the Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2?
Youre all about styleThis speaker is undoubtedly a sleek, elegant-looking one.
Its compact and portable too, so you get practicality as well as good looks.
Everyones a winner, really.
And there are so many quality, low-cost Bluetooth speakers to choose from.
Id particularly single out theJBL Charge 5, which has great bass and is only a bit larger.
Whats more, it has an outdoorsy, rugged design and distinctly powerful bass.
Read our fullJBL Flip 6 review.
Sonos Roam 2We rate the excellent Sonos Roam 2 as our top overall pick for the best Bluetooth speaker.
Read our fullSonos Roam 2 review.
When listening to tunes, I predominantly tapped into Tidal on theFiio M11Shi-res music player.
