Best overall: UE Wonderboom 3Best fixture: Kohler Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead + Wireless SpeakerBest for audiophiles: Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Generation)Best smart speaker: Bose Soundlink MicroBest budget: INSMY C12  Waterproof Speaker

How we selected the best shower speakers 

In order to find the best shower speakers, we scoured bathrooms far and wide to pool the best options and evaluate our favorite models. We took a second look at some of the portable speakers we’ve recommended for outdoor use and inspected our own homes to find out what works and what doesn’t when it comes to a shower serenade. We also did a fair bit of research, asking friends and colleagues for suggestions and scouring specs to suss out models we weren’t already aware of, especially when it came to special features.

Things to consider before buying a shower speaker

Before you take the plunge and buy a new shower speaker, it’s essential to investigate all the features and specifications listed. While the best shower speakers share the same components that make up any speaker, there are specific considerations to ensure the unit is indeed fully waterproof with the right controls to keep you jamming to your favorite songs; just don’t bust too big of a move and risk a slip. 

IP rating 

For the most part, a shower speaker is just a Bluetooth speaker with additional protection from water, though some will include special features. This means that you’re generally shopping for a speaker with a high IP rating.  IP stands for “Ingress Protection,” which tells you just how fortified an electronic device is against dirt, dust, and water. The first digit describes particle protection (dust or sand), and the second describes liquid. For example, if a speaker has a rating of IP57, the “5” indicates it can keep out most dust and dirt particles. The “7” means you can submerge the device in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes before any damage occurs. If you see a rating that looks like IPX7, the “X” means no data is available for that substance.  Only speakers with an IPX7 or X8 rating can actually claim waterproof status (IPX8 means it’s protected in 3 meters of water for 30 minutes). These are the only units we can recommend you take with you directly into the shower; however, if you are alright settling for just a bathroom unit, you can consider a speaker with a lower rating and it will be fine to sit on a steamy counter. IPX6 can withstand a strong stream of water for a short time, about 100 liters per minute, think water guns. IPX5 can handle 12.5 liters of water per minute, more like a squirt gun. An IPX4 rating can handle brief, omnidirectional splashes. However, we can’t recommend using a speaker with a rating below IPX5 into the shower.  For safety reasons, never bring a wired speaker into your bathroom, especially when the shower, sink, or bath is in use. 

Frequency range

If you’ve browsed speaker specs and scratched your head when seeing a range of Hz, it might be time to add frequency range to your catalog of considerations when looking for a new music-blasting device. Without getting too much into the science of frequencies, you’ll need to know that a Hz to kHz range represents the spectrum of sound your speaker can reproduce. The standard spec for most speakers and earbuds is 20Hz – 20kHz, which is the approximate range of audible sound humans can hear. That said, some speakers come with a variation of that. While exceeding this range might indicate a higher-quality speaker, any variation from the standard range is unlikely to be audible unless you have truly exceptional hearing.

Battery life

While having a long-lasting battery has become a standard feature when it comes to Bluetooth speakers, some smaller (some may say shower-sized) models won’t always be equipped with the best battery in the world. Make sure you check out the specs and look for a model that can last between 10 and 20 hours, so you won’t have to sit on the couch in your towel waiting for your speaker to quickly charge before finally hopping into some suds. Keep in mind that while some speakers can still play music while they charge, you shouldn’t charge your shower speaker while it’s in use and near water. This could be dangerous and lead to a nasty shock. 

Controls 

While this might not be the case for other portable or bookshelf speakers, it’s essential that your shower speaker have onboard control buttons so you can play, pause, and skip tracks. Without these features, your only recourse when that one meh album slips into your shuffle will be to reach a wet hand out of the shower for your phone, potentially knocking it down and damaging it in the process. Perhaps the best part about having a shower speaker is knowing that you won’t risk damaging an expensive electronic device. 

Fancier features 

While it’s true that most shower speakers are portable Bluetooth units that you can bring with you into the bath, some speakers are designed quite exclusively for shower use. If you’ve already got your portable needs covered or you’re looking for something more involved, grab a speaker that adheres to your showerhead or a speaker that doubles as a mirror. For those who want something designed specifically for showering, invest in speaker tiles, which are wired units that need to be carefully installed but blend in perfectly with your wall.

Connectivity

Keep an eye out for the specific version of the Bluetooth protocol while making your selection—anything 4.2 and above is considered a stable wireless connection for your devices, but a 5.1, 5.2, or 5.3 version will offer improved connectivity and give you the latest Bluetooth tech available. The version of Bluetooth used can impact the distance and durability of signal from your phone to speaker. The safest way to listen to tunes is to pair your device and then leave your phone or computer outside of the bathroom completely. Even if you don’t get your device wet directly, the condensation and steam from hot water can be just as dangerous. A steady connection and a longer range mean you don’t even have to unplug your phone from its charger in the bedroom to stay connected.  Depending on what kind of devices you use, you’ll also want to check out the Bluetooth codecs supported by your shower speaker. While all Bluetooth speakers will be equipped with the standard SBC, this format isn’t the highest-quality option for playing your tracks. For those who rely on Apple products and iOS, opt for AAC; if you’re an Android user, look for aptX. Some speakers have even more specific codecs (like LDAC) to give you the best quality possible but, for the most part, these specifications will give you a quality listening experience fit for streaming in the shower.

The best shower speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

We’ve compared water resistance, battery life, control options, and user reviews to ensure that each speaker we suggested would hold up against more than just a splash and is reliable for regular, everyday use. 

Best overall: UE Wonderboom 3

Why it made the cut: The UE Wonderboom is favored among reviewers for good reason: This portable powerhouse packs a punch in any place, including your shower.  Specs 

Battery Life: 14 hours Bluetooth Range: 131 feet IP Rating: IP67Onboard controls: Yes

Pros 

Durability Sound quality Four colorways Portability 

Cons 

Strap is too small to hang from most showerheads (though a shower caddie typically works)No auxiliary connection for external sources 

Since being introduced in 2019, the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 has been a tried-and-true favorite, one of the best Bluetooth speakers under $100 in any situation, thanks to its durability and sound quality. It has an IP67 rating, which means not only is it waterproof but it is also dust resistant, so you can take it with you just about anywhere you go—from the beach to the bath. And its successor, the Wonderboom 3, adds to that portability with increased battery life and Bluetooth signal range. This compact speaker is equipped with two 40mm active drivers and two passive radiators, which produce a frequency range of 75Hz – 20kHz. This audio orb, made out of plastic that’s at least 31% recycled, has a 360-degree sound design that radiates your favorite tunes from all angles, and its output can soar to 87 dB while in Outdoor Boost mode (activated by a tree-stamped button on the speaker’s bottom). Controls on the top will let you power on/off, pair, plus play, pause, and skip tracks without touching your phone, while the oversized, rubberized +/- buttons embossed on the recycled polyester fabric wrap let you control the volume. Plus it’s buoyant, so you can plop it in the bathtub to float alongside your rubber ducks and other bathtime buddies. This speaker weighs less than 1 pound and measures 4 inches by 3.7 inches. It’s available in four fun colors (“Hyper Pink” shown here) and features a flexible loop at the top so you can hang the speaker from a suction cup or shower caddy. A single speaker that can bring fun to many, a Wonderboom 3 makes a one-derful addition to your daily routine and it’s the kind of ultra-portable that makes a big splash—in your pool and your heart.

Best fixture: Kohler Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead + Wireless Speaker

Why it made the cut: An acoustically tuned speaker that magnetically attaches to a showerhead cradle for a luxurious bathing experience.  Specs 

Battery Life: 9 hours Bluetooth Range: Up to 32 feet IP Rating: IPX7Onboard controls: No

Pros 

Designed specifically for bathroom listening Seamless shower integration Sleek design Voice Control

Cons 

No onboard controls App could use an upgradeRequires proprietary charging dock

It’s a showerhead! It’s a Bluetooth speaker! It’s both! When it comes to a pure Bluetooth shower speaker, this set combines the best features to create an exciting, installable collection of bathroom essentials: steady water pressure and access to your favorite music. The Moxie showerhead comes in polished chrome (alternately available in brushed nickel or matte black) and releases 1.75 gallons of water per minute with circular spray coverage. The IPX7-rated speaker itself attaches magnetically, so you won’t experience any hassle when it comes to charging. Unlike other portable Bluetooth speakers, this unit is specifically tuned by Harman Kardon to fit the acoustics in your bathroom, which means you won’t have to crank up the volume once the water starts flowing (there’s also a “normal” sound profile if you want to use it around the house or the pool). Though the speaker does not have any analog controls, you can still play, pause, skip, and more using voice control. And the 9 hours of battery life can handle however long you need to exfoliate and decompress.

Best for audiophiles: Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Generation)

Why it made the cut: The 2nd-gen. Beosound A1 is a sleek, slim speaker that is easy to travel with and equipped with Alexa to make searching tracks from the shower that much easier.  Specs

Battery Life: 18 hours Bluetooth Range: up to 800 feet  IP Rating: IP67Onboard controls: Yes

Pros 

Compact Size Sound Quality Brand ReputationBattery life

Cons 

Expensive Volume is limited 

Why it made the cut: With the Bose SoundLink micro, you don’t have to miss out when your roommates or family start having a dance party right when you need to hop in the shower.  Specs

Battery Life: 6 hours Bluetooth Range: Up to 30 feet IP Rating: IPX7Onboard controls: Yes

Pros 

Stereo and Party Mode Portable Voice Assistant Compatibility 

Cons 

Battery LifeThe silicone strap may be hard to hang from showerhead 

If you’ve already brought a Bose speaker into your life, chances are you’re hankering for more of the brand’s crisp, balanced sound. This tiny travel speaker is a great option to take with you or post up on your soap dish. It’s IPX7, fully waterproof, with onboard controls, 6 hours of battery life, and a soft yet rugged exterior that will hold up against wear and tear. A silicone strap can be used to fix the speaker to a towel rack or wire shelf and is easily transferable to a backpack strap or bike handle when you’re on the move. It’s only Bluetooth 4.2 with the SBC codec, but the pairing of a custom transducer and passive radiator assure there’s plentiful bass despite the compact size. Easily pair this speaker with your smartphone to use voice prompts, which allow you to take phone calls and access Siri or Google Assistant as you’re covered in suds. It’s also multipoint, so you can link to one or more SoundLink speakers using the Bose Connect app’s SimpleSync feature, which means you won’t need to leave any festivities taking place beyond the loo (plus you can create stereo pairs). You, too, can contribute to a Dolly Parton sing-a-long or experience your favorite Rolling Stones party prep playlist while you jump in the shower. 

Best budget: INSMY C12 Waterproof Speaker

Why it made the cut: This waterproof speaker from INSMY is similar in design to others on our list but at a fraction of the price.  Specs 

Battery Life: 12 hours Bluetooth Range: 66 feet  IP Rating: IPX7Onboard controls: Yes

Pros 

AffordableDetachable suction cupAvailable in six colors Supports TF/MicroCard SD 

Cons 

Sound quality is only satisfactory Controls can be hard to use 

Retailing for under $35, this waterproof Bluetooth 5.0 speaker is a great option for those looking for a more affordable option, or those hoping to supplement their speaker collection with something inexpensive they can simply set up and leave in the shower. The battery lasts for 12 hours at 70% volume with a three-hour charge time, so you won’t have to worry your music will cut out mid-Miley Cyrus banger. The INSMY is designed with a 5W driver and dual opposing passive radiators to create an impressive stereo sound that can power over showering noise without any vibration. It comes with a suction cup and long lanyard, so you won’t have any trouble finding a home for this speaker in your shower. Small yet mighty, this model offers sound that will soar above the rush of jacuzzi tub jets. The C12 also comes with onboard controls on the backside of the unit for pairing, power, volume, and play/pause, though they can be a little hard to use depending on the speaker position. Finally, it has a slot for a MicroSD card if you want to load up files rather than rely on a wireless connection.

Final thoughts on finding the best shower speakers 

If you’re seeking the best shower speaker to bring your favorite podcasts, playlists, and albums into the bathroom, make sure you consider style, battery life, and overall design. Always check the specs, specifically the IP rating, to confirm that the speaker you have your eye on is waterproof, and consider how the speaker will fit inside your shower. Once you know what you’re looking for when it comes to special features, you can select a shower speaker that will deliver quality sound to help you wake up during your morning shower and chill you out during your nightly bath.