⚡️ Quick Verdict - BOSE SoundLink Revolve+ II (2021)
- Best For: Ambient 360-degree audio, outdoor listening, speakerphone calls.
- Strengths: Immersive sound, robust build, extended battery life, clear calls.
- Drawbacks: Micro-USB charging, minor sound improvements over predecessor.
- Verdict: A reliable portable speaker with signature Bose sound.
⚖️ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Users often praise the balanced and expansive 360-degree soundstage, which fills rooms effectively without distortion at moderate volumes. | Some listeners found the bass response to be less impactful compared to other similarly sized speakers, especially for bass-heavy genres. |
| Portability & Design | The integrated fabric handle and cylindrical shape make it easy to carry, and its durable aluminum body withstands outdoor use. | While portable, its size is larger and heavier than some direct competitors, which might be a consideration for minimalists. |
| Battery Life | Feedback highlights a dependable 17-hour battery life, providing ample playtime for extended outings or multiple uses before needing a recharge. | Despite the longer duration, the continued use of a Micro-USB charging port is seen as outdated compared to more modern USB-C interfaces. |
| Connectivity | Consumers appreciate the reliable Bluetooth connection and the ability to pair with other Bose speakers for party or stereo mode via the Bose Connect app. | Some users reported occasional minor delays when reconnecting to previously paired devices. |
| Durability | Its IP55 water and dust resistance offers peace of mind for use in various environments, from poolside to light rain. | While robust, the fabric top and bottom surfaces can potentially collect dust or show wear over time with rough handling. |
🔧 What’s Included? & Why It Matters
| Component/Technology | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II Speaker | The core product, delivering signature Bose audio quality and 360-degree sound. |
| USB-A to Micro-USB Cable | Essential for charging the speaker; however, Micro-USB is an older standard compared to USB-C. |
| Omnidirectional Acoustic Deflector | A key Bose technology that disperses sound evenly in all directions, creating consistent sound quality regardless of listener position. |
| Integrated Voice Prompts | Guides users through Bluetooth pairing and provides battery status, enhancing ease of use. |
💰 Is It Worth It? – Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Build Quality | The speaker feels premium and durable, with a seamless aluminum grille and robust construction that suggests longevity. | The premium price point might be a deterrent for budget-conscious consumers seeking a portable speaker. |
| Feature Set | Offers a compelling set of features including 360-degree sound, speakerphone, app control, and multi-speaker pairing, adding to its utility. | Lacks more modern features like USB-C charging or Wi-Fi connectivity which are increasingly common in competing premium portable speakers. |
| Long-Term Usage | The extended battery life and durable, water-resistant design contribute to a reliable user experience over time, reducing the need for frequent charging or careful handling. | The sound signature, while good, may not offer a significant upgrade for existing Bose owners, potentially making it less compelling as an immediate upgrade if the previous model still functions well. |
🔁 BOSE Comparison – How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (2017) | Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | Up to 16 hours | Up to 17 hours |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 30 feet (9m) | Up to 30 feet (9m) with improved connection stability |
| Durability Rating | IPX4 | IP55 (enhanced water and dust resistance) |
| Charging Port | Micro-USB | Micro-USB |
| Design | Cylindrical with flexible fabric handle | Cylindrical with flexible fabric handle (largely unchanged) |
⚔️ Alternatives vs BOSE SoundLink Revolve+ II
| Aspect | JBL Charge 5 | Sonos Roam | BOSE SoundLink Revolve+ II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sound Profile | Punchy bass, clear highs, directional sound. | Balanced, adaptive sound via Trueplay, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth. | 360-degree immersive sound, balanced. |
| Portability & Design | Robust fabric design, flat bottom for horizontal/vertical placement, no handle. | Compact, triangular prism shape, designed for both home and on-the-go. | Cylindrical with integrated fabric handle, durable aluminum. |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours (also acts as power bank). | Up to 10 hours. | Up to 17 hours. |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1, no speakerphone. | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, AirPlay 2, voice assistant integration. | Bluetooth 5.0, speakerphone, Bose Connect app. |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP67 (fully dustproof and submersible). | IP67 (fully dustproof and submersible). | IP55 (splash and dust resistant). |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C, optional wireless charging. | Micro-USB |
💡 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I pair two Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II speakers for stereo sound?Yes, using the Bose Connect app, you can enable Party Mode to play the same audio on two speakers or Stereo Mode for distinct left and right channels.
- Is the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II waterproof?It has an IP55 rating, meaning it is resistant to water jets and dust, making it suitable for outdoor use or by the pool, but it is not designed to be submerged in water.
- Does it have a microphone for calls or voice assistants?Yes, it features a built-in microphone that allows for speakerphone calls and interaction with your phone's voice assistant (e.g., Siri or Google Assistant).
- How long does it take to fully charge the speaker?Charging typically takes approximately 4 hours. Charging times may vary if using a different power source and the included USB-A to Micro-USB cable. A wall charger is not included.
👍 Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The sound fills a room effortlessly, making it great for gatherings without needing to crank up the volume excessively.
- The battery life is excellent; it lasts through long outdoor events without needing a recharge.
- I appreciate the sturdy build quality and the handle, which makes it easy to grab and go.
- The speakerphone function is remarkably clear, perfect for conference calls.
- It connects reliably to my devices, and the Bose app adds useful features for control.
👎 Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- It's disappointing that it still uses Micro-USB for charging when most devices have moved to USB-C.
- While the 360-degree sound is good, the bass could be stronger and more pronounced for certain music genres.
- The sound quality is only a subtle improvement over the original model, making it less of a must-have upgrade.
- Sometimes the connection takes a moment longer than expected to establish after turning it on.
- For its price, I expected more advanced smart features or a slightly more robust design against minor bumps.
📋 Key Details & Specifications
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Name | BOSE SoundLink Revolve+ II |
| Release Year | 2021 |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 18.4 cm x 10.5 cm x 10.5 cm (7.25 in x 4.13 in x 4.13 in) |
| Weight | 0.91 kg (2 lbs) |
| Battery Life | Up to 17 hours |
| Charging Time | Approximately 4 hours |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, 3.5 mm auxiliary input |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 9 m (30 ft) |
| Water & Dust Resistance | IP55 |
| Microphone | Yes (for speakerphone and voice assistant access) |
| App Compatibility | Bose Connect App |
🔚 Summary – Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The BOSE SoundLink Revolve+ II (2021) is a strong contender in the portable Bluetooth speaker market, particularly for those who prioritize expansive, 360-degree sound.
- Its robust build, comfortable handle, and IP55 rating make it well-suited for both indoor and outdoor environments, offering durability and convenience.
- The extended 17-hour battery life and reliable Bluetooth connectivity enhance its portability and user experience.
- While it delivers Bose's signature balanced audio and excellent clarity for calls, some users might find the bass less prominent compared to bass-heavy alternatives.
- The continued use of a Micro-USB charging port is a minor drawback, considering the industry's shift towards USB-C.
- Ultimately, if you're looking for a premium portable speaker that provides immersive, consistent sound dispersal and a durable design for diverse settings, the SoundLink Revolve+ II is a solid, reliable choice, especially if the incremental upgrades over its predecessor align with your needs.
