OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen Review | 130 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£110
Avg. price in US: ~$150
Audio output power: 20.00 W
Battery life: 12 hours
IP rating: IP67
Bluetooth version: 5.3
Weight: 589 g

Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen review. Compare 130 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Portable Speakers category and whether it is worth buying.

7.4

Very good

6.8

Good

9.6

Exceptional

9.1
Outdoor durability
Score components:
40.0%
10
Water resistance
25.0%
9.7
IP rating
20.0%
9.6
Weight
15.0%
5.2
Battery life
5.6
Powerful sound
Score components:
45.0%
3.1
Audio output power
25.0%
5.2
Battery life
15.0%
9.6
Weight
15.0%
10
Party mode
6.1
Home listening
Score components:
35.0%
?
Multi-room support
30.0%
4.0
Wi-Fi connectivity
20.0%
3.1
Audio output power
15.0%
9.6
Weight

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#12 in Best Bose portable speakers
#53 in Best small portable speakers
#133 in Best portable speakers with microphone
#205 in Best waterproof portable speakers
#261 in Best portable speakers
#261 in Best portable speakers for home

Verdict

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is an ultra-portable, rugged Bluetooth 5.3 speaker measuring 2.06 x 7.93 x 3.56 inches and weighing 1.29 pounds. Key specifications include an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, up to 12 hours of battery life via USB-C charging, PositionIQ technology that automatically optimizes audio orientation, a built-in microphone for calls, and support for Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive codecs alongside multipoint connectivity. Main pros highlight its robust, floatable silicone design, punchy bass, a customizable 3-band graphic EQ through the companion app, and the ability to link with other speakers in Stereo or Party modes. Main cons include a lack of 360-degree sound from its front-firing driver, audio distortion at maximum volume, the absence of an auxiliary (3.5mm) input, and no power bank capabilities to charge external devices.

Technical Specifications of portable speaker Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen

Overall score

7.4

Show more

Hide

Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by products in the Portable Speakers category.

When it matters: When you prefer products in the Portable Speakers category that have been chosen and reviewed by many other buyers.

Audio

5.3

Show more

Hide

Audio output power

What it is: The maximum continuous power the speaker system can deliver.

When it matters: When you need enough output to fill a larger or noisier space.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >= 20 W

Driver unit size

What it is: The diameter of each main speaker driver.

When it matters: When the size of the main driver influences bass reach and output capability.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >= 50 mm

Number of drivers

What it is: The total number of speaker drivers built into the unit.

When it matters: When fuller driver arrays and broader sound coverage matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >= 2

Frequency response tolerance

What it is: The allowed deviation around the stated frequency response curve.

When it matters: When a flatter and more accurate frequency response matters.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <= 3 dB

?

Lowest frequency

What it is: The lowest audible frequency the speaker can reproduce.

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <= 60 Hz

Show more

Connectivity

6.4

Show more

Hide

Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can receive audio over Bluetooth.

When it matters: When wireless playback from phones, tablets, or computers matters.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

Bluetooth version

What it is: The generation of Bluetooth supported by the speaker hardware.

When it matters: When compatibility and efficiency with newer Bluetooth devices matter.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >= 5.0

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: The farthest distance at which the Bluetooth link can remain usable.

When it matters: When the source device may be far from the speaker.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >= 10 m

Bluetooth profiles supported

What it is: The Bluetooth operating profiles available for playback, control, or calls.

When it matters: When Bluetooth playback, control, and call compatibility depend on specific profiles.

Importance: LOW

?

Bluetooth LE Audio

What it is: Shows whether the speaker supports the low-energy Bluetooth audio standard.

When it matters: When newer low-power Bluetooth audio features matter.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Show more

Battery

5.6

Show more

Hide

Battery life

What it is: The playback time available from one full battery charge.

When it matters: When you need longer playback between charges.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >= 20 h

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electrical charge the internal battery can store.

When it matters: When longer untethered playback or power-bank use needs more stored charge.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >= 5000 mAh

Charging time

What it is: The time needed to recharge the battery fully.

When it matters: When the speaker needs to be ready again quickly.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <= 4 h

Maximum charging input power

What it is: The maximum charging power the speaker can accept from a compatible power source.

When it matters: When faster charging requires the speaker to accept more input power.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >= 20 W

Built-in rechargeable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the speaker uses a battery that can be recharged.

When it matters: When portable use without disposable batteries or continuous mains power matters.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Show more

Durability

9.9

Show more

Hide

IP rating

What it is: The ingress protection code for dust and water resistance.

When it matters: When dust and water protection need to match the intended environment.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: IP67+

Water resistance

What it is: Indicates whether the enclosure can resist water exposure.

When it matters: When the speaker may be used near pools, rain, or splashes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

Dust resistance

What it is: Shows whether the enclosure is protected against dust ingress.

When it matters: When the speaker may be exposed to sand, soil, or dusty environments.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

Waterproof depth rating

What it is: The maximum water depth the speaker is rated to withstand.

When it matters: When the speaker may be submerged or used very close to water.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >= 1 m

Drop resistance

What it is: Indicates whether the housing is designed to survive accidental drops.

When it matters: When the speaker may be bumped or suffer an accidental fall during outdoor or travel use.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Show more

Controls

9.4

Show more

Hide

On-device controls placement

What it is: The physical area of the speaker where its controls are located.

When it matters: When you want controls that are easy to reach in the speaker intended placement.

Importance: LOW

top

Touchscreen

What it is: Indicates whether a touch-sensitive screen is integrated.

When it matters: When direct visual control is more convenient than buttons or an app.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Smartphone app control

What it is: Shows whether the speaker can be controlled from a phone app.

When it matters: When remote settings, updates, or sound adjustment from a phone matter.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Remote control

What it is: Indicates whether a dedicated remote control is supplied or supported.

When it matters: When you want to control playback from across the room.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Fast pairing

What it is: Shows whether setup with compatible devices can be completed more quickly.

When it matters: When quick setup with compatible devices matters.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Show more

Design

8.9

Show more

Hide

Weight

What it is: The total mass of the portable speaker.

When it matters: When carrying the speaker frequently or packing light matters.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <= 1000 g

Height

What it is: The vertical external dimension of the speaker body.

When it matters: When the speaker must fit beneath shelves or in a compact bag.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <= 20 cm

Width

What it is: The side-to-side external dimension of the speaker body.

When it matters: When the speaker must fit a narrow shelf, bag, or tabletop.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <= 25 cm

Depth

What it is: The front-to-back depth of the speaker housing.

When it matters: When the speaker should take up less front-to-back space.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <= 10 cm

Carry options

What it is: The available ways to carry, hang, or attach the speaker.

When it matters: When a handle, strap, or attachment point changes how you carry the speaker.

Importance: LOW

strap

Show more

Smart features

7.6

Show more

Hide

Companion app name

What it is: The official app used to control settings and functions of the speaker.

When it matters: When app compatibility and the available control features depend on the official app.

Importance: LOW

Bose Music

Firmware updates

What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can receive firmware revisions after purchase.

When it matters: When post-purchase fixes and feature improvements matter.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Firmware update method

What it is: The path used to install firmware updates on the speaker.

When it matters: When the convenience and reliability of installing updates matters.

Importance: LOW

OTA; USB

Voice assistant support

What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can work with supported voice assistants.

When it matters: When hands-free control through a compatible assistant matters.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Spotify Connect

What it is: Shows whether Spotify can stream directly to the speaker over the network.

When it matters: When Spotify should stream directly without keeping phone audio active.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Show more

Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen vs the average portable speaker

Why is Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen better than the average portable speaker?

Show more

Hide

Better ingress protection
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has better ingress protection than the average portable speaker (IP67 vs IPX5).
What it is: The ingress protection code for dust and water resistance.
When it matters: When dust and water protection need to match the intended environment.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: IP67+
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has better ingress protection than the average portable speaker (IP67 vs IPX5).IP67 vs IPX5
1 m deeper waterproof rating
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a deeper waterproof depth rating than the average portable speaker (1 m vs 0 m).
What it is: The maximum water depth the speaker is rated to withstand.
When it matters: When the speaker may be submerged or used very close to water.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >= 1 m
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a deeper waterproof depth rating than the average portable speaker (1 m vs 0 m).1 m vs 0 m
1 more multipoint connections
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more multipoint connections than the average portable speaker (2 vs 1).
Simultaneous Bluetooth devices: 2.
What it is: The number of source devices that can stay connected at the same time.
When it matters: When switching between several connected source devices matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >= 2
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more multipoint connections than the average portable speaker (2 vs 1).2 vs 1
3 more adjustable EQ bands
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more adjustable EQ bands than the average portable speaker (3 vs 0).
3 app eq bands.
What it is: The number of adjustable equalizer frequency bands available in the app.
When it matters: When fine-grained sound adjustment in the companion app matters.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >= 5 bands
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more adjustable EQ bands than the average portable speaker (3 vs 0).3 vs 0
4 more EQ presets
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more EQ presets than the average portable speaker (4 vs 0).
4 eq presets.
What it is: The number of preset sound tuning profiles that can be selected.
When it matters: When you want more ready-made sound profiles for different content.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >= 4 presets
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more EQ presets than the average portable speaker (4 vs 0).4 vs 0
Has an equalizer
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has an equalizer, while the average portable speaker does not have an equalizer.
Offers user-selectable EQ, tone adjustment, or sound presets.
What it is: Shows whether the sound balance can be adjusted across frequency ranges.
When it matters: When you want to adjust bass, midrange, or treble balance.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has an equalizer, while the average portable speaker does not have an equalizer.
Claims MIL-STD-810 compliance
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen claims MIL-STD-810 compliance, while the average portable speaker does not claim MIL-STD-810 compliance.
What it is: Shows whether testing against MIL-STD-810 durability procedures is claimed.
When it matters: When independently defined durability test procedures matter.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen claims MIL-STD-810 compliance, while the average portable speaker does not claim MIL-STD-810 compliance.
Resists accidental impacts
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen resists accidental impacts, while the average portable speaker lacks an impact-resistance rating.
What it is: Indicates whether the housing is designed to survive accidental drops.
When it matters: When the speaker may be bumped or suffer an accidental fall during outdoor or travel use.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen resists accidental impacts, while the average portable speaker lacks an impact-resistance rating.
1 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average portable speaker (81 dB vs 80 dB).
1 more multipoint connections
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more multipoint connections than the average portable speaker (2 vs 1).
Supports aptX Adaptive
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen supports aptX Adaptive, while the average portable speaker does not support aptX Adaptive.
Has a USB Type-C port
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a USB Type-C port, while the average portable speaker does not have a USB Type-C port.
0.3 Bluetooth levels newer
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a newer Bluetooth version than the average portable speaker (5.3 vs 5.0).
Supports AAC Bluetooth audio
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen supports AAC Bluetooth audio, while the average portable speaker does not support AAC Bluetooth audio.
500 mAh more battery capacity
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a larger battery capacity than the average portable speaker (3,100 mAh vs 2,600 mAh).
Better ingress protection
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has better ingress protection than the average portable speaker (IP67 vs IPX5).
1 m deeper waterproof rating
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a deeper waterproof depth rating than the average portable speaker (1 m vs 0 m).
Resists accidental impacts
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen resists accidental impacts, while the average portable speaker lacks an impact-resistance rating.
Claims MIL-STD-810 compliance
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen claims MIL-STD-810 compliance, while the average portable speaker does not claim MIL-STD-810 compliance.
Floats in water
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen floats in water, while the average portable speaker does not float in water.
Is UV resistant
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen is UV resistant, while the average portable speaker is not rated as UV resistant.
3 more adjustable EQ bands
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more adjustable EQ bands than the average portable speaker (3 vs 0).
4 more EQ presets
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has more EQ presets than the average portable speaker (4 vs 0).
Has an equalizer
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has an equalizer, while the average portable speaker does not have an equalizer.
Supports fast pairing
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen supports fast pairing, while the average portable speaker does not support fast pairing.
Supports party mode
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen supports party mode, while the average portable speaker does not support party mode.
Supports playback mute
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen supports playback mute, while the average portable speaker does not support playback mute.
Has a programmable button
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a programmable button, while the average portable speaker does not have a programmable button.
Has a sleep timer
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a sleep timer, while the average portable speaker does not have a sleep timer.
7.17 cm shorter
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen is shorter than the average portable speaker (5.2 cm vs 12.4 cm).
3.07 cm shallower
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen is shallower than the average portable speaker (5.2 cm vs 8.3 cm).
Supports voice assistants
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen supports voice assistants, while the average portable speaker does not support voice assistants.
Supports firmware updates
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen supports firmware updates, while the average portable speaker does not support firmware updates.
5 newer
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen was released more recently than the average portable speaker (2024 vs 2019).

Why is Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen worse than the average portable speaker?

Show more

Hide

2,500 Hz lower maximum frequency
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a lower maximum frequency than the average portable speaker (17,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz).
Upper frequency-response endpoint: 17500 Hz.
8 dB SPL lower maximum sound pressure
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a lower maximum sound pressure level than the average portable speaker (84 dB SPL vs 92.00 dB SPL).
Sound pressure level: 84.00 dB.
1 fewer speaker drivers
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has fewer speaker drivers than the average portable speaker (1 vs 2).
Acoustic drivers: 1.
4 Hz less deep bass extension
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has less deep bass extension than the average portable speaker (64 Hz vs 60.00 Hz).
Lower frequency-response endpoint: 64.00 Hz.
Does not have a 3.5 mm AUX input
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen does not have a 3.5 mm AUX input, while the average portable speaker has a 3.5 mm AUX input.
No built-in 3.5 mm AUX input.
1 fewer USB ports
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has fewer USB ports than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).
Physical USB ports: 0.
2 fewer paired devices remembered
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen remembers fewer paired devices than the average portable speaker (6 vs 8).
Remembered Bluetooth devices: 6.
1 m shorter Bluetooth range
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a shorter Bluetooth range than the average portable speaker (9 m vs 10 m).
Maximum Bluetooth range: 9.00 m.
1 hours longer charging time
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a longer charging time than the average portable speaker (4 hours vs 3 hours).
5 W lower charging input power
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has lower charging input power than the average portable speaker (5 W vs 10 W).
2,500 Hz lower maximum frequency
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a lower maximum frequency than the average portable speaker (17,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz).
Upper frequency-response endpoint: 17500 Hz.
What it is: The highest audible frequency the speaker can reproduce.
When it matters: When upper-treble extension and high-frequency detail matter.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >= 20000 Hz
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a lower maximum frequency than the average portable speaker (17,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz).17500 Hz vs 20000 Hz
8 dB SPL lower maximum sound pressure
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a lower maximum sound pressure level than the average portable speaker (84 dB SPL vs 92.00 dB SPL).
Sound pressure level: 84.00 dB.
What it is: The maximum acoustic loudness the speaker can produce.
When it matters: When the speaker must play loudly in a large or outdoor space.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >= 90 dB SPL
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a lower maximum sound pressure level than the average portable speaker (84 dB SPL vs 92.00 dB SPL).84.00 dB SPL vs 92.00 dB SPL
1 hours longer charging time
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a longer charging time than the average portable speaker (4 hours vs 3 hours).
What it is: The time needed to recharge the battery fully.
When it matters: When the speaker needs to be ready again quickly.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <= 4 h
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has a longer charging time than the average portable speaker (4 hours vs 3 hours).4 hours vs 3 hours
Does not have a 3.5 mm AUX input
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen does not have a 3.5 mm AUX input, while the average portable speaker has a 3.5 mm AUX input.
No built-in 3.5 mm AUX input.
What it is: Indicates whether a standard 3.5 mm analog audio socket is present.
When it matters: When you need a reliable wired analog audio connection.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen does not have a 3.5 mm AUX input, while the average portable speaker has a 3.5 mm AUX input.
5 W lower charging input power
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has lower charging input power than the average portable speaker (5 W vs 10 W).
What it is: The maximum charging power the speaker can accept from a compatible power source.
When it matters: When faster charging requires the speaker to accept more input power.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >= 20 W
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has lower charging input power than the average portable speaker (5 W vs 10 W).5 W vs 10 W
1 fewer speaker drivers
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has fewer speaker drivers than the average portable speaker (1 vs 2).
Acoustic drivers: 1.
What it is: The total number of speaker drivers built into the unit.
When it matters: When fuller driver arrays and broader sound coverage matter.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >= 2
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has fewer speaker drivers than the average portable speaker (1 vs 2).1 vs 2
1 fewer USB ports
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has fewer USB ports than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).
Physical USB ports: 0.
What it is: The number of USB ports available on the speaker.
When it matters: When several wired accessories or storage devices need USB connections.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >= 1
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen has fewer USB ports than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).0 vs 1
2 fewer paired devices remembered
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen remembers fewer paired devices than the average portable speaker (6 vs 8).
Remembered Bluetooth devices: 6.
What it is: The number of previously paired devices the speaker can remember.
When it matters: When many household devices reconnect to the speaker regularly.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >= 8
Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen remembers fewer paired devices than the average portable speaker (6 vs 8).6 vs 8

Graphic comparison of Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen and other products in the Portable Speakers category

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

What customers like about Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen?

Clear, crisp, and well-balanced mid-range and treble performance
Impressive punchy sound and depth of bass for its compact size
Highly durable, premium build with a silicone-wrapped exterior and metal grille
IP67 dustproof and waterproof rating, and it can float in water
Excellent portability with a lightweight, compact body and a built-in nylon loop
PositionIQ technology automatically optimizes audio output based on speaker orientation
Companion app now features a user-adjustable 3-band graphic equalizer (EQ)
Upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with multipoint pairing for two devices
Integrated microphone allows for clear hands-free phone calls and voice assistant access
Can pair with another second-generation Flex speaker for true stereo playback

What customers dislike about Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen?

Real-world battery life often drops to 6–7 hours at higher volumes, falling short of the advertised 12 hours
Audio can experience compression, harshness, and minor distortion when pushed past 80% volume
Lacks the low-end sub-bass thump found in larger portable speakers
Relatively minor hardware and sound performance upgrades compared to the 1st Gen model
Mono-only playback from a single unit with a somewhat narrow soundstage and front-facing directivity
The USB-C port is restricted to charging only and cannot transfer wired audio or charge external devices
Lacks an auxiliary (3.5mm aux) input jack
The package does not include a carabiner or a flexible attachment strap for the utility loop
PositionIQ feature exhibits a slight audio delay when switching orientations and cannot be turned off
Stereo pairing is strictly restricted to 2nd Gen SoundLink units and lacks backward compatibility with the 1st Gen Flex

Expert reviews

techradar.com

07/12/2024

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2 review: a beautiful pint-sized party speaker with awesome audio

The TechRadar review of the Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2 praises the portable speaker for its durable design and powerful, detailed audio with improved instrument separation. Key advantages include the addition of customizable EQ settings via the app, while drawbacks include limited, basic EQ presets and audio that can become harsh and unstable at maximum volume.

rtings.com

31/10/2024

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex vs SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) serves as an iterative upgrade to the original, featuring Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint pairing, enhanced controls, and app-based graphic EQ support, while maintaining the same well-balanced sound profile. Key, specific improvements include superior codec support for AAC and aptX Adaptive, addressing some of the original's limitations. However, both generations share nearly identical rugged IP67-rated designs and remain restricted to mono playback, with minimal upgrades to overall audio quality or battery performance.

forbes.com

28/10/2024

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex Is The Perfect Travel Speaker To Take Anywhere

Mark Sparrow's review for Forbes highlights the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) as a compact, durable, and highly portable speaker, ideal for travelers, boasting improved Bluetooth codec support (AAC/aptX) and a customizable shortcut button. While the speaker offers impressive sound for its size, a 12-hour battery life, and a robust, waterproof design, it faces limitations with restricted graphic equalizer options in the companion app.

androidpolice.com

20/12/2024

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) review: Strong but samey

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is a robust, iterative upgrade offering excellent, balanced sound, an IP67-rated waterproof silicone body, and new app-based EQ customization. While it maintains top-tier durability and performance, the speaker faces criticism for delivering too few changes to warrant upgrading from the first generation and for experiencing sound distortion at maximum volumes.

zdnet.com

28/11/2025

Summary of the review

I can take my 4 favorite Bluetooth speakers anywhere - and they're all on sale

According to ZDNET analysis, four portable Bluetooth speakers stand out for their durability and performance: the bass-heavy Anker Soundcore Boom 2, the high-fidelity yet premium-priced Sonos Move 2, the ultra-rugged JBL Charge series, and the long-lasting Beats Pill. While offering exceptional portability and sound, these models face tradeoffs including, respectively, a less premium build, app reliance, limited EQ adjustments, and lacking true stereo separation without pairing.

hifi.de

18. Januar 2025

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) review - HIFI.DE

The HIFI.DE review gives the second-generation Bose SoundLink Flex an 8.1/10 rating, highlighting its clear sound, punchy bass, and rugged IP67-rated design featuring PositionIQ technology. The updated model, which brings software improvements and an assignable button, is lauded for its outdoor versatility. However, the review notes the 12-hour battery life is mediocre compared to competitors, deep bass drops off, and there are no physical audio inputs.

heise.de

28/08/2025

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex 2 Bluetooth Speaker Review - Heise

The Heise review of the Bose SoundLink Flex 2 highlights its compact design, delivering a warm, bass-forward sound with clear mids and highs. Pros include an IP67 rating, Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Adaptive, and excellent call quality, while cons feature a lack of significant hardware upgrades from the predecessor, no auxiliary input, reduced bass at high volumes, and a modest 12-hour battery life.

kopfhoerer.de

09/04/2025

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) review on kopfhoerer.de

The second-generation Bose SoundLink Flex is a compact, durable, and bass-driven Bluetooth speaker designed for outdoor activities, featuring an IP67 rating, high-quality build, and seamless Bluetooth Multipoint connectivity. While praised for its portability and rugged design, the review notes the speaker's limitations include subpar battery life and limited maximum volume.

test.de

23/01/2026

Summary of the review

Review: Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) | Stiftung Warentest

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is a portable Bluetooth speaker noted for its robust, waterproof construction and user-friendly, responsive controls. While praised for its portability and reliable battery life, the speaker exhibits limitations in sound customization and lacks the deep bass and wide stereo separation found in larger, stationary systems.

homeandsmart.de

07/11/2024

Summary of the review

Bose Soundlink Flex Review: Small Bluetooth Speaker with Heavy Bass

The homeandsmart review describes the Bose SoundLink Flex 2 as a compact, durable Bluetooth speaker delivering surprisingly heavy, "punchy" bass (9x20x5 cm, 590g) with a reliable 12-hour battery life. While highly portable and rugged, the review notes minor drawbacks, specifically a very short (30.5 cm) USB charging cable and, predictably for its size, a constrained spatial soundstage compared to larger units.

lesnumeriques.com

22/05/2025

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) Review: An all-terrain speaker that is still highly recommended

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) offers a durable IP67-rated, shockproof design with improved connectivity, including Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint pairing, and AptX Adaptive support. While boasting premium build quality and solid battery performance, the speaker's audio profile is marred by excessively heavy bass that masks mid-frequencies and unnaturally high trebles.

01net.com

22/11/2024

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) Review: Our Verdict on the Discerning Adventurer's Speaker

The 01net review highlights the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Generation) as a rugged, high-performing portable speaker featuring excellent audio with deep bass, an app equalizer, and IP67-rated durability, alongside enhanced hands-free microphone quality and Bluetooth multipoint. While the speaker offers solid 12-hour battery life and aptX/AAC codec support, the review notes the lack of a 3.5mm auxiliary port and describes it as a relatively minor physical upgrade compared to the first generation.

hablandodemanzanas.com

27/01/2025

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex 2 vs Flex 1 Comparison: Which One to Buy in 2025?

According to the Hablando de Manzanas review, the Bose SoundLink Flex 2 is a recommended upgrade for new users, offering improved Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, a customizable 3-band equalizer, and a new programmable shortcut button. While boasting superior user-experience features, the speaker retains the same design, audio hardware, and IP67 rating as the original, making it an incremental update rather than a major sound overhaul.

soundguys.com

19/06/2025

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) Review - SoundGuys

The SoundGuys review highlights the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) as a durable, travel-friendly speaker boasting significant upgrades, including Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connectivity and Snapdragon Sound support for aptX Adaptive audio. While maintaining a rugged IP67-rated design and introducing a three-band EQ, the speaker is limited to mono audio from a single unit and offers a 12-hour battery life that lags behind some competitors.

smartworld.it

29/01/2025

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex 2 Review: An Excellent Compact Speaker

The SmartWorld review identifies the Bose SoundLink Flex 2 as an excellent, compact portable speaker featuring robust Bluetooth 5.3 multi-point connectivity and a highly convenient, programmable shortcut button. While the new companion app introduces a 3-band equalizer, the review notes limited EQ depth, minimal sound separation improvements over the previous model, and the lack of an auxiliary jack.

techprincess.it

13/02/2025

Summary of the review

Our Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) review

The TechPrincess review highlights the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) as a durable, well-built Bluetooth speaker offering clear, balanced, and immersive audio even at high volumes. Key upgrades include a dedicated play/pause button, a customizable shortcut button, and app-based EQ, though the device lacks deep bass, physical input options, and experiences minor audio adjustments from the PositionIQ technology.

galaxus.it

06/03/2025

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: Is the speaker really worth it?

The Galaxus review identifies the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) as a robust, portable Bluetooth speaker featuring a refined design, excellent build quality, and a warm, clear sound with balanced mids. While praised for its aesthetic, the review highlights drawbacks including the absence of physical input jacks, relatively short battery life compared to competitors, and a lack of deep, powerful bass.

corriere.it

14/11/2024

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex 2 review: The Bluetooth speaker that resists bumps and drops and sounds great

The Bose SoundLink Flex 2 is praised by Corriere della Sera as a highly durable, IP67-rated, waterproof, and dustproof Bluetooth speaker featuring upgraded materials for enhanced impact resistance. Key strengths include the innovative PositionIQ technology for automatic audio optimization, punchy bass, and up to 12 hours of battery life, although, as noted in the review, performance is slightly limited by a, maximum volume reducing battery longevity and a non-360-degree sound profile.

consumentenbond.nl

16/10/2024

Summary of the review

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) Black - Test, Reviews & Prices

The Bose Soundlink Flex (2nd Gen) is a compact, highly portable Bluetooth speaker featuring an IP-rated, waterproof design suitable for on-the-go use, along with a companion app for EQ adjustments and USB smartphone charging. Key disadvantages noted in the review include the lack of an included charging adapter, a non-user-replaceable battery, and the absence of an AUX input.

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Tribit Stormbox Pro

Portable Speakers

Portable Speakers

Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3

Portable Speakers

Portable Speakers

LG XBOOM Go XG5

Portable Speakers

Ultimate Ears Boom

Portable Speakers

Urbanista Malibu

Portable Speakers

Marshall Willen II

Portable Speakers

Teufel Rockster Go 2

Portable Speakers

Klipsch Nashville

Portable Speakers

Harman Kardon Luna

Portable Speakers

Portable Speakers

Compare Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen with other products in the Portable Speakers category

Compare