Name: Sony SRS-XB3
Brand: Sony

Technical Specifications of portable speaker Sony SRS-XB3

Overall score

6.7

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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

7.2

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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

Connectivity

5.6

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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

A2DP; AVRCP; HFP; HSP

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

Battery

8.8

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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

Durability

4.9

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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

Controls

6.2

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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

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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

Design

8.5

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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

handle

Smart features

4.0

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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

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

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

Sony SRS-XB3 vs the average portable speaker

Why is Sony SRS-XB3 better than the average portable speaker?

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12 hours longer battery life
Sony SRS-XB3 has a longer battery life than the average portable speaker (24 hours vs 12 hours).
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
Sony SRS-XB3 has a longer battery life than the average portable speaker (24 hours vs 12 hours).24 hours vs 12 hours
40 Hz deeper bass extension
Sony SRS-XB3 has deeper bass extension than the average portable speaker (20 Hz vs 60.00 Hz).
Lower frequency-response endpoint: 20.00 Hz.
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
Sony SRS-XB3 has deeper bass extension than the average portable speaker (20 Hz vs 60.00 Hz).20.00 Hz vs 60.00 Hz
2,600 mAh more battery capacity
Sony SRS-XB3 has a larger battery capacity than the average portable speaker (5,200 mAh vs 2,600 mAh).
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
Sony SRS-XB3 has a larger battery capacity than the average portable speaker (5,200 mAh vs 2,600 mAh).5200 mAh vs 2600 mAh
Has a noise-canceling microphone
Sony SRS-XB3 has a noise-canceling microphone, while the average portable speaker does not have a noise-canceling microphone.
Uses microphone noise/echo cancellation for calls or voice.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphones can reduce surrounding noise during capture.
When it matters: When calls or voice commands must remain clear around background noise.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Sony SRS-XB3 has a noise-canceling microphone, while the average portable speaker does not have a noise-canceling microphone.
3 more adjustable EQ bands
Sony SRS-XB3 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
Sony SRS-XB3 has more adjustable EQ bands than the average portable speaker (3 vs 0).3 vs 0
20 W higher charging input power
Sony SRS-XB3 has higher charging input power than the average portable speaker (30 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
Sony SRS-XB3 has higher charging input power than the average portable speaker (30 W vs 10 W).30 W vs 10 W
Has built-in stereo speakers
Sony SRS-XB3 has built-in stereo speakers, while the average portable speaker does not have built-in stereo speakers.
Provides true stereo output within the unit.
What it is: Shows whether the device uses separate left and right audio channels.
When it matters: When true left-and-right channel playback matters without pairing a second speaker.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Sony SRS-XB3 has built-in stereo speakers, while the average portable speaker does not have built-in stereo speakers.
Has a power bank function
Sony SRS-XB3 has a power bank function, while the average portable speaker does not have a power bank function.
What it is: Shows whether the speaker can send power to charge another device.
When it matters: When the speaker should also charge a phone or another device.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Sony SRS-XB3 has a power bank function, while the average portable speaker does not have a power bank function.
40 Hz deeper bass extension
Sony SRS-XB3 has deeper bass extension than the average portable speaker (20 Hz vs 60.00 Hz).
Has a noise-canceling microphone
Sony SRS-XB3 has a noise-canceling microphone, while the average portable speaker does not have a noise-canceling microphone.
Has built-in stereo speakers
Sony SRS-XB3 has built-in stereo speakers, while the average portable speaker does not have built-in stereo speakers.
10 W more audio output power
Sony SRS-XB3 has more audio output power than the average portable speaker (30 W vs 20.00 W).
Supports LDAC
Sony SRS-XB3 supports LDAC, while the average portable speaker does not support LDAC.
Supports NFC Bluetooth pairing
Sony SRS-XB3 supports NFC Bluetooth pairing, while the average portable speaker does not support NFC Bluetooth pairing.
Supports AAC Bluetooth audio
Sony SRS-XB3 supports AAC Bluetooth audio, while the average portable speaker does not support AAC Bluetooth audio.
12 hours longer battery life
Sony SRS-XB3 has a longer battery life than the average portable speaker (24 hours vs 12 hours).
2,600 mAh more battery capacity
Sony SRS-XB3 has a larger battery capacity than the average portable speaker (5,200 mAh vs 2,600 mAh).
20 W higher charging input power
Sony SRS-XB3 has higher charging input power than the average portable speaker (30 W vs 10 W).
Has a power bank function
Sony SRS-XB3 has a power bank function, while the average portable speaker does not have a power bank function.
Includes a power adapter
Sony SRS-XB3 includes a power adapter, while the average portable speaker does not include a power adapter.
3 more adjustable EQ bands
Sony SRS-XB3 has more adjustable EQ bands than the average portable speaker (3 vs 0).
Supports fast pairing
Sony SRS-XB3 supports fast pairing, while the average portable speaker does not support fast pairing.
2 more EQ presets
Sony SRS-XB3 has more EQ presets than the average portable speaker (2 vs 0).
4.4 cm shorter
Sony SRS-XB3 is shorter than the average portable speaker (8 cm vs 12.4 cm).

Why is Sony SRS-XB3 worse than the average portable speaker?

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2 mm smaller main driver
Sony SRS-XB3 has a smaller main driver than the average portable speaker (48 mm vs 50.00 mm).
Primary driver diameter: 48.00 mm.
400 Hz lower microphone frequency limit
Sony SRS-XB3 has a lower microphone frequency limit than the average portable speaker (7,000 Hz vs 7,400 Hz).
2 Bluetooth levels older
Sony SRS-XB3 has an older Bluetooth version than the average portable speaker (3 vs 5.0).
Bluetooth version: 3.0.
1 hours longer charging time
Sony SRS-XB3 has a longer charging time than the average portable speaker (4 hours vs 3 hours).
Is not rated as dust resistant
Sony SRS-XB3 is not rated as dust resistant, while the average portable speaker is dust resistant.
5 °C higher minimum operating temperature
Sony SRS-XB3 has a higher minimum operating temperature than the average portable speaker (5 °C vs 0 °C).
5 °C lower maximum operating temperature
Sony SRS-XB3 has a lower maximum operating temperature than the average portable speaker (35 °C vs 40 °C).
Does not support smartphone app control
Sony SRS-XB3 does not support smartphone app control, while the average portable speaker supports smartphone app control.
No compatible mobile app for speaker control.
Does not provide voice prompts
Sony SRS-XB3 does not provide voice prompts, while the average portable speaker provides voice prompts.
No spoken status prompts; feedback is absent, visual, or tone-based.
3 older
Sony SRS-XB3 was released earlier than the average portable speaker (2016 vs 2019).
Release year: 2016.
Is not rated as dust resistant
Sony SRS-XB3 is not rated as dust resistant, while the average portable speaker is dust resistant.
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
Sony SRS-XB3 is not rated as dust resistant, while the average portable speaker is dust resistant.
Does not support smartphone app control
Sony SRS-XB3 does not support smartphone app control, while the average portable speaker supports smartphone app control.
No compatible mobile app for speaker 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
Sony SRS-XB3 does not support smartphone app control, while the average portable speaker supports smartphone app control.
2 Bluetooth levels older
Sony SRS-XB3 has an older Bluetooth version than the average portable speaker (3 vs 5.0).
Bluetooth version: 3.0.
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
Sony SRS-XB3 has an older Bluetooth version than the average portable speaker (3 vs 5.0).3.0 vs 5.0
1 hours longer charging time
Sony SRS-XB3 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
Sony SRS-XB3 has a longer charging time than the average portable speaker (4 hours vs 3 hours).4 hours vs 3 hours
5 °C higher minimum operating temperature
Sony SRS-XB3 has a higher minimum operating temperature than the average portable speaker (5 °C vs 0 °C).
What it is: The lowest ambient temperature recommended for normal operation.
When it matters: When the speaker must work reliably in colder conditions.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <= -10 °C
Sony SRS-XB3 has a higher minimum operating temperature than the average portable speaker (5 °C vs 0 °C).5 °C vs 0 °C
Does not provide voice prompts
Sony SRS-XB3 does not provide voice prompts, while the average portable speaker provides voice prompts.
No spoken status prompts; feedback is absent, visual, or tone-based.
What it is: Indicates whether spoken status messages are used for user feedback.
When it matters: When spoken feedback for pairing, battery, or operating status is useful.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Sony SRS-XB3 does not provide voice prompts, while the average portable speaker provides voice prompts.
3.69x less popular
Sony SRS-XB3 is less popular than the average portable speaker (1.00 vs 3.688).
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.
Sony SRS-XB3 is less popular than the average portable speaker (1.00 vs 3.688).1 vs 3.69
5 °C lower maximum operating temperature
Sony SRS-XB3 has a lower maximum operating temperature than the average portable speaker (35 °C vs 40 °C).
What it is: The highest ambient temperature recommended for normal operation.
When it matters: When reliable use in hot weather or direct sunlight matters.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >= 45 °C
Sony SRS-XB3 has a lower maximum operating temperature than the average portable speaker (35 °C vs 40 °C).35 °C vs 40 °C

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony SRS-XB3?

Impressive and punchy bass response, especially when the Extra Bass feature is activated
Exceptional 24-hour battery life on a single charge
Functions as a power bank to charge smartphones via the USB out port
IPX5 water-resistant design protects against splashes and rain
Easy and quick connectivity using Bluetooth and one-touch NFC pairing
Ability to pair two units together for a true wireless stereo sound setup
Sturdy, durable build quality with a non-slip rubberized exterior

What customers dislike about Sony SRS-XB3?

Slightly bulkier and heavier than other ultra-portable speakers in its category
Lacks dedicated track navigation and playback controls (must control via phone)
Extra Bass mode can occasionally overpower the midrange frequencies, making vocals sound recessed
Lacks voice prompts for connection status, relying entirely on small LEDs
The large protective rubber flap over the back ports can be awkward and annoying to open frequently
It is only splash-proof (IPX5) and cannot be fully submerged in water
Microphone quality for hands-free phone calls can be clear but underwhelming

Expert reviews

pcmag.com

19/05/2016

Summary of the review

Sony SRS-XB3Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. Review - PCMag

The PCMag review of the Sony SRS-XB3 highlights the 2.1-pound portable speaker as a top sub-$200 option delivering vibrant, balanced sound with a powerful, bass-heavy "Extra Bass" mode. Key pros include its splash-resistant design, NFC fast-pairing, and the ability to link two units for stereo sound. However, cons noted are the lack of on-board playback controls and decreased high-mid clarity when the "Extra Bass" feature is activated.

uk.pcmag.com

Sony SRS-XB3 Review - PCMag UK

The Sony SRS-XB3 earned a PCMag UK Editors' Choice award for its powerful, bass-heavy audio, rugged IPX5 water-resistant design, and convenient features like NFC pairing and USB device charging. While offering impressive sound for its price, the speaker's drawbacks include a limited upward angle for the drivers, a lack of included cables, and a decrease in treble presence when activating the Extra Bass mode.

smh.com.au

04/07/2016

Hands on: Sony SRS-XB3 wireless speaker

The Sydney Morning Herald review highlights the $249 AUD Sony SRS-XB3 as a portable, splash-proof (IPX5) Bluetooth 3.0 speaker featuring exceptional 24-hour battery life, NFC pairing, and powerful bass via dual passive radiators. While praised for its audio quality and ability to charge external devices, the speaker's limitations include a lack of full submersion capability and the use of older Bluetooth 3.0 technology.

byteddyk.com

16/07/2016

Review: Sony SRS-XB3 is a solid Bluetooth speaker inside and out

The Sony SRS-XB3 is a robust, IPX5 water-resistant Bluetooth speaker praised for its tactile grip, dual-speaker pairing, and built-in power bank functionality, as noted in the review at byteddyk.com. While delivering powerful sound, the speaker's limitations include a 2.1-pound weight and a bass-heavy audio profile that sacrifices high-end detail, along with limited water resistance. For the full, detailed review, visit byteddyk.com.

trustedreviews.com

29/01/2017

Sony SRS-XB3 Review - Trusted Reviews

The Sony SRS-XB3 is a powerful, loud Bluetooth speaker designed for parties, offering high volume and a thick sound, but it suffers from muddled, low-mid heavy audio in quiet environments and lacks natural vocals. While the speaker thrives in noisy settings and offers good value, its "Extra Bass" mode reduces fidelity, making it less ideal for critical listening compared to competitors like the Bose SoundLink Mini II.

rayazmuthalif.wordpress.com

08/02/2017

Review: Sony SRS-XB3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Rayaz Muthalif’s review of the Sony SRS-XB3 highlights its excellent stability against thick walls, versatile positioning options, modern Bluetooth 4.1, and functional dual-pairing. While praised for sound quality, the speaker is limited by a 30-foot Bluetooth range, the inability to produce 360-degree sound, and a lack of SongPal app integration.

techguide.com.au

15/04/2016

Sony SRS-XB3 Extra Bass Bluetooth speaker delivers that added punch

The Tech Guide review identifies the Sony SRS-XB3 as a rugged, 930g portable speaker that pairs a 24-hour battery with powerful sound and a dedicated "Extra Bass" mode. Pros include high-output audio, IPX5 splash resistance, and the ability to act as a smartphone power bank, while the main drawbacks are its relatively heavy, chunky design and limited, non-submersible waterproofing.

afr.com

07/04/2016

Sony Extra Bass SRS-XB3 review: Your neighbours will beg to differ PCMag

The Sony Extra Bass SRS-XB3 is a durable, waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker offering impressive, high-volume output and an exceptional 24-hour battery life. While praised for its full feature set and stereo pairing capabilities, the review notes that audio can sound compressed at high volumes and a single unit offers limited stereo separation.

eftm.com

17/04/2016

Extra Bass from the Sony SRS-XB3 Bluetooth Speaker: Review

The EFTM review of the $249 Sony SRS-XB3 Bluetooth speaker highlights its exceptional 24-hour battery life, versatile, rugged design, and impressive volume with deep, solid bass. While offering useful features like phone charging and dual-speaker pairing, the review notes the speaker’s audio can sound thin without the "Extra Bass" mode, which is essential for optimal sound quality.

leclaireur.fnac.com

06/05/2016

Sony SRS-XB3, a portable and powerful Bluetooth speaker

The Leclaireur Fnac review praises the Sony SRS-XB3 as a powerful, versatile Bluetooth speaker (IPX5, 20-30m² range) with exceptional, lab-verified 21-hour battery life. Key strengths include high-fidelity sound (8.6/10) with balanced audio when "Extra Bass" is disabled, NFC pairing, vertical/horizontal orientation, and a USB power bank feature. Weaknesses in the technical analysis include a drop-off below 100 Hz resulting in a lower raw power score (5.3/10) and a lack of Wi-Fi or Chromecast functionality.

macitynet.it

11/06/2016

Testing the Sony SRS-XB3: The Everlasting Wireless Speaker

The Macitynet review highlights the Sony SRS-XB3 as an exceptional portable speaker featuring an extraordinary 24-hour battery life, robust audio performance with distortion-free "Extra Bass," a water-resistant design, and a USB charging port for devices. While praised for performance, the speaker lacks on-device music control buttons and relies on a proprietary 15V cylinder wall adapter for charging rather than a universal standard.

nwtv.nl

26/04/2016

Sony SRS-XB3 Review - NWTV

The NWTV review highlights the Sony SRS-XB3 as a portable speaker offering a fun, full sound with a prominent Extra Bass feature, suitable for outdoor use due to its splash-proof design. While praised for its punchy audio, the review indicates that the bass-heavy, "compressed" sound profile may lack distinction in higher frequencies compared to more balanced alternatives.

Sony SRS-XB3 Review | 130 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of portable speaker Sony SRS-XB3

Sony SRS-XB3 vs the average portable speaker

Why is Sony SRS-XB3 better than the average portable speaker?

Why is Sony SRS-XB3 worse than the average portable speaker?

Graphic comparison of Sony SRS-XB3 and other products in the Portable Speakers category

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony SRS-XB3?

What customers dislike about Sony SRS-XB3?

Expert reviews

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