In the search for good bathroom speakers, we regularly hear that the choice is between two audio products: wireless portable bathroom speakers and wireless recessed bathroom speakers. While both options offer the ability to fill the bathroom with high-quality sound, each offers unique benefits that fit a variety of needs. While portable speakers promise wireless freedom and versatility, built-in speakers offer seamless aesthetics and optimized sound experiences. In this comparison, we will review the main features, advantages and limitations of both speaker types so that you can make the most appropriate choice for your own bathroom.
Are both wireless bathroom speakers though?
Although when you think of wireless speakers you quickly think of a standalone portable speaker that you can take in and out of the bathroom, this is not always correct. A speaker is considered wireless when it is able to connect to an audio source, such as a smartphone, tablet, computer or other device, without the use of physical cables. The connection is made via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which maintains the flexibility of the paired device.
So even if a speaker is built-in, and still needs cables for power, interconnection or internet, we can still call it a wireless speaker. This is because, like a portable speaker, the connection to an audio source is wireless. So you can think of a built-in speaker as a fixed wireless speaker which does not have the limitations of a portable version. Thus, a fixed wireless speaker is always powered and unlike a stand-alone speaker, the battery will never run down.
The disadvantages of portable bathroom speakers
Although AquaSound used to include portable waterproof bathroom speakers in its range, these days we have deliberately moved away from that. In fact, as far as we are concerned, the disadvantages of portable speakers do not outweigh the advantages of built-in speakers. For example, with portable speakers you often have to deal with;
- Limited battery life: portable wireless speakers often have limited battery life.
- Sound quality: some portable wireless speakers may offer lower sound quality compared to built-in speakers. Especially at higher volumes or deeper bass sounds.
- Required charging time: since portable wireless speakers work with a battery, they need to be charged regularly, which requires extra time and attention to ensure the speaker is ready at the desired time of use.
- Susceptibility to damage: portable speakers may be susceptible to damage from exposure to moisture or water, especially if they are not designed to be sufficiently water-resistant.
- Limited sound distribution: compared to built-in speakers, portable wireless speakers can be limited in spreading sound evenly around the room, especially in larger bathrooms.
What we noticed ourselves is that our wireless portable speakers could not be used 100% of the desired time. Because they were either hanging on the charger, they were still in another room or the battery was just dead. All this is a thing of the past with recessed bathroom speakers, they can be used anytime provided you haven’t forgotten the audio source.
The benefits of recessed bathroom speakers
- Space saving: recessed bathroom speakers do not take up additional space, which is especially useful in bathrooms with limited space.
- Aesthetics: the speakers are designed to blend seamlessly into the bathroom fixtures, creating a clean and seamless look.
- Sound quality: built-in bathroom speakers can provide high-quality sound reproduction, allowing you to enjoy a better audio experience while showering, bathing, brushing your teeth or making up.
- Safety: built-in speakers reduce the risk of tripping or falling as they are not on the floor and do not create an obstacle.
Although installation of recessed bathroom speakers is a bit more cumbersome, it is only a one-time investment that will benefit you for years afterwards. Although the speaker is not versatile, that is also an immediate advantage. Because the speaker is always ready to be used as soon as you step into the bathroom.
Curious about the possibilities? Browse all our bathroom speakers or dive straight into the webshop to buy your favorite recessed bathroom speaker.