Short answer: the Bose Soundlink Flex. It ranks #38 of 177 medium speakers by sound quality (rated 3.8/5) at $79.99 and is still sold new; the Xdobo X8 ranks #158 (rated 2.3/5) and is discontinued, so it is only an option used.
The SoundLink Flex is the cleaner, tougher speaker. Its 60mm driver and two passive radiators reach about 56Hz before falling 10dB, Alan Ross measured 96dB, and it is IP67, survives drops and floats. Its bass is boosted enough to cover some midrange detail.
The Xdobo X8 is a cheap, loud speaker with rough sound. Its single 66mm driver on 60W plays loud and full for its size, and it adds aux and microSD playback, a speakerphone and a 15-hour battery rating. Reviews note a harsh midrange, rolled-off treble and audible distortion, and it is only IPX5.
Buy the Bose Soundlink Flex. It is rated higher for sound quality, and the Xdobo X8 is discontinued, so it is only available used.
Still deciding? The full Portable Bluetooth rankings cover every ranked option.
A small, rugged waterproof speaker that survives drops and floats, with a warm, bass forward sound for casual outdoor use.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Bose Soundlink Flex | Xdobo X8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $79.99 | $35 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #38 of 177 in Medium Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers | #158 of 177 in Medium Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers |
| App | Yes | No |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 56Hz | ~65Hz |
| Battery Life | 12 hours (Manufacturer specified) | 15 hours (Manufacturer specified) |
| Built-in Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| EQ | No | Yes (multiple modes) |
| IP Rating | IP67 | IPX5 |
| Bluetooth Latency | 33ms | - |
| Maximum SPL | 96dB (measured by Alan Ross Reviews) | - |
| Party Mode | Yes (Bose Party mode) | - |
| Power Input | USB-C | USB-C |
| Stereo | No | No |
| Omnidirectional | No | No |
| TWS | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 1.3 lbs (589 g) | 1.9 lbs (860 g) |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 5.0 |
| Dimensions | 7.9” x 3.5” x 2” (201 x 90 x 52 mm) | 8.7” x 3.7” x 2.8” (220 x 95 x 72 mm) |
| Drivers | 1x 60mm full-range driver + 2x passive radiators | 66mm full-range driver |
| Digital Aux Input | No | No |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC | SBC (inferred; additional codecs unverified) |
| Aux Input | No | Yes |
| Strap | Yes (built-in loop) | - |
| MicroSD Playback | - | Yes |
| Amplifier Power | - | 60W |
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