Different classes, so treat this as a step-up-or-not question rather than a head-to-head. The JBL Partybox Encore Essential 2 ranks #6 of 113 boombox speakers by sound quality at $249.95; the Onn Large Party gen 2 ranks #17 of 53 party speakers by sound quality at $129.
The JBL Partybox Encore Essential 2 is the lighter option. A compact party speaker with balanced sound, punchy bass, mic and guitar inputs, and enough volume for a backyard party. At 13.7 lbs (6.2 kg) it weighs noticeably less than the Onn Large Party gen 2 at 20.9 lbs (9.5 kg). It has an adjustable EQ, which the Onn Large Party gen 2 lacks. Watch for: It is front-facing, so the sound changes noticeably to the sides and behind it, and bass compression reduces kick-drum impact at maximum volume.
The case for the Onn Large Party gen 2: A budget party speaker on wheels with real bass impact, karaoke inputs and an FM radio. Watch for: The low price shows in the refinement.
Buy the JBL Partybox Encore Essential 2 at $249.95 for a boombox speaker, or the Onn Large Party gen 2 at $129 for a party speaker instead.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Portable Bluetooth rankings.
Prices on this page were last checked November 7, 2026 at 7:34 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
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Specifications Side By Side
| JBL Partybox Encore Essential 2 | Onn Large Party gen 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $249.95 | $129 |
| Ranked | #6 of 113 in Boombox Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers | #17 of 53 in Party Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers |
| App | Yes (JBL PartyBox app) | No |
| Aux Input | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life | 15 hours (Manufacturer specified) | 12 hours (Manufacturer specified) |
| Built-in Microphone | No | - |
| EQ | Yes (7 band App EQ) | No |
| Guitar Input | Yes | Yes |
| IP Rating | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Microphone Input | Yes (Karaoke mode with echo effect) | Yes (Karaoke mode with echo effect) |
| Party Mode | Yes (Auracast) | Yes (Party Sync Mode) |
| Power Bank | Yes (USB-C) | Yes (USB-A, 5V/2.1A) |
| Power Input | AC Power cord | AC Power cord |
| Stereo | Yes | Partially |
| Omnidirectional | No | No |
| TWS | Yes | No |
| USB Playback | Yes | No |
| Weight | 13.7 lbs (6.2 kg) | 20.9 lbs (9.5 kg) |
| Wireless Microphones | No | - |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC | SBC |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.4 | - |
| Amplifier Power | 100W RMS | 160W RMS (640W peak) |
| Dimensions | 12.6” x 13.5” x 10.3” (319.5 x 342 x 260.4 mm) | 22.5”H x 11.6”W x 11.8”D (571 x 295 x 300 mm) |
| Drivers | 1x 135mm (5.25”) woofer + 2x 20mm (0.75”) dome tweeters | Dual 8” (203mm) woofers + dual tweeters |
| Maximum SPL | 110dB (measured by Alan Ross Reviews) | - |
| Digital Aux Input | No | No |
| Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Strap | No | No |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 42Hz | - |
| FM Tuner | - | Yes |
| Wheels | - | Yes |
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