Bose SoundLink Max vs Xtreme 4: which Bluetooth speaker is better?

Bose SoundLink Max versus JBL Xtreme 4 banner image.

Bose SoundLink Max

Bluetooth: 5.3
Features: IP67 rating, aptX Adaptive, Google Fast Pair (Android), Bluetooth Multipoint
Battery Life: 30 hours
Dimensions (hwd): 12 x 26.5 x 10.5cm
Weight: 2.13kg

The SoundLink Max has seen Bose find a winning formula. Not only does it score highly for features and build quality, but the speaker's powerful, energetic sound sees it worthy of a place in the pantheon of five-star greats.  

For

• Rugged, ergonomic design
• Powerful, tight bass
• Lively, energetic sound
• Nice to use

Against

• Not the most transparent-sounding
• No built-in mic for taking calls

JBL Xtreme 4

Bluetooth: 5.3
Features: IP67 rating, Playtime Boost, AI Sound Boost, Auracast, portable device charging  
Battery life: 24 hours
Dimensions (hwd): 29.7 x 14.9 x 14.1cm
Weight: 2.1kg

The Xtreme 4 is yet another winner for JBL, taking all that we liked about its predecessor and dialling it up a notch, adding in next-gen features and design tweaks to make for a fantastically well-rounded performer. 

For

• Robust, rugged build
• Nice to use
• Clear and detailed sound
• Tight, weighty bass

Against

• Design might not appeal to everyone
• No built-in mic for calls
• No aptX support