Bose SoundLink Max vs Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1

The Bose SoundLink Max is the better pick for loud outdoor listening and long sessions. It has three transducers, a bigger body and a removable handle, and it plays up to 20 hours while charging your phone. The Beosound A1 is smaller, lighter and built from aluminium with a leather strap, and it suits desk and shelf use. Owners rate the Bose highly at 4.8 from 3,500 ratings. The A1 wins on materials and portability, the Bose wins on bass depth and volume.

• Choose the Bose SoundLink Max if you want the loudest, deepest-bass sound for a yard, beach or tailgate and need a handle and phone charging.
• Choose the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 if you want a small, handsome speaker with a leather strap that fits a bag or a desk.