Best overall		Loftie Clock		SEE IT	Gentle wake-up sounds meet sleek design.
Best for light therapy		Philips SmartSleep		SEE IT	Light therapy in this alarm clock allows it to do double-duty.
Best for kids		Echo Show 5		SEE IT	An out-of-this-world smart alarm clock with features for kids.

For most of us, alarm clocks are a daily feature of life—they see us at our worst, tired, cranky, and out-of-sorts—but what if they could be smarter alarm clocks? That means an alarm clock with the ability to customize how you wake up and how you fall asleep. With options, in many cases, for different sounds, lights, and preprogrammed gentle-on-your-body alarm functions that have you waking up as rested and refreshed as possible (these are, after all, still alarms). You may even be able to talk to them to tell them exactly what you want them to do. To smooth out the inevitable wake-up bumps, you don’t want just any alarm clock—you want the best smart alarm clock on the market today.

• Best overall: Loftie Clock 
• Best for the minimalist: Hatch Restore 2
• Best for a small space: Lenovo Smart Clock
• Best for light therapy: Philips SmartSleep
• Best for kids: Echo Show 5

How we chose the best smart alarm clocks

This preapproved selection of the best smart alarm clocks will save you time and maybe some 6 a.m. wake-up headaches. To narrow things down, we considered expert and real-world opinions and looked at what benefits each smart alarm clock delivered. Of course, not everyone wants the same thing from a smart alarm clock. Some people may want a smart alarm clock that goes the gentler route by using light therapy, while others may want nature sounds and a soothing sunrise to raise them from their slumber slowly. Ease of use and integration with apps and your smartphone, plus attractiveness on the bedside table, were also factors that helped shape our decisions.

The best smart alarm clocks: Reviews & Recommendations

While there’s not a lot of joy to be had in waking up before you’re ready, there is at least a little glee in finding a smart alarm clock that helps wake you up the way you prefer. From smart alarm clocks with preset sleeping and waking sounds to alarms that do their jobs while looking damn fine, here are our most alarming picks.

Best overall: Loftie Clock 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This smart alarm clock has all the bells and whistles, from a Bluetooth-enabled speaker to preprogrammed gentle wakeup sounds.

Specs

• Dimensions: 6.5” W x 2.75” D x 2.75” H
• Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Power: USB-C cable and power adapter with backup lithium-ion battery

Pros

• Two-phase alarm for a gentler approach to waking up
• Built-in white noise and relaxing sounds
• Bluetooth speaker to play whatever music you’d like
• Adjustable night light (includes blackout setting)

Cons

• WiFi required to operate
• Night light isn’t enough to read by
• Limited amount of programming in Loftie itself

The Loftie Clock looks like a regular alarm clock (albeit a sleek one), but it hides a lot of functionality behind its unassuming facade, doing double duty as a smartphone alarm clock with a built-in Bluetooth speaker. The big idea behind this alarm clock is that you get the modern-day technological features you might traditionally find in your phone—like meditation programs and relaxing music—but without the distraction of having your phone by your bed (no more late-night doom-scrolling). Instead of being the loudest alarm clock on the block, it’s taking the kinder, gentler route.

This smart alarm clock can fit on just about any bedside table with room to spare at a light 1.8 pounds and a small footprint of 6.5 inches wide, 2.75 inches in diameter, and 2.75 inches high. Its polycarbonate shell and steel top grill can withstand the half-asleep smacking that sometimes comes with disarming alarm clocks, while the lithium-ion battery backup is a nice feature of this device that’s normally powered via a USB-C cable and power adapter.

Just how smart is it? It’s got a two-phase alarm that sends a gentle prod first before the more traditional alarm jolt. Speaking of, you can wake up however you’d like by customizing the alarm tone and what volume it comes on for various days of the week. If you like falling asleep to white noise or nature soundscape, the clock comes preprogrammed with 100-plus sleep and nature sounds. Maybe you need a little more to drift off to sleep or wake up refreshed. In that case, its updatable wellness content includes sound baths, guided meditations, and breathwork tips. If you already have your own audio content and music you prefer, you can also set that up via Bluetooth from your phone.

The unit itself has a dimmable glow for those who like some gentle light on in their room to go to sleep (or to find your way to the bathroom for those middle-of-the-night wakeups). For those who need a pitch-black room with zero light distractions, the sleep timer with blackout mode is just the thing.

Instead of packing your bedroom with a white noise machine, light therapy wakeup lamp, alarm clock, and smartphone, you can simply rely on the Loftie Clock to play all these roles in your life. And it does so elegantly, in customizable top colors including black, white, pine, coffee, and red shell—the base is always black. And as for that promise of being able to leave your phone in the other room while you sleep, the Loftie Clock delivers, as all of its built-in features can be accessed through the alarm clock itself without the use of your phone. 

Note that you will need a WiFi connection to use most of its functions. The app is also finicky: There have been moments where we’ve tried to change an alarm via app, only to be met with a “sync unsuccessful” message. Changing the alarm on the clock itself isn’t a workaround to this, and your best bet is reconnecting the clock.

Best for the minimalist: Hatch Restore 2

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Of all the smart alarm clocks out there, this one looks the least like an alarm clock, and that’s a good thing for the design-conscious.

Specs

• Dimensions: 7.5 x 2.75 x 5.75 inches
• Weight: 19 ounces
• Power: Proprietary cable that plugs into an outlet

Pros

• Dimmable clock for complete nighttime darkness
• Phone-free controls
• Free app available in Apple Store and Google Play Store

Cons

• Paid Hatch membership is needed to access sounds beyond what’s preprogrammed
• WiFi connection required

For those who want an alarm clock by their bed that looks nothing like an alarm clock, the Hatch Restore 2—available in the natural colors of latte, putty, and slate—does the trick. This unobtrusive fabric-covered alarm clock uses light and sound to both help you go to sleep and wake up. You get the choice of many “colored” noises, from white to pink (lower pitch, more soothing) to brown (deeper, more rumbly), plus those inspired by nature or thought to promote sleep. And you get light and dark on your terms, with a sunrise alarm clock option and a dimmable clock that stays off unless you tap it to see the time. 

Once you get your Hatch smart alarm clock set using the free companion app (accessible to iOS and Android phones), you can start your nighttime routine by pressing a button on the device itself—meaning you can keep your phone away from your sleep area, a big plus for the easily distractible. You will need WiFi and Bluetooth to operate it, and if you want a full library of content beyond the preprogrammed sounds and noise, you’ll have to sign up for a Hatch Membership after a free trial. The Hatch Restore 2 also suffers the same pitfalls as the Lofie: You’re a bit screwed if the app isn’t working.

Best for a small space: Lenovo Smart Clock

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Google Assistant makes the interface easy to use, and the color screen adds appeal.

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.21″ L x 8.65″ W x 3.26″ H 
• Weight: ‎1 pound
• Power: Proprietary cable that plugs into an outlet

Pros

• Use voice with Google Assistant for easy operation
• Pairs with most smart devices that use Google Assistant
• USB charging port for phones, other devices

Cons

• Small size may not be for everyone
• No battery backup in case of power outage

The Lenovo Smart Clock is like having a little computer screen right next to your bed—and it’ll do what you ask thanks to Google Assistant integration, which works in Android or iOS. The fabric-covered clock has a 4-inch color screen that can display the time, weather, and your Google photos. You can customize the clock faces just like on a smartwatch. And you can even check in on your smart camera feeds and pair other smart devices that work with Google Assistant. The multiroom audio feature lets you connect your clock to a speaker group and play media like music or podcasts across multiple devices and rooms. Choose to control things like setting your alarm via voice activation or do it manually via the onscreen buttons and menus. This alarm has a slow brightening option that you can have activated 30 minutes before you want to wake up. And you can stream music, podcasts, and audiobooks via the speaker.

Best for light therapy: Philips SmartSleep

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Why it made the cut: While on first blush, it’s the sunrise and sunset light that set this smart alarm apart; it’s the extras like the phone charging dock and app that help it shine.

Specs

• Dimensions: 8.8″ D x 8.6″ W x 4.7″ H 
• Weight: 3.36 pounds
• Power: Power cord with 8-hour alarm back-up

Pros

• 8 pre-programmed wake-up sounds to choose from
• Easy customization of sunset and sunrise via app
• Phone charging dock bonus

Cons

• Not Bluetooth enabled
• Small digital numbers can be hard to read
• Light can only connect via 2.4 GHz WiFi router

While its main selling point is its sunrise and sunset lights, the Philips SmartSleep has a lot of smart alarm features that make it a winner in the broader smart alarm clock category, too. Nice touches like an easy-to-access midnight light on top of the device for those 3 a.m. milk and cookie runs, an FM radio for those who like to wake up to the news or their favorite station with a clock with radio alarm, and a phone charging dock put it in a class above. There’s also an eight-hour alarm power backup for when your electricity fails, a speaker, the ability to wake up to both light and sounds, an auto-dimming display, smart snooze, and an AmbiTrack sensor to measure your bedroom sleeping environment. 

Using this smart alarm clock with the SleepMapper app allows you to track your sleep, get insights into your habits, and sync sleep metrics with Apple and Google Health. You don’t need to use the app to control the device, but you’ll have easier access (and access to more features) if you do. Just note that there’s no Bluetooth, and it only works when connected to 2.4 GHz WiFi.

Best for kids: Echo Show 5

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Alexa integration makes it easy for kids to set their own alarm, play music, and make video calls—all with parental controls in place.

Specs

• Dimensions: 5.8″ W x 3.6″ D x 3.2″ H
• Weight: 16.01 ounce
• Power: Proprietary cable that plugs into an outlet

Pros

• Alexa voice assistant for ease of use
• Built-in camera for video calls
• Parental controls to control when and how kids use the device

Cons

• Screen may lag a bit
• Amazon-dependent system

The Amazon Alexa integration with this alarm clock, really a member of the Amazon family of smart speakers, means it does a whole lot more than just make sure your kids wake up in the morning. Your child can ask it questions, have it play music, stream a podcast, and make video calls to trusted contacts. There’s also a chance to interact with Disney characters using the device. And yes, your kids can use Alexa to set their own wake-up alarms, read them a bedtime story, and even turn off any compatible smart lights with your alarm clock at night. Parental controls mean that all this happens under your watchful eye.

What to consider when buying the best smart alarm clocks

Here’s what you should consider when shopping for smart alarm clocks:

How big and flashy do you want your smart alarm clock to be?

Some smart alarm clocks are the same size (or smaller) as a standard analog or digital alarm clock meant to sit on a bedside stand, while others are much larger and more noticeable. Some smart alarm clocks look like you’d expect a bedside alarm clock to look, while others are more like a computer screen, and still others don’t look like an alarm at all—and instead resemble an unobtrusive piece of art.

How smart do you want your smart alarm clock to be?

Some smart alarm clocks are just smart enough with a WiFi connection and the ability to connect to your phone for ease of programming. Other smart alarm clocks have hundreds of preprogrammed sounds, the capacity to run a sunrise and sunset light show, the ability to stream from your phone via Bluetooth (almost like tiny powered speakers, though without the fidelity), and their own dedicated apps that offer even more features that might include analyzing your sleep patterns. Sometimes, a smart alarm can also be a central access point to other smart-home devices, like a security system or room lights.

What type of technology do you want your smart alarm clock to have?

If everything in your home runs via Google Assistant, you might look at an alarm clock that includes that functionality. While if you prefer Alexa, you might prefer a different alarm clock with built-in Amazon tech. Ensure the smart alarm clock you choose integrates with your phone’s operating system. Look for either iOS or Android compatibility, although many do both.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best smart alarm clocks

• Best overall: Loftie Clock 
• Best for the minimalist: Hatch Restore 2
• Best for a small space: Lenovo Smart Clock
• Best for light therapy: Philips SmartSleep
• Best for kids: Echo Show 5

The best smart alarm clocks are easy to set up and offer many ways of waking up, whether you prefer those with lights, soothing natural sounds, or multi-step alarm options. If you’d like to ditch your regular alarm clock or phone alarm for a smart alarm clock, consider this a gentle nudge to make the switch.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best smart alarm clocks of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		JMEXSUSS Lights		SEE IT	Get a softer, more twinkly look in your room.
Best budget		Janchs Vintage Bulb Lights		SEE IT	Jump on the hip, vintage lighting bandwagon while saving some cash.
Best fairy lights		12APM Dimmable Fairy Lights		SEE IT	Highly flexible and able to be wound around almost anything, these give a glitter of extra lighting in your bedroom.

The inventor Nikola Tesla once famously said, “Everything is the light,” and it’s tempting to think of his mystical quote as an endorsement of using magical lighting everywhere, including string lights in the bedroom. Adding fairy lights to a space is one of the most economical ways to change the mood of a room without spending a bunch of money. There are a lot of string lights available on the market, though, and you don’t want to waste your money on ones that fail quickly or don’t put off the kind of light you want. Bulb type, string length, power source, and extra features like remotes or color-changing options are all things to consider before making a buy on the best string lights for bedrooms.

• Best overall: JMEXSUSS Lights
• Best globe light: RaThun Globe String Lights
• Best fairy lights: 12APM Dimmable Starry Fairy Lights
• Best curtain lights: Twinkle Star Window Curtain Lights
• Best for kids: Omika Color Changing Globe Lights
• Best budget: Janchs Vintage Bulb Lights

How we chose the best string lights for bedrooms

String lights take up very little space, yet they can completely change a room’s look and mood. There’s a surprising amount to think about when picking the best string lights for your bedroom. We considered bulb type and brightness, the spacing of the bulbs, the length of the cord, the power source, ease of use, ease of hanging, style, and cost. We also looked at extra features like the ability to change colors and options like a remote or an on-off timer. To pick the best lights across a tangle of types and brands, we took a look at the most popular LED string lights (there are no incandescent strands on this list) and then judged their appropriateness for a bedroom, prioritizing string lights that offered soft, gentle lighting, were easy to hang, and came in a variety of shapes or configurations that worked for a bedroom. We tried to keep the cost accessible, too. While fixing your bedroom, try soundproofing it and adding a sunset lamp and white noise machine for the ultimate relaxation pad.

The best string lights for bedrooms: Review & Recommendations

The following string lights for the bedroom represent the best in their respective classes. The choices represent the best options from a wide variety of lights. If you don’t have something specific in mind, start with the best overall pick. But don’t miss the other categories; you might find an option or feature you didn’t even know you wanted. No matter which string light you choose, you’re sure to find one to light up your life (and your bedroom).

Best overall: JMEXSUSS Lights

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A long see-through cord, plenty of lighting modes, and a soft just-right light put these at the top of the list.

Specs

• Length: 76-foot total length with 66 feet of LED lights
• Modes: 8 lighting modes
• Cord type: Clear cord

Pros

• Plug-in lights avoid battery changes
• Timer option, plus eight lighting modes for visual variety
• Soft, white light that isn’t too bright

Cons

• No remote
• No settings memory
• Cannot connect multiple strands together
• Plug itself is not waterproof

These aren’t your typical indoor Christmas lights. They’re reimagined for a softer, more twinkly look. Instead of the dark green or black cord, the cord is translucent, allowing it to blend into the background of whatever you put it next to—the wall or ceiling, a curtain, your bedpost, a dresser, etc. The bulbs on these string lights for the bedroom are also a bit smaller than some of the holiday string lights, lending them a more subtle glow that is more “sleep gently into the good night” than “wake up now, you dolt!” 

You certainly get a lot of light length with this set, which comes with 200 LED lights (with 10 centimeters between each) over a full 66 feet with an additional 10 feet of lead cord for a total of 76 feet in length. It’s hard to imagine a better value for large bedrooms, and it’s a great value when you factor in the low cost. The 10-foot lead cord is especially handy when your bedroom outlet plug isn’t as close as you’d like it to be to where you want to hang your lights. And since it’s a clear cord, it’s also much less obtrusive than with a typical white, black, or green Christmas light cord, especially if your walls are painted in other colors.

The controls and buttons are very simple and easy to use on this device. To control the lighting modes and timer function of these string of lights for the bedroom, simply use the button on the adapter. Press the button down for three seconds to activate the timer, and wait for the LED indicator on the adaptor to turn green. The lights will then stay on for six hours and stay off for 18 hours. Another three-second press cancels the timer function. There are eight different light modes accessible through this button, as well—one steady light mode and seven other various flashing modes. There is no remote, however, so make sure you plug these into a place where the adaptor is easily accessible.

There are a few things to note about these LED string lights. One big difference between these LED lights and the more traditional kind of Christmas lights is that these cannot be connected to an additional strand. So if you want more than 200 lights with 66 feet of lighting, you’ll need to buy an additional set and plan to plug it into another outlet or power strip. The power adapter itself is not waterproof, so while the light string itself can be used outdoors, the plug needs to be inside. If you’re searching for bedroom string lights, this likely won’t be a problem, but something to note if you decide to buy more and put them outside.

Best globe light: RaThun Globe String Lights

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Why it made the list: These small, pretty globe lights deliver a romantic bedroom glow with plenty of cord to reach wherever.

Specs

• Length: 49-foot total length with 33 feet of LED lights
• Modes: 8 lighting modes
• Cord type: Clear cord

Pros

• Waterproof and good for indoor/outdoor lighting use
• Plug-in lights, so no need to switch out batteries
• Warm lighting for soft glow

Cons

• Settings are changed via control on plug
• When lights are off, globes are frosted white (vs. clear)

These globe-string lights fit the bill when you want a soft glow in your bedroom. With a bulb size of .7 inches, you’ll find these bulbs to be of the Goldilocks variety, AKA not-too-big and not-too-small. They’re a frosted white color, which helps get that soft hazy glow when turned on and avoid that bright bulb look you may not want in a bedroom. That also means they might stand out against a dark background when turned off. You’ll get 100 LED individual bulbs over 33 feet of cord (with 4.2 inches between each bulb), with a generous extra 16 feet of lead wire to get you from that outlet to where you want the light to start—an especially handy feature if your bedroom isn’t studded with outlets. 

These globe lights have eight lighting modes, including a steady mode, slow fade, and twinkle/flash, and they are dimmable if you have a separate wall dimmer switch, which means you can get that just-right brightness to go with the time of day or your mood. There’s no remote, so to operate, you’ll use a button on the cord itself—something to keep in mind when you’re choosing where to hang these white lights. 

Best fairy lights: 12APM Dimmable Starry Fairy Lights

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Why it made the list: The bendable nature of the cord and tiny twinkle fairy lights are a real turn-on.

Specs

• Length: 66-foot total length with LED lights
• Modes: Power controls, dimming controls
• Cord type: Copper wire 

Pros

• Adjustable brightness for more control
• Flexible three-strand copper wire can be wrapped around almost anything
• Dimmable fairy lights for easy brightness adjustment
• Lightweight and easy to hang or wrap

Cons

• No plug included (USB compatible)
• No remote

Bedroom lighting gets a major upgrade with these delightful fairy lights. They are the perfect option for when you want a glitter of extra lighting in your bedroom. These fairy lights come in a 66-foot length, giving you plenty of room to play with decorative accent lighting in your bedroom, no matter where you want the light to shine. Forget dull lighting that comes from a boring table lamp; these LED fairy lights create a cozy space that’s perfect for the sanctuary that is your bedroom. 

Instead of a standard wrapped wire, these fairy lights have a bendable copper wire that’s highly flexible and can be wound around almost anything, from bed posts to plants to curtain rods. They’re the perfect option for people who want to decorate their indoor space with a sense of whimsy. Unlike a lot of copper wire fairy lights, these aren’t battery-powered and instead operate via a USB port (a USB brick charger port is not included). Via the cord, you can control things like turning them on or off and raising or lowering the brightness so you can set the lights to the brightness level you want at the moment. And while your bedroom is probably indoors, you can take these from your indoor space to your outdoor space without worry. One-hundred-thousand hours of lifetime expectancy means you can keep the vibes going for many years. 

Best curtain lights: Twinkle Star Window Curtain Lights

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Why it made the list: These curtain string lights are loaded with features and make transforming any space with lighting a cinch.

Specs

• Length: Coverage area of 6.6 feet wide by 9.8 feet long
• Modes: 8 lighting modes, including slow fade and twinkle
• Cord type: Clear

Pros

• Connect up to 5 light strands
• Warm white color (or choose from 10 other colors)
• Easy to hang as a curtain
• 9.8-foot drop for floor-to-ceiling reach

Cons

• Must cycle through 8 modes every time you use the controller
• No remote
• No timer

Whether you’re looking for a string of curtain lights for a larger wall, a curtained area, or a gallery wall in your boudoir, this bedroom lighting solution will do the trick in a jiffy. Unlike some other models on the market, these hang a full 9.8 feet from floor to ceiling, so you’ll cover a larger area for a better look. You can combine up to five lights together (each covers 6.6 feet across) for full room coverage for both small bedrooms and large bedrooms. It’s by far the best option for high ceilings and the best decorative bang for your buck on curtain lights if you just want to hang it and forget it. 

You won’t be short on the light-up area. You get 10 strings of light on each curtain, with each strand holding 30 LED lights. The strands are about 8.6 inches apart. And the lifespan of the bulbs is around 1,200 hours. Expect a warm, white light that’s perfect for that late-night dreamscape you want to create in a bedroom, dorm room, or child’s room.  

While curtain lights often hang from the wall like curtains, you can also drape them across a canopy at the ceiling height, or from the ceiling in the middle of a room as a light-up room divider. However you hang them, you can control the eight lighting modes (everything from waves to steady on) via a controller on the cord. Like most of the string of lights on this list, you’ll have to cycle through the mode options to find the one that works for you. 

Best for kids: Omika Color Changing Globe Lights

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Why it made the list: Kids like bright, colorful lights, and these deliver on those fronts with plenty of features, too.

Specs

• ‎Length: 26-foot total length with 16.4 feet of light
• Modes: 16 colors, 4 multi-color modes, timer
• Cord type: Clear plastic-covered copper wire

Pros

• Bubble balls for pretty light, especially in the color settings
• Timer function
• Memory function remembers mode settings
• Remote control option

Cons

• Cannot connect to other sets
• Less bright light

Unlike adults who often seek calm, relaxing bedroom lighting, kids often love bright colors and flashing lights. These color-changing lights strike a good mix between bedroom-appropriate and fun. With 16 color choices and four multicolor modes, these string lights certainly aren’t boring. And the crystal outer shell of the lights helps to diffuse the colors into something relaxing. The bonus remote control means you don’t even have to get out of bed to adjust the mode settings. Or if you’re really feeling lazy, just use the timer mode, which automatically configures for six hours on and 18 hours off. 

Unlike many other string lights on this list, this set has a memory setting, meaning it stays in your preferred mode, even when you turn it off and back on again. If your preferred setting is several modes in, this can be a real-time saver. The full length of the set is 26 feet, but that’s with nearly 10 feet of lead wire, leaving a little over 16 feet of actual lighting wire. Each globe is spaced just under four inches apart, with 50 LED lights per string. You can’t connect additional strings, so if you want more than one, you’ll need to plug it into a separate outlet or use a multi-plug outlet.

Best budget: Janchs Vintage Bulb Lights

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Why it made the list: These battery-operated bulbs have a vintage look. 

Specs

• Length: 25 feet long
• Modes: On/off timer
• Cord type: Black plastic

Pros

• Remote for easy changing eight functions
• 10 adjustable brightness levels
• Portable, no need to be near outlet
• Come with small plastic wall hooks for hanging

Cons

• Will need to replace batteries
• Dim light may not be to everyone’s taste

Jump on the hip, vintage lighting bandwagon while saving some cash. These lights look more expensive than they are, and are both shatterproof and waterproof. These unique string lights come with 20 bulbs spaced out a foot apart along a 25-foot cord. Inside each shatterproof bulb are five LED lights that operate in eight lighting modes. It also includes an on/off timer and brightness dimmable from 100% to 75%, 50%, and 25%.

Don’t expect a dull lighting experience, either. Use the included small plastic wall hooks behind each bulb to easily hang your light string wherever you’d like in your bedroom. These are larger bulbs than what you’d find with fairy lights or globe lights, and the cord is black. As they’re not corded but run on 3AA batteries, you’re not bound by distance from a wall socket. Thankfully, there’s a timer for six hours on and 18 hours off. That way you won’t run your batteries down when you don’t want them to stay on.

What to consider when shopping for the best string lights for the bedroom

To get the most out of your string lights for the bedroom, you’ll want to dig into the specifications of your string lights. Here are a few things to consider before you make a call on which lights to add to your bedroom.

Does the string light have a cord, or does it run on batteries?

Where you want to put string lights in your bedroom and where the outlets are located in your room will play a major role in deciding whether you want your string lights to plug into a wall socket or use battery power (we always recommend rechargeable). You may also want to think about how long the lead cord should be from the wall socket to the point on the cord where the lights begin. 

Are there additional lighting modes, and how do you change them?

If you only care about on/off mode, you can skip this question. But for those of you who want string lights to blink, change colors, or run up and down the light strand, you’ll want to pay attention to what lighting modes each string light offers and be aware of how you change the modes. You might prefer a remote function, or a manual switch on a cord might be more your speed.

Do the string lights come with a preset timer?

Whether you’re looking at a battery-powered set of string lights or one that plugs in, you need to consider whether a preset timer is also on your must-have list. Some people like their bedroom string lights to come on (and go off) at the same time every day, and a preset timer is a great way to accomplish that without lifting a finger or buying an external timer.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best string lights for bedrooms

• Best overall: JMEXSUSS Lights
• Best globe light: RaThun Globe String Lights
• Best fairy lights: 12APM Dimmable Starry Fairy Lights
• Best curtain lights: Twinkle Star Window Curtain Lights
• Best for kids: Omika Color Changing Globe Lights
• Best budget: Janchs Vintage Bulb Lights

The best string lights for the bedroom have the power source that you prefer: a regular outlet plug, a USB plug, or are battery-powered. Features that make the lights easy to use, such as a pre-programmed timer or a remote control add appeal. String lights that offer the option to change the brightness or to change the type of light, from always on to running lights, are nice when you want to switch up your lighting in the bedroom. Check out one of the above options if you want to try string lights in your own bedroom.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best string lights for bedrooms in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Verilux HappyLight Luxe		SEE IT	Get everything you need without paying for features you’ll never use.
Best intensity		Carex Day-light Classic Plus		SEE IT	This powerful light offers ample adjustability for placement.
Best compact		Circadian Optics Lumos 2.0		SEE IT	This battery-powered lamp is simple to travel with.

When the dog days of summer give way to the darkening skies of fall, the never-ending grays of winter, and the rainy doldrums of spring, a light therapy lamp can really save the day. Options for recharging indoors with simulated sunshine have proliferated, with everything from tiny desktop lamps to floor lamps available to boost your mood. There are some generally recommended times to use them: soon after waking, for about 30 minutes, about 1.5 to 2 feet from your face, and with your eyes open but not looking directly at the light. In short, the best light therapy lamps to combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can help to reset your biological clock via the body’s natural circadian rhythms, boost the happy chemical serotonin, and provide a mental health lift to support a healthy mood, appetite, and sleep—and an overall healthier, happier you.

• Best overall: Verilux HappyLight Luxe
• Best for light intensity: Carex Day-light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp
• Best floor lamp: Flamingo Floor Lamp II by Northern Technologies
• Best compact: Circadian Optics Lumos 2.0
• Best budget: Light Therapy Lamp by Erligpowht

How we choose the best light therapy lamps

With so many light therapy lamps on the marketplace, the best light therapy lamp will fit your space and bath your face to help treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD). We narrowed the list by looking for lights that provided the recommended 10,000 lux of light and produced as little UV light as possible. We also wanted the light therapy lamps to be easy to use (if stepping outside into the sun during the summer is simple, so should turning on or adjusting your lamp) and easy on the eyes—no need to have an ugly light in this day and age of cute, clever design. We also wanted to highlight a range of products, from desktop setups to lamps that double as furniture. The chosen light therapy lamps come in a range of prices, and we cut the price off at $200 to keep the recommendations within reach of most consumers. And don’t miss our best sunset lamps and sunrise alarm clocks on the way to bed, either.

The best light therapy lamps: Reviews & Recommendations

You may need something very specific in your lamp, perhaps a certain size or one that can be used at a certain distance from your face. If our top pick isn’t just right for you, scroll down to find the perfect fit for you.

Best overall: Verilux HappyLight Luxe

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Why it made the cut: It’s bright, good-looking, and easy to move around.

Specs

• Brightness: Adjustable brightness
• Color temperature: Adjustable color temperature
• Dimensions: 11.8 x .5 x 7.5 inches

Pros

• Compact size and lightweight for easy portability 
• Intuitive adjustable brightness and color temperature
• Countdown timer to take the guesswork out of light therapy

Cons

• Non-adjustable stand
• For 10,000 lux, you’ll need to be at a 6-inch distance

The Verilux HappyLight Luxe is an economical light therapy lamp with a retail price that comes in well below $100 that’s also loaded with important features. The sleek, slim design is more reminiscent of an iPad than a medical device, with a modern look that fits into most people’s home decor. It doesn’t vie to be a centerpiece, either, offering a nice balance when it comes to function and form. For the truly looks conscious, the frame comes in white, marble, and champagne. 

At 11.8 inches tall, 7.5 inches wide, and a slender half-inch in depth, the lamp can sit unobtrusively on a desk or table, delivering the benefits of light therapy without drawing attention to itself. It’s also small enough to slip into a backpack or overnight bag so you can take the benefits of light therapy to the office, on the road, or on vacation. The two-pound lamp comes with a detachable stand, or it can be wall-mounted. It is corded.

On the function side, the powerful LED, full-spectrum light panel reaches up to the recommended brightness of 10,000 lux. With a push of a button, you can adjust the brightness in four settings or the light color in three settings. Note that for the full 10,000 lux exposure you’ll need to be about 6 inches away from the lamp. Its built-in countdown timer (up to one hour, down to five-minute increments) ensures you’ll get the recommended amount of light without keeping track of it yourself. You can also pause the timer if you get up for a coffee break. This light therapy lamp is UV-free, as too much UV light can damage your eyes and skin.

Controls on the Verilux HappyLight Luxe are simple and straightforward. There’s an on-off button on the top of the device. All other controls are on the front-facing panel, below the light screen. The left button allows you to switch between three color temperatures (measured in Kelvin): warm white (3,500K), medium white (4,250K), and daylight (5,000K). The right button toggles you through four brightness levels: 2,500, 5,000, 7,500, and 10,000 lux. The brighter the light, the shorter you’ll need to sit in front of it for maximum effect. The center button is the automatic count-down timer, which you can set for up to an hour and which shuts the lamp off, so you don’t have to remember to turn it off when your session is done. The general recommendation, whether to combat SAD or to get a mental boost, is to start at the lowest brightness for a short period of time, say 10 minutes, and then work your way up to the one-hour mark from there. 

The lamp uses Flicker Elimination Technology and Optix Glare Control to make the light easier on your eyes. No matter which light therapy device you use, it’s recommended that you place the light at an off-center angle from your body so you’re not looking directly into the light. Your eyes do have to be open to receive the effects, so it’s best to use the lamp while working on the computer, reading, or doing stationary hobbies. Napping next to any light therapy lamp, including this one, won’t deliver the physical and mental health benefits.

Best for light intensity: Carex Day-light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp

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Why it made the cut: It’s powerful enough that even at 12 inches away, you’re getting full “sun.”

Specs

• Brightness: 10,000 lux at 12 inches
• Color temperature: N/A
• Dimensions: Large light size at 16″ x 13″ 

Pros

• Ability to angle downward to better mimic sunlight and for less glare
• Sit 12-14 inches away and still reap maximum benefits
• Light screen can be adjusted up to 31 inches from base 

Cons

• Space hog
• Only two light settings
• Plastic base

This full-coverage desktop light therapy lamp goes where the sun don’t shine. You’ll get the recommended 10,000 lux of glare-free white LED light (at 4000K) whenever you flip the switch and sit 12 to 14 inches away from the large light area. Unlike many light therapy lamps on the market, this one does not skimp on the light surface size. Expect 16-by-12 inches of glowing light. Think of it as the equivalent of sitting in front of an oversized monitor versus working on a small handheld device compared to other models on this list. You’ll also escape the harmful effects of UV rays with this one. The ability to tilt the light downward is a big plus, which helps to mimic the direction of sunlight and generally allows for less glare. 

While this larger lamp won’t work for tight desktop spaces, it is a good fit for those who want to bathe in manmade light without worrying about sitting too close to the lamp’s base. And it’s pretty good looking, with a silver base and center and a light area reminiscent of a pro photographer’s light rig. 

Best floor lamp: Flamingo Floor Lamp II by Northern Technologies

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Why it made the cut: It offers the benefits of light therapy in the design of a traditional floor lamp.

Specs

• Brightness: 10,000 lux of light at 12-inch distance
• Color temperature: Uses replaceable LED bulbs
• Dimensions: 4 feet tall

Pros

• Doubles as a regular floor lamp
• 4-foot height ideal for using next to a recliner
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Non-adjustable height
• Only one light setting
• No timer, only on/off switch

The Flamingo Floor Lamp—with its skinny angled central pole—does bear a passing resemblance to one familiar long-legged wading bird, although it has neither beak nor is it pink. It is, however, one of the few traditional stand-up floor lamps that also work as a light therapy lamp available today. From Northern Technologies, the lamp leans into its 10,000 lux capacity as a big selling point, and you’ll get that brightness at 12 inches away. 

The LED bulbs in this Canadian-made lamp are fully replaceable, full-spectrum, and UV-free, and they boast no hum or flicker when turned on. The lamp is also energy efficient, using two 18-watt LED bulbs. And while we don’t recommend knocking this lamp around too much, the light bulb cover isn’t glass, so any accidental tippage won’t send sharp shards skittering across your floor.

As a 4-foot-tall floor lamp, it looks right at home next to an easy chair or sofa, but it can also be used as a bedside stand-up lamp, next to a desk, or in a corner of a dark room to brighten a living space. The light fixture itself measures 13 by 7 inches, and it swivels. The lamp has no timer, but it is compatible with an external programmable light timer. 

Best compact: Circadian Optics Lumos 2.0

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Why it made the cut: This reading-style lamp offers superior brightness in a space-conscious design.

Specs

• Brightness: 10,000 lux and 3 brightness settings
• Color temperature: UV-free LED light
• Dimensions: 14.4 x 3.5 x 1.5 inches

Pros

• 3 brightness settings via a single touch
• LED light up to 50,000 hours
• Small design that swivels open

Cons

• Small area illuminated due to lamp’s size
• Bulb is not replaceable, rendering the lamp useless when the bulb burns out
• Small base leaves it prone to tipping when open

There’s a lot to like about this reading-style lamp, which is really a cleverly designed light therapy lamp. When in its “standing” position that resembles a tall, skinny speaker, it’s just 14 inches high, 3.5 inches deep, and 1.5 inches wide. From the closed position, a hinged arm swings from the top and opens the arm out like a fan so you can set the optimal light angle for your activity—reading, writing, computing, sewing, woodworking, or whatever desktop work you have in store.

A one-touch button lets you control the UV-free LED’s brightness, starting with bright, to brighter, to brightest, with the brightest setting delivering 10,000 lux. It’s a uniform, dot-free light comparable to full spectrum sun. There’s no timer, but the daily recommendations are to place the lamp 16-18 inches from your face for anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes for the full circadian rhythm reset. 

And while an appearance on Shark Tank isn’t reason enough to buy a product, it’s worth noting that Circadian Optics founder Amber Leong appeared on season 11 of the show in 2019 with her idea for light therapy lamps. Sharks Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner believed enough in her idea to invest. And the company now has five light therapy lamp designs for sale.

Best budget: Light Therapy Lamp by Erligpowht

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Why it made the cut: This powerful mini-sized light therapy lamp slips right into a pocketbook or small bag.

Specs

• ‎Brightness: 10,000 lux capacity
• Color temperature: N/A
• Dimensions: 5.11 x 6.69 x .59 inches

Pros

• Adjustable among three brightness levels 
• 90-degree rotation standing bracket to angle light
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Default turn-on starts at the brightest setting
• Unstable base may topple if jostled

The Light Therapy Lamp by Erligpowht is more short story than hero epic. It comes in at just over half an inch in depth, 5.11 inches wide, and 6.69 inches tall. For comparison, that’s smaller than an iPad Mini, and just the right size to slip into a small purse or desk drawer unobtrusively. Its 10.86-ounce weight means you won’t develop shoulder or back strain from adding this to your luggage, as that’s less than the weight of a standard-size battle of water.

Travelers who want to take a light therapy device with them on the road to help adjust to time changes or erratic sleep/wake schedules will appreciate this product’s compact size, as well as a price point that’s low enough that you won’t worry as much about accidents like forgetting it in your hotel room or spilling a cup of coffee on it in your morning haze. Likewise, apartment dwellers or workers using a small desk will appreciate the compact design that takes up very little room, whether in use or stowed away.

For the price, its features—three brightness levels and four pre-programmed timer settings—compete with more bougie brands. It’s also simple to operate. Use the angled kickstand to set the light up where you want it, and in the direction you’d like the light to shine, and then click it on to your desired setting, from 100% capacity to 50% to 30%. The timer button (both buttons are on the front, at the base of the unit) is preset for options. Simply click through to your desired time. The LED lamp is UV-free. A USB-C cord comes with the unit, but you can swap out your own if you’d like a longer or shorter cord.

What to consider when shopping for light therapy lamps

To get the most out of your light therapy lamp, you’ll want to sneak a peek at the fine print on your chosen lamp. Here are a few things to consider before you put that lamp into your virtual shopping cart and click “buy now.”

What is the lux capacity of the lamp?

Most experts agree that a lux capacity of 10,000 is necessary to get your circadian rhythm, sleep, and mood in sync. Your circadian rhythm dictates your sleep/wake cycle, which helps to regulate the mental, behavioral, and physical changes that happen throughout a 24-hour cycle. Getting plenty of natural light during the day helps to regulate this cycle, whether for those traveling to different time zones or for people dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.  Most experts think that, among other things, too little light from the sun during fall, winter, and spring can lead to SAD. This concern magnifies in areas of the world where the daylight hours are especially short. A lamp that doesn’t put out the full recommended 10,000 lux may not deliver the full potential positive effects of a light therapy lamp.

Is the lamp’s brightness adjustable?

Unless you’re a pro therapy light user and you know you like your light bright, it’s wise to start with a lamp that has adjustable brightness. You may also find that in the dead of winter, you prefer the brightest setting, while on sunnier spring and fall days, you don’t need the full brightness. Choosing a lamp with adjustable brightness gives you more control over what kind of light you’ll be basking under.

Does the lamp have a preset timer?

Timers exist for a reason. It’s because humans easily lose track of time. The phone rings; a computer notification dings; a dog barks outside. Whatever the uncontrollable distractions are, it’s nice not to have to worry about how long you’ve been soaking up the rays from your light therapy lamp. With a built-in preset timer, the lamp turns off when your time is up, and you never have to lift a finger. While it’s not a necessary feature, it is a nice-to-have one.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best light therapy lamps 

• Best overall: Verilux HappyLight Luxe
• Best for light intensity: Carex Day-light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp
• Best floor lamp: Flamingo Floor Lamp II by Northern Technologies
• Best compact: Circadian Optics Lumos 2.0
• Best budget: Light Therapy Lamp by Erligpowht

The best light therapy lamps have light settings of up to 10,000 lux, can change the color temperature settings, and have adjustable brightness settings. Features that make keeping track of time easy, such as a countdown timer or programmable timer add appeal. The more intuitive and easy a light therapy lamp is to use, the more likely you are to use it every day, and daily use is key to getting your mental and physical health on track. Check out one of the above options if you want to try light therapy for yourself.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best light therapy lamps for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Getting outside and in the elements is a perk of any summer, but in this, the second summer of coronavirus it’s the perk. Being outside means you can push fears of airborne pathogens aside and enjoy being around friends—new and old—as well as family you might not have seen in a literal year or more. Of course, in this summer of love and outdoor socializing, you still want to party. And to do that properly, you’re going to need some tunes from one of the best portable Bluetooth speakers—the JBL Flip 5. 

Outdoor speakers that take the party outside tend to fall into two categories: small and portable but with a puny sound, or big and bulky with more bass than your neighbors appreciate. JBL has an entire range of party speakers that manage to avoid these pitfalls. The JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth speaker, priced at $119.95, is the smallest of the bunch and straddles the line between the two extremes. It weighs just over a pound (1.19 pounds, or 0.54 kilograms to be exact) and comes with a handy wrist strap, making its portability a defining feature. It offers impressive sound for its small size. At 7.1 x 2.7 x 2.9 inches, or 18.1 x 6.9 x 7.4 centimeters, it’s just a wee bit bigger than a tallboy can of beer. 

Compared to previous JBL Flip versions, there are a few differences. It’s got a USB-C port. There is no microphone feature or the ability to pair with Siri or Google Now as in previous versions. And instead of JBL Connect or Connect+ to pair multiple devices, there’s PartyBoost, which allows additional JBL Flip 5 speakers to connect for a more robust sound. It also dropped the ⅛-inch auxiliary jack. The JBL Flip 5, however, is waterproof just like the JBL Flip 4. It’s a looker, too, available in 12 preset colors. Or, you can customize the colors and look of the JBL Flip 5 on the JBL website, even adding graphics or photos for a truly personalized portable stereo. 

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The JBL Flip 5’s design and key features

Certainly, the JBL Flip 5 speaker’s petite size and light weight mean it’s a go-anywhere speaker. Whether in the palm of your hand, your car’s cup holder (or even your bike’s bottle cage), or hanging from its strap on a hook off your boat, the speaker is unobtrusive and easy to incorporate into whatever activity you’ve got going on. Throw it into your gym bag, your beach bag, your day-hike backpack, or your suitcase without a second thought or rearranging everything to make room for your tunes. The shape and texture mean it’s grippy enough that you can also literally throw it back and forth like a hot potato, as my kids encouraged me to do in the name of science and testing. It emerged from our friendly game of toss without a scratch or diminished sound.

Waterproof speakers

The unpredictability of the outdoors is part of nature’s appeal, but that often means danger for electronics in particular. A sudden downpour, an extra-large splash from your cousin’s deranged cannonball, or a spilled water bottle in the bottom of your bag can mean disaster for many of the even best portable speakers. But not this JBL Bluetooth speaker. After being vigorously splashed with chlorinated pool water and taking a few showers with my kids who love the idea of getting electronics wet without fear of being shocked to death or angering their mom, it carried on without pause. The official designation is IPX7, which means it can be submerged in up to 3 feet or 1 meter of water for 30 minutes and still keep going. Note to daredevils living around deep bodies of water: It does not float. Despite my deep misgivings about purposely trying to ruin something, I dunked it in a large bowl of water and it emerged dripping wet but still rocking.

Pump up the jams

When on the go, you’ll probably only want to bring one JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth speaker along for the ride. But if you’re grilling or hanging by the pool and you want to up the volume and sound coverage, that’s where the PartyBoost feature comes in handy, allowing you to configure (via a downloadable app) current-generation JBL speakers as a stereo pair or in mono multiples (up to 100, according to JBL) for bigger sound. Older JBL speakers could be chained via the Connect or Connect+ protocol, but it’s important to note that PartyBoost isn’t backward-compatible with these. The trade-off for gear obsolescence, according to JBL, is that PartyBoost is a longer, stronger, more clear wireless signal. 

One PopSci editor tested PartyBoost with a JBL Xtreme 3 and Boombox 2. After pairing the Boombox 2 via Bluetooth to an iPhone X, pressing the PartyBoost button (a rubberized infinity sign) marks the primary speaker. Pushing the PartyBoost button on subsequent speakers enables a connection between them. Blasting Basement Jaxx’s “Where’s Your Head At” (oh so appropriate) at peak-hour levels simultaneously was loud enough to startle the entire house, and the signal strength held on with the pair separated by a full six townhouses without any sound breakups or drops. A backyard without any major obstructions would allow for numerous JBL speakers to keep a steady beat, if that’s your thing.

Customize the JBL Flip 5

Music is a mood as much as anything, and you can permanently set the vibe on your JBL Flip 5 by purchasing a customized version on the JBL website. Add colors, text, and/or pre-selected graphics such as a pink cupcake, palm tree, or rainbow. But the real fun comes in adding photos or personalized graphics ($125 and up). Your face, your pet’s face, a favorite vacation photo—there’s nothing that can’t be printed, wraparound style, onto the JBL Flip 5. Just remember, the graphics are forever, even if the summer fling isn’t.

Day-to-day use

If you’ve ever set up any device with Bluetooth (push, ping, pair), you won’t break a sweat setting up your JBL Flip 5 with your phone. My 13-year-old had tunes blaring through the speaker from his iPhone before my coffee had finished warming up in the microwave. The raised buttons for play, volume up or down, and PartyBoost are intuitive, as are the depressed power and Bluetooth buttons. When you power up the device, the on button lights up and a drum sound briefly plays—the same drum sound plays when the device turns off. Bluetooth pairing comes with the pluck of a guitar and that button lights up too—it’s one of the easiest, best Bluetooth speaker designs to use.

I walked the speaker all over my two-story, 1,500-square foot house and there was an occasional blip at the outer ranges as it adjusted, but I never completely lost connection and could even take it another 30 or so feet into my yard without losing the beat. The bass performs best indoors in rooms with good acoustics, but even outdoors playing a creeping, low end-rich song such as “Angel” from Massive Attack, the sound comes through in appropriately spine-tingling waves. At the highest volume, the sound breaks up a bit, loses a bit of quality. Will it outperform your expensive soundbar or surround sound home theater setup? No. But you can’t take your soundbar to the lake or into your rented ski chalet, either, so …

This JBL portable speaker claims the battery lasts a full 12 hours. You’ll lose a bit of time if you have it cranked up all the way, but we got it to play at a comfortable in-home volume for just about 12 hours without trouble. If you’re like me and you always forget to turn your speakers off, the auto power off feature is a godsend, and it helps boost the play life too.

So, who should buy the JBL Flip 5?

The JBL Flip 5 waterproof Bluetooth speaker is a smart buy for those looking for a compact, portable speaker with decent sound quality at a fairly low price point. Durability plays a key role here, too. Those who use their speakers outside or near water, or who have pets or kids (who always seem to find a way to spill something on or otherwise abuse electronic devices) will be especially drawn to its ability to be dropped, thrown, abused, and submerged with little effect on performance. Audiophiles might quibble with sound quality, especially at top volume, but given the speaker size, battery life, and portability, it’s a decent trade-off for wireless outdoor speakers to take to weekend soccer games and pull out for the annual limbo contest at the family reunion. A 2021 refresh, the JBL Flip 6, adds a dedicated tweeter to increase clarity, while still delivering that lively low end that JBL has made a signature through decades producing live venue loudspeakers. Or, if you’re willing to spend a little more, you can bump it up and pump it up with the larger but still portable JBL Charge 5. However, the JBL Flip 5, while still on the market, brings plenty of bounce to the ounce of its own.

The post JBL Flip 5 review: The take-anywhere, vibe-creating compact Bluetooth speaker makes a splash appeared first on Popular Science.

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I’ve got JBL’s Flip 5 Bluetooth party speaker in my left hand and the new JBL Flip 6 in my right hand and they’re both blaring indie-rock legends Pixies. From afar it might look like I’m lifting small weights, or at least some pre-workout energy drinks, but the only thing I’m really pumping is agile bass—especially from the right. While these small Bluetooth speakers look like similar cylinders, stuffed burritos if that’s more your thing than tallboy beverages, the Flip 6 is a slightly weightier portable speaker than its predecessor, both physically and sonically. The actual speaker is a touch heavier than the previous model (introduced in 2019), while the lows are a little stronger and the highs a little clearer—even at top volume. Test whether you can distort the sound and you’ll definitely conclude this is one loud speaker. But thanks to several durability upgrades the speaker’s sturdiness goes beyond a sound that doesn’t break up as the beat speeds up. Let’s take a closer look at all the improvements that make the newest JBL Flip 6 a go-to go-anywhere Bluetooth party speaker. 

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The JBL Flip 6’s design

Available in grey, red, black, and blue, with teal coming soon, the Flip 6 immediately announces its intentions with its bold, exclamation point-emblazoned JBL logo (much bigger than the Flip 5’s small badge branding). The compact JBL Flip speaker is a powerful and versatile to-go music buddy, easy to toss in your gym bag for workout tunes, your suitcase for impromptu hotel dance parties, or in a daypack to keep the tunes or the podcast going wherever you go. On a trip and watching a downloaded movie via your phone or laptop? Using the Flip 6, instead of the tinny speakers on your computer or phone, improves the experience immensely. You can listen to it standing up on one end vertically or turn it on its side, depending on your preference, and it’s got an adjustable shoelace-type wrist strap. You can stand the speaker up on either end, or you can lay it down on its side. At 7 inches by 2.6 inches by 2.8 inches (17.8 x 6.8 x 7.2 cm), and a relatively light 1.21 pounds (0.55 kg), the JBL Flip 6 really can go anywhere, and I mean anywhere: bedroom or the beach, shady patio or sunny poolside, beside the kitchen sink or in the shower. 

Sealing the deal

Music lovers who also like to get outside (or anybody with kids and/or pets) will be sold on the best portable speaker that’s waterproof. The JBL Flip 5, which I’ve enjoyed in many places without fail, made (and survived) a splash with its IPX7 rating—a fancy way of saying you can dunk it into water up to about 3-feet deep for up to 30 minutes and expect your speaker to not become a useless paperweight. The newest JBL speaker in the Flip line ups the ante with an IP67 rating. This upgraded rating allows for the same level of submersion; I took it in the shower, dunked it in running water, and threw it in the snow (sadly, no pools open in the PNW in early January) and the JBL Bluetooth speaker carried on flawlessly. Where it improves on the previous wireless speaker is in dustproofing. While I was unable to take the Flip 6 to Burning Man for a definitive test, this dust-resistance upgrade can help prevent a hardware failure in desert conditions and add confidence if you decide to take the speaker to somewhere maybe a little less extreme than Death Valley—the playa, a windy beach, or, heck, the playground sandbox. And while the Flip 6 can survive a dump or sand dune, a small rubber stand helps keep the speaker from rolling off where you’d prefer it.

Setting up the JBL Flip 6

The JBL Flip 6 uses the more robust Bluetooth 5.1 protocol (up from the Flip 5’s 4.2) and I was able to walk with it throughout a 1,500-square-foot, two-story house without ever losing connection. Pairing the speaker with my iPhone 11 (iOS 14.8.1) using the centralized Bluetooth button on the speaker was easy. That button is right next to the on/off one and both illuminate when on. When more than one Flip device is paired together, assuming it works, a light ring around the power button and the Bluetooth button should also illuminate. 

On the same panel as the power/Bluetooth buttons is a power indicator light that turns red when time is short and a USB-C charging port, which comes with protection that sets off an alarm if there’s salt, water, or other chemicals in the port that require you to unplug and give the speaker some time to dry out. Speaking of charge, the specs say the speaker’s 4,800 mAh battery gives you 12 hours of sound and I found that to be more or less accurate, depending on the volume I was playing at. It turns itself off after a period of inactivity, essential for people like me who have never remembered to turn off a portable speaker device in their lifetimes. It takes a quick about two-and-a-half hours to reach full charge.

The additional physical controls are equally straightforward. A few inches away—in a line atop the fabric—there’s several raised, rubberized buttons: the infinity-shaped PartyBoost button (we’ll get to that in a bit), two volume buttons (- for lower volume and + for higher volume), plus a triangle-shaped button that allows you to pause and restart whatever you’re listening to. These buttons don’t have backlighting, but they’re simple to navigate.

Party foul?

To connect my JBL Flip 6 to my old Flip 5, I had to download the JBL Portable app (available for iOS and Android). No matter how hard I tried, and I’m a stubborn person, simply pressing the PartyBoost buttons on the two speakers didn’t connect them as promised online. I tried various fixes, like unpairing one speaker from my phone, then the other, then resetting the Bluetooth connection, then pairing one but not the other, but nothing seemed to work. However, since you’re using a connected device to play music anyway, using the app doesn’t seem too big of a burden when pairing speakers. 

Note that I found that in order to pair with the app, you need to first pair your device (in this case my phone) with the speakers themselves. Then, when I opened the app, it found both speakers and allowed me to connect them to play together with the touch of a button. JBL says you can connect up to 100 PartyBoost speakers together in mono (an impressive symphony of sound, I’m sure). I was only able to connect two since that’s all I had on hand and would have paired them to create fully defined left and right channels except, because I was connecting a Flip 5 with a Flip 6, the app wouldn’t allow me to, with a note that said, “Please use only two of the same PartyBoost speakers for Stereo mode.” 

Even if you don’t want to connect multiple speakers, you might find the JBL Portable app handy as it also allows you to adjust the equalizer setting for bass, midrange, and treble. While it’s not necessary to adjust for every song, you might find that toggling the five steps available for each band is useful, depending on the type of music you’re playing—and the volume you’re crankin’ it up to. If you’re getting down to the chiming exorcism of Concrete Blonde’s “Joey,” you won’t even need to mess with the equalizer. While on a throbbing Kills song, such as the twangy-meets-Timbaland “Doing It to the Death,” you can crank up the bass without any of the bad shakes.

The JBL Flip 6’s sound

No doubt, what you’d like to know most about the JBL Flip 6—beyond the bountiful specs packed into its diminutive case—is whether this small Bluetooth speaker’s sound makes it worth lugging around. Well, it does. While the Bluetooth only supports a standard-definition codec connection, everything the speaker receives projects with depth. You’d never confuse this speaker for a true two-channel system, but it perfectly reinforces anything I’d want to play from my iPhone or MacBook, allowing me to walk unrestricted around the house while enjoying a connection that performed without a crackle.

JBL brags on its “racetrack-shaped woofer,” the same driver that feeds the low frequencies and midrange of the Flip 5, while a tweeter new to the Flip 6 facilitates the high-frequency end of things. And that booming bass doesn’t get muddy until you really, really turn up the volume, thanks to dual passive radiators (one at each pole of the speaker) that use Harman-tuned digital signal processing to deliver a thumping, distortion-free signature sound rooted in JBL’s long history developing concert speakers. It’s a consistently pleasing roll, even if it never reaches full subbass rumble (something you can’t expect from a speaker this size). For the audio nerds out there, the dynamic frequency response range is 63 Hz – 20k Hz, while the output power is 20 W RMS for woofer and 10 W RMS for tweeter. For the rest of us, you are free to blast Hot Chip or some Sex Pistols to your heart’s content and expect clear sound with impressive bass and low-mids.

The sound quality emanating from the tiny speaker impressed everyone who heard it. And while music—even albums with expansive, oscillating soundscapes like Röyksopp’s 2014 The Inevitable End full-length—performed at a level I’d expect from a larger, more expensive speaker, the biggest win for me was using the JBL portable speaker to play the sound from TV shows and movies I watched on my phone and computer while traveling. For the snappy dialogue, energetic soundtrack, and clarity of the little sound details, the speaker will be joining me in my suitcase on any future adventures I take where I’m expecting some electronic downtime. 

In the best waterproof speaker category, the JBL portable Bluetooth speaker delivered, performing well in the shower (I took several and allowed for liberal splashing against my better “Do not get electronics wet” judgment). And I dunked it for 10 minutes in a shallow bath of water and it didn’t suffer any visible ill effects. As mentioned, a brief toss in the snow did no discernable damage.

So, who should buy the JBL Flip 6?

JBL makes some of the best Bluetooth party speakers, delivering powerful sound across price points. As the company’s entry-level model, the JBL Flip 6 is a versatile, imminently portable Bluetooth speaker with a resonant, relatively refined sound for its size and price tag. At $129.95 it’s not the most casual purchase, but if you’re looking for a go-anywhere speaker to get a small dance party started or you want to use it to add dynamics to a movie you’re playing off a phone or laptop, you’re going to be impressed. Those who already own a Flip 5 will appreciate the elevated focus of this iteration and like that PartyBoost can pair them together, even if the connection with an older version won’t allow for stereo mode. Likewise, travelers who are looking for impressive range and reliability get a nice compromise between size and performance in the JBL Flip 6 speaker.

The post JBL Flip 6 speaker review: The palm-sized party appeared first on Popular Science.

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The Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle HR doesn’t scream out smartwatch. Its round face sports a trio of tactile crowns on the right-hand side. Combine that with one of Fossil’s classic bands and it could almost pass for analog. Despite its classic look, this Wear OS by Google-powered device does everything you’d expect from a full-featured smartwatch. 

What is the Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle HR?

At about $199, The Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle HR promises a robust set of features in an understated package. As the Fossil watch’s name suggests, this is the fifth iteration of the wearable. The generational upgrades include an improved battery life, which can reach more than a full day in one of the watch’s low-power modes. It also recharges quickly, gaining a nearly full charge in less than an hour. 

Unlike previous Fossil watch hybrid models, there’s a speaker, which allows a user with a smartphone to answer tethered calls and hear what Google Assistant has to say. It also comes with a larger 8GB of storage, good for those interested in downloading compatible apps. 

What makes it tick, of course, is Wear OS by Google, which currently allows for life and fitness tracking, calendar syncing, access to Google Assistant and Google Pay, notifications from your smartphone apps, GPS tracker, and more.

The Fossil Gen 5’s design

Right out of its classic watch-style box, the Fossil Gen 5 smartwatch is easy to set up and simple to use. Visually, it’s a good-looking smartwatch, one that hews close to analog watches. I had multiple friends express surprise that it was a smartwatch due to its more traditional round clock face. 

Like many of today’s smartwatches, it’s water-resistant up to 3 ATM and I showered while wearing it several times without incident—and, taking things beyond the bathroom, it counts swim-tracking among its talents. Its 8GB of memory makes it comparable to the Apple Watch Series 3 and the best Fossil smartwatch for memory. However, it feels slightly outdated compared to other models like the Apple Watch 6, which offers 32GB storage.

The handiest features of the Fossil Gen 5 smartwatch are the seamless feeding of the info you likely use most often on your smartphone right to your wrist—with updates signaled via a gentle vibration. Any calendar updates, text messages, app updates, the weather, mapping info, and phone calls show up with a flick of your wrist via Wear OS by Google. The 1.28-inch AMOLED screen that displays all this data is bright and colorful; its 416 x 416, 328ppi resolution is high enough to render graphics with crsp definition.

The Fossil Gen 5’s key features

On the connectivity front, you get Bluetooth 4.2 LE, GPS, NFC, and WiFi. The touchscreen includes seemingly intuitive swiping up, down, left, and right. The three crowns/buttons on the right of the watch allow easy access to all your apps, including Google Pay, your agenda, and alarm, etc.

There’s a lot going for the Fossil Gen 5 smartwatch, and it’s not all smooth sailing. It took me a while to get acquainted with the interface and I’d often find myself swiping and clicking around to remember where settings and items were located (or simply googling how to do something if I felt truly lost). 

For those tracking movements and workouts, the untethered, internal GPS tracker comes in handy. And the heart rate monitor helps give a better look at your health through its fitness tracker. You can track your fitness and goals either with the Wear OS by Google options or through a third-party downloaded workout app, which will appeal to anyone who wants to exercise and leave their phone behind. I took my watch on a walk through the woods in Upstate New York where it recorded similar stats as a friend’s Apple Watch, also on the hike.

The included fitness apps did a solid job tracking my activity, from steps to indoor and outdoor workouts, but dedicated fitness gurus may want to download a different app for greater access to data crunching. The step tracker is automatic and accessible right from the home screen—it proved an extra fun addition to my trip to NYC, where it’s easy to take 10,000 steps before lunch. 

Heavy use on the Fossil Gen 5 resulted in needing to charge midday, but most days I sailed through to mid-evening before the watch automatically went into battery-saving mode. That’s fine for passive users, but slightly disappointing if you plan on regularly using the smartwatch features a lot every day.

The biggest downside for me, since I paired it with an iPhone running iOS, is that while I can read text messages sent to my phone, I can’t reply to them on the watch itself.

Easy setup with a little hiccup 

Initial setup for the Fossil Gen 5 was fairly easy, but it requires multiple steps and demands your attention during the process. If you’ve ever gone through the seamless Apple Watch setup, it will feel arduous. 

After successfully pairing with my phone, I had a day of smooth sailing until I disconnected the watch from my phone to connect with my car’s Bluetooth (another hassle of multiple devices with connectivity). For reasons I still don’t understand, in order to reconnect my watch to the phone, I had to do a hard restart of the watch and re-pair it with my phone. That said, once it paired for a second time, it worked without a hitch. 

Good look and durability, too

The Fossil Gen 5 is a smart-looking watch that by all accounts feels like it could take some abuse (or simply a shower) without any signs of wear and full functionality. The screen itself is big enough to get a good read on the data coming in. On a slim wrist, it looks a touch oversized, but nothing out of the ordinary in today’s larger smartwatch landscape. And when it’s time to recharge, the watch easily snaps to the USB magnetic charger and even rotates while juicing back up. 

The rest of the specs

Wear OS by Google works with both Android 6.0+ and iOS 12.0+, meaning most smartphone users will be able to use the Fossil Gen 5. The available 1GB RAM and 8GB storage should be sufficient for most users, but don’t expect it to provide the speediest smartwatch experience around. 

The loudspeaker and microphone mean you can conduct phone calls and use Google Assistant, though you shouldn’t expect to rely on it all the time. Google Assistant didn’t always pick up on my voice or exactly what I was saying when it did hear me. The built-in speaker is a nice touch for when you’re not wearing headphones, but its tiny size limits how loud and clear it can really be. 

Vibration alerts are unobtrusive. In addition, I used Theater Mode to keep the screen off when I didn’t want to be disturbed (including during an actual movie outing) and found it an easy-to-use helpful feature. 

So, who should buy the Fossil Gen 5?

The Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle HR works well for those looking for a mid-priced smartwatch that does most of what you want a smartwatch to do. The display is easy to read (with the brightness adjustable) and the interface is generally intuitive after a bit of messing around. It will likely please those looking to quickly access important data on their wrist without having to open and mess with their phone.

Likewise, those interested in using a smartwatch to track fitness and activity levels won’t have any complaints about the ease of use, although they may want to go beyond the basic Wear OS by Google fitness apps and download an external app via the Google Play store. Extensive watch use may wear the battery down, but making smart use of its battery-saving options will likely keep it operational for a full day of use. Or just charge it up for an hour and get back to using it full tilt. Plus, this Fossil Gen 5 smartwatch is attractive—and when you’re wearing your computer on the wrist that’s no small thing.

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The humble tabletop radio’s evolution kicked off in 2005 with the original analog Tivoli Audio Model One, a radio intended to bring clarity of design and signal. With furniture-grade wood, a fabric grille, and several functional knobs, the original Model One tuned into a very specific aesthetic and offered a similarly singular function. In 2017, the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital updated the original, tweaking the appearance and adding Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to the AM/FM capabilities. Now the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2) keeps the first-gen’s retromodern cabinet while updating the very modern connectivity, offering the ease of AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast streaming in a stylish wireless speaker with superior sound. 

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What is the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2)?

At its heart, the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2) is still a large shoebox-shaped and -sized radio. Harkening back to another era, there’s an antenna tucked discreetly in the back that you can extend and listen to your favorite digital audio broadcast (DAB+) and FM stations. Beyond that, it’s one of the best speakers for a streaming audio enthusiast. Between AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital offers comprehensive support for Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Deezer, YouTube Music, Pandora, etc., as well as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, SlingTV, et al. If you’ve got the speaker connected to your Wi-Fi, you can even use Siri and/or Google Home voice controls for the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2). What you won’t get, however, is a direct voice assistant response or pulsing LED feedback, as Siri, Alexa, etc., are not supported natively; this is a platform for maximized minimalists. 

The Tivoli Audio Model One Digital’s design

Despite its very European-sounding name, Tivoli Audio was founded in Boston, Mass., by acclaimed audio engineer Henry Kloss and entrepreneur Tom DeVesto. The Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2)’s mid-century modern style, meanwhile, looks good on any continent or countertop. As cool alarm clocks go, the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital is a sexy little number and it knows it’s in the running for a top spot in the best bookshelf speakers: looks group. The unit is available in three colorways—Black Ash & Black, Walnut & Gray, and White & Gray—to fit seamlessly into any decor. The fabric front is eco-friendly. The two knobs on the front are both aluminum, although it’s the larger one that imparts an especially high-end vibe and tactile feel that awakens memories of how gear used to work as you spin it. That said, you will probably find yourself, like me, using the slim remote (included, with battery installed) to control the radio and alarm more than the knobs unless you’ve settled the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital right on your desk or next to your bed. Of course, if you’re streaming audio or Bluetooth radio you’ll be using your iOS or Android device for most playback options.

At 4.5 inches by 8.7 inches by 5.5 inches in size, sitting atop four small rubber feet, the rectangular speaker is small enough to fit into your home unobtrusively but big enough for a solid audio punch. And although it might be a stretch to call it portable in the same way the best Bluetooth speakers for pools, parties, and other outdoor exploits typically are, it’s easily transportable. It’s just 3.4 pounds—light enough to move from room to room without too much hassle, assuming you have a convenient outlet (there’s no battery power).

On the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital’s front are the single 3.5-inch full-range driver, the power and volume knob, and a digital readout of the time, naturally, as well as your stream or radio station. This display is surrounded by an aluminum ring that lets you access functions with a smooth turn followed by reassuring clicks. In addition to the aforementioned antenna on the back, there’s a 3.5mm auxiliary input for external audio sources, a set-up button, a mute button, a bass reflex port, a micro-USB port for servicing purposes, and the DC power port for the internal Class A/B amplifier. A couple small quibbles: The mute button sits in an unlikely spot, but owing to the fact that most people are likely controlling it from their phone or the remote, it seems a small quibble. Also, the white power cord might be better matched in color to the wireless speaker itself or just in a standard black or grey.

Setup and key features

Though the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 1) and Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2) look fairly similar externally, there are internal and operational differences. The main one is that instead of pairing with the Tivoli Audio ART App to get your speaker up and running, you’ll use either the Google Home app or an iOS device with AirPlay. This allows you to integrate the speaker into a multiroom audio setup regardless of ecosystem. It’s also important to note that the Gen. 2 hardware cannot connect over Wi-Fi with Generation 1 ART products, only with Gen. 2 or other AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast speakers. Automatic over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates keep the speaker up-to-date.

Almost as easy as just plugging it in

I popped my Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2) out of the box, plugged it in, and within minutes of downloading Google Home, I was streaming from Spotify via Chromecast without missing a beat. My new speaker came right up in my Apple podcasts app. And AirPlay kicked in with several radio stations apps that I use, too. Similarly, YouTube was easy to stream. All in all, streaming couldn’t be simpler. Setting up the alarm was probably the most difficult of the tasks and, like a few other things (like accessing the “settings” and “source”), it required the remote. 

A surprisingly robust sound that’s as crisp as the speaker’s looks

Remember that surprise you get at a concert when that buttoned-up dude near the front of the stage starts the mosh pit? There’s a similar feeling of “wow” you’ll experience when you turn this demure-looking speaker all the way up. I cranked the volume, went two rooms away to brush my teeth, and the sound clarity still surprised me. Putting it to the test, I played Radiohead’s skronking “The National Anthem” way louder than most humans would in a small kitchen and the crusty, loping bass line did cause the attached rear antenna to shake a bit. Once I readjusted the antenna, however, that buzzing went away. And the ability to convey the full spectrum of processed bass didn’t break up other frequency regions, despite everything coming from one small speaker. Similarly, the velvety allure of Nightmare on Wax’s “Typical” transported me into Motown’s heyday. There’s an overall warmth to the response, but it’s not at the expense of crisp detail.

While it might not best a Sonos soundbar or select larger connected speakers in overall dynamics, the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2)’s sound is damn good for its petite size. The balanced sound impresses at all but the loudest settings on all but the most punishing of songs. Wi-Fi audio makes this particularly clear because it comes in higher fidelity than lossy Bluetooth broadcasts. Would I want this to be my primary speaker for my home stereo or TV? No. It’s not stereo and not equipped for any modern surround sound formats (or the connections they require, such as HDMI). But as a room speaker (or even one to tuck into the car and take with you to a vacation rental), it’s more than adequate.

So, who should buy the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2)?

Audiophiles looking for speakers that will fit effortlessly into their “Dwell”-approved home decor will want one of these “clock radios” nestled on their bedside table, another one perched amongst the art or design books in the library, and perhaps another on a shelf in the kitchen next to the Italian-designed barware. Even the simplest features—whether it’s an alarm or tuning into a radio station—feel both classier and best-in-class. But it’s not just about sexy looks. The relatively small speaker pumps out rich sound with little distortion, making it one of the best wireless speakers in the compact category. Anything you can hear on your smartphone, you can actually enjoy on the Tivoli Audio Model One Digital (Gen. 2).

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