First Impressions of Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker promises a blend of portability, decent sound, and ruggedness at an affordable price. Marketed by Edifier as an all-in-one multimedia speaker, it aims to be a go-to audio companion for both indoor and outdoor use. Boasting Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, IPX7 waterproofing, and a surprisingly robust sound profile for its size, the MP100 Plus seemed like a worthy contender in the crowded portable speaker market.
I needed a rugged, reliable speaker for my backcountry camping trips. The ability to withstand the elements while providing decent audio quality was paramount, and the Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker seemed to tick those boxes.
Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by its compact size and solid feel. The speaker felt well-constructed, and the minimalist design was appealing. Compared to the JBL Clip 4, which prioritizes ultra-portability, the MP100 Plus felt slightly more substantial and promised better sound. The Anker Soundcore 2, while known for its balanced audio, lacks the same level of ruggedness that the MP100 Plus advertises.
My first impression was positive, a blend of cautious optimism and genuine curiosity. I was eager to see how the Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker would perform in the demanding conditions of the outdoors.
Real-World Testing: Putting Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker on a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The varying terrain and unpredictable weather provided the perfect testing ground.
The speaker handled the light rain and occasional splashes without a hiccup, thanks to its IPX7 waterproof rating. The sound quality was surprisingly clear, even in the open air, though it did struggle a bit with bass in the wind. Getting connected was a breeze. The Bluetooth paired instantly with my phone, and I was playing my trail mix in seconds.
There were no immediate issues, although I did notice that the volume at maximum could have been louder. It was a slight disappointment, especially in noisier environments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker has proven to be a reliable audio companion. It has accompanied me on multiple camping trips, fishing expeditions, and even a few unexpected downpours.
The speaker has held up remarkably well, showing only minor cosmetic wear. The rubberized exterior has prevented any serious damage from bumps and scrapes, and the speaker continues to function flawlessly. Maintenance is simple, a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually enough to keep it clean. It definitely outperforms my old generic Bluetooth speaker, which barely lasted a season.
Breaking Down the Features of Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Specifications
- Bluetooth 5.3 Connectivity: This ensures a stable and fast connection with your devices. It means fewer dropouts and quicker pairing, vital when you need a reliable connection in the field.
- Power Output: 5 Watts: This might seem low, but it delivers surprising volume for a speaker of this size. Ideal for personal listening or small groups in quiet environments.
- Battery Life: 9 Hours: A decent lifespan for a portable speaker. It gets you through most of a day before needing a recharge, critical when you’re off-grid.
- Weight: 0.2 kg: Extremely lightweight and portable. It won’t weigh you down on hikes or camping trips, making it easy to carry anywhere.
- IPX7 Waterproof: This means the speaker can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. Essential for outdoor adventures where rain or splashes are inevitable.
Performance & Functionality
The Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker delivers adequate sound quality for its size and price. The sound is clear and relatively balanced, although it lacks deep bass. The speaker performs best in quieter environments, where its 5-watt output is sufficient.
A strength is its reliability and ease of use, while a weakness is the maximum volume, which can be limiting in noisy settings. While it doesn’t blow me away, it does meet my basic expectations for a portable, rugged speaker.
Design & Ergonomics
The speaker boasts a compact, cylindrical design with a durable rubberized exterior. This makes it easy to grip and resistant to drops.
The controls are simple and intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons for power, volume, and Bluetooth pairing. There’s no learning curve whatsoever, making it user-friendly right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker is built to last. The rugged construction and IPX7 waterproof rating provide excellent protection against the elements.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily consisting of cleaning the exterior. Given its solid build, the speaker should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker comes with a USB charging cable. There are no other included accessories.
Customization is limited to selecting from available colors. It’s not really designed for extensive modifications, but its core functionality is solid.
Pros and Cons of Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Pros
- Excellent Portability: Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry anywhere.
- Impressive Durability: The rugged construction and IPX7 waterproof rating ensure it can withstand the elements.
- Simple and Easy to Use: The intuitive controls and quick Bluetooth pairing make it user-friendly for everyone.
- Decent Sound Quality for Size: The audio is clear and balanced, suitable for personal listening in quiet environments.
- Affordable Price: It offers good value for money, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons
- Maximum Volume Could Be Higher: In noisy environments, the 5-watt output might not be loud enough.
- Lacks Deep Bass: Bass response is limited, which might disappoint some audiophiles.
Who Should Buy Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker?
The Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker is perfect for: outdoor enthusiasts, casual campers, hikers, and anyone needing a rugged and portable audio solution. It is also ideal for those who need a speaker that can withstand rain and splashes.
Those who prioritize high-fidelity audio or need a speaker for large gatherings should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a durable carrying case or carabiner for easy attachment to backpacks or belts.
Conclusion on Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker delivers on its promise of portability, durability, and decent sound at an affordable price. It’s not the loudest or bass-heavy speaker on the market, but it’s a reliable companion for outdoor adventures.
At $46.66, the price is definitely justified for the features and build quality. It’s a solid value proposition.
I would personally recommend the Edifier MP100 Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, rugged, and portable Bluetooth speaker. If you value simplicity, reliability, and durability over ultimate audio fidelity, this speaker is a great choice. Don’t hesitate to grab one and take your tunes on the trail!