Audio products

Because these are different kinds of audio products rather than variations on one thing, it helps to think in terms of where you'll use each one.

For Everyday, On-the-Go ListeningPortable Bluetooth speakers in this category are generally compact and battery-powered, some use a magnetic attachment to fix to the back of a phone rather than needing a separate stand or case. Battery life, output volume, and whether it's water-resistant vary by model, worth checking the individual product page for exact figures since these details aren't always consistent between brands.

For the CarCar media players in this category typically replace or sit alongside a car's factory stereo display, adding a touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Most install via a 12V power connection and an adjustable mounting bracket, no professional fitting needed, and commonly add FM radio, hands-free calling, and voice assistant support on top of navigation and music.

For the Living RoomSoundbars and subwoofers in this category are built for a TV setup rather than a phone or car. Look for the channel count (2.1, 3.1, and similar) as a rough guide to how full the sound is, plus how it connects, HDMI ARC generally gives the cleanest single-cable setup with a modern TV, while optical or Bluetooth cover older sets.

ConnectivityAll three types generally use Bluetooth in some form, but for different jobs: a portable speaker pairs directly with a phone, a car media player mirrors a phone's screen via wireless CarPlay or Android Auto, and a soundbar usually takes audio from a TV over HDMI ARC rather than from a phone directly.