So, you’re planning a movie night under the stars, and you’ve got the projector all set up—ready to turn your backyard into an outdoor cinema. But wait, there’s one thing you’re missing: the sound. Let’s be honest, the built-in speakers on most projectors aren’t going to win any awards. If you’re looking to amplify that sound and take your outdoor movie nights to the next level, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard movie night, a tailgate party, or just enjoying a cozy evening on the porch, the best outdoor speaker for your projector can turn your experience from “meh” to “wow.” But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you? Fear not, because we’ve got the ultimate guide to help you choose the perfect outdoor speaker that will make your projector’s picture quality sound as good as it looks.
Grab your popcorn, kick back, and let’s dive in!
Why Do You Need an Outdoor Speaker For Your Projector?
Great question. Here’s the deal: Projectors, especially portable ones, are notorious for having subpar sound quality. They focus on giving you a large, bright image, but they often neglect the audio. Sure, the built-in speaker might work in a pinch for a small space, but once you’re outside, it’s another story.
When you’re watching movies outdoors, you’ve got wind, trees, maybe even a few neighbor dogs barking in the background. So, you need something that will cut through all that ambient noise and deliver clear, powerful sound. That’s where an outdoor speaker comes in. Not only do they amplify your projector’s audio, but many are also weather-resistant, portable, and designed to handle outdoor conditions.
Features to Look For in the Best Outdoor Speakers for Projectors
Before we start recommending specific models, let’s talk about what makes an outdoor speaker great for a projector. The right speaker can really elevate your outdoor viewing experience.
1. Weather Resistance
Your outdoor speaker needs to stand up to the elements. Rain, wind, and the occasional splashed drink are no match for a good outdoor speaker. Look for speakers that are rated with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating, especially IPX4 or higher. This ensures they can handle water splashes and dust.
2. Portability
Outdoor movie nights often happen in places where power outlets aren’t handy—like the far corners of your backyard or on a camping trip. A portable, battery-powered speaker is a must-have. Some speakers even come with long-lasting battery life, meaning you can enjoy hours of sound without worrying about charging.
3. Sound Quality
Just because you’re outside doesn’t mean you should settle for muffled sound. Look for speakers with clear, crisp audio that can fill a large outdoor space. A speaker with good bass and treble will help ensure your movie audio sounds as it should—whether you’re listening to a whisper or a blockbuster explosion.
4. Connectivity
When connecting your speaker to a projector, you’ll typically want options like Bluetooth, AUX, or even Wi-Fi. Bluetooth is the most common, but some projectors may offer an HDMI or audio-out jack. Make sure the speaker you’re choosing is compatible with your projector’s connectivity options.
5. Durability
Outdoor speakers face harsher conditions than their indoor counterparts. They’ll be exposed to heat, cold, and potentially even some bumps or falls. Make sure your speaker is made of durable materials that can withstand whatever outdoor adventures you have planned.
6. Ease of Setup
The last thing you want to do during your movie night is fiddle around with complicated wires and settings. Look for outdoor speakers that are easy to set up and pair quickly with your projector. The simpler, the better.
Top Outdoor Speakers For Projector (Our Picks)
Now that we know what to look for, let’s get into some actual product recommendations. Here are some of the best outdoor speakers for your projector that will make your backyard movie nights unforgettable.
1. JBL Charge 5 – The All-Rounder
When it comes to outdoor speakers, JBL is a name that comes up a lot—and for good reason. The JBL Charge 5 is a powerhouse in a compact package. With its durable, waterproof design (IP67 rating), it’s perfect for any outdoor setup, whether you’re watching a projector by the pool or setting it up on the grass for a cozy night under the stars.
The sound quality is top-notch with rich bass and clear highs. Plus, it has an impressive 20-hour battery life, so you can keep the party going all night long. The Bluetooth range is solid, and pairing it with your projector is a breeze.
Why It’s Great:
- Waterproof and durable
- Excellent sound quality
- Long battery life
- Easy setup with Bluetooth
2. Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) – The Premium Pick
If you’re looking for premium sound and a sleek design, the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ is the one for you. This portable Bluetooth speaker offers 360-degree sound, so no matter where you’re sitting, you’ll get a consistent audio experience. The bass is deep, the mids are clear, and the treble has that signature Bose crispness.
It’s also built to handle the outdoors, with an IP55 rating that can withstand some rain and dust. Plus, with 17 hours of battery life, you won’t have to worry about the sound cutting out halfway through the movie.
Why It’s Great:
- Amazing sound quality with 360-degree coverage
- Elegant, portable design
- Weather-resistant
- Long battery life
3. Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 – The Party Speaker
Looking to crank up the volume? The Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 is your speaker. This beast delivers room-filling sound with deep bass that’s perfect for any outdoor movie night. It has a 360-degree sound design, so the audio is evenly distributed no matter where you’re sitting.
It’s also super portable, has an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, and offers up to 20 hours of battery life. And if you want to take things to the next level, you can pair two of these speakers for even more powerful sound.
Why It’s Great:
- Loud, clear, and bass-heavy sound
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Up to 20 hours of battery life
- Can pair multiple speakers for more volume
4. Sonos Move – The Smart Choice
For those who want a smart outdoor speaker that integrates seamlessly with their home system, the Sonos Move is a fantastic option. Not only does it offer superior sound quality with a deep bass and clear treble, but it also comes with Alexa and Google Assistant built-in. This means you can control your music with just your voice, which is a pretty cool feature for a movie night.
With an IP56 rating, it’s weather-resistant and has a decent 10-hour battery life. Plus, its Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity make it super versatile for pairing with your projector or any other device.
Why It’s Great:
- Rich sound quality with deep bass
- Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Weather-resistant
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
5. Anker Soundcore Motion+ – The Budget-Friendly Option
Not everyone wants to spend a fortune on an outdoor speaker, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice sound quality. The Anker Soundcore Motion+ is a budget-friendly option that punches way above its weight. With enhanced bass and crisp treble, this speaker provides surprisingly high-quality sound for the price.
It’s IPX7 waterproof, has up to 12 hours of battery life, and connects easily via Bluetooth. For a compact, budget-friendly speaker, it really delivers.
Why It’s Great:
- Affordable price with excellent sound quality
- Waterproof (IPX7 rating)
- Good battery life
- Bluetooth connectivity
FAQ – Your Burning Questions Answered
1. Can I use any speaker with my projector?
Not exactly. While most Bluetooth speakers will work with your projector, you’ll need to ensure the projector has Bluetooth connectivity or an audio-out jack. Many projectors only have built-in speakers, which is why adding an external one is a great idea.
2. How do I connect my projector to the speaker?
For Bluetooth speakers, simply pair them with your projector as you would with any other Bluetooth device. For wired speakers, use an audio cable (usually a 3.5mm aux or RCA) to connect the projector’s audio-out port to the speaker.
3. Are outdoor speakers really worth it?
Absolutely. If you’re serious about your outdoor movie experience, a good outdoor speaker is essential. It’ll provide clear, immersive sound, and with weather-resistant features, you can rest easy knowing your speaker can handle the elements.
4. How do I choose the right outdoor speaker for my projector?
Consider factors like sound quality, portability, weather resistance, battery life, and connectivity options. Make sure the speaker is compatible with your projector and can handle the environment in which you’ll use it.
Conclusion
When it comes to setting up the perfect outdoor projector experience, a high-quality outdoor speaker is the cherry on top. Whether you go for a powerhouse like the JBL Charge 5 or a sleek option like the Bose SoundLink Revolve+, there’s a speaker out there for every need and budget.
Don’t settle for lackluster sound that ruins your outdoor movie nights. With the right outdoor speaker, you’ll create an unforgettable experience that your friends (and your neighbors) won’t stop talking about. Happy viewing!