The Bose SoundLink Plus is a substantial portable speaker for people who want a straightforward Bluetooth setup and long listening sessions. Its floating IP67 body and phone-charging port suit trips outside, while the Bose app keeps sound adjustments simple.
It is less versatile at a desk than its USB-C connector might suggest. That port handles power, and there is no auxiliary input or microphone. The strongest reason to choose the Plus is a combination of portable sound, endurance and compatibility with newer Bose speakers.
Sound
- Woofer, tweeter and four passive radiators
- Three-band EQ
SoundGuys reported a broadly approachable balance with a little extra bass and treble and a recessed midrange. Its review found the Plus a capable portable music speaker, while describing the purchase as less compelling if the Bose ecosystem offers no additional value to the buyer. 1
The app’s three-band equalizer gives broad control over tonal balance. It is enough for reducing bass in a resonant room or making a modest preference adjustment, although it offers less precision than the seven-band system in several current JBL models. A listener who enjoys detailed tuning should account for that difference.
The Plus plays as one mono speaker. A second matching unit enables separated left and right playback, but purchasing two only makes sense when the wider setup will see regular use.
Connectivity
- Bluetooth playback
- Stereo and Party Mode
- No wired music input
The shortcut button makes linking convenient once configured. Two Plus speakers can operate in stereo, while Party Mode also supports specified newer Bose models such as the Micro 2nd Gen, Flex 2nd Gen and Max. This makes the Plus a useful addition to an existing compatible collection.
There is no 3.5 mm input, USB music playback or microphone. Those omissions matter if you hope to share the speaker with a computer, connect an older music source or take calls through it. A USB-C cable alone will not turn it into a wired desktop speaker. 1
Battery & charging
- Up to 20 hours
- 15 W USB-C charge-out
- About 5 hours to recharge
SoundGuys recorded 20 hours and 55 minutes at 80 dB, closely matching Bose’s endurance claim under that test. It is encouraging evidence for long sessions at that level. Maximum volume places different demands on the battery. 1
USB-C charge-out can top up a phone or a compatible small device at up to 15 W. That power comes from the speaker battery, so charging the music source reduces the reserve available for playback. Bose explicitly cautions that devices with larger input requirements may not charge.
The approximately five-hour refill makes overnight charging a sensible routine. A USB-C cable is supplied, but the charger is a separate requirement. Check that an existing power adapter suits the speaker before counting on it for travel.
Design
The Plus is portable enough for a day bag, but its weight is worth comparing with smaller bottle-sized alternatives. The utility loop provides a useful grip for short carries.
Its ability to float helps with recovery after an accidental drop. Bose does not intend it to play while in the water and specifies rinsing after salt or chlorinated exposure. Let the charging port dry before reconnecting power.
Alternatives
The JBL Charge 6 adds USB-C music playback and more detailed EQ in a smaller body. The Beosound A1 3rd Gen is the more useful option for desk calls because it includes microphones and supports USB speakerphone use. The Plus is more attractive when extended Bluetooth listening and Bose linking lead the decision.
Verdict
The SoundLink Plus is a sensible choice for long portable listening sessions, particularly alongside a compatible Bose speaker you already own. Its tested endurance and straightforward controls are persuasive. Choose something with wired audio or calling support if those functions are part of the plan.