Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 is a highly portable, durable, and surprisingly powerful Bluetooth speaker designed for adventurers and casual listeners alike, offering a significant upgrade in battery life and Bluetooth range over its predecessors while maintaining its signature 360-degree sound and rugged, waterproof build.

If you’re looking for a compact speaker that can withstand the elements and deliver a punchy audio experience wherever you go, the WONDERBOOM 3 stands out as a top contender in its class, perfect for throwing in a backpack, clipping to a bike, or bringing along on any outdoor escapade.

It builds upon the WONDERBOOM legacy by refining key features, making it an even more compelling choice for those who demand both performance and resilience from their portable audio gear.

Here’s a quick comparison of the WONDERBOOM 3 against some of its key competitors and related products:

Feature/Product	Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3	JBL Flip 6	Sonos Roam	Bose SoundLink Flex	Anker Soundcore Flare 2	Ultimate Ears BOOM 3	Tribit StormBox Micro 2
Form Factor	Compact sphere	Cylindrical	Compact rectangle	Flat, portable	Cylindrical	Tall cylinder	Square
Sound Profile	Balanced, punchy 360°	Punchy, clear, forward-firing	Balanced, adaptive Wi-Fi/BT	Clear, balanced, intelligent audio processing	360° with bass	Balanced, loud 360°	Surprisingly loud, bass-rich
Waterproof Rating	IP67	IP67	IP67	IP67	IPX7	IP67	IP67
Battery Life Approx.	14 hours	12 hours	10 hours	12 hours	12 hours	15 hours	12 hours
Bluetooth Range Approx.	131 ft 40m	33 ft 10m	100 ft 30m	30 ft 9m	66 ft 20m	150 ft 45m	100 ft 30m
Key Differentiator	Extreme portability, durable	Strong bass, excellent clarity	Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, Sonos ecosystem	Smart audio, rugged, integrated loop	Light show, good value 360°	Larger, louder, PartyUp mode	Ultra-compact, integrated strap, power bank
Ideal Use	Outdoor adventures, travel	General use, parties	Home and on-the-go Wi-Fi	Rugged adventures, clipping on	Ambiance, small gatherings	Larger spaces, group listening	Backpacking, cycling, ultimate portability

The Evolution of Portability: What Sets the WONDERBOOM 3 Apart

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 isn’t just another portable speaker.

It’s the culmination of years of refinement in compact audio engineering.

Building on the strong foundation laid by its predecessors, the WONDERBOOM 3 pushes the boundaries of what a small speaker can deliver in terms of sound, durability, and user experience.

It embodies the brand’s commitment to creating robust, adventure-ready audio solutions that don’t compromise on sound quality.

From WONDERBOOM to WONDERBOOM 3: A Legacy of Sound

The original WONDERBOOM broke ground with its compact size and surprisingly powerful 360-degree sound, instantly becoming a favorite for those seeking portable tunes.

The WONDERBOOM 2 then refined this formula, introducing “Outdoor Boost” for enhanced sound in open environments and improved battery life.

The WONDERBOOM 3 continues this trajectory, focusing on even greater wireless freedom and endurance.

• WONDERBOOM Original: Introduced the signature spherical design, 360-degree sound, and robust IPX7 waterproofing. It set the standard for ultra-portable, durable speakers.
• WONDERBOOM 2: Elevated the game with the “Outdoor Boost” mode, providing a louder, more expansive sound profile specifically tuned for open-air listening. It also saw an increase in battery life and introduced IP67 dust and water resistance, making it fully submersible and protected from grit.
• WONDERBOOM 3: The latest iteration takes the established excellence and stretches its capabilities further. While the core design remains familiar – a testament to its successful formula – the WONDERBOOM 3 significantly extends Bluetooth range and battery life. This means more freedom from your device and longer listening sessions between charges, making it even more suitable for extended adventures away from power outlets. It maintains the crucial IP67 rating, ensuring it’s still your go-to speaker for poolside relaxation, beach trips, or even a rainy camping excursion.

Design and Durability: Built for the Wild

One look at the WONDERBOOM 3 and you know it’s ready for action.

Its distinctive spherical shape and durable fabric finish aren’t just for aesthetics. they’re integral to its rugged design.

Ultimate Ears has always prioritized building speakers that can handle real-world abuse, and the WONDERBOOM 3 is no exception. Sony SRS-XB12

• Robust Construction: The speaker features a tough, woven fabric grille that protects the drivers, while the rubberized top and bottom panels absorb impacts. This multi-material construction ensures it can withstand drops and bumps that would incapacitate lesser speakers.
• IP67 Rating: This isn’t just a number. it’s a promise. An IP67 rating means the WONDERBOOM 3 is dust-tight and can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for:
  • Poolside listening: No worries about splashes or accidental dips.
  • Beach days: Sand won’t jam its components.
  • Shower singing: Hang it up and enjoy your tunes.
  • Camping in the rain: It won’t miss a beat.
• Floating Design: A unique feature carried over from previous WONDERBOOM models is its ability to float. Drop it in the pool or lake, and it bobs to the surface, continuing to play podcast. This is a must for water-based activities, ensuring your speaker is always accessible and visible.

Sound Quality: Punching Above Its Weight

Despite its small stature, the WONDERBOOM 3 delivers a surprisingly rich and dynamic audio experience.

Ultimate Ears has fine-tuned the acoustic profile to ensure clarity and punch, especially for a speaker of its size.

• 360-Degree Sound: The spherical design isn’t just for looks. it allows the WONDERBOOM 3 to project sound evenly in all directions. This means everyone around the speaker gets the same great listening experience, no matter where they’re positioned.
• Outdoor Boost Mode: This mode, activated by a simple button press on the bottom of the speaker, instantly optimizes the sound for open-air environments. It pushes the mids and highs forward, ensuring your podcast cuts through ambient noise, making it ideal for picnics, hikes, or beach parties where sound can easily dissipate.
• Bass Response: While you won’t get earth-shattering sub-bass from a speaker this size, the WONDERBOOM 3 delivers a surprisingly satisfying bass response for its category. It’s punchy and well-defined, providing a solid foundation for most genres without sounding muddy. The bass is certainly present enough to add energy to your favorite tracks.

Connectivity and Battery Life: Uninterrupted Adventures

The WONDERBOOM 3 takes the already reliable connectivity of its predecessors and extends it, giving you more freedom and longer listening times.

This is where the “Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3” truly shines in its latest iteration.

• Extended Bluetooth Range: The WONDERBOOM 3 boasts an impressive Bluetooth range of 131 feet 40 meters. This means you can leave your phone safely tucked away while you roam freely around your campsite, backyard, or poolside, all without losing your connection. This is a significant improvement over many competitors and even previous WONDERBOOM models, offering unparalleled wireless freedom.
• Improved Battery Life: With 14 hours of battery life on a single charge, the WONDERBOOM 3 ensures your soundtrack lasts through almost any adventure. From a full day at the beach to a weekend camping trip, you won’t have to constantly worry about finding an outlet. This endurance is a major selling point for users who prioritize longevity in their portable electronics.
• Simple Pairing: Pairing the WONDERBOOM 3 is a breeze. Just turn it on, press the Bluetooth button, and select it from your device’s Bluetooth menu. It supports multi-point pairing, allowing two devices to be connected simultaneously, though only one can play at a time.
• Stereo Pairing: For an even more immersive experience, you can easily pair two WONDERBOOM 3 speakers together for true stereo sound. This is perfect for larger gatherings or when you want a more expansive soundstage. The process is intuitive: just press the central “Ultimate Ears” button on both speakers simultaneously, and they’ll link up.

Feature Comparison WONDERBOOM Series	WONDERBOOM	WONDERBOOM 2	WONDERBOOM 3
Battery Life Approx.	10 hours	13 hours	14 hours
Bluetooth Range Approx.	100 ft 30m	100 ft 30m	131 ft 40m
Water/Dust Rating	IPX7 Waterproof	IP67 Water & Dustproof	IP67 Water & Dustproof
Outdoor Boost	No	Yes	Yes
Recycled Content	No	No	Yes min. 31% post-consumer plastic

User Experience and Controls: Intuitive and Accessible

Ultimate Ears keeps the user experience straightforward and intuitive with the WONDERBOOM 3. There are no complicated apps to download or complex settings to navigate.

Everything you need is right on the speaker itself.

• Physical Buttons: The large volume buttons on the front are iconic and easy to use, even with wet hands or gloves. The top panel houses the power button, Bluetooth pairing button, and a multi-function button the Ultimate Ears logo for play/pause and skip track controls.
• Multi-function Button:
  • Single Press: Play/Pause podcast.
  • Double Press: Skip to the next track.
  • Triple Press: Skip back to the previous track a welcome addition for more control.
• Outdoor Boost Button: Located on the bottom of the speaker, this button provides an instant sound profile adjustment, making it incredibly convenient for switching between indoor and outdoor listening.
• Attached Loop: The integrated elastic loop on the top is more than just a design element. it’s highly functional. You can easily clip the WONDERBOOM 3 to your backpack, hang it from a tree branch, or secure it to a bike, making it incredibly versatile for on-the-go listening.

Environmental Responsibility: A Step Towards Sustainability

In an increasingly eco-conscious world, Ultimate Ears has made a commendable effort to incorporate recycled materials into the WONDERBOOM 3. This is a significant positive step, aligning the product with broader environmental goals.

• Recycled Plastics: The WONDERBOOM 3 is made with a minimum of 31% post-consumer recycled plastic. This helps reduce waste and the demand for virgin plastics, contributing to a more circular economy. While 31% is a starting point, it demonstrates a commitment to sustainability that many consumers now actively seek.
• Sustainable Packaging: Ultimate Ears has also focused on reducing the environmental impact of its packaging. The WONDERBOOM 3 comes in packaging made from sustainably sourced paper, moving away from plastic. This holistic approach to sustainability, from the product itself to its presentation, is a welcome development.
• Long-lasting Product: By building a speaker that is durable, waterproof, and dustproof, Ultimate Ears inherently promotes sustainability through longevity. A product that lasts longer means less frequent replacements and less waste in landfills. This “buy once, buy well” philosophy is crucial for environmental responsibility.

Comparative Analysis: WONDERBOOM 3 vs. The Competition

When considering the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3, it’s crucial to understand how it stacks up against its rivals.

Each speaker has its strengths, but the WONDERBOOM 3 holds its own in specific categories. JBL Xtreme 4

• Vs. JBL Flip 6: The Flip 6 generally offers a more forward-firing sound with slightly more pronounced bass, which can be great for personal listening. However, the WONDERBOOM 3’s 360-degree sound is superior for group listening, spreading audio evenly. The WONDERBOOM 3 also has a longer Bluetooth range and floats, making it more versatile for water activities. The Flip 6 has a USB-C port, which is more universal than the WONDERBOOM 3’s micro-USB.
• Vs. Sonos Roam: The Roam is a different beast, offering Wi-Fi connectivity and integration into the Sonos ecosystem, allowing for multi-room audio and voice assistant capabilities. Its sound is also adaptive. However, the WONDERBOOM 3 is significantly more budget-friendly, simpler to use no app needed for basic functions, and arguably more rugged for pure outdoor abuse due to its spherical, rubberized design and ability to float. The Roam is an excellent hybrid, but the WONDERBOOM 3 is a pure portable Bluetooth workhorse.
• Vs. Bose SoundLink Flex: The SoundLink Flex impresses with its intelligent audio processing that adapts to its orientation, delivering consistent sound. It’s also very rugged and has a versatile utility loop. However, the WONDERBOOM 3 typically offers better 360-degree sound dispersion and the unique floating ability. The Flex has a more premium, perhaps more sophisticated sound, but the WONDERBOOM 3 offers a more fun, go-anywhere vibe with its sound spread.
• Vs. Anker Soundcore Flare 2: The Flare 2 is known for its impressive light show and 360-degree sound at a very competitive price. It’s great for adding ambiance to small gatherings. The WONDERBOOM 3, while lacking the light show, generally offers a more robust build quality, better waterproofing IP67 vs. IPX7, and a longer Bluetooth range, making it the more serious outdoor adventure companion.
• Vs. Ultimate Ears BOOM 3: The BOOM 3 is the WONDERBOOM’s larger sibling, offering more volume and deeper bass, along with the PartyUp feature to connect up to 150 UE speakers. If sheer volume for a larger space or big party is your goal, the BOOM 3 is superior. However, the WONDERBOOM 3 is significantly more compact, more portable, and easier to toss into a small bag. For individual use or smaller groups, the WONDERBOOM 3 is often sufficient and more convenient.
• Vs. Tribit StormBox Micro 2: The StormBox Micro 2 is even smaller and features an integrated strap for ultimate portability, often used for cycling or attaching to backpacks. It also functions as a power bank. While it delivers surprising sound for its size, the WONDERBOOM 3 offers a significantly larger soundstage, more volume, and better bass response. If absolute minimal size is key, the Tribit wins, but for overall sound and user experience, the WONDERBOOM 3 provides a much fuller experience.

In summary, the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 excels in its niche: a highly durable, supremely portable, and surprisingly loud 360-degree speaker with excellent battery life and extended Bluetooth range, all wrapped in an eco-conscious design that floats.

It’s not about being the loudest or having the most features, but about being the most reliable and enjoyable compact speaker for life’s adventures, especially those involving water or rough terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3?

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 is a highly portable, durable, and waterproof Bluetooth speaker known for its 360-degree sound, extended battery life, and enhanced Bluetooth range, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and casual listening.

What are the main improvements of the WONDERBOOM 3 over WONDERBOOM 2?

The WONDERBOOM 3 primarily offers improved battery life 14 hours vs. 13 hours and a significantly extended Bluetooth range 131 ft/40m vs. 100 ft/30m. It also incorporates recycled plastics in its construction, making it more environmentally friendly.

Is the WONDERBOOM 3 waterproof?

Yes, the WONDERBOOM 3 has an IP67 rating, meaning it is dust-tight and can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes.

It also floats, making it ideal for pool or beach use.

Can the WONDERBOOM 3 float?

Yes, a unique feature of the WONDERBOOM 3, inherited from its predecessors, is its ability to float on water, continuing to play podcast while bobbing on the surface.

How long does the battery last on the WONDERBOOM 3?

The WONDERBOOM 3 offers up to 14 hours of battery life on a single charge, making it suitable for extended listening sessions.

What is the Bluetooth range of the WONDERBOOM 3?

The WONDERBOOM 3 boasts an impressive Bluetooth range of up to 131 feet 40 meters, allowing you to keep your device further away from the speaker.

Does the WONDERBOOM 3 have an “Outdoor Boost” mode?

Yes, like the WONDERBOOM 2, the WONDERBOOM 3 features an “Outdoor Boost” mode that optimizes the sound profile for open-air environments, making podcast sound louder and clearer outdoors. Minirig 4

Can I pair two WONDERBOOM 3 speakers together for stereo sound?

Yes, you can easily pair two WONDERBOOM 3 speakers together to create a true stereo sound experience by pressing the central “Ultimate Ears” button on both speakers simultaneously.

What kind of charging port does the WONDERBOOM 3 have?

The WONDERBOOM 3 features a micro-USB charging port.

Is the WONDERBOOM 3 dustproof?

Yes, with its IP67 rating, the WONDERBOOM 3 is completely dust-tight, protecting it from sand and other fine particles.

What colors does the WONDERBOOM 3 come in?

The WONDERBOOM 3 is typically available in several vibrant colors, often including Lively Lime, Joyous Bright, and Hyper Pink, among others, depending on the region and retailer.

How durable is the WONDERBOOM 3?

The WONDERBOOM 3 is designed to be highly durable, featuring a rugged fabric finish and rubberized top and bottom panels that allow it to withstand drops from up to five feet 1.5 meters.

Does the WONDERBOOM 3 come with an app?

No, unlike some other Ultimate Ears speakers, the WONDERBOOM 3 does not require or use a dedicated app for its core functions. All controls are directly on the speaker.

How do I control playback on the WONDERBOOM 3?

You can control playback directly on the speaker using the large “Ultimate Ears” button on the top: single press for play/pause, double press for skip next, and triple press for skip previous.

Can I use the WONDERBOOM 3 while it’s charging?

Yes, you can use the WONDERBOOM 3 while it is connected to a power source and charging.

Does the WONDERBOOM 3 have a microphone for calls?

No, the WONDERBOOM 3 does not include a built-in microphone, so it cannot be used for speakerphone calls.

Is the WONDERBOOM 3 made with recycled materials?

Yes, the WONDERBOOM 3 is made with a minimum of 31% post-consumer recycled plastic, and its packaging is made from sustainably sourced paper. JBL JR POP

How does the sound quality of the WONDERBOOM 3 compare to its size?

The WONDERBOOM 3 delivers surprisingly powerful and balanced 360-degree sound for its compact size, with a punchy bass response that exceeds expectations for a speaker of its dimensions.

Can the WONDERBOOM 3 be mounted or clipped to things?

Yes, the WONDERBOOM 3 features a convenient elastic loop on the top, allowing you to easily clip it to backpacks, hang it from branches, or secure it during activities.

Is the WONDERBOOM 3 good for indoor use?

Yes, while designed for outdoor adventures, its 360-degree sound and compact size make it an excellent speaker for indoor use in small to medium-sized rooms.

How do I activate Outdoor Boost on the WONDERBOOM 3?

The Outdoor Boost mode is activated by pressing a small button located on the bottom of the speaker, marked with a small tree icon.

What is the advantage of 360-degree sound?

360-degree sound ensures that podcast is projected evenly in all directions, providing a consistent listening experience for everyone around the speaker, regardless of their position.

Does the WONDERBOOM 3 have an auxiliary input?

No, the WONDERBOOM 3 does not have an auxiliary 3.5mm input. it relies solely on Bluetooth connectivity.

How long does it take to fully charge the WONDERBOOM 3?

A full charge for the WONDERBOOM 3 typically takes approximately 2.6 hours.

Can I connect the WONDERBOOM 3 to multiple devices at once?

Yes, the WONDERBOOM 3 supports multi-point Bluetooth pairing, meaning you can connect two devices to it simultaneously, though only one can play audio at a time.

Is the WONDERBOOM 3 compatible with all Bluetooth devices?

Yes, the WONDERBOOM 3 uses standard Bluetooth technology and is compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, tablet, or other audio device.

How does the WONDERBOOM 3 compare to the JBL Flip 6?

The WONDERBOOM 3 offers 360-degree sound and floats, while the JBL Flip 6 has more directional sound and often stronger bass. JBL PartyBox 100

The WONDERBOOM 3 also has a longer Bluetooth range and better dust resistance.

How does the WONDERBOOM 3 compare to the Sonos Roam?

The Sonos Roam offers Wi-Fi connectivity and smart features within the Sonos ecosystem, while the WONDERBOOM 3 is a pure Bluetooth speaker focused on portability and ruggedness, offering better battery life and a lower price point.

Is the WONDERBOOM 3 louder than its predecessor, the WONDERBOOM 2?

While the WONDERBOOM 3 maintains a similar sound profile and volume to the WONDERBOOM 2, its enhancements focus more on battery life, Bluetooth range, and sustainability rather than raw volume output.

The “Outdoor Boost” feature provides perceived loudness in open spaces.

Does the WONDERBOOM 3 automatically turn off to save battery?

Yes, the WONDERBOOM 3 will automatically power off after a period of inactivity typically 15 minutes to conserve battery life if no audio is playing and no buttons are pressed.