In the world of portable Bluetooth speakers, few names sparkle like Ultimate Ears (UE). Their Wonderboom series has been a crowd favorite for years, offering an unbeatable blend of sound quality, durability, and affordability. While the Wonderboom 1 was a game-changer in its own right, the Wonderboom 2 took things to a whole new level. But what exactly sets these two speakers apart? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Wonderboom 1 and Wonderboom 2, helping you decide which one is right for you.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, both speakers look remarkably similar. The compact, cylindrical design, and vibrant color options are unmistakably UE. However, look closer, and you’ll notice some subtle yet significant differences. The Wonderboom 1 has a slightly more rounded shape, with a flat bottom that allows it to stand upright. In contrast, the Wonderboom 2 has a more angular design, with a slightly longer and narrower body.
| Feature | Wonderboom 1 | Wonderboom 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3.8 x 3.8 x 3.2 inches (9.6 x 9.6 x 8.1 cm) | 4.0 x 3.8 x 3.2 inches (10.2 x 9.6 x 8.1 cm) |
| Weight | 6.4 oz (181g) | 7.3 oz (207g) |
The Wonderboom 2 is slightly heavier and larger than its predecessor, but these changes are hardly noticeable in practice. Both speakers are still remarkably portable, and their featherlight weights make them easy to toss into a bag or clip to a backpack.
Materials and Durability
The Wonderboom 1 features a soft, rubberized coating that provides a secure grip, while the Wonderboom 2 has a more rugged, textured surface. This new design not only looks more premium but also offers improved durability. The Wonderboom 2’s IP67 rating means it can withstand being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, whereas the Wonderboom 1 has a lower IPX7 rating, which only protects against splashes and quick dips.
Sound Quality
Both speakers boast impressive sound quality, but there are some key differences worth exploring. The Wonderboom 1 produces a more focused, directional sound, with a strong emphasis on midrange frequencies. This results in clear, detailed vocals and a satisfying punch in the low-end.
In contrast, the Wonderboom 2 has a more expansive soundstage, with a greater sense of width and depth. This is largely due to UE’s tweaks to the speaker’s acoustic design, which include a new passive radiator and improved drivers. The result is a more immersive listening experience, with better separation between instruments and a more detailed high-end response.
Bass Response
One area where the Wonderboom 2 shines is in its bass response. The new speaker produces deeper, more sustained low-end notes, thanks to its improved passive radiator. While the Wonderboom 1 can get a bit boomy in the bass department, the Wonderboom 2’s response is tighter and more controlled.
Volume and Distortion
When it comes to sheer volume, the Wonderboom 2 has a slight edge over its predecessor. It can reach higher maximum volumes without distorting, making it a better choice for larger gatherings or outdoor events. However, it’s worth noting that the Wonderboom 1’s volume controls are slightly more granular, allowing for more precise adjustments.
Features and Functionality
Beyond their design and sound quality, the Wonderboom 1 and Wonderboom 2 differ in several key features.
Bluetooth Range and Connectivity
The Wonderboom 2 boasts a significantly longer Bluetooth range, with up to 100 feet (30 meters) of reliable connectivity. The Wonderboom 1, on the other hand, has a range of around 66 feet (20 meters). Additionally, the Wonderboom 2 supports the latest Bluetooth 5.0 standard, which provides a more stable and efficient connection.
Microphone Quality
The Wonderboom 2’s microphone has also seen significant improvements. It’s now capable of capturing more accurate and clearer vocals, making it a better choice for hands-free phone calls or voice assistants.
Battery Life and Charging
The Wonderboom 2 has a longer battery life, with up to 13 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. The Wonderboom 1, by comparison, lasts around 10 hours. Both speakers feature a convenient micro-USB charging port, but the Wonderboom 2’s charging speed is slightly faster.
Additional Features
The Wonderboom 2 introduces a few new features, including a stereo pairing mode, which allows you to connect two Wonderboom 2 speakers for a wider, more immersive soundstage. There’s also a built-in alarm clock and a more comprehensive app that offers customizable EQ settings and voice assistant integration.
Conclusion
So, what’s the difference between the Wonderboom 1 and Wonderboom 2? In short, the Wonderboom 2 offers a more refined design, improved durability, and enhanced sound quality. Its longer battery life, better microphone, and extended Bluetooth range make it a more reliable and convenient choice for everyday use.
However, the Wonderboom 1 is still an excellent speaker in its own right, offering a more affordable entry point into the world of UE. If you’re on a tight budget or don’t need the latest and greatest features, the Wonderboom 1 remains a solid choice.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you want the best possible sound quality, longest battery life, and most advanced features, the Wonderboom 2 is the clear winner. But if you’re looking for a more affordable, compact, and still-capable speaker, the Wonderboom 1 is definitely worth considering.
What is the main difference between Wonderboom 1 and Wonderboom 2?
The main difference between Wonderboom 1 and Wonderboom 2 lies in their design and features. The Wonderboom 2 has a more rugged and waterproof design, with an IP67 rating that allows it to withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. On the other hand, the Wonderboom 1 has an IPX7 rating, which means it can only withstand being splashed with water.
Additionally, the Wonderboom 2 has a longer battery life, with up to 13 hours of playback time compared to the 10 hours of the Wonderboom 1. It also has a USB-C charging port, whereas the Wonderboom 1 has a micro-USB port. The Wonderboom 2 also has improved 360-degree sound and a new Outdoor mode that boosts the loudness and clarity of the sound.
Is the Wonderboom 2 worth the upgrade from the Wonderboom 1?
If you already own a Wonderboom 1 and are considering upgrading to the Wonderboom 2, it’s worth considering whether the new features are worth the cost. If you’re looking for a more rugged and waterproof design, longer battery life, and improved sound quality, then the Wonderboom 2 may be worth the upgrade.
However, if you’re on a budget or don’t need the additional features, you may want to stick with your Wonderboom 1. The Wonderboom 1 is still a great portable speaker that offers good sound quality and a compact design. It’s also usually cheaper than the Wonderboom 2, making it a more affordable option.
Which Wonderboom is better for outdoor use?
If you’re planning to use your Wonderboom for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, or beach trips, the Wonderboom 2 is the better choice. Its IP67 rating makes it more resistant to water and dust, and its rugged design can withstand rough handling. Additionally, the Outdoor mode on the Wonderboom 2 boosts the loudness and clarity of the sound, making it better suited for outdoor use.
The Wonderboom 1 is still a great option for outdoor use, but it’s not as rugged or waterproof as the Wonderboom 2. It’s better suited for casual outdoor use, such as picnics or backyard gatherings, rather than more extreme activities.
Can I connect multiple Wonderbooms together?
Yes, you can connect multiple Wonderbooms together to create a stereo sound system. Both the Wonderboom 1 and Wonderboom 2 have a feature called “Party Mode” that allows you to pair two Wonderbooms together for a wider soundstage. This feature is great for bigger parties or gatherings where you need more sound coverage.
To use Party Mode, you’ll need to download the Ultimate Ears app and follow the pairing instructions. Once paired, you can control the volume and playback of both speakers from a single device.
Which Wonderboom has better sound quality?
The Wonderboom 2 has slightly better sound quality than the Wonderboom 1, thanks to its improved 360-degree sound design. The Wonderboom 2 has a more balanced sound with clearer highs and deeper bass, making it better suited for music with a strong beat.
That being said, the Wonderboom 1 still has great sound quality, and many users will not notice a significant difference between the two speakers. However, if sound quality is your top priority, the Wonderboom 2 is the better choice.
Can I use my Wonderboom in the shower?
While the Wonderboom 2 is more waterproof than the Wonderboom 1, it’s still not recommended to use either speaker in the shower. The IP67 rating of the Wonderboom 2 means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, but it’s not designed for prolonged exposure to water or high-pressure jets of water.
If you want to use a speaker in the shower, you may want to consider a different option that’s specifically designed for shower use. However, if you do want to use your Wonderboom near water, make sure to rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterwards to prevent any damage.
Is the Wonderboom 2 compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant?
The Wonderboom 2 is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant, but only through a separate device such as an Amazon Echo or Google Home speaker. You cannot use voice commands directly with the Wonderboom 2, but you can use it as a speaker output for your smart assistant.
The Wonderboom 1 does not have any smart assistant compatibility.