Compare LG xboom Bounce Core by will.i.am Portable Speaker vs Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Speaker 3rd Gen

Review evidence says the A1 does not support AirPlay, so Apple users still rely on Bluetooth or wired USB-C rather than Wi-Fi/AirPlay streaming.

Multiple reviews cite the dual 30W Class D amplification or 60W total output, supporting unusually strong output for the compact chassis.

ThinQ app experience is a major split point. Several reviewers criticize account/permission demands, pairing friction, and unreliable or confusing extra features, while at least one describes the newer ThinQ approach as improved versus older LG apps.

The B&O app is repeatedly described as helpful, responsive, and one of the best of its kind, though one reviewer could not get built-in radio working.

Audio format support centers on SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, and USB-C wired audio rather than Wi-Fi-based formats.

Backwards compatibility is a strength for stereo pairing because the third-generation speaker can pair with a second-generation A1.

Battery life is widely praised and frequently cited at up to 30 hours under favorable conditions. Multiple reviews note meaningful reductions when lighting and bass/AI features are used heavily.

Battery life is consistently positive, with most third-generation reviews citing 24 hours and several testers finding that figure believable or conservative.

Codec support is described as limited, with coverage pointing to AAC and SBC rather than broader high-quality codec options. This can matter for listeners sensitive to compression artifacts.

Bluetooth codec support is strong for the class thanks to AAC and aptX Adaptive alongside basic SBC support.

Standard Bluetooth playback is often described as stable and painless, but at least one source reports a notable bug around audio after phone calls. Overall stability seems good, with edge-case issues noted.

Connection stability is generally praised, with reviewers reporting no dropouts or solid pairing, though one garden-range test eventually cut out at distance.

Range evidence is moderate, with one review citing about 10 meters outdoors and another suggesting real-world limits near the end of a garden.

Construction is one of the most consistent strengths, with reviewers praising premium aluminum, polymer, finish quality, and overall craftsmanship.

Charging time is repeatedly described as about three hours for a full charge, which is competitive given the large claimed runtime.

Charging time is functional but not fast; several reviews cite roughly three hours and describe it as long or leisurely.

Overall presentation is one of the most divisive areas. Some call it immersive and vibrant, while others find it shallow, empty, or muddled, especially when AI modes or bass-forward tuning dominate.

The A1 is repeatedly described as cohesive, unified, controlled, and spacious rather than scattered or disjointed.

Physical buttons are generally praised as responsive, tactile, clicky, and easier to use.

Design impressions range from sleek and modern-boombox to rugged and utilitarian. Strap integration and the light strip are frequently praised, while some criticisms include wobbly feet, hard-to-see buttons, or a less refined look indoors.

Design and aesthetics are a standout consensus strength, with reviewers repeatedly emphasizing the premium, stylish, minimalist look.

Detail performance is inconsistent: some find it separates layers well at the right volume, while others describe loss of nuance and a blended, compressed presentation. Codec limitations and tuning choices are repeatedly implied as contributors.

Detail retrieval is strong across reviews, especially through the midrange, vocals, and small instrumental textures.

High-volume performance is mixed: some reviewers find it holds together well, while others report harshness or fuzzing/strain when pushed near max volume. Multiple sources imply a sweet spot below maximum output.

Distortion control is mostly strong at higher volumes, though one review notes distortion or strain on demanding bass-heavy tracks.

Ruggedness is a highlight: multiple sources reference military-standard testing alongside strong build protections. It is commonly portrayed as a speaker you can use outdoors without babying.

Durability is mixed: IP protection and prior-generation bump resistance help, but several reviewers warn the aluminum can scuff or may not survive rough drops like rugged JBL rivals.

Dust resistance is consistently described as part of its IP67 rating, positioning it as a solid choice for beach, camping, and general outdoor exposure.

Dust resistance is strongly supported by repeated IP67 references and explicit dustproof or dust-resistant descriptions.

It has strong output headroom for parties, but several reviews imply the best quality sits below maximum volume. Pushing too hard can trade refinement for loudness.

Dynamic performance is capable for the size but not class-leading; some reviews praise dynamism while others say rivals offer larger dynamic swings.

EQ options are a clear strength: multiple presets plus a custom six-band EQ are repeatedly mentioned. AI Sound is frequently described as hit-or-miss, with some finding it adds depth and others finding it inconsistent or degrading clarity.

EQ customization is a clear app strength, with preset modes and a visual sound control repeatedly described as useful and approachable.

Everyday usability is strong because reviewers find the speaker simple to operate, portable, and easy to live with in travel, desk, shower, and small-room use.

Tonal balance is polarizing. Some praise strong bass that does not overwhelm and call mids/treble clear, while others hear bass-forward tuning with compressed mids/highs and an empty or dull presentation.

Frequency balance is generally warm, rich, and controlled rather than strictly neutral, with impressive bass for size and some caveats around bass depth or treble impact.

No summary yet.

Google-related support appears through Google Fast Pair, making Android pairing easier alongside Microsoft Swift Pair and Apple-focused support.

The strap is a signature feature that many like for carrying or hanging, but multiple reviews also flag it as potentially flimsy or prone to deformation over time. Practical, but not universally trusted as long-term rugged hardware.

The strap is usually praised as elegant or useful for carrying, though one review notes there is no carrying case and another notes leather may not suit every buyer.

Inter-speaker connectivity is a key feature via Party Link/Auracast concepts, enabling stereo or group playback with compatible devices. Some limitations are noted around how features are accessed and managed through the app.

Inter-speaker connectivity is strong because multiple reviews confirm stereo pairing, including pairing across second- and third-generation A1 units.

The LED light strip and patterns are a major part of the product identity, with options ranging from subtle mood lighting to party-style effects. AI lighting is praised by some and dismissed by others as inconsistent or underwhelming.

Across reviews, it gets very loud and is repeatedly positioned as an outdoor/party-capable speaker that can fill a room or backyard. Several note the sound comes alive best at moderate-to-higher volumes.

Maximum volume is good for the size and small spaces but not ideal for big outdoor parties or competing with larger JBL-style speakers.

Low-volume listening can sound flat or lacking treble presence according to at least one detailed evaluation. Multiple sources suggest it benefits from being turned up to reach its best balance.

Microphone support is well covered, with reviews describing built-in mics, mute controls, FarField technology, and speakerphone use.

It supports multi-speaker modes (Party Link/Auracast), and most coverage treats pairing as a key capability. A recurring caveat is that some grouping behaviors and mode exits can be app-dependent.

Multi-speaker pairing is a strength in the included reviews, especially because the app supports stereo setup and cross-generation pairing works.

Multipoint support is explicitly noted, making it easier to switch between two connected devices. No major downsides are highlighted beyond the broader Bluetooth feature limitations.

Multipoint connectivity is consistently supported, with multiple reviews describing two-device pairing and one YouTube reviewer calling it flawless.

Omnidirectional sound is mixed: some reviews call it 360-degree or all-directional, while others say it is not truly 360-degree and depends on positioning.

No summary yet.

On-device controls are well implemented, with power, pairing, volume, playback, and mic controls placed around the speaker body.

Reverse charging is called out as a useful extra for outdoor use, letting the speaker top up a phone in a pinch. Reviewers imply it is convenient but will reduce total playback time.

Price/value is the most repeated caveat: reviewers like the product but frequently call it expensive or weaker value than JBL alternatives.

Privacy concerns are raised around ThinQ requiring an account and requesting personal data and permissions (including location). This is framed as disproportionate for a Bluetooth speaker by at least one reviewer.

Privacy evidence is limited but positive in one review because the removal of built-in Alexa means the speaker is not always listening for Amazon voice commands.

Basic Bluetooth setup is generally described as easy, but the app-driven setup and device-adding workflow can be time-consuming and frustrating depending on the reviewer.

Setup is generally simple, helped by Fast Pair, Swift Pair, quick Bluetooth discovery, and straightforward operation.

Smart assistant integration is weak for the third generation because several reviews say Alexa has been dropped or is not built in.

Smart extras include AI lighting, AI sound, and space-based calibration plus the programmable heart button. The concept is widely discussed, but reliability and usefulness vary sharply by reviewer and depend heavily on ThinQ.

Smart features are mixed: the app adds streaming, radio, EQ, and settings, but reviewers note no Auracast, no Wi-Fi, and no Alexa on the third-generation model.

Speakerphone performance is mixed. Some report clear calls and strong noise handling, while at least one detailed review finds the mic overly processed with noticeable artifacts.

Speakerphone quality is a useful strength, with several reviews saying calls are clear or successful and one caller rating it highly.

Lighting is used for functional feedback as well as aesthetics, including indicating Bluetooth status/connection modes in addition to decorative patterns.

Status indicators are functional but mixed, with LEDs present for status and charging while one review wished the indicator were larger.

It delivers some stereo width (often described as subtle), but the stage can feel narrow or crowded compared with class leaders. Several reviewers still prefer it to mono-style portables for separation.

Stereo imaging and separation are generally good for a compact Bluetooth speaker, with reviewers praising organized soundstage and instrument separation, though scale is limited.

Sustainability is a standout feature because reviews repeatedly cite Cradle to Cradle certification, modularity, repairability, and replaceable battery support.

USB-C is the standard charging method and is consistently highlighted as the primary port. It is also tied to reverse charging in some coverage.

USB-C charging is well supported and also doubles as a wired audio/data path in several reviews.

Value for money is mixed: some reviewers say the premium is justified by build and sound, while others say cheaper JBL or other rivals are better buys.

Voice assistant responsiveness is only supported in the older included A1 review, where Alexa setup is described as working equally well once configured.

Playback vocal clarity varies by reviewer and volume: some report clear, central vocals, while others describe muddiness and difficulty picking out lyrics in denser mixes.

Voice clarity is a recurring strength, with reviewers praising vocal intelligibility, natural vocals, and clear speech reproduction.

It is repeatedly described as IP67 water resistant, suitable for rain, splashes, and rough outdoor use. Reviewers frame this as a core strength for poolside and backyard listening.

Water resistance is strongly supported by repeated IP67 descriptions and sink, beach, pool, shower, and shallow-submersion references.

Portability is debated: some call it manageable for car, patio, and moving around home, while others find it too heavy/bulky for backpacks or true grab-and-go use.

Weight convenience is good but not perfect; reviewers find it easy to bag or carry, while noting it is not the lightest option at its size.

Wi-Fi streaming reliability scores low because reviews repeatedly say there is no Wi-Fi on board, so Wi-Fi streaming is not available to evaluate.

Wired input options are minimal. Reviews consistently describe USB-C as the only physical connection and note there is no 3.5mm aux input for legacy devices.

Wired input is a strength on the third-generation model because USB-C can handle wired audio as well as charging.