I tested a living room full of cheap Ikea speakers against Sonos and Bose

Ikea Kallsup Bluetooth Speaker: Affordable Fun

The Ikea Kallsup portable Bluetooth speaker comes at a surprising price of just $10. It's designed as a simple, 2.75-inch plastic cube with a single speaker driver. Available in pink, white, and yellow green, the Kallsup features two top buttons and a USB-C charging port, making it as basic as Bluetooth speakers get.

Features and Usability

The Kallsup lacks smart functionality but allows up to 100 speakers to be linked together for a larger sound. Pairing is straightforward and takes about 10 seconds; one button handles both power and Bluetooth pairing, while the second controls playback and multi-speaker connection. However, each time you want to use multiple devices, you'll need to go through the pairing process again, as the speakers don't remember connections after powering off.

Sound Quality and Performance

Despite the budget price, the Kallsup performs better than expected. It delivers clear midrange audio suitable for podcasts, audiobooks, and background music. There is limited bass, and some distortion can occur at high volumes, but it's still superior to most laptop speakers. Using multiple Kallsup speakers together increases the room-filling sound, but they remain mono and can't be arranged as a stereo pair.

Kallsup vs Premium Speakers

Compared to premium Bluetooth speakers like the $269 Bose SoundLink Plus, $179 Sonos Roam 2, and $189 Amazon Echo Studio, the Kallsup can't match their full-range sound, volume, or extensive features. The more expensive options are also water and dust resistant, while the Kallsup is not rated for durability. Still, the ability to buy 20 Kallsups for the price of a single high-end model offers playful possibilities for boosting sound around a space.

Value for Money

Kallsup speakers come with their quirks, such as the need to repeatedly pair and charge when using many at once, and the lack of advanced options. Yet their low price and cheerful appearance make them an attractive option for casual listening, especially in smaller spaces or for kids. They're a fun, colorful addition to any room that easily justifies their modest price tag.

For more details, check the original article on The Verge.