The portable speaker market has undergone dramatic changes since the early Bluetooth days of tinny, unreliable audio. Today's offerings range from budget-friendly options to premium speakers that rival traditional home audio systems. This comparison looks at two very different approaches: the new Morel BIGGIE ($299) and the popular Anker Soundcore Mini ($59.99).
The BIGGIE employs a two-way system (meaning separate drivers handle different frequency ranges) with a 1-inch soft dome tweeter and 4-inch woofer. This separation allows each driver to focus on what it does best - the tweeter handles the detailed high frequencies while the woofer manages mid-range and bass. The result is clearer, more accurate sound reproduction across the entire frequency range.
In contrast, the Mini uses a single 5W driver paired with a passive radiator. While this design is cost-effective and space-efficient, it requires more compromises in sound quality. The single driver must handle all frequencies, which can lead to muddied sound at higher volumes.
With 60 watts of Class D amplification (a modern, efficient amplifier design), the BIGGIE can fill larger spaces while maintaining clarity. Its separate amplifiers - 45W for the woofer and 15W for the tweeter - ensure each driver receives appropriate power for its frequency range.
The Mini's 5W output is sufficient for personal listening or small rooms, but it can't match the BIGGIE's room-filling capability. However, its design is remarkably efficient for its size, producing surprisingly robust sound from a tiny package.
The BIGGIE's Bluetooth 5.3 implementation (released in 2024) offers significant advantages over the Mini's older 4.0 version, including:
Both speakers take different approaches to extra functionality:
BIGGIE:
Mini:
The BIGGIE truly shines in home settings. Its powerful output and balanced sound signature make it suitable as a primary speaker in smaller rooms or as part of a larger audio setup. The TWS feature allows stereo pairing for even better sound staging.
The Mini serves better as a supplementary speaker - perfect for bathrooms, bedrooms, or desk use where convenience trumps absolute sound quality.
Both speakers handle outdoor scenarios differently:
BIGGIE:
Mini:
The BIGGIE offers 20 hours of playback and includes fast charging - 20 minutes provides 4 hours of use. Its USB-C port can also charge other devices, adding utility beyond audio.
The Mini delivers a respectable 15 hours but lacks fast charging. However, its smaller size means shorter charging times despite the older Micro USB port.
At $299, the BIGGIE represents a significant investment. However, its premium build quality, advanced features, and superior sound quality make it competitive with traditional bookshelf speakers while adding portability.
The Mini's $59.99 price point delivers impressive value for casual listeners. While it can't match the BIGGIE's audio quality, it offers versatility and convenience at a fraction of the cost.
Consider these key factors when choosing between the BIGGIE and Mini:
The portable speaker market continues to evolve. The BIGGIE represents the current state of premium portable audio, while the Mini shows how much quality can be packed into a budget-friendly device. Future improvements will likely focus on better battery technology, enhanced wireless capabilities, and even more refined sound quality.
Remember that the best speaker is the one that fits your specific needs and use cases. Whether that's the premium sound and features of the BIGGIE or the versatile portability of the Mini, both represent excellent choices in their respective categories.
| Morel BIGGIE ($299) | Anker Soundcore Mini ($59.99) |
|---|---|
| Audio Output - Determines room-filling capability and sound quality | |
| 60W total (45W woofer + 15W tweeter) | 5W single driver |
| Driver Configuration - Impacts clarity and frequency separation | |
| Two-way: 1" tweeter + 4" woofer | Single driver with passive radiator |
| Frequency Response - Range of sound reproduction | |
| 40-20,000 Hz (full range audio) | Not specified (limited bass response) |
| Battery Life - Important for portable use | |
| 20 hours, fast charging (4hrs in 20min) | 15 hours, standard charging |
| Bluetooth Version - Affects range and stability | |
| 5.3 with 165ft range | 4.0 with 66ft range |
| Size & Weight - Critical for portability | |
| 7" x 7" x 4.5", 5.7 lbs (less portable) | 6.9" x 6.9" x 6.9", 0.44 lbs (highly portable) |
| Additional Features - Adds versatility | |
| TWS pairing, USB-C power bank, future Auracast | FM radio, micro SD slot, aux-in, hands-free calls |
| Build Quality - Impacts durability and sound | |
| Premium MDF cabinet, metal grille | Plastic housing, rubber base |
| Maximum Volume - Important for outdoor use | |
| 95dB @ 1m (suitable for outdoor parties) | ~85dB @ 1m (personal listening) |
| Connectivity Options - Flexibility in use | |
| Bluetooth 5.3, 3.5mm aux, USB-C | Bluetooth 4.0, aux, micro SD, FM radio |
The Morel BIGGIE ($299) delivers significantly better sound quality with its two-way driver system and 60W amplification. The Anker Soundcore Mini ($59.99) provides decent sound for its size but can't match the BIGGIE's clarity and bass response.
The Soundcore Mini is far more portable at just 0.44 lbs and pocket-sized dimensions. The BIGGIE at 5.7 lbs is portable between rooms but not ideal for carrying around all day.
The BIGGIE offers 20 hours of playback with fast charging capability, while the Mini provides 15 hours of continuous play. Both are sufficient for most use cases.
The Morel BIGGIE is better for outdoor gatherings with its 95dB output and powerful bass. The Soundcore Mini is better for personal outdoor listening but lacks volume for group settings.
The BIGGIE supports True Wireless Stereo (TWS) for connecting two speakers in stereo. The Mini doesn't offer this feature.
The Mini includes FM radio, micro SD support, and hands-free calling. The BIGGIE offers USB-C power bank functionality and future Auracast support.
For basic portable audio needs, the Soundcore Mini offers excellent value at $59.99. The BIGGIE at $299 is worth it if you need premium sound quality and features.
The Soundcore Mini has a built-in microphone for calls. The BIGGIE doesn't support hands-free calling.
The Morel BIGGIE produces superior bass with its dedicated 4" woofer. The Mini uses a passive radiator for bass enhancement but can't match the BIGGIE's low-end performance.
Neither speaker has an official water resistance rating. Both should be protected from water exposure.
The Soundcore Mini is ideal for travel due to its compact size and lightweight design. The BIGGIE is too large and heavy for convenient travel use.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: theabsolutesound.com - ecoustics.com - crutchfield.com - techradar.com - crutchfield.com - tpdhifi.com - audioxpress.com - nlp.stanford.edu - eisa.eu - muzix.eu - outeraudio.com - soundcore.com - youtube.com - unwiredforsound.com - community.anker.com - youtube.com - soundcore.com - community.anker.com
Privacy Policy
Terms and Conditions - Affiliate Policy
Home Security
© Copyright 2008-2026.
11816 Inwood Rd #1211, Dallas, TX 75244