Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM vs EVERBOOM: Which Premium Portable Speaker Is Right For You?

When Ultimate Ears launched the $349.99 EPICBOOM in September 2023, it marked their return to premium portable audio. The newer $249.99 EVERBOOM, released in July 2024, aimed to bring similar features to a more affordable price point. Let's dive into how these speakers compare and which might be right for your needs.

Understanding Modern Portable Speakers

Today's premium Bluetooth speakers need to balance sound quality, durability, and portability. They're expected to deliver room-filling audio while surviving pool parties and camping trips. Both EPICBOOM and EVERBOOM target this space, but with different approaches.

The key factors that separate great portable speakers from good ones are:

• Sound quality and volume capability
• Battery life and charging speed
• Durability and water resistance
• Portability and ease of use
• Extra features and connectivity options

Sound Quality Deep Dive

The EPICBOOM brings serious audio muscle with its dual 45mm drivers and large 120mm woofer. This three-driver setup allows for dedicated bass handling, resulting in noticeably deeper low frequencies and clearer mids. At maximum volume (94 dBC), it maintains composure while filling large spaces.

In comparison, the EVERBOOM uses two 56.6mm full-range drivers paired with passive radiators. While this setup produces impressive sound for its size, it can't match the EPICBOOM's bass response or maximum volume (90 dBC). However, the EVERBOOM's sound signature remains well-balanced, with particularly clear vocals.

Both speakers feature 360-degree sound projection, meaning they sound good from any angle. This is particularly useful for outdoor gatherings where people are spread around the speaker. The EPICBOOM's larger size gives it an advantage in sound dispersion, creating a wider soundstage.

Size and Portability Trade-offs

The EPICBOOM's superior sound comes with added bulk. At 1.98kg (4.4 lbs), it's substantial enough that you'll notice it in a backpack. Its oval design measures 241mm tall and 162mm wide, making it less convenient for travel.

The EVERBOOM takes a more portable approach, weighing just 0.96kg (2.1 lbs) with a traditional cylindrical shape that's easier to pack. Its included carabiner clip adds genuine portability value for hikers or beach-goers.

Battery Life and Charging

Surprisingly, the smaller EVERBOOM offers better battery life:

• EVERBOOM: 20 hours playback
• EPICBOOM: 17 hours playback

Both charge via USB-C, taking about 3 hours for a full charge. The EPICBOOM's shorter battery life is understandable given its more powerful drivers and higher maximum volume.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Both speakers feature IP67 water and dust resistance, meaning they can:

• Survive submersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes
• Keep out dust and sand
• Float if dropped in water

This level of protection makes both speakers excellent choices for outdoor use, though the EVERBOOM's lighter weight makes it more practical for adventure activities.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Both speakers support Ultimate Ears' PartyUp feature, allowing connection with other compatible UE speakers for expanded sound. They also offer:

• Customizable EQ through the UE app
• Outdoor boost mode for open spaces
• Quick pair functionality

The EPICBOOM adds NFC pairing, making connection slightly more convenient with compatible devices.

Use Case Scenarios

Home Entertainment

The EPICBOOM shines as a home speaker, particularly for:

• Movie watching (thanks to its stronger bass)
• Living room music playback
• Indoor parties
• Patio entertainment

Outdoor Adventure

The EVERBOOM excels in active scenarios:

• Hiking and camping
• Beach days
• Travel
• Small gatherings

Value Proposition

The EPICBOOM's $100 premium gets you:

• Noticeably better bass response
• Higher maximum volume
• Wider soundstage
• NFC pairing

The EVERBOOM offers:

• Better portability
• Longer battery life
• Similar durability
• 80% of the sound quality at 70% of the price

How to Decide

Choose the EPICBOOM if:

• Sound quality is your top priority
• You'll use it primarily at home
• You need maximum volume for large spaces
• Bass response matters to you
• Budget isn't your main concern

Choose the EVERBOOM if:

• Portability is crucial
• You're often on the move
• You want better battery life
• You need something lighter
• Value is important to you

Technical Improvements Since Release

Both speakers show Ultimate Ears' evolution in portable audio. The EPICBOOM introduced a new oval design for improved bass response and used recycled materials in construction. The EVERBOOM refined the traditional cylindrical format with improved drivers and more efficient power management for better battery life.

Final Thoughts

These speakers target different segments of the portable audio market. The EPICBOOM is best thought of as a premium home speaker that can travel when needed, while the EVERBOOM is a true portable speaker that doesn't compromise too much on sound quality.

For most users, the EVERBOOM's balance of features, portability, and price makes it the more practical choice. However, if sound quality is your primary concern and you don't mind the extra weight and cost, the EPICBOOM's superior audio performance makes it worth the premium.

Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices

Ultimate Ears EVERBOOM Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices