When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, Ultimate Ears has established itself as a leader in combining durability with impressive sound. Today, we're comparing the new MEGABOOM 4 ($149.99) and the ultra-portable MINIROLL ($58.95), two speakers that showcase different approaches to mobile audio.
The portable speaker market has evolved significantly, with users now expecting more than just basic audio playback. Modern speakers need to balance several key factors:
The MEGABOOM 4 employs a sophisticated four-driver system: two 50mm full-range drivers and two passive radiators. This configuration creates what's known as "true 360-degree sound," meaning you'll hear consistent audio quality regardless of where you're standing around the speaker. The passive radiators - which are essentially unpowered speakers that move in response to air pressure from the powered drivers - help deliver deeper bass without requiring additional power.
In testing, the MEGABOOM 4's sound profile shows significant improvements over its predecessor, particularly in bass response and clarity at higher volumes. The speaker can reach 85dBC in an anechoic chamber (a special room designed to completely absorb sound reflections), which translates to impressive real-world volume.
The MINIROLL takes a different approach, using a single 45.6mm active driver paired with a 37.75mm x 65mm passive radiator. While this might seem less impressive on paper, Ultimate Ears has done remarkable work in tuning this system for its size. The speaker manages to produce 86dBC of sound - surprisingly close to its larger sibling - though with less depth and richness in the low frequencies.
The weight difference here is significant - the MINIROLL is genuinely pocket-sized, while the MEGABOOM 4 is more of a "throw in your bag" speaker. Both feature Ultimate Ears' signature fabric covering, which not only looks good but helps with durability.
Both speakers carry an IP67 rating, which means they're:
The MEGABOOM 4 represents several technological advances since its predecessor:
The MINIROLL brings its own innovations:
Battery performance shows a clear distinction:
MEGABOOM 4:
MINIROLL:
The MEGABOOM 4 works with Ultimate Ears' smartphone app, offering:
The MINIROLL takes a more straightforward approach:
For backyard parties or beach days, the MEGABOOM 4 excels with its higher volume and better bass response. The MINIROLL works better for personal listening or small group settings.
In home settings, both speakers perform well, but differently:
The MINIROLL's ultra-portable design makes it ideal for travel, while the MEGABOOM 4's superior sound quality comes at the cost of added bulk and weight.
The MEGABOOM 4 at $149.99 represents a premium option with corresponding features and performance. The MINIROLL at $58.95 offers impressive value for those prioritizing portability and basic functionality.
Choose the MEGABOOM 4 if:
Go for the MINIROLL if:
Both speakers excel in their intended use cases. The MEGABOOM 4 is the clear choice for those seeking premium sound and features, while the MINIROLL offers impressive performance in an ultra-portable package at a more accessible price point.
The decision ultimately comes down to your primary use case: if you need room-filling sound and don't mind the size, the MEGABOOM 4 is worth the premium. If portability and value are your priorities, the MINIROLL delivers impressive performance for its size and price.
Both represent solid choices in their respective categories, and both uphold Ultimate Ears' reputation for durable, high-quality portable audio devices.
| Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 4 | Ultimate Ears MINIROLL |
|---|---|
| Price - Base investment consideration | |
| $149.99 (premium features justify cost) | $58.95 (excellent value for basic needs) |
| Sound Output - Maximum volume capability | |
| 85dBC (anechoic), 91dBC (ground plane) | 86dBC (normal), 87dBC (outdoor) |
| Audio Configuration - Impacts sound quality and bass response | |
| Two 50mm full-range drivers + two passive radiators | One 45.6mm driver + one 37.75mm x 65mm passive radiator |
| Battery Life - Critical for extended use | |
| 20 hours (ideal for multi-day use) | 12 hours (sufficient for daily use) |
| Size - Affects portability | |
| 225mm height, 87mm diameter (bag-sized) | 122.67mm x 105mm x 48.15mm (pocket-sized) |
| Weight - Important for carrying comfort | |
| 935g (substantial but manageable) | 279g (ultra-portable) |
| Bluetooth Range - Determines usage flexibility | |
| 45 meters (exceptional range) | 40 meters (very good range) |
| Durability Rating - Weather and drop resistance | |
| IP67 (waterproof, dustproof, drop-proof) | IP67 (identical protection) |
| Smart Features - Added functionality | |
| App control, EQ presets, multi-speaker pairing with various UE models | Basic controls, PartyUp with other MINIROLLs only |
| Charging Port - Convenience factor | |
| USB-C (modern standard) | USB-C (modern standard) |
| Environmental Impact - Sustainability | |
| 54% post-consumer recycled plastic | 40% post-consumer recycled plastic |
The MEGABOOM 4 ($149.99) is better for sound quality and features, while the MINIROLL ($58.95) is better for portability and value. Choose MEGABOOM 4 for superior audio and MINIROLL for ultra-portable use.
The MEGABOOM 4 costs $149.99, while the MINIROLL is priced at $58.95, making it $91.04 less expensive.
The MEGABOOM 4 has notably better sound quality with four drivers compared to MINIROLL's single driver system. It provides fuller bass and higher volume capability.
The MEGABOOM 4 offers 20 hours of battery life, while the MINIROLL provides 12 hours.
Yes, both the MEGABOOM 4 and MINIROLL have IP67 ratings, making them equally waterproof and dustproof.
The MINIROLL is significantly more portable at 279g compared to the MEGABOOM 4 at 935g, and has a much smaller form factor.
No, while both support multi-speaker pairing, the MEGABOOM 4 can only pair with other Ultimate Ears speakers (BOOM, MEGABOOM, EPICBOOM, HYPERBOOM), and the MINIROLL can only pair with other MINIROLLs.
The MEGABOOM 4 has slightly better range at 45 meters compared to the MINIROLL at 40 meters.
No, only the MEGABOOM 4 offers app control with EQ settings. The MINIROLL has basic controls only.
Both are weather-resistant, but the MEGABOOM 4 is better for outdoor gatherings due to louder volume and stronger bass, while the MINIROLL is better for personal outdoor listening.
Yes, both the MEGABOOM 4 and MINIROLL use modern USB-C charging ports.
The MEGABOOM 4 is better suited for parties with its louder volume, stronger bass, and ability to pair with multiple speaker types. The MINIROLL is better for small gatherings or personal 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: bestbuy.com - ultimateears.com - ultimateears.com - trustedreviews.com - ultimateears.com - ultimateears.com - staples.com - rtings.com - ultimateears.com - colamco.com - whatsthebest.co.uk - colamco.com - techradar.com - businesswire.com - bestbuy.com - stuff.tv - ultimateears.com - target.com - youtube.com - ultimateears.com - ultimateears.com
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