Altec Lansing offers competent portable audio at accessible prices, but they're best for budget-conscious buyers who prioritise durability over sound quality. Their current range focuses on rugged, waterproof speakers and affordable wireless earbuds — practical rather than premium.
Why Altec Lansing?
Altec Lansing has manufactured audio equipment since 1927, originally as a loudspeaker innovator for cinema. Today, they've repositioned themselves in the consumer portable audio market, emphasising durability and water resistance over audiophile credentials. They specialise in IP-rated (waterproof) Bluetooth speakers and budget wireless earbuds, targeting outdoor enthusiasts and price-sensitive buyers rather than audiophiles. Their "Everything Proof" marketing refers to their standard IP67 waterproof rating across most portable speakers.
Top Picks
Altec Lansing Nanobuds ANC 2.0 — £59.00
Best for active commuters who want noise cancellation without breaking the bank. These wireless earbuds pack active noise cancellation (ANC), which is rare at this price point. Battery life reaches 7 hours per charge with ANC enabled. The main trade-off: sound profile is bright rather than balanced, and ANC performance won't match premium competitors like Apple AirPods Pro or Sony WF-C700N.
Altec Lansing Hydramini (IMW1000-TRD) — £18.49
Best for casual outdoor use and small spaces. This 2-inch Bluetooth speaker weighs just 285g, making it genuinely pocket-sized. IP67 rating means full waterproofing (submerge for 30 minutes in up to 1 metre of water). Battery delivers 10 hours on a charge. Sound quality is tinny and bass-light — it's survival audio, not enjoyment audio.
Altec Lansing Hydramicro (IMW1020-RYB) — £16.99
Best value for minimalists. At 3.2 inches and 200g, this is Altec Lansing's smallest offering. Same IP67 waterproofing and 10-hour battery as the Hydramini, but slightly more compact. Audio quality trails the Hydramini slightly due to the smaller driver — use it for poolside podcasts, not kitchen cooking music.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Nanobuds ANC 2.0 | £59.00 | Active commuters | Active noise cancellation at budget price | | Hydramini (IMW1000) | £18.49 | Outdoor adventures | 10-hour battery, pocket-sized (285g) | | Hydramicro (IMW1020) | £16.99 | Budget minimalists | Smallest model (200g), IP67 waterproof |
What to Look For
- Battery longevity: Altec Lansing's portable speakers consistently deliver 10+ hours per charge, which outperforms many budget rivals. Check product specs for your use case — the Nanobuds drop to 7 hours with ANC on.
- IP rating: IP67 is the standard here, meaning full dust protection and 30-minute water submersion to 1 metre depth. This suits pool or beach use but won't survive extended saltwater exposure.
- Driver size matters: The Hydramini's 2-inch driver outperforms the Hydramicro's 1.5-inch driver noticeably. If you care about audio quality at all, spend the extra £1.50.
- Portability weight: Both speakers weigh under 300g — genuinely backpack-friendly. The Hydramicro at 200g is lighter but compromises sound fidelity.
The Bottom Line
Altec Lansing is worth buying if you prioritise ruggedness, battery life, and price over audio fidelity. The Altec Lansing Hydramini at £18.49 is the best value — it's nearly indestructible, packs a 10-hour battery, and costs less than a pub lunch. The Nanobuds ANC 2.0 (£59.00) justify their price only if active noise cancellation matters to your commute; otherwise, save £40 and buy the Hydramini twice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Altec Lansing good value for money?
Yes, if your priorities are durability and battery life. The Hydramini and Hydramicro both deliver 10-hour batteries and IP67 waterproofing for under £19, which is genuinely hard to beat. Sound quality is a deliberate trade-off — you're buying reliability, not audiophile performance.
Can you use Altec Lansing speakers underwater?
Partially. All three products carry IP67 ratings, meaning they survive full submersion in freshwater up to 1 metre for 30 minutes. Don't leave them underwater longer, and avoid saltwater exposure, which corrodes components over time. The waterproofing works, but it's a feature, not a primary selling point.
How does Altec Lansing compare to JBL or Ultimate Ears at similar prices?
Altec Lansing prioritises ruggedness; JBL (e.g., Flip series) and UE Boom focus slightly more on audio tuning. At £18.49, the Hydramini undercuts JBL Flip equivalents but sounds thinner. For pure sound quality in this price range, JBL Flip 6 (£79.99) wins — Altec Lansing's strength is durability per pound, not audio reproduction.
Do the Nanobuds ANC 2.0 actually cancel noise effectively?
Moderatedly. At £59, the ANC works fine for steady background noise (traffic, fans, office hum) and suppresses around 20-25dB of ambient sound — respectable for the price. However, they won't match Sony WF-C700N (£199) or Apple AirPods Pro (£249) at isolating sharp sounds or phone calls. Best for commutes; not suitable if you need premium isolation for focus work.
