Altec Lansing offers decent value in portable audio if you prioritise durability and affordability over audiophile sound. Their current range spans waterproof Bluetooth speakers (£16.99–£18.49) and wireless earbuds (£47.49), all positioned for casual listeners and outdoor use rather than serious music fans.
Why Altec Lansing?
Altec Lansing has been making audio equipment since 1927, originally as a cinema sound pioneer. Today they focus on consumer portable speakers and earbuds designed for everyday robustness — particularly their "Everything Proof" waterproof range. They're not a premium brand; they're the practical choice for people who want Bluetooth audio that won't break the bank or die in the rain.
Their competitive advantage is price-per-durability: waterproof-rated portable speakers under £20 are rare from mainstream brands. They prioritise water resistance and battery life over hi-fi credentials, which suits garden parties, beach trips, and commutes better than critical listening.
Top Picks
Altec Lansing True Evo + Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, Black — £47.49
Best for people who want proper wireless earbuds without touching premium prices. These are true wireless (not tethered), so they suit commuters and gym users. No specific driver size or frequency response is published, but the price point suggests they're mid-range consumer earbuds — likely decent for podcasts and casual music, less impressive for bass-heavy genres.
Altec Lansing Hydramini Everything Proof Waterproof Portable Speaker — £18.49
Best for poolside or garden use where durability matters more than sound quality. The 2-inch driver and waterproof rating (IP-spec unclear from product info, but "Everything Proof" suggests splash/water resistance) make this ideal for casual outdoor listening. Battery life specifics aren't listed, but compact Bluetooth speakers in this price range typically offer 6–10 hours.
Altec Lansing Hydramicro Everything Proof Waterproof Portable Speaker — £16.99
Best for minimal spend on a rugged speaker. The 3.2-inch size sits between ultra-portable and desktop, and the lower price versus Hydramini makes it the entry point. Ideal for bedside, small workspace, or casual outdoor use where you're not expecting concert-quality sound.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | True Evo + Earbuds | £47.49 | Commuters, gym-goers | True wireless with no tether | | Hydramini Speaker | £18.49 | Poolside, gardens | 2-inch driver, waterproof rating | | Hydramicro Speaker | £16.99 | Budget-conscious outdoor use | Cheapest entry point, 3.2-inch size |
What to Look For
- Waterproof rating: Altec Lansing's "Everything Proof" branding suggests water resistance, but check the actual IP rating (e.g. IP67 = dust/water proof to 1m for 30 mins). Cheaper speakers often claim splash-proof rather than submersion-proof — check product labels.
- Driver size and wattage: Larger drivers (typically 2–3 inches in this range) produce louder, bassier sound. Wattage isn't listed here, but 3–5W is standard for compact Bluetooth speakers at this price.
- Battery life: Portable speakers under £20 typically manage 6–10 hours per charge. Verify exact specs before buying if marathon listening matters.
- Bluetooth range and codec: Standard Bluetooth 5.0 offers 30–50 metres in open space. No mention of aptX or LDAC here, so assume basic SBC codec — fine for casual use, not audiophile-grade.
The Bottom Line
Altec Lansing is worth considering if you need waterproof outdoor audio on a tight budget — the Hydramicro at £16.99 is the cheapest entry point, whilst the True Evo + Earbuds at £47.49 suit anyone wanting true wireless without spending £100+. Don't expect premium sound quality; expect durability and convenience at prices that won't sting if you lose or damage them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Altec Lansing good value for money?
Yes, if you prioritise affordability and waterproofing. Speakers under £20 with water resistance are rare from established brands. However, you sacrifice audio fidelity — premium brands at £50–100 will sound noticeably better. Altec Lansing suits casual listeners, not audiophiles.
How long do Altec Lansing speakers last on battery?
Specific runtime isn't published for these models, but comparable compact Bluetooth speakers typically last 6–10 hours per charge. Check the product manual or retailer specs for exact figures before purchase if all-day use matters to you.
Are the True Evo earbuds worth £47.49?
They're competitively priced for true wireless earbuds. At this price point, you're getting functional audio for work calls, podcasts, and casual music without paying premium brand tax. They're unlikely to match sound quality of earbuds at £80+, but they're solid for everyday use.
What's the difference between the Hydramini and Hydramicro speakers?
The Hydramini has a larger 2-inch driver versus the Hydramicro's 3.2-inch size (which likely refers to overall dimensions rather than driver), and costs £1.50 more. The Hydramini is more portable; the Hydramicro offers slightly better value. Both are waterproof and Bluetooth-enabled — choose based on space and budget.
