Which iLIVE Bluetooth Speaker Should You Buy? A Breakdown of Their Top 3 Models
iLIVE's current speaker lineup spans budget-friendly single units to dual-speaker systems. The Wireless Bluetooth Portable Speaker at £14.99 is the bare-bones choice for casual listening, while the ISB2139B Dual USB at £55.69 and ISB2133B Magnetic Set at £39.99 deliver better sound and portability for users who want more punch.
Why iLIVE?
iLIVE specialises in affordable personal audio and portable speakers designed for everyday use—not audiophile gear, but reliable kit that won't break the bank. They focus on accessibility: simple Bluetooth connectivity, lightweight designs, and price points that make wireless audio a genuine option for budget shoppers. Their strength is durability and no-fuss operation; their wireless speakers are built for commutes, gardens, and casual parties rather than critical listening.
Top Picks
Wireless Bluetooth Portable Speaker — £14.99
Best for absolute budget buyers who prioritise ultra-portability. At under £15, this is the entry point to iLIVE's range—perfect if you want background music in your kitchen or need a throwaway speaker for outdoor use. Don't expect bass depth or room-filling volume, but for the price, it's a genuine no-nonsense option.
iLIVE ISB2133B Magnetic + Portable Wireless Speakers, Set of 2 — £39.99
Best for small rooms and buyers wanting stereo sound without spending big. This two-speaker set delivers stereo separation and magnetic connection options, making it flexible for different setups. At £40 for a pair, it's roughly £20 per speaker and offers better sound staging than a single unit at half the price of the dual USB model.
iLIVE ISB2139B Portable Dual USB Wireless Speakers, Black — £55.69
Best for users who want the loudest option and dual USB charging capability. The flagship of iLIVE's range, this speaker includes dual USB ports for charging your phone or tablet while playing music—a rare feature at this price point. It's noticeably more powerful than the budget model and includes dedicated controls for users who want more than basic Bluetooth.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |-------|-------|----------|------------------| | Wireless Bluetooth Portable | £14.99 | Bare-bones casual listening | Ultra-affordable entry point | | ISB2133B Magnetic Set of 2 | £39.99 | Stereo sound in small rooms | Magnetic connection + 2 speakers | | ISB2139B Dual USB | £55.69 | Maximum volume + phone charging | Dual USB ports + most powerful |
What to Look For
- Portability weight: The budget model and ISB2133B are designed to be pocketable; the ISB2139B is heavier (exact weight varies by model) but still portable. Check if you'll be carrying it daily or leaving it stationary.
- Power output: The ISB2139B delivers noticeably higher volume (typically 6-8W vs. 3-5W for single budget units). If you're using it outdoors or in larger rooms, the dual USB model is the meaningful step up.
- Connectivity options: All three use standard Bluetooth 4.0 or 5.0. The ISB2139B adds USB charging capability—useful if you're near a power outlet and want to top up your phone simultaneously.
- Battery life: Single portable speakers typically run 6-10 hours per charge. Dual-speaker sets like the ISB2133B may have shorter individual battery life due to smaller cells per unit.
The Bottom Line
For most people, the ISB2133B Magnetic Set at £39.99 offers the best balance of sound quality, flexibility, and value—you get stereo separation and two speakers for less than the solo ISB2139B. If you need maximum volume or USB phone charging, step up to the ISB2139B at £55.69. The £14.99 budget model is genuinely worth considering only if cost is the absolute deciding factor and you accept mono sound and limited volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iLIVE good value for money?
Yes—iLIVE speakers are priced for casual users, not audiophiles. You won't get studio-quality sound or premium build materials, but for under £60, the dual-speaker sets and USB-equipped models deliver solid everyday performance. The magnetic set at £39.99 is particularly good value if you want stereo sound.
How long do iLIVE Bluetooth speakers last on battery?
Most iLIVE portables run 6-10 hours per charge depending on volume level and model. The exact figure varies; check the product specification sheet for your specific model. USB-rechargeable models typically take 2-3 hours to fully charge.
Can I connect multiple iLIVE speakers together for surround sound?
The ISB2133B Magnetic Set is designed as a pair and connects magnetically for stereo sound. Whether individual iLIVE units can be daisy-chained or paired via Bluetooth depends on the specific model—check the manual, as not all iLIVE speakers support multi-speaker linking.
What's the difference between the ISB2133B and ISB2139B?
The ISB2133B comes as a set of 2 smaller speakers with magnetic connection, ideal for stereo in compact spaces. The ISB2139B is a single, more powerful speaker with dual USB ports for charging devices. The ISB2139B is louder; the ISB2133B is more flexible for split placement.
