Anker SoundCore Mini Review

I picked up an Anker SoundCore Mini and decided to write a short review.

Introduction

Anker is best known for mobile batteries, but it also makes portable speakers. What stands out most is the price. You can usually get one in the JPY 2,000 range. For a Bluetooth speaker that is also easy to carry around, that price is very appealing.

Anker Soundcore Mini (Compact Bluetooth Speaker) [15 Hours Playtime / Built-in Microphone / microSD Card & FM Radio Support]

Amazonで見る

Features

The SoundCore Mini supports the following functions:

• Bluetooth audio
• Bluetooth hands-free calling
• AUX input (3.5 mm stereo mini plug)
• FM radio
  • The included micro USB cable works as the antenna.
• microSD playback
  • Supports MP3 files up to 32 GB

You switch between these modes with the Function button.

It can play music from FM radio and microSD, but because there is no display, it clearly feels designed mainly for smartphone control over Bluetooth. It also does not support Bluetooth multipoint connection.

Built-in Battery

The SoundCore Mini has a built-in battery, so you can use it even where there is no power outlet. It takes about two to three hours to fully charge and is rated for up to 15 hours of playback. That is enough for all-day use.

Build Quality

The enclosure seems to be made of steel with a matte finish. It feels more premium than the price suggests. Since a speaker enclosure generally sounds better when it does not resonate too much, I think Anker did a good job here for such an affordable product.

Sound Quality

The most important part, of course, is the sound. For its size, it performs well. Voices come through clearly, and the bass is respectable for such a small speaker. If you place it near a wall, the reflected sound helps the bass a little more. It seems especially well suited to a small room.

Good for Outdoors or in the Car

Because it is this compact, it is also very easy to carry around. It is handy in a car that does not have Bluetooth built in.

Not Great with Apple Devices?

The SoundCore Mini is inexpensive and good overall, but I did run into one annoying issue. When I connect it over Bluetooth, the volume sometimes comes back louder than expected. If you use it at night, that sudden jump in volume can be pretty startling. It seems to reset the volume whenever the power is turned off and on again, which is inconvenient.

Final Thoughts

That volume behavior is the main drawback, but it is compact, does not take up much space, and offers excellent value for the price. If you want an affordable speaker, it is easy to recommend.