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What comes to mind when you hear the name Ikea?
It certainly isnt tech products.
My ears perked up when hearing about the brands latest $15 entry.
Ive tested many speakers in this price range, with results ranging from adequate to awful.
Scroll down to see what makes this bargain speaker such a shockingly good audio deal.
Ive mainly used the Vappeby in the bathroom during showers or my toddlers bath time.
My wife has occasionally gotten in on the sonic action as well.
The speaker is used 1.5 hours daily between the three of us.
One month later and theres still about 40% battery life left.
High volume slightly decreases playtime by about 1 hour.
Speakers this cheap tend to settle for cost-effective charging solutions, such as the outdated micro-USB connector.
Ikea went with the universal USB-C connector for faster charging.
After all, were talking about a furniture manufacturer here.
Sound isnt exactly a specialty.
The Vappeby wont win over audiophiles, nor can it compete with some of thebest cheap Bluetooth speakers.
However, it isnt some bloated disaster that damages your hearing.
What projects out of the multi-hole grille is notably impressive.
Theres some solid bass response and acceptable midrange to enjoy.
Most selections from Dr. DresThe Chronicalbum experience some minor distortion.
This is one of the few exceptions where the speaker produces pleasant highs.
Instruments like cymbals and violins often lack vibrance on most recordings.
I dont fault the speaker for its unbalanced frequency range.
You shouldnt either when factoring in price.
Built for outdoor play
IP67 waterproofing transforms the Vappeby into a hot tub and poolside favorite.
Road warriors get even more use out of the speaker.
Theres an attachable lanyard to accommodate bike messengers and hikers requiring a soundtrack for their daily adventures.
Cost-cutting compromises
Obviously, Ikea had to make some concessions to cover the Vappebys low price.
Features are practically non-existent on this speaker.
Neither USB-C cable nor USB power adapter comes bundled with the purchase.
Multipoint technology to pair the speaker with two devices simultaneously is MIA.
You would be fortunate to find any $15 wireless speaker that checks one or two boxes.
This speaker checks multiple boxes in a convincing fashion.
Battery life is astounding.
Sound is satisfying enough for the price.
The design is serviceable across several areas, from compactness to portability to sturdiness.
Even extras like the lanyard and USB-C charging are nifty bonuses.
Are there better picks around this price range?
That all depends on your budget.
