We recommended that you take a closer look at the Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker - they said it was a very interesting option. Well, why not, I thought, take a closer look, because the last time I dealt with wireless speakers was two or three years ago, so it was interesting to see what kind of progress there is on this front. And I like all sorts of gadgets from Xiaomi and I try to buy and study them. I ordered it on Ali, and the thing is apparently very popular, because, among other things, there is delivery from warehouses in Russia, Spain and France. The only thing was that I had to figure out which version to order. In addition to the Chinese version, there is also a European version, in English, but, as it was written there, the European version does not support a memory card, but the Chinese version does. Well, to hell with it, I thought - and ordered the Chinese version, because even if the speaker mutters in Chinese (I’m even starting to understand something), but it supports a memory card - this is quite important. I arrived just a couple of days later and started looking closely. Packaging showing the different color options of this speaker. (I chose turquoise.) The speaker itself. By the way, the equipment there is interesting - just a speaker and that’s it. There is not even a USB-microUSB wiring for charging it. A kind of asceticism. No, these wires are like dirt, but still, Margarita Pallna... 
We compare it with a smartphone to assess the scale. 
Two rubber strips are glued to the bottom of the speaker so that the speaker stands firmly on the surface. On the left side there is an audio input for a wired source connection, a microphone (the speaker can work as a headset), a microUSB port for charging the battery, a slot for a microSD memory card. 
On the right side there is a “play/pause” button, also known as power on/off, volume control buttons (they are also the previous/next track when long pressed), and a Bluetooth pairing button. 
There is a color indicator around the power button: when the device is charging, it lights up red, when the speaker is charging, it lights up blue. 
Inside the speaker there are two speakers and a bass radiator (as it says there). 
I paired it with my smartphone and turned on the music. I was impressed, to be honest. The maximum volume is very high (notably higher than any speaker I've ever owned), and the quality is excellent for a speaker of this size. And even at maximum volume there is no wheezing or rattling. Very good and quite detailed highs, dense mids and absolutely amazing bass for such a little thing - the radiator is pumping with might and main! The manufacturer claims that the stereo sound volume here is up to 90 dB. This is enough to “pump up” a small conference room. I recorded a video to give at least some idea of how she plays. The only complaint is that the speaker does not support apt-X. But at the same time, the quality of wireless music playback is quite high. One battery charge, according to the manufacturer, is enough for 8 hours of playback. User experience shows that at average volume the battery actually lasts for 4-5 hours. There is a slot for a memory card, that is, the speaker itself is a media player, so you can play audio tracks directly, without any wireless connection. The speaker only supports MP3, but this is quite enough in this case - the tea is not Hi-End. I recorded audio tracks, checked - yes, everything plays fine, it also understands folders. Tracks can be scrolled through using the buttons on the speaker. In general, it’s a good thing, I liked it. On Ali with delivery from a Russian warehouse it costs
When searching for affordable portable speakers, you will sooner or later come to positive reviews about Xiaomi's small speakers. Well, why not, the company makes some good ones, so you can start working on acoustics. So we decided to test two models from different price categories. Read more about Mi Bluetooth Speaker and Square Box Bluetooth Speaker in the material.
Devices provided by the storeXiaomi.ua
Contents of delivery
In both cases, the speakers are completed with documentation in Chinese, which is understandable to most inhabitants of planet Earth.
Type of packaging and equipment Xiaomi Square Box
The box of the more budget-friendly Square Box Bluetooth Speaker also contains a manual in Ukrainian from the xiaomi.ua store.
Type of packaging and equipment Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker
A pleasant surprise - Mi Bluetooth Speaker is wrapped in a soft case. Strangely, both speakers come without a USB charging cable.
Design
The models are similar in appearance - rectangular body, metal construction. But if the Mi Bluetooth Speaker has aluminum everywhere except the sides, then the Square Box Bluetooth Speaker has a metal edging, and the front and back are made of matte plastic.
Xiaomi Square Box
Of course, the more expensive Mi Bluetooth Speaker looks better, but the second speaker also looks pretty good. Two speakers are hidden under the perforation, at the bottom of which there is a Mi logo.
Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker
Mi Bluetooth Speaker is available in several colors - blue, gold and pink. Square Box Bluetooth Speaker only comes in one - white with silver sides.
Connectivity, functionality
The Square Box Bluetooth Speaker sports a power/pause/pairing button, an indicator, and a Micro USB port on the right side.
Connectors and controls Xiaomi Square Box
The older brother is more serious - on the right side there are power/pause, volume up and down buttons, as well as a pairing button. On the left there is a 3.5 mm mini-jack connector, a microphone, Micro USB and a slot for microSD memory cards.
Connectors and controls Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker
Xiaomi Square Box Bluetooth Speaker is a classic option, without any additional “goodies”. But Mi Bluetooth Speaker can be used as a speakerphone. True, the latter was pasted “for change” and it is impossible to have a normal conversation - the interlocutor’s voice is poorly distinguishable, and yours is transmitted with a lot of noise. Thanks to the memory card slot, you can listen to music directly from microSD. On the Mi Bluetooth Speaker, all notifications, be it switching on or battery charge level status, are voiced in Chinese, and the name of the speaker in the list of paired Bluetooth devices is displayed in hieroglyphs.
Ergonomics, scope of use
Due to their minimal size, weight and oblong shape, the speakers can be carried even in your pants pocket. No one will have any problems with transportation. The models are suitable for hikes, picnics, beaches and other similar events. To be honest, the home mini-system that comes out of the speakers is just so-so. It’s a pity that there is no possibility of combining two speakers, as is implemented in products from JBL and Ultimate Ears.
Sound
Each of the speakers earns their money, but since they are in different price ranges, the requirements for them are different.
Xiaomi Square Box Bluetooth Speaker tries hard to produce clear sound at minimum volume, with pleasant but not dominant bass. As the volume increases, the signal becomes distorted and noticeable “sand” and crackling appear. The maximum decibel level is quite high - it would be better to play quieter, but cleaner.
With Mi Bluetooth Speaker the difference is noticeable at the first listen. No crackling or “sand” at high volumes, pleasant and elastic bass, sufficient detail for such a little thing. In general, it’s quite good - this is truly one of the most “playing” speakers for this kind of money.
Autonomy
Both small boomboxes have a built-in battery: the younger one is 1200 mAh, the older one is 1500 mAh. The autonomy is approximately the same and is about 10 hours when listening to music via Bluetooth at medium volume. The charging time for the speakers is also almost the same - about 2-2.5 hours when using a 2 A network adapter.
Cost, competitors
Xiaomi Square Box Bluetooth Speaker has practically no competitors in its price range (we don’t consider faceless China), there is only a good JBL GO– it is more functional (it has a 3.5 mm mini-jack, a microphone, and a charging cable included), but it holds a charge almost half as much and has one speaker. In terms of sound quality, the creation from JBL is several notches higher.
Mi Bluetooth Speaker has gathered more competitors around it:
All solutions have their pros and cons, but not everyone can boast of a stylish metal body, 10-hour battery life and functionality similar to the Mi Bluetooth Speaker.
Results
Xiaomi feels the market and knows what the buyer needs. The brand’s products meet the optimality criterion (price/quality), which is why many people have fallen in love with devices with the Mi logo in just a couple of years. The speakers in question do not represent anything extraordinary - they lack innovation and advanced developments. But they play well and are well equipped for their price. Xiaomi Square Box Bluetooth Speaker has only one drawback - poor sound at maximum volume. Well, in Mi Bluetooth Speaker I would like to hear notifications in English at least.
Liked the Xiaomi Square Box:
Price quality
Good sound at low volume
Dimensions
Nice design
Did not like:
- Sound quality at high volume
Liked the Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker:
Price quality
Sound
Dimensions
Design, metal body
Functionality: play music from memory cards, wired and wireless connections
Autonomy compared to competitors
Did not like:
— No charging cable included
— Chinese voice acting for notifications
— Microphone “for show”
The editors thank the store Xiaomi.ua for providing columns for review
Among the editors' reproaches one can find, at first glance, a contradictory claim. Some criticize vinyl tables that cost a million, while others are annoyed by multimedia innovations. Ideally, a magazine should focus on a weighted average price range and not look where it shouldn't. How do I see this process when the main system has been assembled a long time ago?
The development of D-class amplifiers and DSP processors predetermined the renaissance of compact audio. In general, I like to scale audio tasks. Why can’t you listen to a Bluetooth speaker after some monstrous DAC? It's interesting to find its own pearl in each form factor. For example, the model reviewed here provided an almost esoteric experience in a twilight forest near a lake. First they played the Tropic of Cancer mixtape, then the Latvian wave of the early 90s, and the evening was summed up by “The Ensemble of Christ the Savior and Mother Earth of Cheese.” Ok, the reader may not give a damn about my musical selection, but would it be right for an outdoor audience to carry any kind of speaker?
Price: 3,270 rubles
Passport details
Output Power: 2x3W (4 ohms, THD<1%)
Bluetooth: 4.0
Microphone: yes
Frequency response (-10 dB): 85 Hz - 20 kHz
Battery capacity/voltage: 1500 mAh/3.8V
Charging time: 2.5 hours
Battery life: 8 hours
USB power: 5V/2A
Operating temperature: 0°C – 45°C
Dimensions: 168x24.5x58 mm
Hello everyone! Review of the second version of the speaker from Xiaomi, called Mi Speaker Square 2. The differences from the first version are minimal - this is an updated version of Bluetooth (now 4.2), the appearance of an AUX input and volume buttons. Anyone interested in another new product from the Chinese brand, please go to cat.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer code: XMYX03YM
- Interfaces: AUX, Bluetooth 4.2, microUSB
- Bluetooth frequency range: 2402-2480 MHz
- Protocols: A2DP, AVRCP, HFP
- Housing material: plastic, aluminum
- Output power: 2 x 2.5 W
- Frequency range: 100 Hz - 18 kHz
- Battery capacity: 1200 mAh
- Operating time: 8-10 hours (40% volume)
- Charging time: 2 hours
- Dimensions: 154.5 x 60 x 25.5 mm
- Weight: 236 g
Appearance
The box is made in the traditional Xiaomi style - snow-white cardboard with high-quality printing. On the front side there is an image of the device.
On the back are technical specifications.
The box opens like a pencil case. The kit includes only the speaker and instructions, even the charging cable was clamped :(
The cardboard is quite thick, so the speaker is unlikely to be damaged along the way.
The instructions are also in Chinese. It's a pity that there is no duplicate in English.
The column is made in the shape of a rectangle. The front part is covered with perforated plastic, under which there are two active speakers and one passive radiator.
To indicate operation, a two-color LED is located under the grid.
Blue color - the column has been successfully paired.
Red - the column is discharged or charging.
Alternate flashing - searching for a Bluetooth device.
On top is a microphone, which is used for conversations in headset mode. The interlocutor hears clearly, but there is a “barrel” effect.
The frame of the device is made of soft aluminum, there is a chamfer along the edges.
There are three buttons at the top: power on/search for device and volume rocker. There is no track switching function. The button travel is soft with a characteristic click.
On the back, which is made of plastic, there is a microUSB port and an AUX input.
There are two silicone feet on the bottom to prevent the speaker from slipping on the table, as well as brief specifications.
Device operation
After synchronization with the device, the column is defined as XMFHZ02. I connected the speaker to a computer and a smartphone, and there were no problems with playback. After 10 minutes of inactivity, the speaker turns off.
Working hours:
- Watching movies at maximum volume: 8 hours,
- Listening to music at maximum volume: 4 hours,
- Listening to music at medium volume: about 7-8 hours.
When the charge level is low, it starts beeping every minute! I don’t like speakers with this type of discharge, it’s very annoying.
Charging schedule.
Sound, what can you say about it? There is bass, the speaker jumps, but there is no volume. Vocals sound very distinct and clear, pleasing to the ear. It's quite suitable for listening to music at home, but not likely on the street.
Battle of Xiaomi Mi Speaker Square 2 with JBL Flip3. Xiaomi plays first, then JBL.
Result:
+Good layout of materials and excellent appearance+The sound is better than the Chinese brothers (my opinion)
+Price (relatively inexpensive)
Soft aluminum
- Lack of kit
- Lack of microSD slot (when hiking you want your phone to be charged)
If you are interested in disassembly, please contact me
What can you not find in the wide range of products of the Chinese company Xiaomi. It seems to have permeated every aspect of electronics. The sound has not been spared either - the portable Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker has become a favorite among many.
Clear sound
In a small aluminum case, Chinese engineers hid two 36 mm emitters with a total power of 6 W. And the “baby” sounded with clear upper and mid frequencies with a pleasant and elastic bass. Moreover, as the volume increases, the sound quality does not deteriorate, allowing you to comfortably listen to your favorite tracks on the street.
Broadcast
Music is streamed either from a mobile gadget connected to the speaker via a wireless connection, or from a microSD memory card, the slot for which is located on the left side of the portable player. To pair with a smartphone, just turn on the Bluetooth module on both devices.
Control
The right side of the speaker is occupied by 4 control keys: a large “Play/Pause” button framed by a light indicator, buttons for volume control and rewinding tracks, as well as a key for voice notifications and disconnecting from the Bluetooth network. Unfortunately, the remaining battery charge and other notifications are announced exclusively in Chinese.
Long autonomy
Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker can work on a single charge of a 1500 mAh battery for about 8 hours(at medium volume). Fully charging the battery takes about 2 hours. To replenish energy reserves, you need to use a cable with a microUSB connector, which for some reason the manufacturer did not provide in the package. But he carefully placed a fabric storage case in the box with the device.
Companion
The model is available in various color variations that can satisfy the tastes of both the fair and strong half of humanity. In addition, in comparison with its brother Xiaomi Mini Square Box, it has much greater functionality. If you can’t imagine your life without music, Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Speaker will take on the role of a faithful companion in playing your favorite tracks in all suitable places (at home, on the street, on a camping trip, etc.).