NOTABRICK Bluetooth Speaker Review: Worth the Price Tag?

Finding a Bluetooth speaker that combines great sound, durability, and affordability feels like searching for a unicorn these days. You want something that won’t break the bank but still delivers crisp audio for your pool parties, camping trips, or lazy Sunday mornings at home.

Enter the NOTABRICK Bluetooth Speaker, a portable powerhouse that’s been making waves on Amazon with hundreds of positive reviews. But does it really live up to the hype, or is it just another budget speaker that disappoints?

We’ll explore the features, sound quality, battery life, and real-world performance to help you decide if this is the right speaker for your needs.

In a Nutshell:

• Impressive 15W stereo sound delivers clear highs, accurate mids, and surprisingly deep bass that punches above its price point, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor use.
• IPX6 to IPX7 waterproof rating means you can use it worry-free by the pool, in the shower, at the beach, or during unexpected rain without damaging the internal components.
• 15+ hours of playtime on a single charge ensures your music keeps going all day long, whether you’re hosting a party or camping in the wilderness.
• Bluetooth 5.0 technology provides stable and fast connectivity up to 100 feet away, eliminating annoying dropouts and connection issues that plague cheaper speakers.
• Dual pairing feature allows you to connect two speakers together for true wireless stereo sound, creating an immersive audio experience that fills any space.
• Budget-friendly pricing under $30 makes it an incredible value proposition compared to premium brands that cost three to four times more while delivering similar performance.

Unboxing the NOTABRICK Bluetooth Speaker

The first impression matters, and NOTABRICK doesn’t disappoint when you open the box. The speaker arrives securely packaged with everything you need to get started right away.

Inside, you’ll find the speaker itself wrapped in protective foam, a USB charging cable, a 3.5mm AUX cable for wired connections, and a user manual that’s actually readable and helpful.

The build quality immediately catches your attention. The speaker features a rubberized exterior that feels durable and grippy in your hands. It weighs just enough to feel substantial without being too heavy to carry around.

The design is clean and modern, with a cylindrical shape that looks good in any setting. You get multiple color options including classic black, vibrant red, cool blue, and eye-catching green, so you can match your personal style.

What really stands out is the attention to detail. The buttons are clearly labeled and have a satisfying click when pressed. The charging port has a secure rubber flap to protect against water ingress.

Sound Quality That Surprises

Let’s talk about what matters most: how does it actually sound? The NOTABRICK packs 15 watts of power into its compact frame, and the results are genuinely impressive.

The audio profile is well-balanced with clear vocals, crisp highs, and a bass response that actually has some punch to it. This isn’t the tinny, weak sound you might expect from a budget speaker.

The stereo sound creates a wider soundstage than you’d anticipate from a single speaker. Music feels more spacious and engaging. When listening to rock music, the guitars come through clean and the drums have satisfying impact.

Pop tracks sound vibrant and energetic. Even acoustic performances maintain their intimacy and detail. The speaker handles different genres with confidence.

One standout feature is the Active Extra Bass technology. You can actually feel the bass without it becoming muddy or overwhelming the mids and highs. The bass doesn’t distort even at higher volumes, which is a common problem with cheaper speakers.

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Waterproof Design for Any Adventure

The IPX6 and IPX7 waterproof ratings mean this speaker can handle serious water exposure. IPX6 protection guards against powerful water jets from any direction, while IPX7 means the speaker can survive being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This dual rating gives you serious peace of mind.

You can confidently use this speaker in the shower, by the poolside, at the beach, or even on a kayaking trip. Water won’t damage the internal components. The rubberized exterior repels moisture effectively.

The covered charging port prevents water from entering when sealed properly. Just remember to close that rubber flap tightly before exposing the speaker to water.

Real-world testing shows the waterproofing holds up well. Users report using it in rain, splashing water directly on it, and even accidentally dropping it in pools without any issues. The sound quality doesn’t degrade after water exposure.

However, it’s worth noting that while the speaker is waterproof, it’s not designed to be permanently underwater. It’s built for accidental submersion and water splashes, not for use as a pool speaker sitting underwater.

Battery Life That Keeps Going

Battery performance is crucial for portable speakers, and the NOTABRICK delivers admirably. The built-in 2500mAh rechargeable battery provides 15 to 20 hours of continuous playback depending on your volume level. At moderate volume around 60-70%, you can easily get through an entire day without needing to recharge.

The charging process is straightforward using the included USB cable. A full charge takes approximately 3 to 4 hours using a standard 5V/1A adapter.

The speaker includes battery level indicators so you always know how much juice remains. A voice prompt also alerts you when the battery runs low, giving you time to charge before it dies completely.

What makes the battery life particularly impressive is how consistent it remains over time. Users report that even after months of regular use, the battery maintains its capacity well.

You won’t experience the rapid degradation that plagues some budget electronics. The speaker also includes battery-saving features that automatically power it down after a period of inactivity.

Bluetooth 5.0 Connectivity

The Bluetooth 5.0 chip inside the NOTABRICK provides reliable and fast wireless connectivity. Pairing the speaker with your phone, tablet, or laptop takes just seconds.

The process is intuitive: turn on the speaker, enable Bluetooth on your device, and select “NOTABRICK” from the list of available devices. The connection establishes quickly and remains stable.

The Bluetooth range is genuinely impressive. You can move up to 100 feet away from your device in open spaces without experiencing dropouts or stuttering.

In typical home environments with walls and obstacles, you can still move between rooms while maintaining a solid connection. This freedom means you can leave your phone charging in one room while enjoying music throughout your house.

The speaker remembers previously paired devices and automatically reconnects when turned on. This eliminates the annoying process of manually pairing every single time you want to use it.

Dual Pairing for Stereo Sound

One of the coolest features is the True Wireless Stereo (TWS) dual pairing capability. By purchasing two NOTABRICK speakers, you can wirelessly connect them together to create a genuine stereo sound system.

One speaker handles the left channel while the other produces the right channel, creating a much wider and more immersive soundstage.

Setting up dual pairing is surprisingly simple. You pair both speakers with each other first, then connect them to your device.

The process takes about 30 seconds and works flawlessly once configured. The stereo separation creates a significantly more engaging listening experience, especially for music with complex arrangements.

This feature transforms the speaker from a good portable option into a legitimate home audio system. Position the two speakers on opposite sides of your room and you get a proper stereo image that rivals more expensive setups.

Portability and Design

Measuring approximately 4.5 inches high and 3.5 inches in diameter, the NOTABRICK strikes an excellent balance between portability and sound quality.

It’s small enough to slip into a backpack or beach bag without taking up excessive space, yet large enough to house drivers that produce quality audio. The weight feels just right – substantial enough to stay put on a table but light enough to carry comfortably.

The cylindrical design is both practical and attractive. The 360-degree sound projection means you don’t need to worry about positioning the speaker in a specific direction.

Everyone around the speaker gets a similar listening experience regardless of where they’re sitting or standing. This omnidirectional design is perfect for outdoor gatherings.

The rubberized exterior provides excellent grip and protects against accidental drops and bumps. The speaker can withstand the inevitable knocks and tumbles that happen during travel or outdoor use.

Users report dropping it from reasonable heights onto various surfaces without damage. The build quality inspires confidence that this speaker will survive years of regular use.

Extra Features Worth Mentioning

Beyond the core functionality, the NOTABRICK includes several bonus features that enhance its value. The built-in microphone allows you to take hands-free phone calls directly through the speaker.

The microphone quality is decent for conference calls or quick conversations, though it’s not studio-grade. You can answer or reject calls using the control buttons without touching your phone.

The TF card slot accepts microSD cards loaded with music files. This feature is incredibly useful if you want to listen to music without draining your phone’s battery or in situations where you don’t have your phone nearby.

The speaker supports WAV, FLAC, APE, and MP3 formats, giving you flexibility with your music library. Simply load your favorite tracks onto a microSD card and you have a completely standalone music player.

The voice assistant compatibility lets you access Siri or Google Assistant directly through the speaker. A short press of the designated button activates your phone’s voice assistant, allowing you to make requests, set reminders, or control smart home devices using voice commands.

Real User Experiences

Looking at feedback from actual buyers reveals consistent patterns. The 4.6 star rating on Amazon from hundreds of verified purchasers speaks volumes about overall satisfaction.

Users consistently praise the sound quality, noting it exceeds expectations for the price point. Many compare it favorably to branded speakers costing two or three times more.

The waterproof performance receives frequent mentions in reviews. Buyers report using it in showers, pools, beaches, and during outdoor activities without any water damage.

The confidence to use electronics around water without worry is a significant benefit that users appreciate. Several reviewers mention accidentally dropping it in water and having it continue working perfectly.

Battery life also earns consistent praise. Users confirm the 15+ hour playtime claims and note that the battery maintains its performance over months of use. The long runtime between charges is particularly appreciated by those who use it for work, outdoor activities, or extended listening sessions.

Value for Money Analysis

At its typical price point under $30, the NOTABRICK represents exceptional value. You’re getting features and performance that traditionally required spending $50 to $100 or more. The combination of good sound quality, genuine waterproofing, long battery life, and useful features like dual pairing creates a compelling package.

When you compare it to premium brands like JBL, Sony, or Bose, you’re obviously not getting the same level of refinement or brand prestige.

However, for many practical purposes, the performance gap is much smaller than the price difference. The NOTABRICK handles most listening situations competently and includes all the essential features most people actually use.

The durability and build quality mean this isn’t a disposable throwaway speaker. Users report using theirs for years without issues, which means the low purchase price stretches even further when calculated over the speaker’s lifespan.

Replacement speakers from premium brands can cost $100 or more, so even if you bought two or three NOTABRICKs over several years, you’d still spend less money.

For buyers on a budget, students, or anyone who doesn’t want to invest heavily in audio equipment, this speaker hits a sweet spot. It provides enough quality to satisfy most listeners while keeping the financial commitment minimal.

Who Should Buy This Speaker?

The NOTABRICK Bluetooth Speaker is ideal for several types of buyers. Budget-conscious music lovers who want decent sound without spending a fortune will find it perfect. You get quality audio that satisfies casual listening without the premium price tag. It’s an excellent choice if audio quality matters but you have financial constraints.

Outdoor enthusiasts and travelers benefit tremendously from the waterproof design and long battery life. Whether you’re camping, hiking, beach-going, or simply enjoying your backyard, this speaker handles outdoor conditions with ease. The portability and durability make it a reliable companion for adventures.

Students and young professionals living in apartments or dorms will appreciate the compact size and versatile features. It’s loud enough for small gatherings but doesn’t take up valuable space. The price point makes it accessible even on a tight student budget.

People who want a secondary speaker for specific situations like shower use, pool parties, or workshop background music should definitely consider it. You might have a premium home audio system but need something cheaper for situations where water damage or theft is a concern. This fits that role perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to fully charge the NOTABRICK Bluetooth Speaker?

The speaker takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to fully charge from empty using a standard USB charger. You can use any 5V/1A or 5V/2A USB adapter. The speaker includes LED indicators that show the charging status and turn off when charging is complete. You can also use it while charging if needed.

Can I use the NOTABRICK speaker while swimming or underwater?

While the speaker has IPX7 waterproof rating meaning it can survive being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, it’s not designed for use while actively underwater. It will survive accidental submersion or splashes but shouldn’t be used as an underwater speaker. The sound quality also doesn’t project well underwater.

Does the speaker support voice assistants like Alexa?

The speaker doesn’t have Alexa built in, but it does support accessing your phone’s voice assistant like Siri or Google Assistant. You can activate your phone’s assistant by pressing the designated button on the speaker and make voice requests through the speaker’s microphone. The assistant responses play through the speaker.

How far away can I be from my phone and still have a connection?

The Bluetooth 5.0 technology provides a range of up to 100 feet in open spaces without obstacles. In typical home environments with walls and furniture, you can expect reliable connectivity within 30 to 50 feet. The actual range depends on your specific environment and potential sources of interference.

Can I connect more than two speakers together?

The TWS dual pairing feature currently supports connecting two NOTABRICK speakers together for stereo sound. You cannot daisy-chain multiple pairs or connect more than two units simultaneously. If you need a larger sound system, you would need to use a different speaker system that supports multi-unit pairing.

Is the speaker compatible with all Bluetooth devices?

Yes, the speaker works with any device that has Bluetooth capability including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers. It’s compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and other operating systems. The Bluetooth 5.0 technology is backward compatible with older Bluetooth versions as well.

What should I do if the speaker won’t pair with my device?

First, make sure the speaker is in pairing mode indicated by a flashing blue light. Turn off Bluetooth on your device and turn it back on. Delete any previous NOTABRICK pairings from your device’s Bluetooth list and try pairing fresh. Make sure the speaker isn’t already connected to another device. If problems persist, try resetting the speaker according to the manual.

Does the waterproof rating decrease over time?

The waterproof seals and materials are designed to maintain their protective properties throughout the speaker’s lifespan with normal use. However, you should always ensure the charging port cover is properly closed before water exposure. Avoid exposing the speaker to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures that might degrade the waterproof seals. Regular inspection of the rubber seals helps maintain protection.