Jabra Speak2 55 Wireless Bluetooth Speakerphone review portable speaker with noise-cancelling mics

Description

Compact Design and Portability

I’ve used quite a few Bluetooth speakerphones over the years, but the design of the Jabra Speak2 55 really stands out. It’s compact and lightweight, making it ridiculously easy to carry around in its felt pouch. Whether I’m hopping between meeting rooms or setting up in a café, the portability of this wireless speaker is a game-changer. The 3.5-inch dimensions make it unobtrusive on any desk, and its sleek dark grey finish gives it a professional vibe. Even with its small size, the 50mm full-range speakers pack a punch, which I’ll get into later.

Audio Performance and Clarity

The audio quality on this thing is impressive. Wideband audio ensures crystal-clear sound whether I’m in a noisy coworking space or a quiet home office. The 50mm speaker delivers rich, clear sound, making it feel like people are in the room with me. I’ve tested it during both presentations and casual playlists, and it’s equally good for both. What really stood out to me was the full duplex audio. This allowed me and my colleagues to talk and listen simultaneously without awkward cutoffs. It genuinely felt like a natural face-to-face interaction.

Noise-Canceling Microphones

I have to give a shout-out to the four beamforming microphones. These aren’t just fancy marketing terms—they actually work. I tested the speaker in a noisy environment with background chatter, and the noise-canceling technology filtered out the distractions effectively. My voice came through loud and clear on the other end. It’s a relief to not have to shout or repeat yourself because someone can’t hear you over background noise.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery life is always a big deal for me, and the 12-hour runtime on this portable speaker doesn’t disappoint. I’ve used it extensively for back-to-back calls and never had to scramble for a charger. The Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity is reliable, offering a 30-meter wireless range. I could walk around my workspace without worrying about losing the connection. For those who prefer a wired connection, the USB-C cable with a USB-A adapter is a handy addition.

Key Benefits

• Compact and portable design makes it perfect for hybrid work setups.
• Wideband audio ensures clear sound for meetings and music.
• Noise-canceling microphones block out background disturbances.
• 12-hour battery life supports long workdays without interruptions.

Areas of Concern

Every product has a few quirks, and the Jabra Speak2 55 is no exception.

• The touch controls can be overly sensitive. A slight brush might accidentally mute or adjust the volume.
• While certified for Microsoft Teams, there’s a slight learning curve to fully utilize the features with other platforms.
• The audio driver size of 50mm is powerful but may not offer the same depth as larger systems for music enthusiasts.

Competing Products

When comparing the Jabra Speak2 55 to other portable speakerphones, like the Anker PowerConf S500 or the Poly Sync 20, a few differences become clear. The Jabra model excels in its noise-canceling microphones and full duplex audio, features that some competitors don’t implement as seamlessly. However, the Poly Sync 20 offers slightly better sound depth for music, and the Anker PowerConf S500 has a more rugged build. That said, the Jabra’s portability and Microsoft Teams certification make it a standout choice for work-focused users.

Value for Money

The price-to-quality ratio on this speakerphone leans heavily in its favor. With features like Voice Level Normalization, wideband audio, and water resistance, it provides exceptional value for anyone needing a reliable, professional-grade speakerphone. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its durability and performance justify the investment.

From its noise-canceling tech to its 12-hour battery life, the Jabra Speak2 55 delivers a well-rounded experience for remote workers, frequent travelers, and anyone in need of a portable speakerphone. While there are a few nitpicks, the overall performance makes it a solid pick.

Additional information