When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, few brands have managed to capture the essence of sound quality and durability as Bose has. Among their impressive lineup, the Bose SoundLink Mini and its successor, the Bose SoundLink Mini 2, have garnered significant attention for their compact size and impressive audio capabilities. But what sets these two models apart, and which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between the Bose SoundLink Mini and the Bose SoundLink Mini 2, exploring their design, features, and performance.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, both the Bose SoundLink Mini and the Bose SoundLink Mini 2 appear to be identical twins. They share the same compact, rectangular design that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice some subtle differences.
The original SoundLink Mini features a sturdy aluminum casing that provides a premium feel and excellent durability. The speaker is wrapped in a durable silicone rubber that protects it from scratches and minor drops. Weighing in at 1.5 pounds, the SoundLink Mini is lightweight and easy to carry around.
The SoundLink Mini 2, on the other hand, boasts a slightly revised design. While it retains the same aluminum casing, the speaker now features a more rounded edge and a redesigned grille. The new design not only looks sleeker but also provides improved durability and resistance to scratches. The SoundLink Mini 2 weighs in at 1.5 pounds, just like its predecessor.
Color Options
Both speakers are available in a range of colors, including Carbon, Pearl, and Orange. However, the SoundLink Mini 2 introduces two new color options: Energy Blue and Deep Red. If you’re looking for a speaker that matches your personal style, the SoundLink Mini 2 offers more options to choose from.
Audio Performance
When it comes to audio performance, both the SoundLink Mini and the SoundLink Mini 2 deliver impressive sound quality. However, there are some key differences to note.
The original SoundLink Mini features a single, full-range driver that produces clear and balanced sound. The speaker is capable of producing deep bass and crisp highs, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres.
The SoundLink Mini 2, on the other hand, features a revised driver design that provides improved sound quality. The speaker boasts deeper bass and clearer highs, making it ideal for music lovers who crave more detailed sound. Additionally, the SoundLink Mini 2 features a new digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm that enhances sound quality and reduces distortion.
Volume and Loudness
In terms of volume, both speakers are capable of producing impressive sound levels. However, the SoundLink Mini 2 is slightly louder than its predecessor. According to Bose, the SoundLink Mini 2 can produce sound levels of up to 85 decibels, while the original SoundLink Mini tops out at 80 decibels.
Connectivity and Features
When it comes to connectivity, both speakers offer Bluetooth 4.0 technology, allowing you to pair them with your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. However, the SoundLink Mini 2 introduces some new features that enhance connectivity and usability.
The SoundLink Mini 2 features a new voice prompt system that guides you through the pairing process. The speaker also includes a built-in microphone, allowing you to take hands-free calls and access Siri or Google Assistant.
In addition, the SoundLink Mini 2 introduces a new feature called “Stereo Mode.” This feature allows you to pair two SoundLink Mini 2 speakers together, creating a stereo sound system that provides a more immersive listening experience.
Battery Life
In terms of battery life, both speakers offer impressive performance. The original SoundLink Mini provides up to 7 hours of battery life, while the SoundLink Mini 2 offers up to 10 hours of playback time.
Additional Features
Both speakers come with a range of additional features that enhance usability and convenience. These include:
- A rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- A USB charging cable
- A wall charger
- A carrying case
However, the SoundLink Mini 2 introduces a new feature called “Bose Connect.” This app allows you to customize your listening experience, adjust settings, and access additional features like Stereo Mode.
Bose Connect App
The Bose Connect app is available for both iOS and Android devices and provides a range of features, including:
- Customizable EQ settings
- Stereo Mode pairing
- Music streaming
- Firmware updates
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between the Bose SoundLink Mini and the Bose SoundLink Mini 2, the decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact, durable speaker that delivers impressive sound quality, the original SoundLink Mini is still a great option.
However, if you’re looking for a speaker with improved sound quality, enhanced connectivity features, and a more immersive listening experience, the SoundLink Mini 2 is the better choice. With its revised driver design, new DSP algorithm, and Stereo Mode feature, the SoundLink Mini 2 offers a more detailed and engaging sound experience.
Ultimately, both speakers are excellent options for anyone looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers impressive sound quality and durability.
What are the main differences between the Bose SoundLink Mini and the Bose SoundLink Mini 2?
The main differences between the Bose SoundLink Mini and the Bose SoundLink Mini 2 lie in their design, battery life, and connectivity options. The SoundLink Mini 2 has a more rugged design and is also slightly heavier than its predecessor. Additionally, the SoundLink Mini 2 has a longer battery life, with up to 10 hours of playback compared to the SoundLink Mini’s 7 hours.
In terms of connectivity, the SoundLink Mini 2 has improved Bluetooth connectivity and also features a 3.5mm auxiliary input for wired connections. The SoundLink Mini 2 also has voice prompts, which make it easier to use and navigate. Overall, the SoundLink Mini 2 offers several significant upgrades over the original SoundLink Mini.
How does the sound quality of the Bose SoundLink Mini compare to the SoundLink Mini 2?
The sound quality of the Bose SoundLink Mini and the SoundLink Mini 2 is similar, with both speakers producing clear and balanced sound. However, the SoundLink Mini 2 has a slightly more detailed and nuanced sound, with better bass response. This is likely due to the improved speaker design and the use of more advanced audio processing algorithms.
In general, both speakers are capable of producing high-quality sound, but the SoundLink Mini 2 has a slight edge in terms of overall sound quality. However, the difference is not dramatic, and both speakers are well-suited for casual listening and outdoor use.
Is the Bose SoundLink Mini 2 worth the upgrade from the original SoundLink Mini?
Whether or not the Bose SoundLink Mini 2 is worth the upgrade from the original SoundLink Mini depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more rugged and durable speaker with longer battery life and improved connectivity options, the SoundLink Mini 2 may be a good choice.
On the other hand, if you’re happy with the sound quality and features of the original SoundLink Mini, you may not need to upgrade. Additionally, if you’re on a budget, the original SoundLink Mini may be a more affordable option.
Can I use the Bose SoundLink Mini and SoundLink Mini 2 with my smartphone or tablet?
Yes, both the Bose SoundLink Mini and the SoundLink Mini 2 can be used with your smartphone or tablet. Both speakers feature Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream music and other audio content from your device. The SoundLink Mini 2 also has a 3.5mm auxiliary input, which allows you to connect your device using a wired connection.
In addition to Bluetooth and auxiliary connectivity, the SoundLink Mini 2 also features NFC pairing, which makes it easy to connect your device with a single tap. This feature is not available on the original SoundLink Mini.
How long does it take to charge the Bose SoundLink Mini and SoundLink Mini 2?
The charging time for the Bose SoundLink Mini and the SoundLink Mini 2 is similar, with both speakers taking around 3 hours to fully charge. However, the SoundLink Mini 2 has a more efficient charging system, which allows you to get up to 2 hours of playback with just a 30-minute charge.
In general, both speakers have relatively fast charging times, making it easy to top up the battery when you’re on the go. However, the SoundLink Mini 2’s more efficient charging system gives it a slight edge in this regard.
Are the Bose SoundLink Mini and SoundLink Mini 2 water-resistant?
The Bose SoundLink Mini and the SoundLink Mini 2 are both designed to be durable and resistant to the elements, but they are not fully waterproof. The SoundLink Mini 2 has a more rugged design and is slightly more resistant to water and dust than the original SoundLink Mini.
However, neither speaker is designed to be submerged in water, and you should avoid exposing them to excessive moisture or humidity. If you plan to use your speaker in wet or humid conditions, you may want to consider a different model that is specifically designed to be waterproof.
Can I pair multiple Bose SoundLink Mini 2 speakers together?
Yes, you can pair multiple Bose SoundLink Mini 2 speakers together using the Bose Connect app. This feature, known as “Stereo Mode,” allows you to pair two SoundLink Mini 2 speakers together to create a stereo pair. This can enhance the overall sound quality and provide a more immersive listening experience.
To pair multiple SoundLink Mini 2 speakers together, you’ll need to download the Bose Connect app and follow the instructions for setting up Stereo Mode. This feature is not available on the original SoundLink Mini.