Wireless speakers / Compare

Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker vs JBL PartyBox 520

A

Product A: Bose

SoundLink Max Portable Speaker

47 of 96 known

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B

Product B: JBL

PartyBox 520

60 of 96 known

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All 96 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ABose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker

BJBL PartyBox 520

General

5 of 8 differ

Series

SoundLink1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

PartyBox1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026The sheet title is PARTYBOX 520, a model in JBL's PartyBox range.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

4423684Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026Regulatory information, page 4: model number 442368.

JBLPARTYBOX520AM5Retailer pageabt.com/JBL-PartyBox-520-Portable-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-JBLPARTYBOX520AM/p/218822.htmlRead 15 October 2026US model JBLPARTYBOX520AM. The European model is JBLPARTYBOX520EU and it has no USB drive playback, so it is not merged into this row.

GTIN / EAN

Not available

0500364086155Retailer pageabt.com/JBL-PartyBox-520-Portable-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-JBLPARTYBOX520AM/p/218822.htmlRead 15 October 2026UPC 050036408615 for the Black JBLPARTYBOX520AM.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

2 May 20242Press releasebose.com/pressroom/bose-soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026

6 January 20254Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026CES 2025 release dated 6 January 2025.

Status

Available1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Available5Retailer pageabt.com/JBL-PartyBox-520-Portable-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-JBLPARTYBOX520AM/p/218822.htmlRead 15 October 2026Listed for sale at $879.95 on 2026-10-15.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$3992Press releasebose.com/pressroom/bose-soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026US launch MSRP $399 before tax.

$879.954Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026The release table lists $879.95 for the PartyBox 520, while its text says retailing from $299 to $799. SoundGuys quoted $799 in January and an MSRP of $879.95 in its July 2025 review. $879.95 is stored.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

US5Retailer pageabt.com/JBL-PartyBox-520-Portable-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-JBLPARTYBOX520AM/p/218822.htmlRead 15 October 2026US retailer listing of the AM model.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black, Blue Dusk, Citrus Yellow3Maker product pagesupport.bose.com/s/article/soundlink-max-specificationsRead 8 October 2026

Black5Retailer pageabt.com/JBL-PartyBox-520-Portable-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-JBLPARTYBOX520AM/p/218822.htmlRead 15 October 2026

Speaker typeiHome covers speakers made to stay in one place, including smart speakers. A speaker with Wi-Fi or a voice assistant can be of any type.

Portable1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Party3Maker product pagejbl.com.ph/loudspeakers/PARTYBOX-520.htmlRead 15 October 2026The maker calls it a portable battery-powered party speaker.

Audio

12 of 18 differ

Audio channelsiSound channels reproduced by one speaker. Pairing two speakers for stereo is separate.

Stereo1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Not available

Audio driversiPowered audio transducers in one speaker. Passive radiators are counted separately. Circular diameter and rectangular width and height have separate columns. Per-driver power must state continuous or RMS basis and battery or mains operation in the source note.

ABose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker

Driver type	Count	Diameter (mm)
Tweeter	1	20.066
Midrange	2	63.5

Source3Maker product pagesupport.bose.com/s/article/soundlink-max-specificationsRead 8 October 2026Exact-model Audio & Speaker Specifications: one 0.79-inch tweeter and two 2.5-inch midranges. Exact inch-to-mm conversions. Passive radiators are separate.

BJBL PartyBox 520

Driver type	Count	Diameter (mm)
Woofer	2	208
Dome tweeter	2	25

Source1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications say Transducer 2 x 7.5 inch (208 mm) woofers, 2 x 1 inch (25 mm) dome tweeters. No per-driver power is published.

Passive radiatorsiPassive, unpowered bass radiators. Excludes powered drivers.

22Press releasebose.com/pressroom/bose-soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026Bose Articulated Array uses three powered transducers and two custom passive radiators.

Not available

Rated audio poweriMaker-published total rated continuous audio output. Battery power is used for portable speakers when mains and battery ratings differ. Peak marketing power is separate.

Not available

400W1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications say Output power 400 W RMS (IEC60268). No separate battery and mains rating is published. The launch release table says 400 max watts, which does not state a basis.

Rated audio power on mainsiTotal rated continuous audio output with external power. Store a separate battery rating when the maker publishes both.

Not available

Not available

Audio output power (unspecified rating)iMaker- or reviewer-published audio output power whose continuous or peak rating basis is not stated. This is separate from rated continuous output and explicitly published peak output.

Not available

Not available

Peak audio poweriExplicitly published peak audio output. Never substitute for rated continuous output.

Not available

Not available

Frequency response lower limit (claimed)iPublished acoustic frequency response limit. Tolerance and operating mode belong in the source note. The Bluetooth transmission range that some spec tables and retailers label Frequency Response, such as A2DP 20 to 20,000 Hz, is not stored.

Not available

40Hz1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications say Frequency response 40 Hz - 20 kHz. No tolerance is stated.

Frequency response upper limit (claimed)iPublished acoustic frequency response limit. Tolerance and operating mode belong in the source note. The Bluetooth transmission range that some spec tables and retailers label Frequency Response, such as A2DP 20 to 20,000 Hz, is not stored.

Not available

20kHz1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications say 40 Hz - 20 kHz.

Signal-to-noise ratio (claimed)

Not available

80dB1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Published as > 80 dB. Stored as 80.

Adjustable equalizeriUser-adjustable frequency bands. Selecting fixed sound presets alone does not qualify.

Yes1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Yes6Reviewsoundguys.com/jbl-partybox-520-review-the-sweet-spot-in-jbls-partybox-lineup-140579Read 15 October 2026App section says a 7-band adjustable EQ.

Equalizer bandsiNumber of user-adjustable frequency bands. Do not count sound presets.

35Reviewsoundguys.com/bose-soundlink-max-review-129228Read 8 October 2026

76Reviewsoundguys.com/jbl-partybox-520-review-the-sweet-spot-in-jbls-partybox-lineup-140579Read 15 October 2026Review says 7-band EQ in the PartyBox app. Review unit ran firmware 25.17.10 and app v3.11.5.

Automatic sound adjustmentiAdjusts audio to placement or playback conditions. Keep the named feature and conditions in the source note.

Not available

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026AI Sound Boost analyzes the music in real time to deliver maximum acoustic performance with less distortion. It adapts to the audio content, not to the room.

Sound modesiNamed playback modes. Battery extension modes are also qualified in battery source notes.

Not available

Bass Boost level 1, Bass Boost level 2, JBL Signature Sound, Movie2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 6.3 says the bass button cycles level 1, level 2 or off. JBL Signature Sound and Movie are EQ presets named by StereoGuide.8Reviewstereoguide.com/bluetooth-speakers/mobile-outdoor/jbl-partybox-520-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review says the app has presets such as JBL Signature Sound and Movie, with more options than before. SoundGuys also names the JBL Signature EQ preset.

Wireless stereo pairingiTwo compatible speakers can play separate left and right channels.

Yes5Reviewsoundguys.com/bose-soundlink-max-review-129228Read 8 October 2026Exact-model review FAQ: pair a second SoundLink Max for stereo. Different compatible Bose portables link in mono Party Mode.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Pair two PartyBox 520 for true stereo via Auracast.

Speaker link protocolsiNamed systems for linking compatible speakers, such as PartyBoost, Auracast or Party Connect. Linking support does not establish compatibility across all models.

Bose Party Mode, Bose Stereo Mode, Bose SimpleSync5Reviewsoundguys.com/bose-soundlink-max-review-129228Read 8 October 2026Bose app provides a second speaker link. SimpleSync is also explicitly supported on the maker page.

Auracast, PartyTogether1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Auracast links the speaker to other Auracast-enabled JBL speakers. PartyTogether is from SoundGuys.6Reviewsoundguys.com/jbl-partybox-520-review-the-sweet-spot-in-jbls-partybox-lineup-140579Read 15 October 2026FAQ says it connects to other PartyBox speakers through PartyTogether in the app, or through Auracast to other JBL Auracast speakers.

Max linked speakersiPublished maximum in a speaker group. A stereo pair is recorded separately. A figure such as 100+ is stored as 100.

25Reviewsoundguys.com/bose-soundlink-max-review-129228Read 8 October 2026Two physical speakers in the documented Party/Stereo link.

Not available

Max Bluetooth group speakersiPublished maximum speakers in one Bluetooth playback group, including the first speaker. Source notes name the compatible models or families, linking system and firmware requirements. Wi-Fi groups and concurrent Bluetooth source devices are excluded. A stereo pair alone does not establish the maximum when other Bluetooth linking systems are supported. A figure such as 100+ is stored as 100.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

11 of 16 differ

Bluetooth audio playbackiPlays audio streamed over Bluetooth from a phone or other source. Bluetooth used only for setup or app control does not count.

Yes2Press releasebose.com/pressroom/bose-soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026

Yes7Reviewsoundguys.com/jbl-partybox-720-vs-partybox-520-which-party-speaker-should-you-buy-150169Read 15 October 2026

Bluetooth versioniVersion of the Bluetooth radio. Some Wi-Fi speakers use Bluetooth only for setup. See Bluetooth audio playback.

Not available

5.41Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Bluetooth codecsiExplicitly supported receive codecs. Bluetooth version alone does not establish codecs.

SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive2Press releasebose.com/pressroom/bose-soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026Launch release explicitly states SBC, AAC and aptX Adaptive. Snapdragon Sound-compatible source required for aptX Adaptive.

SBC, AAC7Reviewsoundguys.com/jbl-partybox-720-vs-partybox-520-which-party-speaker-should-you-buy-150169Read 15 October 2026Comparison says both the PartyBox 720 and PartyBox 520 use Bluetooth 5.4 with support for SBC and AAC codecs. Two aggregator spec listings show SBC only. JBL names no codec. SoundGuys is stored.

Bluetooth profiles

A2DP, AVRCP, SPP, iAP, BLE1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

A2DP 1.4, AVRCP 1.61Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Technical Specifications say A2DP V1.4, AVRCP V1.6.

Bluetooth LE AudioiExplicit LE Audio support. Bluetooth LE for app control alone does not qualify.

Not available

Yes4Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026Release table says Bluetooth v5.4 with LE audio for the PartyBox 520. Neither the spec sheet nor the manual names LE Audio or LC3.

AuracastiExplicit Auracast support. Sending, receiving and speaker-group roles belong in source notes.

Not available

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 20264Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026Release table says multi-speaker connectivity with Auracast with JBL enabled speakers.

MultipointiConcurrent Bluetooth source connections. Pairing memory and speaker-to-speaker linking do not qualify.

Yes1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Yes2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 6.1 says the speaker supports multi-point connection and a second Bluetooth device can be paired without disconnecting the first.

Multipoint source devicesiMaximum concurrently connected Bluetooth source devices, not remembered pairings.

21Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

22Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 6.1 describes a second device beside the first, so two.

Bluetooth range (claimed)iMaker-claimed Bluetooth range to the source device. Test conditions belong in the source note.

9m3Maker product pagesupport.bose.com/s/article/soundlink-max-specificationsRead 8 October 2026Maker support specification explicitly publishes 9 meters alongside 30 feet.

10m2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026The Bluetooth connection illustration in section 6.1 shows < 10 m (33 ft). Stored as 10.

Wi-FiiBuilt-in Wi-Fi, for audio streaming, setup or control.

No6Reviewrtings.com/speaker/reviews/bose/soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026Public Wi-Fi test row explicitly says No. Member-only metrics were not used.

Not available

Wi-Fi standardsiOne 802.11 name per item, such as 802.11ax. A Wi-Fi generation is written as its standard, so Wi-Fi 5 is 802.11ac and Wi-Fi 6 is 802.11ax. Older standards are listed only when a source names them.

Not available

Not available

Network audio protocolsiNamed systems that stream audio to the speaker over the home network. AirPlay is written as AirPlay 2. Chromecast built-in is written as Google Cast. Other names follow the maker, such as Spotify Connect.

Not available

Not available

USB audio inputiPlayback from a connected computer or phone through USB. Charging, service ports and USB flash-drive playback do not qualify.

No5Reviewsoundguys.com/bose-soundlink-max-review-129228Read 8 October 2026Exact-model review FAQ explicitly says USB audio is not supported.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Use the USB-C to connect to your streaming or karaoke app with high quality audio.2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 6.2 says to connect a PC, tablet or other mobile device for audio playback and recording.

USB drive playbackiPlayback of audio files on a connected USB storage device.

Not available

Yes2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 6.2 says a USB storage device plugged into the USB-C port plays automatically, not for the EMEA region. The reference model is the US JBLPARTYBOX520AM.

USB audio file formats

Not available

MP3, WAV, FLAC2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 6.2 format table lists MP3 (MP1, MP2, MP3), WAV and FLAC. The English spec sheet also lists WMA, which the manual table omits, so WMA is not stored. Both say the list is not for EMEA.

PortsiPhysical speaker connectors. Record charging, audio input, power output and service roles separately. A shared microphone and guitar jack is one port. A combo jack that takes XLR and 6.35 mm plugs is 6.35 mm audio, and the role names XLR. Optical is a TOSLINK digital audio socket.

ABose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker

Connector	Count	Role
USB-C	1	Charging input and power-bank output
3.5 mm audio	1	AUX audio input

Source1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026One USB-C in/out connector and one 3.5 mm AUX input.

BJBL PartyBox 520

Connector	Count	Role
AC power	1	Mains power and battery charging
USB-C	1	USB drive music playback, USB audio input from a computer or phone, and charge output to mobile devices
3.5 mm audio	1	AUX audio input
3.5 mm audio	1	Daisy-chain audio input
3.5 mm audio	1	Daisy-chain audio output
6.35 mm audio	1	Combo XLR and 6.35 mm input for microphone 1
6.35 mm audio	1	Combo XLR and 6.35 mm input for microphone 2, guitar or line-in, set by a slider switch

Source2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Back panel section 3.2 lists USB-C, AUX IN 3.5 mm, two microphone sockets (microphone 2/guitar/line-in with a slider switch), daisy-chain IN/OUT 3.5 mm and AC. SoundGuys and the spec sheet describe the microphone sockets as XLR and 6.35 mm combo jacks. Two daisy-chain jacks are read from the IN/OUT panel drawing.

Controls and software

6 of 8 differ

SpeakerphoneiBuilt-in microphone and call support, through a connected phone or a voice assistant's calling. A microphone used only for voice commands does not count. Microphone inputs for karaoke are separate.

No1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Not available

Voice assistantsiVoice assistants explicitly usable through the speaker, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri or Sonos Voice Control. State whether a connected phone is required.

Not available

Not available

Controls

Power, Bluetooth pairing, Volume up/down, Play/pause, Next/previous track, Programmable shortcut4Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026Pages 18-22: physical buttons and programmable shortcut.

Power, Bluetooth pairing, Multi-speaker connection, Volume knob, Play/pause, Next track, Previous track, Bass Boost, Light effect on/off, Light pattern knob, Strobe and starry light, Sound effect panel, Microphone volume, Microphone bass, Microphone treble, Microphone echo, Guitar/line-in volume, Microphone 1 gain, Microphone 2 or guitar gain, Microphone 2/guitar/line-in selector, Factory reset2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Top panel section 3.1 and sections 6.3, 6.2.1, 9.2, 9.3 and 9.6 list these controls. Recording to USB is a button combination for microphone and guitar input only.

Companion app

Bose app1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

JBL PartyBox8Reviewstereoguide.com/bluetooth-speakers/mobile-outdoor/jbl-partybox-520-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review names the JBL PartyBox app.

App platforms

iOS, Android1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

iOS, Android8Reviewstereoguide.com/bluetooth-speakers/mobile-outdoor/jbl-partybox-520-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review says the JBL PartyBox app is for iOS and Android.

User firmware updates

Yes4Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 35: Update the Speaker via Bose app or Bose updater website.

Not available

Built-in lightingiDecorative or ambient lighting. Status, battery, connection and microphone indicator LEDs alone do not qualify.

Not available

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 20264Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026Release table says symmetric and themed light show.

Lighting modes

Not available

Neon, Loop, Bounce, Trim, Switch, Freeze, Strobe, Starry lights2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 9.2 names the patterns NEON, LOOP, BOUNCE, TRIM, SWITCH and FREEZE. Strobe and starry light are separate toggles.

Smart home

None of 3 known

Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

Thread border routeriConnects Thread smart home devices to the home network.

Not available

Not available

Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

9 of 17 differ

Built-in battery

Yes4Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Battery Specifications list a JBL BATTERY 600 pack.

Playback time (claimed)iMaximum maker-claimed music playback on one charge in normal playback mode. Battery extension or reduced-bass boost modes belong in battery_life_boost_h. Record volume and lighting conditions in the source note.

20h4Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 24: up to 20 hours at 65% volume, Bluetooth A2DP, default EQ, Top 50 Global October 2023 tracks, 20-25 C, no external-device charging. At maximum volume Bose specifies up to three hours.

15h1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Up to 15 hours. The manual footnote says it needs a predefined music source, light show and bass boost off, volume level 18 and a Bluetooth source. It varies with content and battery aging.

Playback with battery extension (claimed)iTotal claimed runtime with the named battery extension mode enabled. Store the total, not only the extra hours. Keep sound and lighting restrictions in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery energyiPublished battery pack energy. Do not calculate from an assumed voltage.

Not available

99.02Wh1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Battery type JBL BATTERY 600, Li-ion 99.02 Wh.

Battery capacityiPublished pack capacity at the voltage in battery_voltage_v. Do not substitute power-bank output capacity. A figure written per cell, such as 5000mAh*2, is not a pack capacity unless the maker states the pack figure.

Not available

4,584mAh1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Published as equivalent to 21.6 V / 4584 mAh.

Nominal battery voltage

Not available

21.6V1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Published as the 21.6 V equivalent of the 99.02 Wh pack.

Battery chemistry

Lithium-ion3Maker product pagesupport.bose.com/s/article/soundlink-max-specificationsRead 8 October 2026

Lithium-ion1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026

User-replaceable batteryiBattery that the maker documents as replaceable by the user. Service replacement does not qualify.

Not available

Yes2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 6.7 explains replacing the battery with a JBL BATTERY600.

Full charge timeiTime from discharged to full under the maker conditions. Adapter rating and simultaneous use belong in source notes.

5h4Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 24: up to five hours from 0 to 100% in standby with 5 V/3 A (15 W) USB-C supply.

3h1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 20263 hours with the speaker off.

Quick charge duration

Not available

10min1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Charge for 10 minutes for an extra 2 hours of play time.

Playback after quick chargeiClaimed music playback after quick_charge_min of charging. Source conditions apply.

Not available

2h1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 202610 minutes of charging gives an extra 2 hours of playtime.

Charging input ratingiPublished speaker input voltage and current. An adapter rating alone does not establish device input.

5/9/15/20 V DC, 3 A maximum4Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026Page 4 gives speaker input rating 5/9/15/20 V DC, 3 A maximum. This is not a published 60 W maximum charging power, so no max-watt input is inferred.

100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Power input 100 - 240 V ~ 50 / 60 Hz. No input current is published.

Max charging inputiPublished maximum charging input. USB audio power requirements and adapter output are separate.

Not available

Not available

USB Power Delivery charging

Not available

Not available

Charges other devices

Yes1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 20264Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026Owner guide page 4 publishes USB-C output rating 5 V DC, 3 A. Page 25 documents charging an external device. No explicit maximum output wattage is published. The 15 W value on page 24 refers to the recommended charging input power supply.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026USB-C charge out lists PDO profiles up to 20 V / 1.5 A and PPS 5 - 16 V / 1.85 A. No watt figure is published, so none is stored.

Max power-bank outputiPublished power delivered by the speaker to another device. Output voltage and current belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Wireless chargingiThe speaker battery can be charged wirelessly. Wireless power output to another device is separate.

Not available

Not available

Durability

4 of 5 differ

Dust and water ratingiExact published IP rating. Keep separate ratings, such as IP68 and IP69, as separate entries.

IP671Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

IPX41Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Floats

Yes1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026Maker FAQ: floats for retrieval with the front grille submerged. Playback while floating is not intended.

Not available

Drop resistanceiExplicit maker claim or defined drop test. Do not infer from rugged wording.

Yes2Press releasebose.com/pressroom/bose-soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026Built to withstand bumps, drops and bangs. No defined height is published.

Not available

Drop test heightiMaker-published tested height. Surface and conditions belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Carry featuresiPublished handles, straps, carabiners or wheels.

Removable rope handle, Optional shoulder strap2Press releasebose.com/pressroom/bose-soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026

Telescopic handle, Wheels1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Measured

None of 6 known

Playback time (measured)iReviewer-measured playback per charge. Volume, lighting, sound mode, firmware and connection belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Max sound pressure (measured)iReviewer-measured maximum SPL. Distance, test method and power source belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Low-frequency extension (measured)iReviewer-measured low-frequency limit. Threshold and test method belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

High-frequency extension (measured)iReviewer-measured high-frequency limit. Threshold and test method belong in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Audio latency (measured)iReviewer-measured source-to-speaker latency. Source device, app, codec, firmware and connection belong in source notes. App compensation may affect results.

Not available

Not available

Full charge time (measured)iReviewer-measured time from empty to full. Power adapter and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

3 of 3 differ

DimensionsiSpeaker body width, height and depth on explicitly identified axes. Unlabeled tuples do not establish axis meanings. Handle, strap and orientation conditions belong in the source note.

Width264.668Height120.142Depth104.902mm(10.4 × 4.7 × 4.1 in)2Press releasebose.com/pressroom/bose-soundlink-maxRead 8 October 2026Launch text explicitly identifies 10.42 inches wide, 4.73 inches high and 4.13 inches deep. Exact inch-to-mm conversion. Body dimensions, handle not extended.

Width415Height769Depth369mm(16.3 × 30.3 × 14.5 in)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Product dimensions are labeled W x H x D: 415 x 769 x 369 mm. The telescopic handle is retracted.

WeightiSpeaker mass including its battery. Excludes packaging, charger and removable carry accessories unless the source states otherwise.

Not available

25,500g(56.2 lb)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Net weight 25.5 kg. Gross weight 29.4 kg is not stored.

Body materials

Aluminum, Fabric, Nylon, Plastic, Silicone, Steel1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

Post-consumer recycled plastic, Metal grille1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026The sheet says it incorporates post-consumer recycled plastic. The metal grille is from SoundGuys.6Reviewsoundguys.com/jbl-partybox-520-review-the-sweet-spot-in-jbls-partybox-lineup-140579Read 15 October 2026Review says a tough plastic exterior with lighting effects behind its metal grille.

Certifications

None of 1 known

FCC IDs

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Not available

Not available

In the box

1 of 1 differ

In the box

SoundLink Max Portable Speaker, USB-C to USB-C cable, USB-C power supply (US only), Safety sheet1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026US reference. USB-C adapter is not supplied in all regions. Removable handle comes attached to the speaker.

JBL PartyBox 520, AC power cord, Quick start guide, Safety instructions and warranty card1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet lists the speaker, quick-start guide, safety instruction and warranty card, and an AC power cord. Cord quantity and plug type vary by region.

Links

Not compared

Product page

www.bose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.html1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026

www.jbl.com.ph/loudspeakers/PARTYBOX-520.html3Maker product pagejbl.com.ph/loudspeakers/PARTYBOX-520.htmlRead 15 October 2026JBL Philippines page, since jbl.com is blocked for agents. It lists item JBLPARTYBOX520AS1 and Black as the only color. It is a regional page, not the US page.

Spec sheet

support.bose.com/s/article/soundlink-max-specifications3Maker product pagesupport.bose.com/s/article/soundlink-max-specificationsRead 8 October 2026

d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdf1Maker spec sheet (PDF)d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net/68766/documents/56331-1741687011-JBL_Party_Box_520_Specsheet_EN-5a97bd.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Manual

assets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdf4Owner's manualassets.bosecreative.com/m/4914edf45a9a1c9f/original/888545_OG_SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS_en.pdfRead 8 October 2026

www.jbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdf2Owner's manualjbl.com.ar/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-masterCatalog_Harman/default/dwbec632a2/pdfs/JBL_PARTYBOX_520_OM_Global_EN_V4.pdfRead 15 October 2026

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

0 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year1Maker product pagebose.com/p/speakers/bose-soundlink-max-portable-speaker/SLMAX-SPEAKERWIRELESS.htmlRead 8 October 2026US maker page: included one-year Bose limited warranty. BoseCare paid extensions are excluded.

1year5Retailer pageabt.com/JBL-PartyBox-520-Portable-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-JBLPARTYBOX520AM/p/218822.htmlRead 15 October 2026Retailer lists parts 1 year limited and labor 1 year limited for the US model.

Both are also in the API. Back to all wireless speakers.