TechRadar Verdict

The Brane X speaker is like no other portable speaker we’ve heard before.

The Brane X isnt an ordinary portable speaker, but one with proprietary Repel-Attract-Driver (R.A.D.)

It has a lunchbox-like form, complete with a carrying handle, and an unassuming design.

Brane X smart speaker on table

The Brane X has a lunchbox-like design with a carrying strap for toting it around

The IP57-rated speaker is dust and waterproof, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.

At the time of writing, the sold exclusively throughBrane Audioand is only available for shipment in the US.

There are four built-in microphones for voice control, which is carried out using the Alexa voice assistant.

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Four class-D amplifiers are packed into the compact speaker, for a total of 200 watts of power.

Woofers in conventional speakers generate bass by moving forward and back in an enclosure.

RadioheadsDesert Island Disksfeatures a spare acoustic guitar thats played over a low, pulsing beat.

Brane X smart speaker on table showing top controls

Capacitive touch controls are located on the speaker’s top surface

Even classical symphonic music fared well on the Brane X.

Brane X review: Design

Theres nothing particularly fancy about the Brane Xs design.

As noted in the Features section of this review, its about the size and shape of a lunchbox.

Brane X smart speaker on table next to Sonos Move

The Sonos Move 2 (at left) was used for a comparison in our Brane X (at right) listening tests

There is nothing quite like it on the market, a factor that enhances its value.

In that case, the Brane X is your only option.

Yes, its expensive, but it has the sound quality to back up the high price.

Brane X smart speaker on table showing back panel

The speaker’s rear panel features a power on/off button and 3.5mm audio input

Should you buy the Brane X?

If youre simply going to listen to news and podcasts, some cheaper speakers will suffice.

You need long battery lifeBrane Audios specs put the Brane Xs battery life at 12 hours.

Brane X smart speaker on table showing bottom moiunted woofer

The Brane X’s bottom-mounted woofer

Its also waterproof and has an impressive 24-hour battery life.

Most music tracks played during my test were sourced from Tidal HiFi, with some played fromAppleMusic.

you could readTechRadar’s review guarantee here.

Brane X smart speaker on table with sonos move in background

Brane X smart speaker on deck railing outdoors