Milwaukee Wireless Jobsite Speaker

Finding the right jobsite speaker can be quite a challenge, especially when balancing durability, sound quality, and battery life. Enter Milwaukee's Wireless Jobsite Speaker, model 2891-20, which promises to meet these needs with its robust design and impressive features. I recently had the chance to put this speaker through its paces, and I have to say, it left a strong impression.

Design and Build

One of the first things that struck me about this Milwaukee speaker is its unique hexagon design. This isn't just for aesthetics; the shape contributes to its compactness and stability. Measuring 13.75 inches in width and 7.5 inches in length, the speaker is relatively easy to transport, weighing in at a manageable 5.3 lbs. The build quality is what you'd expect from Milwaukee—solid and durable. The impact-resistant construction and IP54 rating for water and dust resistance make it a reliable companion for any jobsite.

The speaker also features a handy carrying handle on one end, making it easy to move around. This is particularly useful when you're frequently relocating from one part of the site to another. While it doesn't have a radio tuner, the minimalistic control buttons keep the user interface simple and straightforward. However, I did miss having dedicated play and forward buttons, which would have made it easier to control music without having to pull out my phone.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of this Milwaukee speaker is generally impressive for its size. The six-speaker design delivers clear and balanced audio, with a decent amount of mid-bass. However, it's worth noting that this speaker is not the loudest on the market. While it performs admirably in smaller, enclosed spaces like a garage or a bedroom, it struggles to maintain volume in open, outdoor environments, especially when there's wind. That said, the clarity remains intact even at higher volumes, although there is some noticeable distortion when pushed to its limits.

Connectivity and Range

Bluetooth connectivity is where this speaker truly shines. Milwaukee claims a range of up to 100 feet, and in my experience, it consistently delivered strong performance up to about 60 feet, even with minor obstructions. Beyond that, the connection did start to falter, but this is still far better than most Bluetooth speakers I've tried. Pairing the speaker with my phone was quick and hassle-free, and the connection remained stable throughout the day.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of this speaker is its compatibility with both M12 and M18 battery systems, as well as the option to use AC power. This versatility is a significant advantage, especially if you're already invested in Milwaukee's battery ecosystem. With a small 12V-2AH battery, the speaker easily lasted an entire workday at full volume. When using a larger 18V-5AH battery, it continued to perform for several days on a single charge. This extended battery life is a major plus, particularly for long workdays or extended outdoor activities.

Practicality and Durability

In terms of practical use, this speaker is built to withstand the rigors of a jobsite. It survived a fall from my truck without any issues, and its rugged construction gives me confidence that it can handle daily wear and tear. The USB power outlet is a thoughtful addition, allowing you to charge your devices on the go, which is always a handy feature when you're out in the field.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee Wireless Jobsite Speaker has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could improve. As mentioned earlier, the lack of dedicated play and forward buttons is a minor inconvenience. Additionally, the volume controls require adjustment both on the speaker and the connected device, which can be a bit cumbersome. Finally, while the sound quality is generally good, it could benefit from a bit more bass and higher maximum volume, especially for outdoor use.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee Wireless Jobsite Speaker is a solid choice for anyone in need of a durable, reliable, and versatile Bluetooth speaker. Its robust construction, impressive battery life, and excellent Bluetooth range make it well-suited for various environments, from workshops to outdoor job sites. While it may not be the loudest speaker available, its sound quality is more than adequate for most situations, and its compact, portable design is a definite plus.

Would I recommend this speaker? Absolutely. If you're already using Milwaukee's M12 or M18 battery systems, this speaker is a no-brainer. Even if you're not, its durability, ease of use, and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a reliable jobsite speaker. Just be aware of its volume limitations in larger, open spaces, and you won't be disappointed.