Ridgid 18V Speaker with Bluetooth Wireless Technology

The Ridgid 18V Bluetooth Speaker packs a punch in a compact, robust design. As someone who spends a lot of time on job sites and outdoor projects, having a reliable and durable Bluetooth speaker is essential. This speaker certainly meets those needs.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the Ridgid 18V Bluetooth Speaker is its sturdy build. Constructed from tough plastic materials, it feels durable enough to withstand the typical wear and tear of a job site. The rubberized handle is a thoughtful addition, making it easy to carry or hang on a nail or hook. This flexibility is convenient, especially when you need to move around frequently.

The speaker dimensions are 6.75 inches in height, 3.5 inches in length, and 4.75 inches in width. It’s slightly larger than a Ridgid 4.0Ah battery, which makes it compact enough to fit in a tool bag but large enough to deliver substantial sound.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is a crucial factor, especially for a job site speaker. The Ridgid 18V Bluetooth Speaker performs admirably in this department. It features a 2-7/8 inch speaker that delivers clear audio and surprisingly strong bass for its size. While the bass is commendable, the overall sound can sometimes lack clarity, especially at higher volumes. Adjusting the equalizer settings on your device can help mitigate this issue and produce a more balanced sound.

The speaker is loud enough for most job site environments and outdoor gatherings but might not be the best choice for larger parties where you need more volume.

Connectivity and Ease of Use

Setting up the speaker is straightforward. The Bluetooth connectivity is quick and reliable, with a range of up to 200 feet under optimal conditions. However, in real-world scenarios, especially indoors with walls and obstacles, the range can be significantly shorter, around 50-60 feet. This is still adequate for most uses, but it’s worth noting if you plan to use the speaker over longer distances.

The speaker includes basic control buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, and volume adjustment. While these are convenient, I did miss having a play/pause button, which would have been a useful addition.

Battery Life and Additional Features

One of the standout features of this speaker is its battery life. Using a Ridgid 18V 4.0Ah battery, the speaker can run for up to 25 hours. This is impressive and ensures that you won’t need to recharge frequently, even with extended use. Additionally, the speaker includes a 2 Amp USB port for charging personal devices, which is a handy feature when you’re on the go.

Portability and Versatility

The compact size and lightweight design make this speaker highly portable. The rubberized handle adds to its ease of transport, and the multiple hanging options offer flexibility in various settings. Whether you’re working in a garage, on a construction site, or enjoying a day outdoors, this speaker is easy to bring along.

Durability

Durability is a significant concern for any job site tool, and the Ridgid 18V Bluetooth Speaker does not disappoint. The tough plastic construction and rubberized handle ensure that it can withstand drops and rough handling. This durability, combined with its compact design, makes it a reliable companion for any work environment.

Cons

While the Ridgid 18V Bluetooth Speaker has many strengths, it’s not without its drawbacks. The sound quality, while generally good, can sometimes be muffled, especially at higher volumes. Adjusting the equalizer settings on your device can help, but it’s something to be aware of.

The Bluetooth range is another area where the speaker falls short of its advertised 200 feet. In practice, the range is more limited, particularly indoors. This isn’t a deal-breaker but is worth considering if you need extensive range.

Finally, the lack of a play/pause button is a minor inconvenience. While you can control the volume directly from the speaker, having the ability to play and pause music without reaching for your device would have been a nice touch.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ridgid 18V Bluetooth Speaker is a solid choice for anyone needing a durable, portable, and long-lasting Bluetooth speaker for job sites or outdoor activities. Its sturdy build, impressive battery life, and convenient features like the USB charging port make it a practical addition to any tool collection.

While it has some minor drawbacks, such as sound clarity and Bluetooth range, these are relatively minor issues that can be managed with a bit of adjustment. The pros far outweigh the cons, making this speaker a valuable investment for both professional and personal use.

I would recommend the Ridgid 18V Bluetooth Speaker to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile Bluetooth speaker that can handle the rigors of a job site while providing good sound quality and extended battery life.