Skil Bluetooth Speaker

If you're like me, you know that good music can make any task more enjoyable, whether you're working in your garage, out in the yard, or on a job site. Recently, I had the chance to test out the Skil Bluetooth Speaker, model RO5028-00, and I was genuinely impressed. This portable, wireless speaker has a lot to offer, especially for those who already use Skil tools and batteries.

Design and Portability

One of the first things I noticed about the Skil Bluetooth Speaker is its compact yet sturdy design. Weighing in at just 1.71 pounds and measuring 5 inches in height, 4-3/4 inches in length, and 7 inches in width, it's easy to carry around. It's not bulky, and it fits well in my hand, making it easy to move from one spot to another as I work.

The phone cradle is a thoughtful addition, allowing me to place my phone securely while it streams music. This is particularly useful when I'm in the middle of a project and need to keep my phone within arm's reach but out of harm's way.

Connectivity and Range

The Bluetooth connectivity is stellar, offering a range of up to 100 feet. I tested it around my property, moving from my garage to the backyard, and it never lost connection. This is a significant advantage, especially when you're on a job site or moving around a larger area. The auxiliary port is a nice touch for those who prefer a wired connection, although I found the Bluetooth functionality to be more than sufficient for my needs.

Sound Quality

Now, let's talk about the sound quality. This speaker packs a punch. The dual passive bass radiators and bass booster control allow for a rich, full sound that's both clear and loud. Whether I'm listening to music or a podcast, the audio quality remains impressive. I was particularly pleased with how well it handled different genres of music, from rock to jazz. The sound remains crisp, and the bass levels are just right.

However, it's worth noting that while the volume is more than adequate for personal use in a garage or small shop, it may not be loud enough for a noisy job site. If you're working in an environment with a lot of background noise, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more volume.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the standout features of this speaker is its use of Skil's PWRCORE 20 lithium battery technology. If you already own other Skil tools, you'll appreciate this compatibility. The 2 amp-hour battery easily lasts all day, which is fantastic for long work sessions. I was able to use the speaker for about 12 hours a day and only needed to recharge every three days.

The integrated USB port is another excellent feature, allowing you to charge other devices. This came in handy when my phone's battery was running low, and I didn't have a charger nearby. The USB port provides 2.1A at 5V, which is sufficient for most smartphones and small devices.

Durability and Additional Features

The Skil Bluetooth Speaker is well-built and feels durable. While it's not explicitly marketed as weather-resistant, it held up well in my garage, where it occasionally got splashed with water or dust. I do hope Skil considers making a weather-resistant version in the future, as that would make this speaker even more versatile.

The ability to see the battery strength is a small but useful feature. It takes the guesswork out of how much juice you have left, so you can plan your charging accordingly. Swapping out a dead battery is also a breeze, thanks to the straightforward design.

Overall Experience

Using the Skil Bluetooth Speaker has been a pleasant experience. Its portability, excellent sound quality, and long battery life make it a great companion for any DIY project or job site. The added convenience of the phone cradle and USB charging port only sweeten the deal.

However, it's not without its limitations. If you need a speaker that can cut through significant background noise, you might find the volume a bit lacking. But for most situations, especially personal use in a garage or small shop, it performs admirably.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Skil Bluetooth Speaker? Absolutely. Its combination of portability, sound quality, and battery life makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. It's particularly advantageous for those who already own Skil tools and can make use of the PWRCORE 20 batteries. While it may not be the loudest speaker on the market, its other features more than make up for it.

In summary, the Skil Bluetooth Speaker is a robust, reliable option for anyone looking to enhance their work environment with some high-quality tunes. It offers excellent value for its price and integrates seamlessly with other Skil products, making it a smart choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.