Portable Bluetooth speakers are among the most diverse product groups nowadays. They come in all shapes and sizes, materials, colors, and pack different features. But CMF makes possibly the most interesting of them all. Meet the CMF Speaker S, a compact Bluetooth speaker that’s just €69 and well worth it. Let’s talk about it. First, though, here’s an actual look at it over at our TikTok channel.
There’s not going to be a true unboxing of the CMF Speaker S. You only get the speaker in a simple box. There are no accessories to go along with it.
As the name suggests, this is CMF’s first portable speaker, and it comes from the same design philosophy as the brand’s other products: minimal, functional, and affordable. The Speaker S is a small, cylindrical device that’s easy to carry around. It measures just 180mm in length and 70mm in diameter, and it weighs 380 grams. That’s light enough to toss in a bag or even a large pocket.
Design and Build Quality
The CMF Speaker S has a distinctive look that sets it apart from the sea of generic Bluetooth speakers. It’s wrapped in a fabric mesh that feels durable and has a subtle texture. The ends are made of plastic with a matte finish, and there’s a rubberized base that keeps it stable on flat surfaces. The speaker is available in two colors: dark grey and light grey. Both look understated and modern.
On the top, you’ll find a row of physical buttons: power, Bluetooth pairing, volume up/down, and play/pause. There’s also a dedicated button for the built-in microphone, which lets you take calls. The buttons are clicky and responsive, and they’re easy to find without looking. A USB-C port for charging is located on the back, along with a small LED indicator that shows battery status.
The build quality is impressive for the price. The Speaker S feels solid and well-put-together. There are no creaks or rattles, and the fabric seems like it can withstand some abuse. It’s also IPX7 rated, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. That makes it a great companion for pool parties or beach trips.
Sound Quality
For a speaker this size, the CMF Speaker S delivers surprisingly good sound. It has a single 48mm full-range driver and a passive radiator that helps with bass response. The sound signature is warm and balanced, with a slight emphasis on the low end. It’s not going to rattle windows, but it produces a decent amount of punch for its size.
Mids and highs are clear and well-defined. Vocals come through nicely, and instruments are separated well. The speaker can get quite loud, and even at maximum volume, there’s minimal distortion. It’s perfect for casual listening indoors or in a small outdoor setting. However, it’s not going to fill a large room or a noisy outdoor area. For that, you’d need something bigger.
The Speaker S also supports TWS (True Wireless Stereo) pairing, so you can connect two of them together for a wider soundstage. That’s a nice feature for the price, and it works seamlessly.
Battery Life and Connectivity
CMF claims the Speaker S can last up to 18 hours on a single charge. In our testing, we got around 15 hours at moderate volume, which is still very good. Charging is done via USB-C, and a full charge takes about 2.5 hours. There’s no fast charging, but that’s expected at this price point.
Bluetooth 5.3 is on board, which provides a stable connection and good range. We had no issues with dropouts within the advertised 10-meter range. The speaker also has a built-in microphone for calls, and the call quality is decent. Voices are clear, though it picks up some background noise.
Features and Usability
The CMF Speaker S is straightforward to use. Pairing is quick and easy, and the buttons are intuitive. There’s no app support, which means no EQ adjustments or firmware updates. That’s a bit of a downside, but for a budget speaker, it’s not a dealbreaker.
One neat feature is the ability to use the speaker as a power bank. It has a 5,000mAh battery, and you can charge your phone via the USB-C port. It’s not fast charging, but it’s a handy emergency feature.
The speaker also has a built-in strap that makes it easy to hang from a backpack or a hook. It’s a small addition but adds to the portability.
Comparison with Competitors
At €69, the CMF Speaker S faces stiff competition from the likes of JBL, Anker, and Xiaomi. The JBL Go 4 is a popular choice at a similar price, but it lacks the IPX7 rating and has a less premium build. The Anker Soundcore Mini 3 is another contender, but it doesn’t sound as good as the CMF. The Xiaomi Mi Portable Bluetooth Speaker is also in the mix, but the CMF stands out with its unique design and better water resistance.
Overall, the CMF Speaker S offers excellent value for money. It’s well-built, sounds good, and has a long battery life. The lack of app support and the average call quality are minor compromises.
Verdict
The CMF Speaker S is a fantastic little speaker. It’s affordable, portable, and delivers sound quality that exceeds expectations for its size. The design is fresh and modern, and the IPX7 rating adds peace of mind. If you’re in the market for a budget Bluetooth speaker, this should be on your shortlist.
It’s not perfect—the lack of an app and the mediocre microphone are worth noting—but at this price, it’s hard to complain. CMF has done a great job with its first speaker, and we’re excited to see what the brand comes up with next.
