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Is the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A5 worth it? It can be, if you want a design-led Wi-Fi speaker with substantial output, multiroom support and a built-in battery, and you accept that its 3.7 kg body is portable in the “move it around the house” sense rather than the lightweight-travel sense. Bang & Olufsen lists the US configuration at $1,850 on the product page accessed October 13, 2026, making the A5 a luxury purchase rather than a value pick. Independent 2023 reviews praised its sound, appearance and software while consistently identifying price and weight as the main compromises. No listening test was conducted for this review; manufacturer figures and the reviewers’ subjective impressions are kept separate below.
What the Beosound A5 is
The Beosound A5 is a battery-powered speaker that combines dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Bang & Olufsen’s multiroom ecosystem in a furniture-like enclosure. It is designed to play in a living room, move to another room or patio, and continue working away from mains power. A handle and a built-in Qi charging surface reinforce that use case, but the 3.7 kg weight means it is not comparable to a small, grab-and-go portable speaker.
Bang & Olufsen’s US page showed $1,850 for the displayed finish on October 13, 2026. The same page advertised a 30-day trial and a three-year warranty. Those are details of that US page at that date, not universal terms: price, finishes, warranty coverage and trial availability can differ by country and change over time. Check the current regional product page before buying.
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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →At launch, What Hi-Fi attributed this positioning statement to Michael Henriksson, Bang & Olufsen’s vice president of product marketing: “Beosound A5 combines Bang & Olufsen’s long-standing approach to timeless design with our vision on sound for the future.” That is a company description, not an independent performance assessment.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Specifications that matter in daily use
| Specification | Bang & Olufsen’s stated figure | What it means for a buyer |
|---|---|---|
| Driver layout | One 0.8-inch tweeter, two 2-inch full-range drivers and one 5.25-inch woofer | A relatively substantial four-driver system for a battery speaker; the arrangement does not by itself predict how evenly it sounds in every position. |
| Maximum loudness | 101 dB SPL at 1 metre | A manufacturer maximum under its specified measurement condition, not an independent loudness test. |
| Frequency range | 32–23,000 Hz | The published range is a specification, not proof that output is equally strong at both extremes. |
| Dimensions | 28.5 × 18.7 × 13 cm | Compact enough for a shelf or side table, but its depth and handle still require deliberate placement. |
| Weight | 3.7 kg | The key portability trade-off; carrying it between rooms is practical, while long walks or frequent travel are less appealing. |
| Battery claim | Up to 12 hours | A best-case manufacturer claim rather than a guaranteed runtime at every volume, source or network condition. |
| Protection rating | IP65 | Dust-resistant and resistant to water jets in the rating’s test context, but not an invitation to soak the speaker. |
| Wireless connections | Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi enables network streaming and multiroom; Bluetooth is useful when you do not want to configure a network. |
| Sound processing | Active Room Compensation, Adaptive Bass Linearization, thermal protection and app EQ | You can tune the presentation and the speaker can adapt its processing, but these are processing features rather than independent measurements of sound quality. |
Every number in the table comes from Bang & Olufsen’s current product specification page accessed in 2026. They should not be read as laboratory results gathered for this article.
Sound quality: what independent reviews actually say
TechRadar’s 2023 review praised the A5 for powerful, detailed sound and also liked its companion app and appearance. Its principal objections were the high price and considerable weight. WIRED’s 2023 review likewise described a distinctive design and a substantial premium over rival battery-powered speakers. T3’s 2023 review found the speaker likeable and easy to listen to, but judged its 360-degree presentation less convincing than the marketing suggests.
Those comments are listening impressions from the named outlets, not a single objective verdict. They also describe slightly different priorities: TechRadar emphasised authority and detail, WIRED the premium design proposition, and T3 the limits of the all-around dispersion claim. There was no hands-on listening session for this article, so it would be misleading to present any one description as a universal sonic result.
The hardware explains why the A5 can make a larger-room case than many small portable speakers: a dedicated 5.25-inch woofer is paired with two full-range drivers and a tweeter. Bang & Olufsen also specifies room compensation, bass linearisation and thermal protection. Whether those features suit your room, listening distance and preferred tonal balance is something to establish during a return period rather than infer from the driver list alone.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How portable is the Beosound A5?
The practical answer is “portable, but heavy.” At 28.5 × 18.7 × 13 cm and 3.7 kg, it can move from a kitchen counter to a bedroom, office or covered outdoor seating area without much fuss. The handle gives you a secure way to lift it, and the battery removes the need to find a socket immediately. It is much less attractive for a day of carrying in a bag, taking on public transport or walking to a distant picnic spot.
TechRadar specifically identified the weight as a reason the A5 is not truly portable in the lightweight-speaker sense. That distinction matters: portability here means freedom from a fixed installation, not minimal carry burden. Measure the shelf or table where you intend to use it, and consider whether you can comfortably lift 3.7 kg with one hand before ordering.
Using it away from home
Bluetooth is the simplest option when you are outside your home network. Wi-Fi features such as multiroom and network services require the speaker to be connected to a compatible wireless network first. A phone can also be placed on the speaker’s Qi charging surface, but charging another device consumes the A5’s battery and reduces the energy available for playback.
Battery life and charging expectations
Bang & Olufsen specifies up to 12 hours of battery playback. “Up to” is important: actual time depends on listening volume, whether playback uses Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, network conditions, temperature, and whether the Qi surface is charging a phone. The figure is not an independently measured runtime and should not be treated as a promise that every listening session will reach 12 hours.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Plan around your own use rather than the headline number. A quiet indoor session with no phone charging is the scenario most likely to approach a maximum claim; loud playback, weak wireless conditions or simultaneous Qi charging can draw more power. The included USB-C power supply and cable are documented in Bang & Olufsen’s product sheet. If you need a replacement, verify voltage, current and model compatibility before purchasing a third-party supply.
Can you use the Beosound A5 outdoors?
You can use it outdoors with sensible protection, but it should not be treated as waterproof. Bang & Olufsen lists an IP65 rating, which indicates protection from dust and water jets under the rating’s test conditions. The company explicitly warns that the speaker’s wood components and paper-weave material may be damaged by water.
- Use it on a covered patio, balcony or dry outdoor table rather than in open rain.
- Do not submerge it, hose it down or leave it where rain can pool on the enclosure.
- Keep the wood and paper-weave surfaces dry even though the product carries an IP65 rating.
- Bring it indoors when weather changes, and let any damp exterior dry before storage or charging.
The rating therefore supports occasional, careful outdoor use; it does not make every exterior material weatherproof or guarantee survival after soaking.
Streaming, multiroom and wireless connections
The A5 supports more than Bluetooth. Bang & Olufsen’s app provides access to B&O Radio, TIDAL, Deezer and HomeMedia (UPnP). Other listed playback paths include Beolink Multiroom, AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect and Bluetooth. Service availability and features can vary by region and may change, so check the current app and local support information for the services you use.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Connection or service | Best use | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | Quick playback from a phone or computer without configuring home Wi-Fi | Does not provide the same networked multiroom workflow as Wi-Fi. |
| AirPlay and Google Cast | Sending audio from compatible devices on the same network | Requires a functioning Wi-Fi network and compatible source device. |
| Spotify Connect and TIDAL Connect | Handing playback control to the speaker from the relevant app | Availability depends on the service, account and region. |
| Beolink Multiroom | Grouping compatible Bang & Olufsen products | Requires network setup and compatible products. |
| HomeMedia (UPnP) | Playing supported local-network media | Depends on a functioning UPnP library and network. |
First-time setup: what you need to do
Initial network setup is app-dependent. Buyers who prefer a speaker that can be configured entirely without an account should factor this into the purchase decision.
- Connect power. Plug in the supplied USB-C power supply and cable, then switch on the speaker.
- Install the Bang & Olufsen app. Use the current app for your phone’s operating system rather than relying on an old setup guide.
- Create or sign in to an account. The setup instructions direct first-time users to create an account before adding the product.
- Add the Beosound A5. Follow the app’s product-add flow and grant the requested Bluetooth and local-network permissions.
- Join Wi-Fi. Select your home network and enter its password. Dual-band Wi-Fi is listed in the technical specification.
- Install available firmware. Use the app to check for updates before relying on multiroom or stereo-pair features.
- Choose playback methods. Sign in to any supported services you use, or test Bluetooth, AirPlay, Google Cast or Connect options from a nearby device.
If you only want occasional playback and do not want to create an account, Bluetooth is the most straightforward route after the initial product is powered on. Network streaming, multiroom management and firmware updates remain tied to the app and network setup.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Software updates, replacement parts and serviceability
Bang & Olufsen’s support area lists Beosound A5 guides, replacement instructions for the cover and handle, firmware release notes, a technical sheet and repair instructions. The firmware page directs owners to the app to check for updates and records historical fixes involving Wi-Fi, multiroom discovery, playback and stereo-pair stability.
This documentation is a positive sign for ongoing support, but it does not prove that every repair is user-serviceable or that parts are always available in every country. Before buying a replacement cover, handle or power supply, confirm the exact A5 model and current regional availability. Keep the original documentation and packaging if you may use the advertised trial or need warranty service.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Design, materials and the premium-price question
The A5’s design is a major part of its proposition. WIRED and TechRadar both highlighted its distinctive appearance, while Bang & Olufsen frames the product around long-term design and sound. The wood and paper-weave elements can help it fit into a room more naturally than utilitarian plastic, but they also create the water-care limitation described above.
At $1,850 on the cited US page, the decision is not simply whether it produces enjoyable music. You are paying for the enclosure, materials, integrated battery, wireless platform, room-processing features, multiroom compatibility and the brand’s design approach. Independent reviewers regarded the price as a significant drawback, so the A5 should not be presented as a bargain or an automatic upgrade for everyone.
Who should buy it?
It makes sense for
- Listeners who want one substantial speaker that can move around the home without being permanently installed.
- People who value furniture-like design and premium materials as much as raw specifications.
- Households already using AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect or Bang & Olufsen multiroom.
- Buyers who can use the US trial and warranty terms, or equivalent local protections, to evaluate the purchase.
- Anyone comfortable setting up an app account and maintaining firmware.
Look elsewhere if
- You need a genuinely lightweight speaker for travel, hiking or frequent long-distance carrying.
- Your budget is intended to maximise sound per dollar rather than design and materials.
- You want to leave a speaker exposed to rain or regularly wash it down.
- You require guaranteed battery runtime rather than an “up to” manufacturer claim.
- You do not want to use a companion app or create an account for network setup.
How to judge the A5 against another speaker
Do not compare it on wattage or maximum SPL alone. A useful evaluation should include:
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- Sound character: listen for bass control, vocal clarity, treble balance and whether the presentation suits your room.
- Dispersion: determine whether you need broad, even coverage or a more directed listening position; T3’s review questioned how fully the A5 delivers its 360-degree promise.
- Size and carry weight: 3.7 kg is central to the A5’s usability.
- Battery testing: seek an independently measured runtime under stated conditions rather than assuming the 12-hour maximum.
- Streaming: confirm that your services and preferred control method are supported in your region.
- Weather and materials: check not only the IP rating but also warnings about wood and paper weave.
- Design value: decide whether the materials and appearance justify the premium in the room where you will live with the speaker.
Verdict: is the Beosound A5 worth it?
The Beosound A5 is worth considering as a luxury home speaker that happens to run on battery. Its four-driver architecture, Wi-Fi platform, multiroom options, app controls and distinctive construction give it a broader role than a basic Bluetooth box. Reviewers found its sound powerful and detailed, and its appearance unusually refined.
The trade-offs are equally clear. The 3.7 kg body limits true travel portability, the $1,850 US price is difficult to justify on value alone, the 12-hour figure is only an “up to” claim, and IP65 does not protect the wood and paper weave from careless exposure to water. Buy it when those compromises align with your priorities and you can use a suitable return policy to assess it in your own room. Skip it when low weight, low cost, carefree outdoor use or account-free setup matters more than design and networked features.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
