Logitech in India is your run-of-the-mill brand that sells keyboards, mice and other computer accessories. But you’ll be surprised to know that the same brand sells quality products under the name Ultimate Ears (UE) which are highly popular in countries like the US and the UK.
We wonder why Logitech never felt the need to introduce UE products in India before 2015. But the UE Boom Bluetooth speaker is now selling in the Indian market priced at Rs 14,999.
Is it really worth taking a look at the value that the UE Boom brings to the table?
Key Highlights: Logitech UE Boom
- Speaker Type: Bluetooth Wireless
- Weight: 544g
- Dimensions: 2.72x2.72x7.09
- Connectivity: microUSB 2.0
- Other Features: Android/iOS app support
- Price: Rs 14,999
What’s Good?
The Logitech UE Boom is the kind of Bluetooth speaker that can jazz up your table or any party place you’re heading to. The Boom works with Android as well as iOS smartphones, tablets and PCs just like any other wireless speaker. Available in green, purple and yellow with flashy dual-tone avatars, the Boom is more than just any old speaker lying around on the sidelines.
But let’s talk more about the sound quality on offer. It’s safe to say that the UE Boom can match the best in its segment and is probably better than a few. There’s enough bass power to keep you hooked onto the music and the audio quality leaves a lasting impression in most cases.
We tried playing all the popular genres on the Boom and much to our delight, the speaker has the audio prowess to become a party starter. Crisp classic tunes are melodious, hard-hitting metal sounds are as grungy as they’re meant to be and lastly, everyone’s favourite rock music has just enough beat and punch to ensure you never doubt the speaker for its size.
Another interesting aspect about the Boom is its ability to withstand water and dust conditions with ease. The speaker has been constructed keeping in mind users who are adventure seekers or just happen to be butter fingers.
Plus, you can also control the volume or play music from the smartphone with the help of the UE Boom app.
What’s Bad?
Bluetooth speakers selling for Rs 14,999 end up in the high-end space with the likes of Bose, JBL and Creative. The fact that the UE Boom is a 2-year-old model is an issue for us especially considering they have five products selling globally, but just this one in India.
Also, we weren’t totally impressed with the audio clarity at high levels. While this comes as baggage with most portable speakers, if you’re spending upwards of Rs 13,000, the room for compromise is close to nil – we expect a lot more than just supporting apps and making the product water-resistant.
Why Buy It?
The Logitech UE Boom has the right set of features for users like us in India with water-resistance being one of the biggest selling points. We like the sound quality and audio clarity levels and the speaker’s bass output is decent enough to punch above its weight.
However, when you consider that the UE Boom’s entry in India is late by over 2 years, the product’s price of Rs 14,999, relative to newer devices, just doesn’t fit right.
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)