Great For Limited Spaces, But Lacks Deep Bass
If you’re someone who needs an outdoor audio solution, but you’re limited on installation space, the Bose 251 may be exactly what you need. These distinct patio speakers impressed me in a lot of ways, but like everything, there are some caveats, especially if you’re looking for deep bass.
Key Takeaways:
- The Bose 251 is a top-tier outdoor speaker, with clear, well-balanced sound tailored for open-air environments.
- The five-year warranty gives peace of mind.
- While not a bass monster, it offers more than enough punch for most outdoor uses, including movies, parties, and background music.
- Best used outdoors or in semi-enclosed spaces, where its tuning can truly shine.
Build Quality & Weather Resistance: Rugged, lightweight, and available in multiple colors
When I first got my hands on the Bose 251, I was surprised by how durable they felt. I was expecting them to feel a little plastic given that they’re rather light speakers, especially when compared to something like Polk’s Atrium series. Instead, they feel well-constructed and as though they’re built to last.
Having the ability to go with a black or white model is useful for matching them to your home, but since they’re such inobtrusive speakers, I didn’t mind going with the black version. But in hindsight, I should probably have gone with the white, as even in their compact form, when the black shell is installed against a light wall, and isn’t covered by the eaves, it still draws the eye in a bit too much.
As one would hope for outdoor speakers, they have weather protection and have been tested against water, dust, and saltwater too, making them safe for coastal residents.
The limited 5-year warranty is a nice addition, especially since it spans 3 years longer than many competitor models. Who doesn’t love having that as a safety net?
Connectivity: The 251 Keeps It Simple, Without Native Wi-Fi
If you’re confused about whether the Bose 251 has native Wi-Fi support, you’re not the only one. Incorrect Amazon listings have resulted in a spread of broad misinformation. These speakers are commonly sold in a bundle called the SoundTouch Outdoor Speaker System, which has Wi-Fi support through the included amplifier.
I initially thought they were Wi-Fi when I purchased them from Amazon too, and was a bit disappointed to find that they were wired only. Thankfully, I could just hook them up with my wireless amp to sort that problem out.
So if you decide to go with a pair of these speakers, make sure you buy an appropriate amp that has wireless support. In 2025, you certainly don’t want to be stuck in the wired past.
Installation Process: Pretty Straightforward
Installation is always the most challenging part, but the process is relatively straightforward with the Bose 251. They come with the mounting brackets included, along with screws. You won’t get any speaker wires though, these need to be purchased separately.
I went with a CL3 16-gauge at 30 feet, since my amp sits near my speakers. If you need more than 50 feet of wire, go with a 14-gauge instead.
Sound Quality: Clear, Balanced Sound That Lacks Deep Bass
Straight off the bat, if you’re looking for a basshead you’re probably not going to appreciate how these speakers sound. Although there is a punchy mid-bass, there isn’t a lot of deep bass which can make them sound a little tight.
This isn’t a problem for audiophiles and those who appreciate a flat, balanced sound. Although not exactly studio monitor levels of balance, there’s no particular frequency that comes across as jarring or missing in the mix, other than those deep lows.
So why the limited bass? Well, that’s just par for the course with these 5.25″ woofers, which always tend to sound punchy rather than particularly deep and expansive.
I’ve found that these speakers work really well when hooked up to an outdoor TV, but the lack of bass makes action movies fall flat and lack the immersion that puts one at the center of the action.
Unlike most patio speakers which use a woofer and then a smaller tweeter, these speakers have 2x 2.5″ full-range drivers and a single 5.25″ woofer. The result is a speaker that’s well-suited for outdoor spaces but doesn’t sound great indoors. They’re still fine to use in semi-enclosed areas though.
Power Handling: And What Amps To Use With Them
The Bose 251 has a power handling of 10-100W per channel at 8 ohms impedance, showing their efficiency. They also have a sensitivity of 88dB/1W, meaning that with 100W peak power, they can reach up to around 108 dB in volume, which is pretty damn loud for such a compact speaker. Efficiency is certainly a highlight.
The world is your oyster when selecting an appropriate amp, make sure it has a power handling that matches. I’d recommend one of these amps:
Onkyo TX-8220 (100W amp with Bluetooth) for those on a budget
Bose Music Amplifier (125W @ 8 Ohms) for wireless streaming (Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast )
Value and Alternatives
These aren’t cheap speakers, with a retail price of around $400. But they sit snugly amongst many of its competitors, like the Polk Atrium 6. The way I see it, if you’re looking for a more neutral sound and favor compact builds that are easy to place in challenging locations, then the Bose 251 is a great choice. But if you’re looking for more of a party sound with stronger, deeper bass, then I’d say to go with the Atrium 6.
Conclusion
Overall, I can recommend the Bose 251 environmental speakers. I now use them in my outdoor pool area and believe they hold up great for being nearly 20 years old. Pair them with a high-quality amplifier to bring the system into the modern age with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support, and enjoy quality outdoor sound.
I purchased my first set 15 years ago. One speaker is starting to sound distorted. I love the sound and volume on my back deck and yard. I have purchased a newer set and awaiting their arrival. Will send I my original set to Bose for refurbishing.