Xiaomi speaker for 349 CZK is coming to Czechia. You'll appreciate it on every trip

During the summer, in addition to a power bank, a Bluetooth speaker will also come in handy – whether on trips, in the garden, or by the pool. When Xiaomi officially introduced the compact model Bluetooth Speaker Essential in February, we then estimated its price for the European market to be around four hundred crowns. However, the reality will ultimately be even more pleasant: the new product is starting to appear at the first Czech retailers for 349 CZK, placing it among the most affordable portable speakers on our market.

A tiny device weighing one apple

The Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Essential features a rounded design with the upper half wrapped in a fine textile mesh, which provides a pleasant tactile feel while protecting the internal components. The speaker measures 98 × 46 × 130 mm and weighs approximately 200 grams, so you can easily put it in a backpack or hang it by its strap. Xiaomi itself compares the new product to the weight of one apple.

The color scheme combines a matte textile surface with a glossy accent strip, and the black version features an orange strap, while the green variant opts for a more uniform look. Both colors will arrive on the market simultaneously.

Five watts and bass support

Inside the compact body is a single 1.5-inch full-range speaker with 5 W of power, complemented by a large passive radiator for better low-frequency transmission. Xiaomi also mentions a bass boost function for enhanced bass. Naturally, one cannot expect miracles from a speaker of this size and price point – the volume will be rather lower, and the sound quality corresponds to its category, but as an upgrade over integrated phone or laptop speakers, it makes sense.

Bluetooth 6.0 and pairing up to ten units

From a connectivity perspective, the speaker uses Bluetooth 6.0, which promises fast pairing and stable transmission. An interesting feature is the possibility of stereo pairing two speakers to create left and right channels, or synchronized playback of up to 10 units simultaneously. Simply press the Bluetooth button on each of them three times, and the devices will pair automatically.

Xiaomi speaker for 349 CZK is coming to Czechia. You'll appreciate it on every trip Adam Kurfürst News Adam Kurfürst News

The speaker can also be connected via USB-C to a computer or tablet. It also features a built-in microphone for hands-free calling with the option to answer a call with a single button. What is missing, however, is support for the Xiaomi Home app or voice assistants – Xiaomi explicitly confirms that this model does not support Wi-Fi connection, app, or voice control. It is purely a simple Bluetooth speaker.

Ten hours of playback and rain resistance

According to Xiaomi, the built-in 1,000mAh battery should last up to 10 hours of playback at 40% volume. At maximum volume, the battery life drops to approximately 2.5 hours, so with realistic expectations, it will last for one full day of outdoor activities. Charging occurs via USB-C at 5 V/1 A, and a full charge takes about two hours. Important note: neither the cable nor the adapter are included in the package, so you will need to use your own accessories.

For outdoor use, IP66 certification is important, allowing the speaker to withstand dust and light rain. Xiaomi, however, warns that this is not professional waterproofing, and the device should not be charged in a humid environment or submerged in water. Compared to its Chinese predecessor, the Redmi Bluetooth Speaker 2, which offered IP67 and could withstand immersion up to one meter, this is a slight step back.

Who is this speaker an interesting choice for?

At 349 CZK, the Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Essential has a clearly defined place – it’s an inexpensive portable speaker for someone who doesn’t need loud sound for a big party but would welcome a compact device for a backpack on trips, for garden seating, or for coffee on the terrace. It will also be appreciated by those who want to pair two units into a stereo pair – for less than 700 CZK, you get a decent enhancement for work or listening at home.

Conversely, if you are looking for more powerful sound for a barbecue with ten people, high-quality bass reproduction, or perhaps water resistance for swimming in a pool, this new product will not be suitable for you. The features also lack app support or a voice assistant, so if you are aiming for integration into a smart home, you should rather opt for more expensive models like Xiaomi Sound Outdoor or one of the speakers with Xiaomi HyperOS Connect.

In the price category up to 400 crowns, the Bluetooth Speaker Essential doesn’t have many well-known competitors. Branded alternatives like JBL Go 4 start at around 800 CZK, while cheap “no-name” models usually stop at Bluetooth 5.0 and weaker protection. Xiaomi here combines the latest Bluetooth 6.0 and decent features at a price that many brands will have to work hard to match.

Would you buy the Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Essential at this price?

Sources: Xiaomi, own