According to the source review from Tom's Guide, the CMF Speaker M is a visually distinctive and highly waterproof portable speaker that provides good sound quality overall, though it may not satisfy listeners seeking powerful bass or extended battery life.
- Whimsical milk carton design with IP68 waterproofing
- Good sound for casual listening, weaker on heavy tracks
- Battery life and price may not suit all buyers
Product angle
The CMF Speaker M, as highlighted by Tom's Guide, introduces a fresh aesthetic with its milk carton-inspired form factor and color variety that includes turquoise and orange shades, making it a standout in a market filled with conventional black or white speakers. It supports Bluetooth 6.0 with AAC, SBC, and LC3 codecs, enabling reliable wireless connectivity and multi-speaker pairings through the Nothing X app. The IP68 rating ensures the speaker is both waterproof and dustproof, suitable for beach and outdoor use, enhancing its appeal for active lifestyles.
While the speaker excels in design and durability, the review points out that its sound profile performs well for general listening but falters with bass-heavy tracks, which might disappoint audiophiles. The companion app contributes to user convenience by allowing quick customization. However, the battery life does not lead its class, suggesting limited use on long trips or extended outdoor sessions without access to charging.
Best for / avoid if
This speaker is best suited for users who value unique, eye-catching design combined with waterproof toughness for environments like beaches or showers. It's ideal for casual music listeners who appreciate decent sound and portability but do not require powerful bass or marathon battery endurance. The compact size and included handle make it practical for travel and small spaces, differentiating it from more generic portable speakers.
Conversely, those who prefer deep bass response or longer battery life for all-day use might find the CMF Speaker M lacking. Budget-conscious buyers looking for the best price-to-performance ratio might also explore other options, given the critique of the product's pricing relative to its limitations.
Pricing and alternatives to check
The CMF Speaker M is positioned at a mid-range price point that might be a tough consideration given its battery limitations and bass performance. It competes with other affordable portable speakers such as the EarFun UBoom L and Tribit XSound Go, which are noted for their practical designs and respectable sound quality yet lack the whimsical styling of the M. For those prioritizing ultimate portability, models like the JBL Go 5 or CMF Speaker S are lighter and may suit tighter travel needs.
Besides price, the speaker is comparable to higher-end models like the JBL Xtreme 5 in terms of IP68 waterproofing, though those models generally offer more powerful sound and longer battery life at a premium. Buyers weighing design, durability, and sound should consider these factors and test alternatives where possible to ensure the best fit for their personal preferences.