Deal | Waterproof EasySMX VKF2PRO Bluetooth speaker is big on volume and small on size

(April 11, 2022 update: EasySMX has sent us a replacement speaker which would exhibit none of the high-pitched issues we experienced on our original review unit. The issue appears to be unique to our unit and not a widespread problem.)

Amazon is currently shipping the portable EasySMX VKF2PRO for just $42 USD. Alternatively, users can purchase directly from the manufacturer for $39 USD after applying the coupon code 'Notebookcheck' at checkout. The manufacturer has sent us a unit for our honest impressions.

Pairing the speaker to a smartphone or laptop is an easy step. Users simply turn on the speaker and wait for the circular lights to flash blue and red to indicate that the unit is in pairing mode. Once paired, the lights will begin cycling in a wider variety of colors. Their behavior can be adjusted between different preset modes via one of the dedicated buttons on top of the unit.

Speaking of the dedicated buttons, they are unfortunately our least favorite aspect of the VKF2PRO. Not only are they small and somewhat difficult to press, but they are also dark and difficult to see. For a portable speaker with RGB lights, it's a shame that the buttons haven't gotten the same level of attention.

Another issue we encountered with our unit relates to a high-pitched whine during music playback. Though not particularly loud, it is noticeable enough to be distracting during music playback at lower volume settings. The problem would occur when connected to either AUX or Bluetooth. We highly recommend checking for this after purchasing to make sure that the unit is not defective.

Beyond our two major complaints above, the VKF2PRO is at least a well-built chassis that can survive more than a few bumps and bruises while outdoors or on the go. Audio quality is decent for the size and relatively loud at up to 97.5 dB(A) at full volume compared to 80 to 90 dB(A) on most laptops.

Specifications:

• 1 percent THD
• <3.5 hour charge time
• IPX7 water proofing
• Up to 10 hour playtime
• 16 discrete volume levels
• 206 x 83 x 50.5 mm
• Bluetooth 5.0
• 2250 mAh
• 18 RGB LEDs, 5 shift modes