JBL PartyBox Stage 320: music, lights and a place for the microphone

Quiet mode lets you reduce surrounding noise when you want to settle into music, while Aware mode makes it easy to hear more of what is happening around you. Physical buttons put playback within reach without requiring a look at your phone, and adjustable EQ lets you shape the sound to your taste. The included audio cable adds a useful wired option for devices with a compatible headphone jack.

The useful extra is the app: EQ presets let you change the sound balance instead of settling for one factory tuning. You can also customize controls around the actions you use most, and the audible Find My Earbuds feature helps locate a misplaced earbud nearby. A compact charging case and attached lanyard make the pair easy to keep with your daily essentials.

A high power rating makes this more useful than a basic phone-only lead when your charging setup includes a laptop. The braided construction suits a cable that is handled and packed regularly. Its strongest role is dependable charging across compatible devices, rather than fast file transfers or connecting a monitor.