Finding an affordable Bluetooth speaker isn’t difficult, but choosing one that balances portability, sound output, and useful features can be frustrating. Smaller speakers are convenient to carry but often struggle with bass and volume, while larger models take up more space. For everyday listening, the challenge is finding something that fits your needs without paying for unnecessary extras.
Price: $59
Where to Buy: Amazon,CMF
CMF, Nothing’s affordable technology brand, has launched its first portable Bluetooth speakers, the $59 Speaker S and $109 Speaker M. Both combine a milk carton-inspired design with removable front panels, Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C audio, IP68 dust and water resistance, and up to 18 hours of advertised battery life. The main choice is between the smaller Speaker S’s 10W full-range driver and the larger Speaker M’s 35W woofer-and-tweeter system.
CMF Speaker S: Compact and affordable
The Speaker S measures 130.5 × 85 × 44mm and weighs 334 grams, making it the easier option to carry. Its rectangular design includes a utility hook for attaching it to suitable equipment, while a removable front panel and multifunction control knob give it a distinctive appearance.
Inside is a 45mm full-range driver rated at 10W RMS, supported by two passive radiators that reinforce lower frequencies. CMF specifies a frequency response of 70Hz to 20kHz and includes an Ultra Bass setting for additional bass emphasis.
Its smaller driver and enclosure suggest less bass output than the Speaker M, although that remains to be confirmed through listening tests. However, its lightweight construction makes it practical for desks, bedrooms, travel, and smaller gatherings where portability matters more than maximum volume.
CMF Speaker M: More power for bigger spaces
The Speaker M measures 220 × 85 × 54mm and weighs 602 grams. It’s noticeably larger than the Speaker S, although an integrated handle makes it easier to carry between rooms or outdoor locations.
Its audio system includes a 70mm woofer rated at 25W RMS and a 16mm tweeter rated at 10W RMS, delivering 35W RMS combined output. CMF specifies a frequency response of 60Hz to 20kHz, extending slightly lower than the smaller model.
With a dedicated woofer, separate tweeter, and higher rated output, the Speaker M has more powerful audio hardware than the Speaker S. Its specifications suggest greater potential for higher volume and stronger bass, although actual sound performance will depend on placement, acoustics, and listening conditions.
Bluetooth 6.0 and flexible connectivity
Both speakers support Bluetooth 6.0, NFC pairing, Google Fast Pair, and Microsoft Swift Pair. Dual-device connectivity allows two compatible devices to remain connected, making it easier to alternate between a smartphone and laptop.
Both speakers also support USB-C audio, with Nothing claiming latency below 60 milliseconds. This wired connection may be useful for gaming or watching videos when Bluetooth delay becomes noticeable.
Stereo Mode connects two speakers of the same model to create separate left and right audio channels. Party Mode uses Auracast to share audio with multiple compatible speakers, including supported products from other manufacturers. However, not every Bluetooth speaker supports Auracast, so compatibility should be checked before purchasing additional units.
Customizable design and sound
Both models feature removable front panels and multifunction control knobs. CMF has released STL design files so owners can 3D-print custom panels, knobs, and other components.
The speakers come in Orange, Turquoise, White, and Dark Grey. Physical controls handle playback, volume, power, and connectivity, while the Nothing X app provides additional sound adjustments.
Users can choose Balanced, More Bass, More Treble, and Voice equalizer presets. Custom EQ, Ultra Bass, Wide Soundstage, and Night Mode offer further control, although their effectiveness depends on the speakers’ hardware and listening environment.
Battery life and water resistance
CMF advertises up to 18 hours of playback for both speakers, based on laboratory testing at 50% volume using AAC audio, Balanced EQ, and Ultra Bass. Actual battery life will depend on volume, settings, and listening conditions.
The Speaker S has a 2,600mAh battery that takes approximately 2.5 hours to recharge. The Speaker M uses a 4,900mAh battery and requires around three hours. Both support USB-C fast charging with a compatible 5V/3A or higher adapter, with CMF claiming up to one hour of playback from a 10-minute charge under specified test conditions.
Both models carry an IP68 rating, with specified freshwater immersion protection up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes under controlled conditions. This makes them suitable for environments where dust, rain, or splashes are concerns, although water resistance can deteriorate over time.
Price and availability
The CMF Speaker S and Speaker M launched on October 12, 2026, priced at $59 and $109 in the United States. Both are listed on Nothing’s official website, although availability may vary by color and region.
Buyers can find the CMF Speaker S and CMF Speaker M through Nothing’s official store. For $50 more, the Speaker M offers a larger two-driver audio system while retaining the same listed connectivity features.
Which CMF speaker should you buy?
The CMF Speaker S makes sense for buyers who prioritize portability, affordability, and everyday listening. Its compact construction and shared connectivity features make it suitable for desks, travel, and smaller spaces.
The Speaker M is better suited to listeners who want stronger output for larger rooms or gatherings. Its dedicated woofer, separate tweeter, and 35W rating suggest greater potential for louder playback and fuller bass, although its real-world performance will depend on the listening environment.
Price: $109
Where to Buy: Amazon, CMF
Both offer the same advertised battery life, connectivity options, and IP68 protection. On paper, the $59 Speaker S is the more portable, lower-cost option. The Speaker M’s extra $50 buys a larger enclosure and a dedicated woofer-and-tweeter system, but listening tests would be needed to establish how much better it sounds.
