We field tested the iHome iBT35 Waterproof + Shockproof Wireless Stereo Speaker during a weekend camping trip and it performed above our expectations. Here’s what we found.

Appearance

The iHome iBT35 is a relatively small speaker that is shaped like a rectangular box. The case color is black and it has blue accents. It's the blue accents that really visually define the case and makes it sharp looking.

Functionality

Battery life can be extended up to 8 hours by using the ECO battery saving mode. ECO mode is easily set by sliding the On/Off switch to the middle for ECO mode. We like ECO mode for a listening to a days worth of podcasts. Audiophiles might want to ignore the ECO mode as the volume and bass sounds are decreased in ECO mode. With the ECO mode turned off there is more bass and more projection. The iHome iBT35 can also function as a speakerphone which allows you to take phone calls via the built-in microphone, and we found this feature really fun when we were taking calls with the family at the campsite.

Ease of Use

The iHome worked great for us all weekend. The wireless Bluetooth is easy to pair. One small gripe is that there are two buttons to press for the speakerphone functionality--we'd rather that there be a one button toggle to start and end a call, but the start and end call buttons did work well.

Durability

The iHome iBT35 is a rugged speaker.  It is IP67 rated meaning that it's completely dust tight and waterproof for up to 1 meter/3 feet of water for 30 minutes. In our testing the iHome iBT35 can withstand a typical rain shower at a campsite. The case is sealed and feels heavy, and can withstand small drops from clumsy campers--which is great when you’re camping.

Value:

The iHome iBT35 is great value when compare it to other speakers on the market, and when you factor in the speakerphone functionality and the IP67 rating . The iHome iBT35 is $69.99 MSRP.