The LG XBOOM Grab by will.i.am is part of LG’s new generation of portable Bluetooth speakers developed in collaboration with the artist and producer. Positioned in the highly competitive mid-range portable speaker market, the XBOOM Grab aims to combine durability, portability, intelligent audio enhancements, and long battery life in a compact package.
With an emphasis on outdoor usability and AI-assisted sound tuning, the speaker competes directly with popular models such as the JBL Flip series and Sony’s portable Bluetooth offerings. After examining its design, performance, features, and value proposition, the XBOOM Grab emerges as a capable all-rounder, though not without a few compromises.
Design and Build Quality
One of the XBOOM Grab’s strongest attributes is its physical design. The speaker adopts a cylindrical form factor that feels familiar yet refined. Wrapped in durable fabric mesh with reinforced rubberized ends, it balances modern aesthetics with practical durability. At approximately 700 grams (1.5 pounds), it remains portable enough for everyday travel while still feeling substantial in hand.
A standout feature is the inclusion of adjustable elastic straps that allow the speaker to be attached to bicycles, backpacks, railings, or other objects. This adds a level of versatility that many competing speakers lack.
Durability is another major selling point. The XBOOM Grab carries an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning it can withstand exposure to dust, rain, and temporary submersion in water. LG also states that the speaker has passed seven military-standard durability tests covering conditions such as vibration, shock, rain, and temperature exposure.
The integrated LED lighting strip adds visual flair without being overly flashy. Through the companion app, users can customize lighting effects to match their mood or music.
Overall, the design successfully combines ruggedness, portability, and contemporary styling.
Performance
The XBOOM Grab uses a 2-way speaker configuration consisting of:
- One 80 x 45 mm racetrack woofer
- One 16 mm dome tweeter
- Dual passive radiators
This setup is designed to provide a fuller sound than many compact portable speakers.
In everyday listening, the speaker delivers energetic and engaging audio. Bass response is strong, particularly with the default Bass Boost tuning. Pop, hip-hop, electronic music, and modern rock tracks benefit from the extra low-end presence.
However, the default tuning can sometimes overwhelm the midrange frequencies, causing vocals and instruments to sound slightly recessed. Switching to the Standard EQ setting significantly improves balance and clarity. Users willing to spend a few minutes adjusting the EQ through the app can achieve a noticeably more refined sound signature.
The dedicated tweeter contributes clear treble performance, helping vocals and higher-frequency details remain distinct. At moderate listening levels, the speaker sounds warm and surprisingly spacious for its size.
At very high volumes, performance becomes less consistent. Some reviewers and users report increased distortion and reduced balance when volume exceeds roughly 50–70 percent. While this is not unusual for speakers in this category, audiophiles may notice the limitations.
For casual listening, outdoor gatherings, travel, and everyday use, sound quality remains competitive and enjoyable.
Battery Life
Battery performance is one of the speaker’s strongest selling points.
LG rates the XBOOM Grab for up to 20 hours of playback on a single charge using its 4,700mAh lithium-ion battery. Charging takes approximately three hours via USB-C.
Real-world battery life naturally varies depending on volume levels, lighting usage, and audio content. Under moderate listening conditions, users can reasonably expect all-day operation without needing a recharge. Independent testing and reviews generally support LG’s claim that battery endurance is among the better offerings in this size class.
For travelers, cyclists, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts, the extended battery life adds meaningful convenience.
Connectivity and Ports
The XBOOM Grab focuses primarily on wireless functionality.
Wireless Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Multipoint Bluetooth pairing
- Auracast support
- Smartphone voice assistant compatibility (Google Assistant and Siri via connected device)
- Speakerphone functionality for calls
Multipoint connectivity allows two devices to remain connected simultaneously, making it easy to switch between a phone and tablet or between different users. Auracast support is particularly noteworthy, enabling audio sharing with compatible speakers and devices.
Ports
The physical port selection is minimal:
- USB-C charging port
Notably absent are:
- 3.5mm auxiliary input
- USB audio playback
- Memory card support
Users who still rely on wired audio sources may find this limiting.
Software and Features
LG complements the hardware with a robust companion app available for both Android and iOS devices.
Key software features include:
AI Sound Optimization
The speaker incorporates adaptive audio technologies that analyze both the listening environment and content type to optimize sound output automatically. LG promotes this as part of its AI-enhanced listening experience developed alongside will.i.am.
In practice, results are mixed. Some users appreciate the automated adjustments, while others report that manual EQ customization delivers more noticeable improvements.
EQ Controls
Users can choose from multiple presets, including:
- Standard
- Sound Boost
- Clear Voice
- User-defined EQ
These options provide flexibility for different music genres and listening preferences.
Customizable Lighting
The built-in LED lighting strip can be customized through the app, adding personality without significantly impacting battery life.
Speaker Linking
Auracast and Party Link functionality allow users to connect multiple compatible speakers for a larger soundstage and party-oriented setups.
Price and Value
With a retail price of approximately $149.99 in the United States, the XBOOM Grab sits squarely in the premium portable speaker segment.
At this price point, buyers receive:
- Rugged IP67 construction
- Military-tested durability
- 20-hour battery life
- Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint support
- Auracast compatibility
- Companion app with AI features
- Customizable lighting
- Strong overall sound performance
The biggest challenge comes from fierce competition. Alternatives from JBL and Sony may offer slightly more refined audio performance in some situations. However, LG counters with longer battery life, unique mounting straps, and a richer feature set.
For users who prioritize portability, durability, and versatility alongside good sound quality, the XBOOM Grab represents solid value.
LG XBOOM Grab by will.i.am – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Durable IP67-rated construction
- Passed multiple military-standard durability tests
- Excellent battery life (up to 20 hours)
- Convenient adjustable carrying and mounting straps
- Clear highs thanks to dedicated tweeter
- Bluetooth multipoint support
- Auracast compatibility
- Useful companion app with EQ controls
- Customizable LED lighting
- USB-C charging
Cons
- Bass-heavy default tuning may not appeal to everyone
- Sound quality can deteriorate at very high volumes
- No 3.5mm auxiliary input
- AI audio features provide limited real-world impact
- Companion app experience may feel overly complex for some users
- Slightly heavier than certain competitors
The LG XBOOM Grab by will.i.am is a thoughtfully designed portable Bluetooth speaker that prioritizes durability, battery life, and versatility without sacrificing sound quality. While it may not be the absolute best-sounding speaker in its price category, it delivers a well-rounded package that excels in outdoor use and everyday portability.
Its rugged construction, long battery endurance, customizable features, and practical mounting system help distinguish it from many rivals. Users seeking a dependable speaker for travel, cycling, camping, beach outings, or casual home listening will find plenty to like. Those focused solely on achieving the most refined audio reproduction may prefer some competing models, but for most buyers, the XBOOM Grab strikes an attractive balance between performance, features, and value.
