I have always ascribed to the philosophy that if I’m going to listen to something, I require it to reproduce the One True Sound. In other words, as close to the original sound as possible. And I listen to music literally all day, sometimes all night also. I don't consider myself an "audiophile", a term that is overused, but I am extremely discerning and won't tolerate a poor speaker for more than a couple of seconds.Bluetooth speakers by definition are a compromise and will never be a substitute for a Real Sound System, but some manufacturers perform a lot better than others. And it is an undeniable fact that Bluetooth and wireless speakers are getting far better.In the last four years alone, I have handled, listened to, tested and experienced hundreds of Bluetooth speakers and have written quite a few reviews. (so have millions of other people, hang on I'll get to the point) I bought a lot of them. Paid money. Some over $500.I will rarely mention competitors' products but might "hint" at something.Other reviewers have made excellent observations and comments, and I will simply add my own, while trying to cover things that haven't been mentioned.For some reason, I have never purchased UE products, but I'm aware of them and they usually get great reviews. In retrospect, I probably have ignored them based on the price.This is a "real good" speaker, but I have to say that for the price, I have certainly heard better speakers for less or comparable prices.The biggest problem is a lack of bass response that other speakers can provide for the same or less money. I realize that with 1.5748" (40mm) drivers it's impossible to provide low frequency sound, but I will simply choose another speaker to get it. Having typed that, the bass that this speaker does provide is impressive for its size. At least comparable to similar "name brand" speakers in this class.The clarity of high frequency sounds and vocals is outstanding, and the mids are very good.As far as the "360° sound" claim is concerned, you can definitely hear a difference when one of the two side drivers is pointed at you.The default EQ sounds best (to me) by a HUGE margin. I can't imagine anyone liking the "outdoor" mode, it just removes any of the small amount of bass that is present. Although it makes the speaker noticeably louder, the sound is intolerable. I'll probably never press that button again. Putting it on the bottom out of sight out of mind was a good idea.The USB-C charging port is really buried in the housing, not sure why they did that.I realize the lanyard loop is stretchy, but I can barely get a finger in the thing without pulling it out a bit. Be nice if it was just a bit larger.I'm glad to see that money was spent on sound quality and no silly lights which I usually turn off.Controls are easy to use and function well.Pairing and other sounds are reasonable, and not the obnoxiously loud noises that other speakers make for some ridiculous reason.I did not test battery life or water resistance. I never get my speakers wet, and I have ways around battery life.I can't comment on longevity at this point of course, but that price may reflect quality that will last for many years, or at least I would like to think so.Personally, I would pass on this speaker (and that probably explains why I have for years) because I have heard and own speakers that sound FAR BETTER for the same or less in price. If you NEED a very small speaker, then this is an item to consider.