If you are thinking of getting a Bose SoundDock to use outside then choose the Bose Portable. This model can run on re-chargeable battery power for up to 3 hours, has a carry handle and weighs 5.23lbs. The closest comparison in Bose SoundDocks is the series 11 which weighs 4.56 lbs but has no handle and doesn’t run on batteries. Both models produce strong enough sound for them to be played outside without problems. Neither model is waterproof.
The larger and more expensive, at $599, Bose SoundDock 10 weighs in at 18 lbs and so clearly not intended for carrying around. If you want the absolute best sound in a speaker dock and are not worried about portability then choose this larger Bose. It is the only one that has the advanced waveguide technology and it produces the best sound (“…enables full-bodied sound, especially in lower registers, for more natural-sounding bass and percussion instruments” Bose). Incidentally it is also the only model that will play iPod videos on TV.
So if you will be listening indoors and in one place in your home then go for the SoundDock 10 and get the best sound. But if you want to carry the Bose with you, even from room to room, then the Bose Portable $399, my suit your needs better. Just depends on how important sound quality is to you. The portable has good sound quality but the larger Bose 10 Speaker dock has higher quality sound.
