What makes CMF by Nothing speakers different?
CMF by Nothing’s portable wireless speakers stand out with a playful milk carton-inspired design, setting them apart in a crowded market where most options are variations on the same dark plastic box. Both the Speaker S and the larger Speaker M are available in a range of bright and neutral colorways, but what truly makes them unique is the removable and customizable front panel. If you own a 3D printer, you can even create your own panels or knobs to match your space or your style.
How do Speaker S and Speaker M compare?
Both models share Bluetooth 6.0 for rock-solid wireless connections up to 100 meters and support dual device pairing, allowing you to switch between two sources without repeated setup. Stereo Mode is available for true left-right separation with two identical units, while Party Mode lets you connect multiple CMF (and even compatible non-CMF) speakers together for bigger sound coverage.
The key differences come down to size, power, and purpose:
- Speaker S: Compact and lightweight, designed for easy packing and on-the-go use. It uses a 45mm driver and two passive radiators, best suited for personal listening, travel, or small gatherings. Think background music at a picnic or on a hotel nightstand.
- Speaker M: Larger, with a broader frequency range (down to 60Hz), making it more suitable for room-filling audio at home parties or outdoor get-togethers. The bigger size and driver mean more impactful bass and louder output, but also a less "slip-in-your-bag" profile.
Battery life, charging, and real-world usability
Both speakers claim up to 18 hours of playback at moderate (50%) volume with the extra bass mode active, which is competitive at their price points. Quick charging gives you about an hour of playtime after just 10 minutes—a handy perk if you forget to plug in. Expect slightly less in real-world use at higher volume or with bass-boosted tracks, but still plenty for a full day’s use.
No IP rating or ruggedness claims are mentioned, so if you need a speaker for beach or poolside use, consider alternatives like the JBL Flip series (which adds water resistance and similar battery life).
Customization, pricing, and value against competitors
Customizability is a highlight: swappable panels in a range of colors, plus the option for DIY 3D-printed upgrades, make these far more personalizable than any rival at this price. With Speaker S launching at $59/£49 and Speaker M at $109/£99, they fall at the budget-to-midrange of the Bluetooth speaker space.
In this segment, obvious alternatives include the Anker Soundcore 3 (similar price and battery life, more rugged but less customizable) and the JBL Clip 4 or Flip 6 (pricier but with stronger branding, water resistance, and slightly fuller sound profiles). CMF speakers offer less “boom” than the JBL Flip line, but stand out for their style and device-hopping convenience.
Should you buy the CMF by Nothing S or M? Key takeaways
Both are good fits for buyers prioritizing style, customization, and the option to switch between devices quickly. Speaker S is best if you need portability for travel or small rooms. Speaker M makes sense for those needing more volume for parties or larger spaces, accepting a slightly higher cost and size.
If your top concern is maximum volume, bass, or ruggedness for outdoors, speakers from JBL, Anker, or Sony might serve you better. But if visual appeal, playful design, and easy multi-device use are what matter most, the CMF by Nothing lineup is a fresh, affordable alternative worth considering.