The JBL Xtreme 5 and the Marshall Stanmore IV cost the same so which one should you buy? I’ve tested both and here’s what I think

(Image credit: Erin Bashford / Nikita Achanta / Tom's Guide)

I test a lot of audio gear, including speakers. Not just Bluetooth speakers, of course: smart speakers, home speakers, you name it. Sometimes, when I test a speaker and notice that it costs the same as another speaker, my mind can't help but pit them against one another. I'm a tech reviewer, after all, that's my job! But what happens when one's a Bluetooth speaker and the other is a mains-powered home speaker?That's what happened this week when I reviewed the beautiful Marshall Stanmore IV. It's a mains-powered speaker and the latest addition to the fourth iteration of Homeline, Marshall's series of indoors home speakers. I awarded it 4.5-stars and the coveted Editor's Choice Award in my review. And you know what else received the same score?The JBL Xtreme 5. Though I didn't review it — my colleague Erin did — I've listened to it and I agree with everything she said in her review. The Xtreme 5 costs the same as the Stanmore IV: $399 in the U.S. Of course, the Xtreme 5 is a rugged speaker that can be used outdoors, which is quite the opposite of the Stanmore IV. So, if you had to choose one, which is right for you? I know which is right for me, so let's get into it.Outdoors or at-home listening?