70

Conclusion: Pass on it

Given the limited battery life of many portable Bluetooth speakers, a solar panel seems like an ideal addition. Unfortunately, although the Eton Rukus can indeed be charged by the sun, its other limitations make it less attractive as a portable speaker. Chief among these is its volume, which simply isn't loud enough for outdoor listening. It's also bulkier and heavier than most other portable speakers, weighing in at almost 5 pounds, while other speakers measure their weight in ounces.

Buy It:

$48.95

90-Day Price History

now
high
$48
low
$34

Critic reviews

7.3
7 reviews
  • Audio quality
    6.9
  • Design and form factor
    7.6
  • Durability
    9.4
  • Portability
    7.9

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User reviews

9.5
2 reviews
8.0
TechCrunch Jul 23, 2012

In my mind the Rukus Solar is a near-perfect outdoor device. It’s built to last and makes it easy to bring music outside. Even with the two curious oversights it’s a great device and well worth the $150 MSRP.

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7.0
Sound+Vision May 7, 2012

Obvious sonic and interface limitations aside, for an outdoor system, it’s more than adequate. The Eton Rukus Solar is a very clever product... With the Rukus, whenever the sun is shining and a party’s starting, you’re ready to roll.

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5.0
PC Mag Jul 25, 2012

The Eton Rukus Solar is a Bluetooth speaker crossed with a solar charger that delivers good, if quiet, audio quality and consistent power for your mobile devices, but the frequent signal drops are a nuisance.

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8.0
Mashable Apr 18, 2012

For the size, sound and price, nothing beats this sleek little number and creates an instant party wherever you are — especially without needing an outlet or batteries.

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9.0
TUAW Jul 16, 2012

The Etón Rukus Solar Bluetooth Sound System has a lot going for it -- modernistic design, photovoltaic power, good sound, and the ability to charge other devices. Frankly, I think this is one of the best-sounding Bluetooth speakers I've used.

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8.0
Digital Trends Jul 13, 2012

This isn’t an audiophile-grade product and it isn’t going to throw down the jams at your next raging party. But, for the passive listener, we can think of no more suitable passive outdoor speaker.

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7.0
Revision3 May 1, 2012

It does get the job done as far as living up to what it advertises. If you are looking for a speaker to just pick up and go this will get the job done without having to worry about battery life.

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9.0
vulcanoid vulcanoid

I bought these speakers because I have a big veranda and no socket to plug anything. Also I thought: nice opportunity to try out some solar appliances ... do they work? are they as flimsy as they seem to be? The Eton Rukus Solar does not look flimsy or disappoint! It's sleek and light. It has...

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10
IAmRicko IAmRicko

I feel as if the reviews dont do this justice. The solar panel on the top adds so much to a bluetooth speaker. Sound quality means nothing when the battery is dead. The battery lif is amazing, so much that I havent charged it in a month (plugged it into the wall). I had previously bought the bose...

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