First Impressions

The RuggedTec RoqBloq comes in one of the nicest retail packages we’ve seen in a while. Far from your standard fair, the flip out lid closes solidly with a magnetic tab and unfurls to expose the product in tightly trimmed foam. Possibly not the most eco-friendly packaging, but well executed and befitting the elegantly ruggedized product within.

Features

The RuggedTec RoqBloq presents a svelte profile when compared to the other product in our test, the ECOXBT. Dimensionally, it’s about half the size of that other device and weighs in just under 12 ounces. That’s a great boon if you’re looking to keep the weight out of a backpack or something similar.

The RoqBloq, however, is not nearly as robust as the ECOXBT. Its water resistance rating is IPX3 which means it can stand up to spraying water. Don’t try to submerge this unit, in other words. Dust resistance is more the RoqBloq’s forte.

Specs
Dimensions: 6 in x 2 in x 2.5 in
Weight: 11 oz
Range: 10-12 ft
Water resistance rating: IPX3

The RoqBloq was a little problematic in the pairing department. It worked with iPods, iPads and Android phones easily at first. But after those initial pairings, the secondary attempt required a complete repairing. In fact, we needed to tell our iPod to “forget” the RoqBloq and start all over to get it to reconnect. Also we were unsuccessful at pairing the product with a Bluetooth-equipped Windows 8 PC. The PC could see it but was unable to pair after numerous attempts. It’s a bummer but not a deal breaker for us.

Controls are a little cryptic and dual function The Play/Pause button is also the Power function. The phone symbol answers a paired smartphone and does a mode change. The Plus and Minus symbols both enable track switching and increase/decrease volume.

Fit

The RuggedTec RoqBloq did an admirable job for a small single speaker design at producing ample audio quality. It fell short of the ECOXGEAR ECOXBT with a slightly tinny sound and less robust bass. When connected to an audio source via the mini jack, we noticed some low-end hiss but that was eliminated as we turned up the volume.

Bluetooth range was a little underwhelming. We were able to move our Apple devices out to 10-12 feet. Wave the source device around and connections started to break up in that range.

Final Verdict

The RuggedTec RoqBloq is a nice little Bluetooth speaker. The compact design and easy-on-the-wallet price make it a serious contender for those who place a premium on size and weight. The audio quality isn’t the best around, but it’s not bad either. If you’re in the market for a product that won’t break the bank, check out the RuggedTec RoqBloq.

Thanks for reading another outdoor gear review from GearGuide. And thanks to RuggedTec for providing product for this review.