They deliver a ton of sound from packages that can weigh less than a pound: portable wireless speakers, small and light enough to carry in one hand from the kitchen to the patio, or from the car to your favorite beach (as long as music hasn’t been banned along with throwing footballs and having fun). We tested the latest models with rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth technology for cord-free music via phone, iPad or laptop. Letter grades are weighted heavily on sound quality but also take into account features, price and portability. A cool look? Why, that could earn the speaker a little extra credit. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)