IKEA continues to expand its consumer electronics portfolio with the launch of Badkruka, a compact Bluetooth speaker designed for indoor use and positioned as an affordable alternative to other more expensive wireless audio products.

Continuing IKEA’s push into low-cost audio, the new speaker is part of a growing range of Bluetooth speakers from the Swedish company, including the ultra-cheap Kallsup. 

Compared to Kallsup, Badruka is instead a larger and more capable offering, with a conventional cube design and made from plastic and polycarbonate.

The Badkruka speaker is capable of delivering 25 watts of total power through a dedicated tweeter and woofer. IKEA says the speaker is designed to provide clear and powerful sound for everyday listening around the home.

Unlike many Bluetooth speakers positioned around portability and outdoor use, IKEA has designed the Badkruka primarily as an indoor product. Its name “Badkruka” refers to someone who is reluctant to bathe outdoors, literally translating to a “bath-coward”, in reference to its indoors-only preference. 

The speaker features physical controls on its top panel, including a Spotify Tap button giving users quick access to their Spotify library. 

Connectivity includes Bluetooth, an optical input and a 3.5mm auxiliary connection, so there is flexibility beyond wireless if preferred or needed. The inclusion of optical and analogue inputs could also make the Badkruka suitable for connecting to other home entertainment equipment. 

It’s also possible to connect two Badkruka speakers together to create a stereo pair. Users can alternatively employ multi-speaker mode, allowing multiple units to be linked for a larger, room-filling listening experience.

The speaker is available in pink and black and has launched at €50 in Europe and $60 in the US. An Australian price or local launch date for the Badkruka has not yet been confirmed.