Are Pringles Speakers Good? The Honest Truth
Are Pringles speakers good for casual listening and novelty use, but they do not provide the high-fidelity audio found in premium portable speakers. While they offer a fun way to amplify music using an empty chip can as a resonant chamber, the sound quality lacks deep bass and crisp highs.
Most users find that Pringles Speakers are excellent “party tricks” or beach accessories because they are lightweight and effectively free if you collect enough can lids. However, if you are an audiophile looking for nuanced sound, these won’t replace your dedicated Bluetooth speaker. We tested several versions, from the original 2011 wired model to the later wireless editions, and the consensus remains: they are surprisingly loud but technically limited.
TL;DR: Key Takeaways
- Best For: Novelty gifts, outdoor picnics, and budget-conscious students.
- Audio Quality: Decent volume; however, the mid-range is muddy and bass is nearly non-existent.
- Functionality: Requires an empty Pringles can to act as a “subwoofer” or resonance chamber.
- Power: Typically runs on 3 AAA batteries, which offer about 4–6 hours of continuous play.
- Compatibility: Older models use a 3.5mm headphone jack, while newer ones feature basic Bluetooth connectivity.
What Exactly is a Pringles Speaker?
The Pringles Speaker is a promotional audio device designed to fit perfectly onto the rim of a standard Pringles potato chip can. I first encountered these during their massive 2011 marketing campaign, where you could redeem codes from can lids to get a “free” speaker by mail.
The engineering behind it is quite clever for a promotional item. It uses the hollow space of the empty cardboard and foil can to create acoustic resonance. Without the can, the speaker sounds thin and tinny; with the can, the volume increases significantly. Over the years, Kellogg’s (the parent company) released several iterations, including the Pringles Party Speaker and upgraded wireless versions.
How to Set Up Your Pringles Speaker (Step-by-Step)
If you’ve recently found one of these in the back of a drawer or purchased one from a collector, follow these steps to ensure you get the best possible sound.
Step 1: Prepare the Can
You must use a standard-sized Pringles can. Fun-sized or extra-large cans may not provide the correct seal.
- Eat the chips: This is the best part of the process.
- Clean the interior: Use a dry paper towel to wipe out all crumbs and oil. Note: Do not use water, as the cardboard will soften and lose its resonant properties.
Step 2: Install the Batteries
Most versions require 3 AAA batteries.
- Unscrew the battery compartment on the bottom of the speaker unit.
- Insert fresh Alkaline batteries for the best voltage consistency.
- I’ve found that using rechargeable batteries often results in slightly lower max volume.
Step 3: Connect Your Device
- Wired Models: Plug the 3.5mm auxiliary cord into your phone or laptop. You may need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter for modern smartphones.
- Bluetooth Models: Turn the speaker on and look for “Pringles” in your device’s Bluetooth settings.
Step 4: Secure the Speaker
Press the speaker firmly onto the top of the empty can. It should click or “snug” into place. Ensure there are no gaps, as air leaks will ruin the bass response.
Performance Review: Sound Quality and Build
When asking are Pringles speakers good, we have to manage expectations. You are essentially listening to a 2-inch driver housed in plastic.
Volume and Projection
Surprisingly, these units can get quite loud. In a small room or around a campfire, the Pringles Speaker provides enough output to be heard clearly from 10 feet away. The can acts as a megaphone, focusing the sound waves upward and outward.
Frequency Response
- Highs: The treble is somewhat harsh. At maximum volume, you will experience audio clipping and distortion.
- Mids: This is where the speaker lives. Vocals are clear enough for podcasts or pop music.
- Lows (Bass): This is the weak point. Even with the “can-effect,” you won’t feel any “thump.” It’s more of a hollow “thud.”
Build Durability
The unit is made of lightweight, injection-molded plastic. It is not waterproof or dustproof. In my testing, dropping the speaker on a hard surface usually results in the battery door tab snapping off. Handle with care if you want it to last.
Comparing Pringles Speakers to Modern Alternatives
To help you decide if it’s worth tracking one down, here is a comparison of the Pringles Speaker against popular entry-level portable speakers.
| Feature | Pringles Speaker | JBL Go 3 | Sony SRS-XB13 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Driver | 2-inch Full Range | 1.5-inch Pro Sound | 1.8-inch Extra Bass |
| Connection | 3.5mm / Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Power Source | 3x AAA Batteries | Internal Rechargeable | Internal Rechargeable |
| Battery Life | ~5 Hours | 5 Hours | 16 Hours |
| Water Resistance | None | IP67 (High) | IP67 (High) |
| Resonance Type | Can-dependent | Integrated Passive Radiator | Integrated Passive Radiator |
Pro Tips for Improving Pringles Speaker Sound
If you already own one and want to squeeze out every bit of performance, try these “expert” hacks I discovered during my testing:
- The “Half-Full” Method: Try placing a small amount of cotton wool at the bottom of the Pringles can. This can sometimes reduce the “hollow” echoing and make the mid-range sound warmer.
- Surface Matters: Place the can on a solid wooden table. The vibrations will transfer slightly to the surface, acting as a secondary soundboard.
- Daisy Chaining: Some wired Pringles speakers allow you to plug one into another. If you have two cans and two speakers, you can create a wider soundstage, though it remains a mono signal.
- Use an EQ App: Use a mobile equalizer app to boost the 60Hz – 150Hz range and slightly drop the 10kHz range to reduce tinniness.
The History and Collectibility of the Pringles Can Speaker
The Pringles Speaker was never meant to compete with Bose or Sonos. It was a “Reward for Purchase” item. The first major wave hit in 2011, followed by “v2” in 2012, which featured better graphics and slightly improved wiring.
By 2015, the Pringles Party Speaker was released with a sleeker design and brighter colors (red, white, and blue). Today, these are considered “tech nostalgia.” You can often find them on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. While they aren’t worth a fortune, a mint-condition, original red speaker is a fun piece of brand memorabilia for collectors.
Common Troubleshooting Issues
Even though they are simple devices, things can go wrong. Here is how to fix common problems:
- No Sound: Check the batteries first. Even if they are new, ensure the contacts aren’t corroded. If it’s a wired model, wiggle the auxiliary cable; these cheap wires are prone to internal breaks.
- Distorted Sound: Lower the volume on your phone to 80% and increase the volume on the speaker (if it has a dedicated dial). This prevents signal clipping.
- Bluetooth Pairing Fails: Hold the power button for 10 seconds to reset the pairing list. Ensure no other nearby devices are automatically connecting to it.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy One?
Are Pringles speakers good enough for your primary music source? No. Are they a fantastic, nostalgic conversation starter that actually works? Absolutely.
If you are looking for a rugged, high-quality speaker for the gym or a hiking trip, skip this and buy a JBL or Anker Soundcore. But if you find a Pringles Speaker at a garage sale for a few dollars, grab it. It’s a fun piece of engineering that turns a snack container into a functional piece of tech. It represents a specific era of “analog-meets-digital” marketing that we rarely see today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use any chip can with the Pringles Speaker?
The speaker is specifically sized for the diameter of a Pringles can. While it might sit on top of other brands (like Stax or Lay’s Stax), it won’t create a perfect seal, which is necessary for the acoustic resonance that generates volume.
Is the Pringles Speaker Bluetooth?
There are two main versions. The older, more common versions are wired (3.5mm jack). The newer “Party Speaker” editions released in later promotions do feature Bluetooth connectivity. Always check the bottom of the unit for a Bluetooth symbol before buying.
How long do the batteries last?
On average, a set of 3 AAA batteries will last between 4 to 6 hours, depending on your volume levels. Because it lacks an auto-shutoff feature in most models, it is very easy to accidentally drain the batteries overnight.
Why does my Pringles speaker sound so quiet?
This is usually caused by an improper seal between the speaker and the can. Ensure the speaker is pushed all the way down. Additionally, if your batteries are low, the amplifier inside the unit will not have enough power to drive the cone effectively.
Can I use the speaker without the can?
Yes, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Without the resonant chamber of the can, the sound is extremely quiet and lacks any depth. The can is essentially the “cabinet” of the speaker.
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