IKEA Launches $59.99 Badkruka Bluetooth Speaker With Optical Input

IKEA recently launched a wireless Bluetooth speaker called the Badkruka in the US market, priced at $59.99. Compared to the $10 Kallsup mini speaker that debuted at CES 2026 earlier this year, the Badkruka is a clear step up in both size and functionality — though its positioning has shifted from portable entertainment to fixed home use.

From Mini Portable to Desktop Speaker

The Badkruka follows the square design language IKEA has been using across its recent audio lineup, and it shares a visual resemblance to the compact, colorful Kallsup introduced earlier this year. But the two products take very different approaches: the Kallsup prioritizes small size, portability, and a low price point, with a built-in rechargeable battery suited for on-the-go use. The Badkruka, on the other hand, stands nearly seven inches tall (approximately 18 cm), making it better suited for a desk or a fixed spot at home.

One notable design choice is that the Badkruka does not include a rechargeable battery. It requires a continuous power source, meaning it can't be taken outside for casual portable use. This trade-off reinforces IKEA's intent to position it as a stationary home audio device rather than a companion for outdoor or mobile scenarios.

Optical Input Expands Connectivity Options

The biggest differentiator between the Badkruka and IKEA's previous Bluetooth speakers at this price point is the addition of an optical input. This type of connection is uncommon on portable Bluetooth speakers and is more typically found on TVs, home theater systems, and audio receivers.

The optical input allows the Badkruka to connect directly to a TV or other devices with optical audio output, effectively serving as a simple external speaker. For users looking to improve their TV's built-in audio on a budget — without investing in a soundbar or a full home audio system — this is a practical option. It also extends the Badkruka's use cases well beyond the typical phone and tablet pairing of a standard Bluetooth speaker.

Optical audio (also known as TOSLINK or S/PDIF optical) transmits digital audio signals via light pulses, offering better noise isolation than analog 3.5mm connections and maintaining a higher signal-to-noise ratio. It's also one of the most common audio output ports on TVs and set-top boxes — many budget TVs don't include HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel), but almost all retain an optical audio output. The Badkruka's optical input therefore covers a large segment of users with older or entry-level TVs that can't connect external speakers via HDMI ARC. It's worth noting that optical audio supports up to PCM stereo or Dolby Digital 5.1 compressed audio, but cannot carry lossless multi-channel formats like Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD — a limitation that poses no real bottleneck for a stereo Bluetooth speaker like the Badkruka.

IKEA's Audio Pricing Strategy

From the $10 Kallsup to the $59.99 Badkruka, it's clear that IKEA is building out an audio product line that spans different price points and use cases. The affordable mini model attracts impulse buyers and those with portable needs, while the mid-range model targets home users who want a larger form factor and more flexible connectivity.

IKEA has long been adept at entering the consumer electronics market at accessible price points, and its audio lineup follows the same logic. The Badkruka isn't aimed at audiophiles, but its $59.99 price tag combined with optical input gives it a solid footing in the budget home audio market.

Wrap-Up

The Badkruka represents an expansion and upgrade of IKEA's Bluetooth speaker lineup: a larger body, a fixed-use orientation in place of a battery, and an optical input that's rarely seen at this price — together forming a clear set of differentiators. It doesn't chase portability or audiophile-grade sound quality, but instead targets home users who want more flexible connectivity and louder output on a tight budget. For IKEA shoppers, it's yet another affordable piece of consumer electronics that stays true to the brand's utilitarian ethos.