Anker PowerConf A3301 Bluetooth Speakerphone: features, specs and who it suits

The Anker PowerConf A3301 is a compact, round speakerphone for conference calls. It connects to a phone over Bluetooth or to a computer by USB-C, and it is meant to let a small group share one device on a call instead of leaning toward a laptop. This page explains what its specifications mean and what to confirm before choosing a speakerphone.

Six microphones in a 360° array

Anker says the PowerConf has six microphones arranged in a 360° array, picking up voices from anywhere in a room for up to eight people. In general, a ring of microphones lets a speakerphone hear people sitting on every side of a table, rather than favouring one direction as a single microphone would. Sitting in the middle of the table typically gives the most even pickup.

Echo cancellation and noise reduction

Anker describes a custom DSP (digital signal processing) algorithm with real-time echo cancellation and up to 70 dB of de-reverberation, plus background noise reduction of 20 dB. Echo happens when a speakerphone's own speaker is picked up by its microphones and sent back to the other person. De-reverberation reduces the hollow sound of voices bouncing around a room. These features matter most in bare rooms with hard surfaces.

The speakerphone also balances voice volume automatically, which Anker says compensates for differences in distance, so a person at the far end of the table is not much quieter than one beside the unit.

Connecting by Bluetooth or USB-C

There are two ways to connect. Bluetooth 5 pairs with a phone, and a USB-C cable connects to a computer without installing drivers, according to Anker. The brand says it works with all popular online conferencing services. USB is generally the steadier choice for a computer on a desk, while Bluetooth is convenient for a phone or tablet.

Battery and charging other devices

A built-in 6,700mAh battery gives, per Anker, up to 24 hours of call time. The unit also includes Anker's PowerIQ technology, which the brand says can charge other devices through the speakerphone at optimized speeds. Using it as a charger will naturally draw down the battery.

Size and weight

The unit measures about 4.8 x 4.9 x 1.2 inches (roughly 12 x 12.5 x 3 cm) and weighs about 0.7 lb (around 320 g). That is small enough to carry in a laptop bag.

Who it suits

It suits home offices, small meeting rooms and people who travel and want better audio than laptop speakers. Rooms for more than the listed eight people may need a larger conference system.

What to check before you buy

• Condition: the listing describes this unit as renewed, so confirm what that means for condition, accessories and warranty terms.
• Room size: Anker rates pickup for up to eight people. Larger or very echoey rooms may need more.
• Connections: check that your computer has a USB-C port or that you have a suitable adapter.
• Platform: confirm that your meeting software lets you choose an external speaker and microphone.
• What's in the box: check which cable and accessories come with it.

The short version

• A portable round speakerphone with six microphones in a 360° array, rated for up to eight people.
• DSP echo cancellation, de-reverberation and noise reduction.
• Bluetooth 5 and USB-C connection, with no drivers needed on a computer, per Anker.
• 6,700mAh battery for up to 24 hours of calls, and it can charge other devices.
• About 4.8 x 4.9 x 1.2 inches and 0.7 lb; listed as renewed.

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