In the world of Bluetooth speakers, JBL is certainly one of the top names. The brand has a wide range of Bluetooth speakers that cater to almost all types of users. The JBL Flip 6, which is the latest addition to their lineup, is a compact, waterproof speaker that is highly portable. If you are in the market for a new Bluetooth speaker, do you go for the smaller JBL Flip 6, or do you go with a bigger speaker like the JBL Charge 5 that can also produce bigger sound? Below is our JBL Flip 6 review and comparison against the Charge 5.
JBL Flip 6 vs Charge 5 Comparison Chart
Design
Both the JBL Flip 6 and Charge 5 are highly portable, but the former is more compact and lightweight.
The two speakers feature a rugged build with tight-knit fabrics that protect the speakers. At both ends are rubber bass radiators that also contribute to their excellent build qualities. Both speakers have an IP67 rating, meaning that they are both dustproof and waterproof, so they are designed for outdoor use.
The JBL Flip 6 is a bit more compact than the JBL Charge 5. The former measures 7 x 2.68 x 2.83 inches and it weighs only 1.21lbs. In addition to that, it has a removable strap that makes for easier transport. On the other hand, the JBL Charge 5 is about an inch longer and wider, measuring 8.7 x 3.76 x 3.67 inches. As it is bigger, it’s also heavier, weighing 2.11lbs. That said, it’s also very portable since it’s not that much larger than the JBL Flip 6.
Due to its cylindrical shape and even ends, the JBL Flip 6 can be placed either horizontally or vertically. In contrast, the JBL Charge 5 has uneven ends and it has a concave bottom with rubber feet so it’s meant to be placed horizontally. You can get both speakers in a variety of colors that suit your taste.
Features
The JBL Flip 6 and Charge 5 have similar features, except for the latter’s powerbank function.
Features-wise, these two are quite similar with the exception of the JBL Charge 5’s powerbank function. It has a higher capacity battery that allows you to charge any compatible device. You can do so with its single USB-A port. Aside from this, the two share a similar feature set.
They both come with the JBL Portable app that give you access to various features such as graphic EQ settings and multi-speaker pairing. With the graphic EQ, you can play with various settings to get your preferred sound.
There’s also a multi-speaker pairing mode that allows you to pair two speakers of the same model or two different speakers that support JBL’s PartyBoost mode. You can pair the JBL Flip 6 and Charge 5 since they both support the JBL PartyBoost connection protocol. With this feature, you can get true stereo mode or even multiple speakers to play from the same source for a louder and more immersive audio experience.
Performance
The JBL Flip 6 doesn’t get as loud as the bigger Charge 5.
When it comes to sound quality, the two are quite similar, however, the bigger JBL Charge 5 does have the advantage in the low frequency. Make no mistake though, both will struggle with low bass since these are compact speakers, however, when compared side-by-side, it’s clear that the JBL Charge 5 produces more.
As for the mids and highs, they are quite accurate and you can hear the details, especially in the highs. Vocals and other instruments also sound full and rich. That said, the JBL Charge 5, with its larger body can handle higher volumes more efficiently, meaning that when played at higher volumes, it produces less audio distortion. If you want a better sounding portable Bluetooth speaker, the JBL Charge 5 is slightly ahead of the JBL Flip 6.
The JBL Charge 5 also has the advantage when it comes to battery life. It has a music playback time of up to 20 hours, whereas the JBL Flip 6 has a continuous playtime of up to 12 hours.
Verdict
The JBL Flip 6 offers better bang for your buck, but the JBL Charge 5 is also worth getting for its extra powerbank feature, longer battery life and slightly better sound quality.
JBL Flip 6
Best for those who want a cheap but good sounding basic Bluetooth speaker
Charge 5
Best for those who don’t mind spending a little bit more for better sound
Both speakers are great at what they do, but if you prefer to save some money, the JBL Flip 6 is the wiser choice. The JBL Flip 6 price is very attractive, and for the money, it’s one of the best value Bluetooth speakers. It produces great sound and it comes with a few useful features such as graphic EQ settings and multi-speaker pairing. The JBL Charge 5 is best for those who don’t mind paying a bit more for bigger sound and longer battery life. Since it is slightly bigger, it can handle higher volumes better and its higher battery capacity with a powerbank function is a nice addon feature.
FAQs
The JBL Flip 6 is better built, with its IP67 rating. Also, the Flip 6 supports graphic EQ customization—a feature that you won’t get with the Flip 5.
December 2021.
Yes, you can pair the two speakers since they both support JBL’s PartyBoost connection protocol.
Even though it is waterproof with its IP67 rating, it doesn’t float.