For those who want to enjoy their music while on the move, these Bluetooth speakers make it possible for them to carry about their own personal speaker system, which is excellent for parties, get-togethers with friends, lengthy road journeys, holidays, and so on.
There is a lot to like about JBL goods, and some of the most recent and finest offerings include the JBL Flip 6 and the JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth speaker. Finally, JBL is launching the Flip 6 in Europe and the United Kingdom in November 2021. On the other hand, in 2019, the JBL Flip 5 was released for the first time.
This side-by-side comparison of Flip 6 and Flip 5 should clear up any confusion you may have about which one to purchase, since it covers all the most significant similarities and differences.
Who is the JBL Flips for?
Those who like hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities will be pleased to learn that Flip 6 now has an IP67 classification. The Flip 6’s powerful output will also be appreciated by shower singers, who will be able to drown out background noises. JBL’s Bluetooth speaker can be set up in a matter of minutes by anybody looking for an easy-to-use speaker.
Should you buy the JBL Flip 6?
When it comes to party and adventure speakers, the Flip 6 from JBL is one of the best options on the market. Having an IP67 designation means this Bluetooth speaker is more water and dust resistant, which is a plus. However, it retains all of the great features of the Flip 5.
What do you think of the JBL Flip 5?
In comparison to its younger sister, the JBL Flip 5 still performs well. In comparison to the Flip 6, this model has an IPX7 certification, which means it’s equally as waterproof, but not qualified for dust. Even so, the Flip 6’s sound is identical, and it’s likely to go on sale as a consequence. While it’s disappointing that the Flip 6 and the Flip 5 cannot be used in stereo mode, the Flip 6 is an excellent PartyBoost companion if you already own a Flip 5.
JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5: Comparison Chart
JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5: Comparison In Detail
There are many similarities between the JBL Flip 6 and Flip 5, and both have been praised by experts and users alike as some of the best portable Bluetooth speakers on the market. Yet there are also major differences between the two, which you’ll learn more about down below.
Design and Build Quality
The most obvious contrast is in terms of physical dimensions and mass. Despite the fact that JBL Flip 6’s design is identical to that of JBL Flip 5, it is larger and heavier, weighing in at 22cm and 0.95 kg, vs JBL Flip 5’s 18cm and 0.54 kg.
For the second time, the logo is different. When comparing Flip 6 and Flip 5, the JBL logo is printed on the huge ceiling above the speaker’s stretch surface in Flip 6 and on a square board in Flip 5, with the logo color shifting based on the speaker’s color. The JBL Flip 6 speaker’s logo design is more visible than the JBL Flip 5, generating a strong impact on the spectator, in my opinion.
When it comes to sturdiness on slick surfaces, the Flip 6 JBL speaker is somewhat more equipped than its predecessor, which does not have this feature.
Flip 6 and Flip 5 speakers both include a built-in suspension mechanism with an attached wire so that you can connect the strap to a bag or use it while traveling.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of a portable Bluetooth speaker is unquestionably an important consideration when making your purchase. If you want to enjoy your favorite music, you want to be able to hear every note clearly and crisply on a speaker like the JBL Flip 6 or Flip 5.
When searching for a new speaker, many consumers place a high priority on sound quality because they want the finest possible audio experience. Some people may prefer the JBL Flip 6, while others will prefer the Flip 5, but how do the two compare up in terms of technical performance?
The most significant changes have occurred on the inside. A totally new sound profile with two passive radiators, a powerful racetrack woofer, and one separate tweeter for more detailed, powerful, and deep sound is what makes the JBL Flip 6 bluetooth speaker superior to its predecessor, the JBL FLIP 5. A separate tweeter completes the package for what the firm claims to be better overall power and depth than the previous model..
A racetrack-shaped full-range driver (rectangular form but rounded corners) is paired with two passive bass drivers located on both sides of the JBL Flip 5 bluetooth speaker for detailed sound., full range with strong bass distribution.
JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5: When it comes to sound quality, we just had to give the Flip 5 the win. Even when you turn up the volume and start playing high notes, it works perfectly.
Connectivity
When evaluating a Bluetooth wireless speaker’s overall quality and usability, it’s crucial to examine the speaker’s ability to connect. A broad variety of connection choices is available on certain models; on the other hand, other models have fewer possibilities.
While Flip 5’s Bluetooth V4.2 wireless connection technology was better than Flip 6’s Bluetooth V 5.1 with a range of up to 10 meters, Flip 6 proved to be superior.
Due to its rapid transmission speed and ease of pairing with any smartphone or tablet, Bluetooth V5.1 is currently considered the most advanced wireless audio streaming technology. Even more important than that, this newer version of Bluetooth V5.1 improves the overall quality of wireless signal transmission, making sure that all sounds are sent precisely and at their highest quality from source devices to speakers, as well.
Water resistance and Dust resistance
The JBL Flip 5 speaker is completely watertight according to the IPX7 rating, which is one of the best in the industry. There is no need to worry about the speaker becoming wet, whether lounging by the pool or taking a trip to the beach (about 1 meter in 30 minutes).
Aside from being able to be immersed or used underwater for 30 minutes at a depth of 1m thanks to IPX7 waterproof technology, the JBL Flip 6 Speaker offers exceptional dust and water protection according to IP67 standard.
Battery quality
One of the unique aspects of using a wireless speaker, or any kind of wireless device, is that you can’t rely on it running forever and ever. The battery will eventually drain down, and you’ll have to find an outlet and charge it back up. This can be frustrating, especially when devices come equipped with weak and weedy batteries that don’t last for too long.
It’s always wise to try to find a wireless speaker that comes with a strong, stocky battery that can go the distance, letting you play your tunes for hours on end without any interruptions or a constant need to recharge. So how do the Flip 6 and Flip 5 compete in this regard?
Well, both of these JBL wireless speakers come with rechargeable, high powered batteries, but there are some differences to take into account.
Both JBL Flip 6 and Flip 5 speakers deliver up to 12 hours of playtime and feature fast and stable charging technology via the waterproof USB Type C port. The difference here is, JBL Flip 5 speaker takes only 2.5 hours to charge the battery fully, while JBL Flip 6 takes up to 5 hours to fully charge.
Price
Price is another key factor to think about when you’re looking for a Bluetooth portable speaker. As you shop around, you can quickly see that prices vary enormously in the speaker market; some models are super cheap, while others are much more expensive.
JBL is known for offering a lot of affordable options, including both the Flip 6 and the Flip 5, and price will be less important to those with bigger budgets. However, if you do care about costs, it’s important to note that the Flip 6, as the newer model, has a significantly higher price tag than the Flip 5.
The JBL Flip 6 is on sale now in Europe and goes on sale in US on December 6. The price is $129.95. That’s $10 more than the outgoing Flip 5, yes, but the addition of more rugged build quality and an uptick in sound quality may well be worth it.
At that point, you have to consider the value of each model. The Flip 6 is more expensive, but it aims to justify the added costs with its superior ip rating and better sound quality overall. The Flip 5, as the cheaper option, has slightly weaker sound and limited connectivity option, but does still have its advantages.
What should you get instead of the JBL Flip 6 and 5?
JBL Charge 5
Listeners who want even louder sound from a portable speaker should look into the JBL Charge 5. With this, you get more features as it can charge your portable devices, and its battery is extensive at 20 hours. You don’t get an aux port here, but you do get the same IP67 rating.
The JBL Charge 5 are the ultimate party Bluetooth speakers. These well-built speakers are durable for any environment and they perform very well in both high and low SPL scenarios. Here are the specifications:
What we like
- Good bass precision and neutral tone
- Durable design with IP67 rating
- Built-in powerbank allows charge and play
- Wide soundstage
What we dislike
- Bass weakens at increasing volume levels
JBL Clip 4
Another option is the JBL Clip 4 if you want to go smaller. This has a built-in carabiner and surprisingly loud sound given its small size. From the colorful design to the sound quality, everything will keep you amazed. You just need to match with your fashion and enjoy the great sound everywhere you go.
The clearer sound, rich bass in high volume, can be your everyday partner. Once you are with it you never feel like letting it go.
What we like
- Reasonable price comparing the performance.
- Amazing sound quality.
- Get loudest in this size.
- Fit for carrying everywhere.
What we dislike
- Less on-board control option.
UE Boom 3
The UE Boom 3 still has the characteristic plus and minus sign buttons. There are options beyond the JBL family, of course, like the UE Boom 3. This portable speaker has a similar shape and size to the Flip 5, with a useful party feature and loud sound. You get easier access to the controls with the signature “+” and “-” buttons. Unfortunately, the UE Boom 3also lacks a headphone jack, though.
Some of the features like wireless charging, increased durability, strong build quality, and the water and the IPX7 certification have made the UE boom 3 a better one. Moreover, this Bluetooth speaker has many other features that you should know about. So, have a look below.
What we like
- IP67 certification and floats
- Portable bottle-shaped design
- Connect to 150 other UE speakers via app
- Wireless charging available with purchase of dock
- Way more Loud
What we dislike
- Wireless charging dock is separate
- Even though the app is useful, it’s still an app that you need to download
Verdict
There are always newer, greater things on the horizon. Because Bluetooth speakers contain batteries, and all batteries have a limited number of recharges in their lifespans, you may have to replace your speaker after five years or so. So this is not a decision for life.
Both of these JBL devices can be recommended, as they both offer excellent audio performance, speedy charge times, long run times, and plenty of additional features that help them stand out in a crowded market.
Author’s Pick: Flip 4
Overall, given the price differences between the two, we feel that the Flip 6 is the best option and certainly the best value buy. It has better features than Flip 5, provides better Bluetooth connectivity, and is almost just as good in terms of audio quality too.
FAQs
This section of the article is all about problem-solving some of the matter that you might encounter while walking on the pavement of these types of comparison.
Which JBL Flip is the best?
Our top pick is the versatile JBL Flip 5, which delivers rich sound in a durable and portable design. If you really want the cream of the crop (and have extra money to spend), then we recommend the Boombox 2 for its huge volume and long battery life.
Is the JBL Flip 5 loud?
The Flip 5 gets plenty loud, measuring about 96 decibels at max volume — louder than the Flip 4. But it got pretty distorted at that level; the sound was better around 85 decibels.
Does JBL Flip 6 have a microphone?
The JBL Flip 6 is perfect for outdoors or just the shower. But no, the Flip 5 does not have a microphone. So if you were hoping for a speaker to answer phone calls on or if you want access to your phone’s personal assistant, then you won’t get that here.
Is JBL Flip 5 mono or stereo?
The JBL Flip 5 is a mono speaker, using a single 44mm audio driver to pump sound outwards in a consistent direction. There’s no sound separation here, so the stereo Flip 4 is better for those who want that.
Freelance tech journalist & author of soundboxlab.com …Read More
