JBL Flip 5 portable Bluetooth speaker review waterproof design and 12-hour battery life

Description

Sleek Design and Portability

The JBL Flip 5 immediately impressed me with its compact and modern design. Its slim cylindrical shape fits snugly into my hand, making it easy to carry around whether I’m heading to the park, beach, or simply moving it from room to room. The gray color is understated yet stylish, blending well with most surroundings. At just 1.68 pounds, it’s light enough to toss into a bag without hesitation. The IPX7 waterproof rating gave me peace of mind when using it by the pool or during a drizzle—this speaker can endure being submerged in water up to 3 feet deep! However, I did notice that the lack of a handle or strap could make it slightly less convenient for extended travel.

Sound Quality and Performance

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first played music on this portable Bluetooth speaker, but the sound blew me away. The dynamic driver technology delivers clear highs, balanced mids, and punchy bass that’s perfect for most genres. I tested it with everything from acoustic tracks to EDM, and the sound remained rich and immersive. The 20W audio power is more than enough to fill a medium-sized room or outdoor space. Pairing it with another JBL speaker using the PartyBoost feature created an even more robust stereo effect, which was a hit during gatherings. However, audiophiles might notice that the Flip 5 lacks a bit of depth in the lower bass frequencies compared to larger, more expensive speakers.

User-Friendly Features

Setting up the Flip 5 was a breeze. The Bluetooth 4.2 technology ensured a stable connection with my phone and laptop, even when I moved around the house. I appreciated the 12-hour battery life, which held up well during long music sessions, though recharging the battery took a full 12 hours—a bit longer than I would have liked. The omission of a 3.5mm AUX input might be a dealbreaker for those who prefer wired connections, and the lack of a USB wall adapter in the box felt inconvenient. On a positive note, the touch control method was intuitive, and I quickly got the hang of adjusting volume and playback.

Positives

The JBL Flip 5 has several favorable attributes that make it a strong contender in the world of portable speakers.

• IPX7 waterproofing ensures durability in wet conditions.
• PartyBoost capability for connecting multiple speakers.
• Lightweight and portable design fits almost anywhere.
• Produces impressive sound clarity and volume for its size.

Negatives

There are a few drawbacks worth mentioning as well.

• The lack of a 3.5mm AUX input limits connectivity options.
• Charging time of 12 hours feels lengthy compared to other models.
• No USB wall adapter included, which adds an extra purchase for some users.

Competing Brands

When comparing the Flip 5 to other market rivals, a couple of names come to mind. The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 is a popular choice, offering a 360-degree soundstage and a slightly more compact design. However, it falls short with a 10-hour battery life compared to the Flip 5’s 12 hours. On the other hand, the Sony SRS-XB23 provides extra bass and USB-C fast charging, but it lacks the PartyBoost feature that enhances the JBL’s versatility.

Where the Flip 5 shines is in its rugged build and waterproofing, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. While some of its competitors might edge it out in certain areas like faster charging or deeper bass, the Flip 5 strikes a great balance between portability and performance.

Affordable Quality

When considering the value for money, I’d say the Flip 5 justifies its cost with its durable construction, long battery life, and solid audio performance. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, its combination of reliability and features makes it a worthy investment for those seeking a dependable portable speaker. The missing AUX input and USB adapter might deter some buyers, but for me, the Flip 5’s overall quality for price outweighs these minor inconveniences.

Additional information