JBL Charge 5: The Ultimate Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker for Music Lovers

The JBL Charge 5 is the latest addition to JBL’s popular portable speaker lineup, and it promises to deliver an immersive audio experience with its robust features and rugged design. As a waterproof Bluetooth speaker, the Charge 5 is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy their favorite tunes by the pool, at the beach, or during camping trips.

Design and Build

The JBL Charge 5 boasts a sleek and compact design that’s easy to carry around. Measuring 10.4 x 7.1 x 3.8 inches, it’s lightweight enough to fit in a backpack or purse, yet sturdy enough to withstand rough handling. The device features a durable rubberized coating that provides excellent grip and protection against water splashes.

The Charge 5 is IP67 rated, making it fully waterproof and dustproof. This means you can submerge the speaker in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without worrying about damage. Additionally, the device’s battery life is impressive, lasting up to 20 hours on a single charge.

Audio Performance

The JBL Charge 5 features two 2-inch woofers and two 0.5-inch tweeters that deliver clear and balanced sound with decent bass response. The speaker supports Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity and can pair with up to three devices at the same time. You can also connect multiple speakers wirelessly using JBL’s Connect+ technology for a more immersive experience.

Battery Life and Charging

As mentioned earlier, the Charge 5 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge. The device is charged via USB-C, which is convenient and fast. You can also use the speaker as a power bank to charge your phone or other devices on the go.

Additional Features

The JBL Charge 5 includes several useful features that enhance its overall usability:

  • Voice assistant integration: Supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free control
  • PartyBoost: Allows you to connect up to two additional speakers wirelessly using a dedicated button
  • MicroSD card slot: Lets you expand the speaker’s storage capacity by up to 128GB
  • Waterproof USB port: Enables you to charge your devices or transfer data while submerged in water

Comparison with Competitors

The JBL Charge 5 faces stiff competition from other popular waterproof Bluetooth speakers, such as the UE Wonderboom and the Sony SRS-XB43. Here’s a brief comparison:

  • JBL Charge 5:
    • Waterproof rating: IP67
    • Battery life: Up to 20 hours
    • Audio performance: Clear and balanced sound with decent bass response
    • Price: Around $150
  • UE Wonderboom:
    • Waterproof rating: IPX7
    • Battery life: Up to 10 hours
    • Audio performance: Good sound quality, but lacks deep bass
    • Price: Around $100
  • Sony SRS-XB43:
    • Waterproof rating: IP67
    • Battery life: Up to 24 hours
    • Audio performance: Excellent sound quality with deep bass response
    • Price: Around $150

Conclusion

The JBL Charge 5 is an excellent waterproof Bluetooth speaker that offers a great balance of features, audio performance, and durability. Its compact design, impressive battery life, and robust build make it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy their favorite tunes in style. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its price is competitive with other high-end speakers.

Technical Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 10.4 x 7.1 x 3.8 inches
  • Weight: 2.5 pounds
  • Waterproof rating: IP67
  • Battery life: Up to 20 hours
  • Audio performance: Two 2-inch woofers and two 0.5-inch tweeters
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2, USB-C for charging and data transfer
  • Additional features: Voice assistant integration, PartyBoost, MicroSD card slot, Waterproof USB port