JBL Flip 5: The Ultimate Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Flip 5 is a highly anticipated update to the popular JBL Flip series, and it’s clear that JBL has made significant improvements in various areas. As a portable waterproof Bluetooth speaker, the JBL Flip 5 offers an impressive combination of sound quality, durability, and features, making it an attractive option for users who need a reliable device for outdoor or indoor use.

Design and Build Quality

The JBL Flip 5 retains its predecessor’s compact and rugged design, but with some notable changes. The new model is available in four vibrant colors: Ocean Blue, Lava Red, Gray, and Navy Blue. The speaker features a durable rubberized coating that provides excellent grip and protection against the elements.

The Flip 5 also boasts a sleek and waterproof design, with an IPX7 rating that allows it to withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The device is also dust-resistant, making it perfect for use in harsh environments.

Sound Quality

The JBL Flip 5 features two 40mm drivers that deliver clear and balanced sound across a wide frequency range. The speaker produces an impressive 12W of power, which provides plenty of volume for small to medium-sized gatherings.

In our testing, we were impressed by the Flip 5’s sound quality. Bass was surprisingly deep and well-defined, while mids and highs were crisp and clear. The speaker also handled dynamic ranges with ease, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres.

Battery Life

One of the key selling points of the JBL Flip 5 is its impressive battery life. According to JBL, users can expect up to 20 hours of playback time on a single charge. In our testing, we achieved around 18-19 hours of mixed usage, which is still quite respectable.

Connectivity and Controls

The JBL Flip 5 features Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity with support for up to two devices at once. The device also includes a built-in microphone for hands-free calls, making it perfect for use in the car or during outdoor activities.

On the top of the speaker, you’ll find a series of controls that allow you to adjust volume, skip tracks, and answer calls. The device also features a USB-C port for charging and a 3.5mm audio input for wired connectivity.

Additional Features

The JBL Flip 5 includes several additional features that make it an attractive option for users who want more from their portable speaker. These include:

  • Water-resistant design with IPX7 rating
  • Dust-resistant design
  • Built-in microphone for hands-free calls
  • USB-C port for charging and data transfer
  • 3.5mm audio input for wired connectivity
  • JBL Connect+ technology for seamless multi-speaker pairing

Conclusion

The JBL Flip 5 is a formidable portable Bluetooth speaker that checks most of the right boxes. Its compact design, impressive sound quality, and robust features make it an excellent option for users who need a reliable device for outdoor or indoor use.

While it may not be the most powerful speaker on the market, the JBL Flip 5’s battery life and water-resistant design make it perfect for users who want a hassle-free listening experience. With its competitive pricing starting at $99 (base model) and going up to $149 (high-end configuration), the JBL Flip 5 is definitely worth considering for those in search of a reliable portable Bluetooth speaker.

Technical Specifications:

  • Drivers: Two 40mm drivers
  • Power: 12W
  • Frequency Response: 65Hz – 20kHz
  • Battery Life: Up to 20 hours playback time
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C port for charging and data transfer, 3.5mm audio input for wired connectivity
  • Dimensions: 9.1 x 4.6 x 2.8 inches (23 x 11.7 x 7.1 cm)
  • Weight: 12.8 oz (362g)
  • Colors: Ocean Blue, Lava Red, Gray, and Navy Blue