Exploring the Design Differences
JBL’s Flip series of Bluetooth speakers has gained immense popularity for its perfect balance of portability, durability, and affordability. With the release of the Flip 6, JBL aimed to enhance the features that made the Flip 5 famous while maintaining its core essence. Priced at $130 MSRP, choosing between the two ultimately boils down to personal preference. So, without further ado, let’s dive into a detailed JBL Flip 5 vs Flip 6 comparison.
JBL Flip 5 vs Flip 6: Design Overview
The JBL Flip 5 resembles a compact thermos flask and weighs 540g. Its minimalist cylindrical design allows for easy portability, making it ideal for carrying in hand or placing inside a bag. With the addition of a strap, you can even hang it from a tree or door handle. Available in a variety of colors, including white, deep blue, grey, green, and camouflage, the Flip 5 brings style to your music experience. Additionally, it boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating, enabling it to be submerged in water up to one meter for 30 minutes.
On the other hand, the Flip 6 shares a striking resemblance to its predecessor. It features the same wraparound grille and bass radiators on both sides, with the only noticeable difference being the logo on the front. The logo matches the speaker’s color and occupies more space, providing a distinct appeal compared to JBL’s white on red design. Weighing slightly more than the Flip 5 at 550g, the Flip 6 remains highly portable and comes with a strap for added convenience. While the Flip 6 is available in fewer colors, such as red, black, blue, and grey, both speakers exhibit a sleek and sturdy build typical of all JBL products.
Furthermore, the Flip 6 boasts an improved IP67 certification, offering dust protection in addition to water resistance. This certification ensures that the device remains dust-tight, safeguarding it from tiny particles like sand. So, if you’re planning a beach getaway, the Flip 6 has got you covered.
Durability Comparison: Flip 5 vs Flip 6
The Flip 6 takes durability a step further by earning an IP67 dust-proof certification. Meanwhile, the Flip 5 holds an IPX7 certification, which signifies its waterproof capabilities but not dust-proofing. However, it’s important to note that the Flip 5 effectively handles sand and mud, so the additional dust-proof feature of the Flip 6 shouldn’t be the sole determinant in your purchasing decision.
Both the Flip 5 and Flip 6 are solidly constructed, ensuring they can endure drops better than most competing speakers. Their lightweight yet robust build contributes to their durability. The only vulnerable points on both speakers are the exposed radiators. While the Flip 6’s larger JBL logo may be slightly less scratch-resistant, the rubber base support reduces the chances of accidental falls from tables or shelves.
Battery Performance: Flip 5 vs Flip 6
When it comes to battery life, the Flip 5 and Flip 6 both house a 4,800 mAh battery. The advertised runtime for both models is 12 hours. However, our tests revealed that neither speaker lasted a full eight hours, even when the volume was set at a moderate level (between 40% and 60%). At maximum volume, the battery lasted approximately 6 hours. Nevertheless, these speakers deliver exceptional volume, making higher volume settings unnecessary for most scenarios.
It’s worth mentioning that the JBL Charge series offers a power bank function that the Flip 5 and Flip 6 lack. This functionality allows you to charge your phone using the speaker’s battery. If longer battery life or a power bank feature is a priority for you, you may want to explore larger JBL portables such as the Charge 5 or Xtreme 3.
Software Capabilities: Flip 5 vs Flip 6
Both the Flip 5 and Flip 6 come equipped with JBL’s PartyBoost, the latest party mode, and are compatible with the JBL Portable app. While the software’s capabilities may appear limited, they still offer significant benefits. The user-friendly JBL Portable app allows you to upgrade firmware, use PartyBoost, check battery life, and customize the device name. The simplicity of the app eliminates unnecessary complexity, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
A notable advantage of the Flip 6 is the inclusion of a basic EQ in the app, a feature absent in earlier generations. While the equalization options may not be extraordinary, the ability to adjust bass, midrange, and treble adds a touch of customization to your audio experience.
Making the Choice: Conclusion
To wrap it up, both the JBL Flip 5 and Flip 6 are exceptional Bluetooth speakers in terms of their price range. The differences between them are barely distinguishable, and they both deliver fantastic sound quality. However, considering its more powerful audio and extensive customization options, the Flip 6 stands out as the preferred choice. With an equal MSRP, the Flip 6 is a no-brainer. That being said, whether you opt for the Flip 5 or Flip 6, you can expect JBL’s signature loud and clear sound performance.
Now that you’re equipped with all the essential details, you can confidently choose the perfect JBL Flip speaker for your needs. Happy listening!
