Jbl 4 vs 5: Which Speaker Reigns Supreme? (2024)
Are you torn between the JBL Flip 4 and the JBL Flip 5? You’re not alone! These popular portable Bluetooth speakers have captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide. But which one is the better choice for your needs? This comparison will break down the key differences to help you decide.
We’ll delve into the sound quality, battery life, design, and features of both the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5. From beach trips to backyard barbecues, these speakers are designed for on-the-go listening. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial before making a purchase.
Get ready to discover which JBL speaker will become your new audio companion. We’ll explore the nuances of each model, helping you determine whether the upgrades in the Flip 5 justify the price difference, or if the Flip 4 still holds its own.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | JBL 4 | JBL 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 5.3 |
| Driver Size | 40 mm | 40 mm |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Multipoint Connection | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| Charging Time | 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Fast Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 220 g | 252 g |
| Sound Profiles | JBL Signature Sound | JBL Signature Sound |
| App Support | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | Google Assistant, Alexa | Google Assistant, Alexa |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build Quality
- Jbl 4: The JBL Flip 4 has a rugged, splashproof design with a durable fabric cover. It’s compact and easy to carry. Some users found the fabric prone to collecting dirt.
- 5: The JBL Flip 5 maintains the same cylindrical shape and is also waterproof. It features a slightly updated design with a more robust build. The newer design is considered a bit more streamlined.
- Winner: 5
Sound Quality
- Jbl 4: The Flip 4 delivers a balanced sound signature with decent bass, clear mids, and highs. It can get loud enough for most indoor and outdoor settings. Some users felt the bass could be improved.
- 5: The Flip 5 boasts a redesigned driver, resulting in improved bass response and overall loudness compared to the Flip 4. It maintains clarity, though the sound profile is more bass-focused.
- Winner: 5
Bluetooth Version
- Jbl 4: Uses Bluetooth 4.2. This older standard can sometimes lead to connectivity issues or slightly reduced range.
- 5: Features Bluetooth 5.1. This provides a more stable connection, improved range, and faster pairing.
- Winner: 5
Battery Life
- Jbl 4: Offers approximately 12 hours of playtime on a single charge, depending on volume levels.
- 5: Provides roughly 12 hours of playtime as well, similar to the Flip 4.
- Winner: Tie
Charging Port
- Jbl 4: Uses a micro-USB charging port.
- 5: Upgrades to a USB-C charging port for faster and more convenient charging.
- Winner: 5
PartyBoost/Connect+ Feature
- Jbl 4: Includes JBL Connect+, allowing it to connect wirelessly to other JBL speakers with the Connect+ feature.
- 5: Features JBL’s PartyBoost, which offers improved pairing and connection stability with other PartyBoost-enabled speakers. PartyBoost is not compatible with Connect+.
- Winner: Tie
Water Resistance
- Jbl 4: IPX7 water resistant, meaning it can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
- 5: Also IPX7 water resistant.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Jbl 4: Generally available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- 5: Typically priced slightly higher than the Flip 4, reflecting the improvements and newer features.
- Winner: 4
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation | JBL 5 |
| Bluetooth Version | JBL 5 |
| Value | JBL 4 |
| Features | JBL 5 |
| Overall | JBL 5 |
What They Have in Common:
- Sound Quality: Both models deliver JBL’s signature sound profile, known for its balanced audio and clear highs and lows. They both offer a pleasurable listening experience for various music genres.
- Comfort: Both the JBL 4 and 5 are designed for comfort, featuring comfortable earcups and adjustable headbands, making them suitable for extended listening sessions.
- Multipoint Connection: Both headphones support multipoint connections, allowing users to seamlessly switch between two devices, such as a phone and a laptop.
- Built-in Microphone: Both models have built-in microphones for clear voice calls and voice assistant interactions.
- App Support: Both headphones are compatible with the JBL Headphones app, offering users the ability to customize settings and update firmware.
- Water Resistance: Both models feature an IPX4 water resistance rating, protecting them from splashes of water.
JBL 4 vs 5 Buying Guide
Sound Quality
The JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 both deliver impressive sound for their size, but subtle differences exist. The Flip 5 boasts a racetrack-shaped driver, resulting in a slightly more powerful and dynamic sound profile, particularly in the bass frequencies. The Flip 4, however, provides a well-balanced sound that’s still enjoyable. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference for bass emphasis. Consider your listening environment; a larger space might benefit from the Flip 5’s extra punch.
Both speakers are capable of filling a room with sound, but the Flip 5’s enhanced bass response can be more noticeable. The Flip 4, while slightly less bass-heavy, offers a cleaner overall sound. The Flip 5 generally offers a louder experience overall. Consider your listening preferences and the desired sound profile when choosing between the two.
Portability and Design
Both speakers are designed for portability, featuring a compact and cylindrical design. The Flip 5 has a slightly updated design with a more pronounced JBL logo and a rubberized finish. The Flip 4 maintains a classic look. Both are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for outdoor use and travel. The Flip 5’s design is slightly more streamlined. The choice often comes down to aesthetic preference; both are highly portable and durable.
The Flip 5 is slightly larger than the Flip 4. The Flip 4 might be a better choice if you prioritize the most compact size. The rugged construction of both speakers ensures they can withstand drops and splashes. Consider how you’ll be using them and what features are most important to you.
Durability and Waterproofing
Both the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 are waterproof, with an IPX7 rating, meaning they can withstand submersion in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. This makes them ideal for use near pools, beaches, or in the rain. The durable construction of both speakers ensures they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. This is a key advantage. Ensure the charging ports are properly sealed to maintain water resistance.
The build quality of both speakers is robust, with durable materials used to protect against bumps and scratches. You can be confident that the speakers will survive the elements. Both can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Water and dust resistance are critical for portable speakers.
Battery Life
The JBL Flip 5 offers a slight improvement in battery life over the Flip 4. The Flip 5 can deliver up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge, while the Flip 4 provides around 12 hours of playtime. Battery life can vary depending on volume levels and usage. Consider how long you need the speaker to last on a single charge.
Both speakers charge via a USB connection. Fast charging is not available, so plan accordingly. The Flip 5 has a slightly longer battery life on average. The battery life difference is small, but it might be important for long listening sessions.
Connectivity and Features
The Flip 5 features Bluetooth 5.1 for a more stable and efficient wireless connection. The Flip 4 uses Bluetooth 4.2. Both speakers support wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The Flip 5 has a USB-C charging port, while the Flip 4 uses micro-USB. Consider the charging cable you prefer.
The Flip 4 includes JBL Connect+, allowing you to connect multiple JBL speakers together for amplified sound. The Flip 5 features PartyBoost, which is a newer feature that offers similar functionality with other compatible JBL speakers. Consider if you plan to use multiple speakers. Bluetooth 5.1 offers a more stable wireless experience.
Price and Value
The JBL Flip 5 typically has a slightly higher price point than the Flip 4. Consider your budget when making your decision. Both speakers offer excellent value for their price, providing a great balance of sound quality, portability, and features. Look for sales and promotions to get the best deal. The price difference can be a significant factor.
The best value depends on your needs. The Flip 4 offers a great experience, while the Flip 5 has some improvements. Both are excellent choices. Consider your budget and the features you need. Both speakers offer great value for the price.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy JBL 4 If…
- You prioritize a lightweight and compact design.
- You don’t need Active Noise Cancellation.
- You are looking for a more affordable option.
- You want a familiar and reliable JBL experience.
Buy JBL 5 If…
- You want the added benefit of Active Noise Cancellation for a more immersive listening experience.
- You prioritize the latest Bluetooth technology (5.3).
- You want enhanced features and a more premium feel.
- You value the improved comfort and build quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5?
The primary differences lie in the sound profile and design. The Flip 5 has a redesigned driver for improved bass and a more streamlined appearance. The Flip 5 features a USB-C charging port and Bluetooth 5.1. The Flip 4 uses micro-USB and Bluetooth 4.2. These improvements make the Flip 5 a slight upgrade.
Which speaker has better sound quality?
The JBL Flip 5 offers slightly improved sound quality, particularly in the bass frequencies, due to its redesigned driver. However, the Flip 4 still provides excellent sound quality for its size. The choice depends on your preference for bass emphasis. Both sound great.
Are both speakers waterproof?
Yes, both the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 are waterproof with an IPX7 rating. This means they can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. This makes them suitable for use near water, such as at a pool or beach. This is a key feature.
How long does the battery last on each speaker?
Both speakers offer impressive battery life. The Flip 5 can provide up to 12 hours of playtime, while the Flip 4 also delivers around 12 hours. The battery life can vary based on volume levels and usage. The Flip 5 has a slight advantage.
What connectivity options do they offer?
Both speakers use Bluetooth for wireless streaming. The Flip 5 uses Bluetooth 5.1, while the Flip 4 uses Bluetooth 4.2. The Flip 5 features a USB-C charging port, and the Flip 4 uses a micro-USB port. Bluetooth 5.1 provides a more stable connection.
Which speaker is better for parties?
The Flip 5 is better for parties due to its slightly louder sound and enhanced bass response. The Flip 4 is still a capable party speaker. Both speakers are good. The Flip 5’s enhanced bass makes it slightly better in group settings.
Which speaker is a better value for the money?
Both speakers offer excellent value. The Flip 4 is often available at a lower price, making it a great budget-friendly option. The Flip 5, with its improved features, offers a slight upgrade. The best value depends on your budget and desired features.
Final Verdict
Both the JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 are excellent portable Bluetooth speakers, but the Flip 5 edges out the competition with its enhanced sound profile, particularly in the bass range, and updated features like Bluetooth 5.1 and a USB-C charging port. While the Flip 4 remains a fantastic option, the Flip 5 offers a slightly superior listening experience for a modest price increase. The overall improvements make the Flip 5 the better choice.
The Flip 5’s enhanced bass response and other updates provide a more enjoyable listening experience. Both speakers are excellent choices. The Flip 5 has a slight edge.
Winner: JBL Flip 5