JBL Charge 5 vs Flip 5 – Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing the right Bluetooth speaker often comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and where you plan to use it most. Whether you want a speaker for backyard parties or portable sound on hikes, selecting the right model can make a difference. The JBL Charge 5 and JBL Flip 5 both deliver strong performance, but they cater to different needs. The Charge 5 is built for more power and battery life, while the Flip 5 is lighter and easier to carry. This article will outline the key differences between them to help you decide which is the better fit for your listening habits.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | JBL Charge 5 | JBL Flip 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2021 | 2019 |
| Output Power (RMS) | 40W (30W woofer + 10W tweeter) | 20W (mono driver) |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| Charging Time | Around 4 hours | Around 2.5 hours |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 4.2 |
| Water and Dust Rating | IP67 (waterproof and dustproof) | IPX7 (waterproof only) |
| USB-C Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Powerbank Function | Yes (can charge other devices) | No |
| Speakerphone Support | No | No |
| App Support | JBL Portable app | JBL Portable app |
| Frequency Response | 65 Hz – 20 kHz | 65 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Weight | 960g | 540g |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Construction
The JBL Charge 5 features a more rugged and durable design than the Flip 5. It is both waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating, while the Flip 5 only offers waterproofing with IPX7. The Charge 5 also includes a built-in powerbank and a larger body that makes it more stable for stationary use. On the other hand, the Flip 5 is lighter, more compact, and easier to toss in a bag, making it more travel-friendly.
Sound Performance
The Charge 5 delivers a more powerful and fuller sound experience with its dedicated woofer and tweeter setup. It produces stronger bass and clearer mids and highs. The Flip 5, while still impressive for its size, has a single driver and cannot match the depth or volume output of the Charge 5. For casual indoor listening, the Flip 5 is sufficient, but for outdoor gatherings, the Charge 5 stands out.
Battery Life and Charging
With up to 20 hours of playback, the Charge 5 doubles the Flip 5’s battery life. This makes it better for longer trips or all-day use. Both use USB-C charging, but the Flip 5 charges faster due to its smaller battery. The Charge 5 also includes a powerbank feature, allowing it to charge phones or other devices, which the Flip 5 lacks.
Bluetooth and Connectivity
The Charge 5 uses Bluetooth 5.1, which offers better stability and range compared to the Flip 5’s Bluetooth 4.2. This improvement is subtle but noticeable in environments with interference. Both support the JBL Portable app and PartyBoost for pairing multiple speakers, but the Charge 5 benefits from the newer chipset.
Durability and Water Resistance
The IP67 rating on the Charge 5 provides peace of mind for those using it in dusty environments like the beach. The Flip 5 is still highly resistant to water but lacks dust protection. If you’re looking for a speaker that can handle more rugged use, the Charge 5 is the more durable option.
Portability
The Flip 5 is clearly the winner in terms of portability. It weighs less than 550 grams and has a narrower form factor, making it easy to pack and carry. The Charge 5, though still portable, is nearly twice the weight and bulkier, which can be noticeable in a small backpack or bag.
Extra Features
The Charge 5 includes extra functionality like its powerbank feature and separate tweeter for better sound clarity. The Flip 5 keeps things simpler and more affordable by focusing purely on core speaker functions. Neither supports voice assistants or speakerphone use.
FAQ
Is the JBL Charge 5 louder than the JBL Flip 5?
Yes, the JBL Charge 5 is significantly louder due to its 40W output and dual-driver setup. It is better suited for outdoor or large room use where volume and bass matter more.
Can both speakers connect to each other for stereo sound?
Yes, both the Charge 5 and Flip 5 support JBL’s PartyBoost feature, which allows you to pair them with other PartyBoost-compatible JBL speakers. However, Flip 5 and Charge 5 cannot be paired with older Connect+ speakers.
Does either speaker support voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant?
No, neither the Charge 5 nor the Flip 5 supports voice assistant integration. They are designed purely for music playback and do not have built-in microphones for smart features.
Which speaker is better for travel and portability?
The JBL Flip 5 is better for travel because it is smaller and lighter. It fits easily in bags and is easier to carry on hikes or bike rides.
Can I charge my phone using these speakers?
You can charge your phone using the JBL Charge 5, which has a powerbank feature. The Flip 5 does not include this functionality.
Do these speakers come with a built-in microphone for calls?
No, neither the Charge 5 nor the Flip 5 includes a microphone, so they cannot be used for speakerphone calls.
Which one has better battery life?
The JBL Charge 5 has better battery life, offering up to 20 hours of playback compared to the Flip 5’s 12 hours. This makes it more suitable for extended use without charging.
Is the sound quality noticeably different between the two?
Yes, the Charge 5 provides richer and deeper sound due to its separate tweeter and more powerful driver. The Flip 5 sounds good for its size, but it lacks the same clarity and bass depth.
Are both speakers waterproof and safe to use near water?
Yes, both speakers are waterproof. The Flip 5 has an IPX7 rating, which allows it to be submerged in water temporarily. The Charge 5 goes a step further with an IP67 rating, making it dustproof as well.
Which one is more suitable for outdoor use?
The JBL Charge 5 is more suitable for outdoor use due to its louder sound, longer battery life, and added dust resistance. It is a better choice for camping, pool parties, or beach outings.