The JBL Charge 5 vs Flip 5: Which Bluetooth Speaker to Buy?
The Charge 5 and Flip 5 are Bluetooth speakers that have much in common, however, they differ. Whereas the Charge 5 is estimated higher, the Flip 5 is lower. In any case, both have fors and againsts. At some point, it hardens the decision of whether purchasing one or another speaker. The Charge 5 or the Flip 5? That’s a question about getting a simple and compact JBL Bluetooth speaker, or the one with extended battery life and the ability to charge other gadgets. Does the Charge 5 prevail the Flip 5 and contrariwise?
Table of Contents
We investigated these two speakers as for their key characteristics and put everything into in-depth guide comparing and contrasting the JBL Charge 5 vs Flip 5. You’ll definitely find a favourite Bluetooth speaker.
So let’s dive into the world of one of the latest JBL products.
Quick Summary
Both devices are great waterproof Bluetooth speakers with exceptional sound quality and longer battery life than in their predecessors. If spending more than hundred bucks looks too much to you, then get the Flip 5 model and enjoy this portable Bluetooth speaker. It’s twice smaller and lighter in weight than the Charge 5.
Nonetheless, in case you need dust-proof feature, louder sound, a portable charger, long battery life, extended wireless range, which is supported by 5.1 Bluetooth version, that’s all about the Charge 5.
If you’re price-conscious and want a powerful sound and stylish design, then the JBL Charge 5 is a better speaker than the JBL Flip 5. The Charge 5 is characterized by a neutral sound profile and greater battery power, though the last point depends on how often you utilize it.
The JBL Charge 5 vs Flip 5: Comparison Chart
Name | JBL Charge 5 | JBL Flip 5 |
SOUND QUALITY | ||
Frequency response range | 60 Hz – 20 kHz | 65 Hz – 20 kHz |
Output Power | 30 watts | 20 watts |
Maximum playing time (hrs) | 20 | 12 |
BUILD QUALITY | ||
Waterproof & Dustproof | IP67 | IPX7 |
BATTERY | ||
Battery Life | 20 hrs | 12 hrs |
Charge Time | 4 hrs | 2.5 hrs |
Power Saving | ||
Charging Port | ||
Battery Type | Li-ion polymer 27 Wh | Lithium-ion Polymer |
VOICE ASSISTANT | ||
Alexa | ||
Google Assistant | ||
Siri | ||
Voice Activation | ||
APP | ||
App Name | JBL Portable | JBL Portable |
iOS | ||
Android | ||
JBL PartyBoost | ||
EQ | Graphic | |
Stereo Pair Mode | ||
Party Mode | ||
BLUETOOTH | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 4.2 |
Bluetooth Profiles | A2DP 1.3, AVRCP 1.6 | A2DP V1.3, AVRCP V1.6 |
Bluetooth Frequency | 2400 MHz - 2483.5 MHz | 2.402 – 2.480GHz |
Bluetooth Transmitted modulation | GFSK, π/4 DQPSK, 8DPSK | GFSK, π/4 DQPSK, 8DPSK |
Bluetooth Transmitting Power | ≤ 20 dBm (EIRP) | 0-11dBm |
PORTABILITY | ||
Dimensions (cm) | 22 x 9.6 x 9.3 (cm) | 18 x 7.4 x 6.9 (cm) |
Dimensions (in) | 8.7 x 3.76 x 3.67 (in) | 7.12 x 2.91 x 2.71 (in) |
Weight (kgs) | 0.96 (kgs) | 0.54 (kgs) |
Weight (lbs) | 2.11 (lbs) | 1.2 (lbs) |
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Features Face to Face
We’ll go into details analyzing the audio quality, colors, and design of speakers, portability and connectivity, also their battery features. Keep reading.
Sound Quality
Don’t want to lie, both JBL speakers have great sound quality together with their output. The unique tubular shape of the speaker, which is a key feature of the JBL company, allows the device to play music from bass radiators, making the audio output powerful and well-balanced.
Bass Output
Charge 5: produces deeper bass output as its frequencies are set for lower sound waves and louder sound.
Flip 5: generates softer bass as it has high prevailing frequencies. So basically, the company went out from the booming sound output, emphasizing on adding lighter notes to drum and bass instruments.
Check Latest Price: JBL Flip 5
Check Latest Price: JBL Charge 5
Loudness
Take into account that the Flip 5 is twice smaller, so eventually, it is not as loud as the Charge 5. The way the playing music sounds, makes these portable speakers battle one with another at maximum volumes; however, they differ in reproducing the sounding.
Speakers’ High Volumes
Charge 5: high-frequency response allows its bass to be delivered as a heavy tune. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about possible distortion at higher volumes. Its properties soften the sound, so you won’t hear any hissing when it plays in a big room.
Flip 5: leans on more mid frequencies, nevertheless, it sounds great, and its bass is pretty much the same as the Charge 5. However, on its highs, you may hear some slight hiss. We can assure you that it won’t break any expectations of the Flip 5, once it’s put in large accommodation.
Design and Colors
Similarities:
- both devices have the same cylindrical (tubular) shape with rubber caps at the end that prevents water entrance
- the speakers are covered by the sturdy mesh which may leave curves if pushing on it too hard
- they will not drown once exposed to the water source
- portable Bluetooth speakers have a play button and also those to regulate volume on the top
- you’ll find a USB-C port at the back
- the charging port is covered by a protective cap, so there’s no need to worry about a safety of it
- can’t stand vertically while playing music, only a horizontal position is recommended
- gadgets are released in many colors from ordinary to eye-catching which is magnificent, isn’t it?
Differences:
- Charge 5: larger in size and weight twice more than the Flip 5. On the front, it has a big and impressive JBL logo. As for the buttons’ organization, they are bigger and visible at nighttime; they are also located on the mesh directly. Next to them, you’ll see a well-observable charge bar to indicate a low battery.
- Flip 5: twice smaller and lighter. The JBL logo doesn’t make that impression as with the Charge 5, as it’s not that big. As a bonus, at the back of the device, there’s a place to attach a handle, which makes your hands free of carrying it. What’s more, the Flip 5 has a more diverse color spectrum of speakers, so it’s a hard one to choose.
Portability
Which one prevails in this category? Let’s compare and find out.
The Charge 5:
- the size and mass are effective, so anyway, you’ll feel carrying it, especially if going to the mountains as they take up a lot of space
- you can connect multiple speakers with the Party mode
- the battery charge stays almost during the whole day, which an excellent advantage
- this JBL speaker can power other devices – that’s more than just better
- dust and water resistance is an outstanding feature, that opens lots of opportunities to take it elsewhere
View on Amazon: JBL Charge 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The Flip 5:
- the size and weight are twice lower compared to the Charge 5, so it becomes very comfortable to take it for outdoor use
- the battery power lasts for half a day, which makes it less convenient as a speaker
- sad but it’s not able to charge other devices
- water proof, however there’s no data about dirt repelling and its IP rating is unknown, so it’s best to avoid any possible risks and use it, for instance, for backyard parties
View on Amazon: JBL Flip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Battery Capabilities
One of the main factors is battery life, as nobody wants to charge the device every 2-3 hours once it dies.
As for the Flip 5, its battery capacity is 12 hours of playback time. Well, that depends on its usage. Consider mid or low volumes (30-40%), and this portable speaker will survive for nearly half a day. The high volumes shorten its life by 4-6 hours of non-stop work.
What about the Charge 5 battery capability, it can sustain for 20 hours of play time with a music volume of about 50%. Moreover, we mentioned that this JBL speaker has the ability to power mobile devices, which is crucial when you are somewhere in the middle of wildlife.
Definitely, the Charge 5 is a great speaker and gets more points for serving as a power bank and a portable charger.
Connectivity
The USB ports:
- The Charge 5 has a USB port type A for charging cell phones, and this is the main difference between these two speakers.
- They both have a USB-C port for a charging option.
Bluetooth versions:
- 2 Bluetooth version for the Flip 5
- 1 Bluetooth version for the Charge 5, which makes it more energy efficient and provides a longer wireless range
Aux port and Wi-Fi:
- upsetting but both devices have neither of these features, though an aux input would allow to connect to a stereo somewhere at the party plus its PartyBoost feature could give an impressive sound output
- both lack of a built-in microphone, which unables an existence of a voice assistant, such as Siri or Google assistant, and even receiving phone calls
Uses
The user can link several speakers via the Connect+ app. With their PartyBoost feature, every event you are in will become unforgettable. As you synchronize the devices, the sound output becomes amazing due to a Party mode.
Sadly, but both don’t have an equalizer to manage devices or see battery remaining.
Clash Results
The winner of the battle between the JBL Charge 5 vs Flip 5 is the Charge 5 Bluetooth speaker with its sturdy sound output and strong bass, great design features, like a stylish big logo, impressive size, and convenient buttons’ organization and accessibility. While it’s a bit less than 200$, you’ll never regret about this purchase. Think of a dust-proof option, charging other devices ability, and a decent look – what can be better?
We also don’t want to push the portable Flip 5 model away. It costs less, and at some marketplaces you may get it at a discounted price, saving some money.
Check Latest Price: JBL Charge 5
Check Latest Price: JBL Flip 5
Quick FAQ
Does the Charge 5 sound louder than the Flip 5?
Should I buy the JBL Charge 5 or the Flip 5?
What is the difference between the JBL Charge 5 and the Flip 5?
Is it worth it to buy the JBL Charge 5?
