JBL Xtreme 2 vs Xtreme 3: Comparison
In this article, the two speakers, JBL Xtreme 2 vs Xtreme 3, will be compared for their main differences and features. And at the end of the article, the winner in this battle of two portable Bluetooth speakers will be determined.
Table of Contents
JBL Xtreme 2 vs Xtreme 3
Quick Summary
Which one is better to take, not overpaying without losing sound quality? Let’s briefly clear things out.
The JBL Xtreme 2 and Xtreme 3 have fulfilled the Bluetooth speakers world due to their exclusive sounding, outstanding volume and bass, refined design, and water resistance. As a benefit, the user gets a power bank for charging devices from the speaker.
The functions of Xtreme 2 and 3 are most common, with a slight difference in sound quality based on a frequency range. The earlier model of these two portable speakers is remarkable for its sensitive microphone. Additionally, this product is not issued massively, so it is available for favorable prices.
As Bluetooth speakers are being compared, the upgraded version, Xtreme 3, undergoes pleasant changes. It has a better frequency range, and, as a result, the speaker produces nicer sound with clear bass tones. Furthermore, the device possesses elegant design with a big but non-obtrusive logo. Its protective characteristics guarantee improved resistance from dust and water. Yet Xtreme 3 can be found for relatively high prices.
Check Latest Price: JBL Xtreme 2
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JBL Xtreme 2 vs Xtreme 3: Comparison Chart
Name | JBL Xtreme 2 | JBL Xtreme 3 |
MUSIC | ||
Speakerphone | ||
Voice Assistant | ||
EQ | Graphic | |
SOUND | ||
Frequency Response Range | 55 Hz to 20 kHz | 53.5 Hz to 20 kHz |
Sound Level (Good <3.4 dB) | 4.09 dB | 4.67 dB |
Output Power | 40 watts | 50 watts |
BUILD QUALITY | ||
Material Quality | Great | Great |
Water Resistance | Submersible (IPx7) | Submersible (IPx7) |
Dust Resistance | Unspecified | Dust-Proof (IP6x) |
BATTERY | ||
Battery Life | 14.6 hrs | 12.7 hrs |
Charge Time | 2.7 hrs | 2.1 hrs |
Power Saving | ||
Changing Port | AC | USB-C |
VOICE ASSISTANT | ||
Alexa | ||
Google Assistant | ||
Siri | ||
Voice Activation | ||
Far-Field Performance | Excellent | No microphone |
APP | ||
App Name | JBL Portable | JBL Portable |
iOS | ||
Android | ||
EQ | Graphic | |
Stereo Pair Mode | ||
Party Mode | ||
Multi-Room | ||
BLUETOOTH | ||
Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 5.1 |
Bluetooth Range | 83 m | 58 m |
Multi-Device Pairing | 2 Devices | 2 Devices |
Wi-Fi | ||
Wi-Fi version | ||
WIRED | ||
Aux Imput | ||
USB Audio | ||
Other Port | ||
PORTABILITY | ||
Volume | 272 in3 (4,463 cm3) | 250 in3 (4,093 cm3) |
Weight | 5.1 lbs (2.3 kg) | 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg) |
Power Source | AC & Battery | Battery & USB |
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Sound Comparison
The quality of sound is excellent for both speakers. The difference between the JBL Xtreme 2 and 3 is that the last one can sound louder and harder. It gives a boomy bass with an incredibly clear treble, making heavy music sound interesting and fun. Meanwhile, the average user may not pay attention to this diversity unless one compares two models in parallel.
Xtreme 3 has a great deal of volume due to its output 50 watts’ power versus 40 watts for Xtreme 2, which caused it to show the spectrum of a complete sound. The frequency response range slightly varies, but overall, Xtreme 3 wins in the battle of the JBL Xtreme 2 vs 3 due to a minor difference in extreme numbers. It allows to play lower-frequency sounds better.
One more thing to surpass the sound is an equalizer for balancing, which is available through the JBL Portable app for an Xtreme 3 version.
Design
The JBL Xtreme 2 isn’t less good than Xtreme 3 with its modest design. The earlier version of a speaker is cylindrical with a small logo of JBL company in the center reminding a regular red label. In contrast, the latter version, Xtreme 3, looks more interesting with its bean-shaped form and a big company logo making it more stylish.
What’s more, the JBL Xtreme 2 is smaller in size but heavier in weigh. So, Xtreme 3 beats out its early version in this category.
Due to Xtreme 3’s protective features, it was rated IP67 as a dust-proof, whereas Xtreme 2’s doesn’t have it, though they both are water-resistant (rated IPx7).
These devices have a 3.5 mm aux port, and a USB output for charging a mobile from a power bank.
The top of these speakers has two loops with an included belt bringing more convenience in moving devices. The buttons’ organization is almost same they are touchable and comfortable in use.
To compare, it’s worth saying that the newer model lacks of a built-in microphone which was enjoyable to use on Xtreme 2 as a speakerphone and a voice assistant. This mic speaks good and suppresses background noise.
Check Latest Price: JBL Xtreme 2
Check Latest Price: JBL Xtreme 3
Durability
Due to Xtreme 3’s protective features, it was rated IP67 as a dust-proof, whereas Xtreme 2’s doesn’t have it, though they both are water-resistant (rated IPx7). So, dropping into water shouldn’t be an issue. Nonetheless, the fabric on the sides dries a bit at a time, so the user should consider it while bringing to the beach or trip.
Overall, both speakers are well done and rated high for durability.
Battery
Both have a high-powered and long-keeping battery. The early version wins being able to playback for 15 hours, whereas Xtreme 3 performs lower, having only 12 hours.
As for charging the battery, the newer model uses a USB-C cable, which is a significant update compared to Xtreme 2’s AC outlet. The charging time for the upgraded version takes about 2 hours to 3 hours with the use of AC for Xtreme 2.
Software
These Bluetooth speakers use the JBL Portable app, which doesn’t give the user much freedom, but allows one to simply control a device by name it and pair with other speakers. Meanwhile, the Bluetooth version is 4.2 and 5.1, respectively. However, the Bluetooth range is 83 and 58 meters for these devices, putting Xtreme 2 on a pedestal.
Xtreme 3 has got a great addition in the form of an EQ (equalizer) on the app to adjust and meet the user’s needs. An Xtreme 2 doesn’t have this option.
Finally, both portable speakers have a party mode, which has been updated for PartyBoost in Xtreme 3 model, making the sound loud and clear.
Final Thoughts
So, Xtreme 3 wins the battle of the reviewed JBL Xtreme 2 vs Xtreme 3. Yet the price should be considered while picking the one, as the latter version costs quite a few. Still, the sound quality, portability, durability and other improvements make these two Bluetooth speakers a good choice.
