JBL is a prominent leader in the portable Bluetooth speaker market. Two of their most popular models, the JBL Flip 5 and JBL Flip 6, are often compared for their specifications, performance, and value. Whether upgrading from an older model or buying your first JBL speaker, this detailed comparison will help you decide which suits your needs.

In this article, we’ll examine the specifications of the JBL Flip 5 and JBL Flip 6, comparing their design, audio performance, durability, connectivity, and more. We’ll also examine the differences between these two models.

Design and Build Quality

JBL Flip 5

With its recognizable cylindrical shape, the JBL Flip 5 is portable and fits into most bags or cup holders. Its dimensions are 181 x 69 x 74 mm and weigh approximately 540 grams. The speaker is built with high-quality materials, offering a premium feel while maintaining durability.

The Flip 5’s exterior is wrapped in rugged fabric, providing style and function. It is perfect for customers constantly on the go because of its sturdy build, which guarantees it can tolerate little bumps and scratches. It also has a built-in loop strap for added portability, allowing you to attach it to backpacks or other gear.

• IPX7 Waterproof Rating: The Flip 5 is perfect for poolside use or outdoor excursions because it can be immersed in water up to one meter for 30 minutes. This level of waterproofing means you don’t have to worry about accidental splashes or rain.
• Colors: The Flip 5 comes in a range of colors, from traditional black to vivid shades like camouflage and teal. Customers can select a speaker based on their personal preferences and style.

JBL Flip 6

The JBL Flip 6 retains the cylindrical shape but includes a slightly more refined aesthetic. With dimensions of 178 x 68 x 72 mm and a weight of 550 grams, it’s smaller but a tad heavier than its predecessor. Its minimalist design prominently displays the JBL logo, adding a modern touch.

The Flip 6 improves durability with its IP67 rating, making it waterproof and dustproof like the Flip 5. This means it’s better suited for outdoor environments, such as beaches or hiking trails, where dust and sand might be a concern.

• IP67 Dust and Waterproof Rating: An upgrade from the Flip 5, the Flip 6 is waterproof and dustproof, making it even more versatile for rugged environments.
• Colors: Like the Flip 5, the Flip 6 is available in various colors to suit your taste. The color palette includes neutral tones and bold options, catering to multiple preferences.

Winner: JBL Flip 6

The Flip 6’s improved IP67 rating and slightly sleeker design make it the better choice for those seeking more robust durability.

Audio Performance

JBL Flip 5

The Flip 5 delivers excellent audio quality with its 20W RMS output. It features a racetrack-shaped driver, which enhances the bass and offers a balanced sound profile. While it doesn’t have stereo sound, its performance is sufficient for casual listeners.

The Flip 5’s sound signature is characterized by intense midrange clarity and decent treble, making it a good all-around speaker for various genres of music. The bass response is awe-inspiring for a speaker of its size, delivering punchy lows that add depth to your favorite tracks.

• Frequency Response: 65 Hz – 20 kHz
• Bass: Strong and punchy, it is ideal for small gatherings or personal listening. While it may not satisfy audiophiles looking for ultra-deep bass, it must be adequate for most users.

JBL Flip 6

The Flip 6 takes audio performance to the next level. It features a two-way driver system with a separate tweeter and woofer. This setup improves sound clarity and depth, delivering a richer listening experience. Adding the tweeter enhances the treble, making high-frequency sounds more distinct and clear.

• Frequency Response: 63 Hz – 20 kHz
• Bass: Enhanced with deeper lows, making it a better choice for bass enthusiasts. The Flip 6’s bass performance is tighter and more controlled, giving it an edge over the Flip 5 in terms of sound quality.
• Power Output: Slightly higher than the Flip 5, ensuring louder and clearer audio.

Another noteworthy benefit is the Flip 6’s capacity to manage bigger volumes without distortion. Whether hosting a small outdoor party or using it indoors, the Flip 6 delivers consistent performance.

Winner: JBL Flip 6

With its two-way driver system and enhanced bass performance, the Flip 6 outshines the Flip 5 in audio quality.

Connectivity

JBL Flip 5:

The Flip 5 is equipped with Bluetooth 4.2, offering a reliable connection with a range of up to 10 meters. It also supports JBL’s PartyBoost feature, allowing you to connect multiple JBL speakers for a synchronized audio experience.

While Bluetooth 4.2 is adequate for most users, newer Bluetooth versions lack some advancements, such as improved range and energy efficiency. However, the PartyBoost feature compensates by enabling stereo pairing, which enhances the listening experience when using multiple speakers.

• Ports: USB-C for charging, which provides faster charging speeds and improved durability compared to micro-USB.

JBL Flip 6

Utilizing Bluetooth 5.1, the Flip 6 offers enhanced energy efficiency and a more reliable connection. The newer Bluetooth version also extends the connection range, making it more reliable in larger spaces or outdoor settings. It retains the PartyBoost feature, making it compatible with other JBL speakers that support the same function.

Bluetooth 5.1 also offers lower latency, which benefits users using their speakers while streaming videos or playing games. The enhanced connection stability ensures fewer dropouts and interruptions.

• Ports: USB-C for charging

Winner: JBL Flip 6

Bluetooth 5.1 ensures better connectivity and lower latency, making the Flip 6 a clear winner in this category.

Battery Life and Charging

JBL Flip 5

The Flip 5 can play for 12 hours on just one charge. It charges via USB-C and takes approximately 2.5 hours to recharge fully. This makes it a reliable choice for day trips or extended listening sessions.

The battery life is consistent with moderate usage, though factors such as volume levels and Bluetooth range can slightly affect the overall performance. Its USB-C charging port ensures compatibility with modern charging accessories, making it convenient for users who already own USB-C devices.

JBL Flip 6

The Flip 6 matches the Flip 5 with 12 hours of battery life. However, thanks to its more efficient Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, the battery performance might feel slightly better in real-world usage. This improvement is especially noticeable during extended use, where the Flip 6 consumes less energy for maintaining a stable connection.

• Charging Time: Like the Flip 5, recharging fully takes about 2.5 hours.

The Flip 6’s USB-C charging port also supports faster and more efficient charging, making it a practical option for users needing to recharge quickly.

Winner: Tie

Both models deliver the same battery life, so this category has no clear winner.

Durability and Outdoor Use

JBL Flip 5:

With its IPX7 waterproof rating, the Flip 5 is well-suited for outdoor use. However, it lacks dust resistance, which could be a limitation for users in sandy or dusty environments. The rugged build and compact design make it popular for poolside parties and casual outings.

While the waterproofing ensures protection against accidental spills or submersion, users in harsher environments might find the lack of dustproofing a drawback. Despite this, the Flip 5’s durable construction makes it a reliable companion for most outdoor scenarios.

JBL Flip 6:

The Flip 6’s IP67 rating provides waterproof and dustproof capabilities, making it the better option for rugged outdoor conditions. This added layer of durability ensures that the speaker can handle environments like beaches, hiking trails, and construction sites without issues.

The Flip 6’s build quality is designed to withstand more challenging conditions, offering users peace of mind when taking it on adventures. Its dustproof capability makes it particularly appealing to users who frequently explore outdoor environments.

Winner: JBL Flip 6

The added dustproofing gives the Flip 6 an edge for adventurous users.

Price

JBL Flip 5:

As the older model, the Flip 5 is generally more affordable, with prices ranging from $90 to $120, depending on sales and availability. Because of its reduced price, it’s an excellent choice for those on a tight budget who want a top-notch Bluetooth speaker.

JBL Flip 6:

The Flip 6 is newer and priced higher, typically around $130 to $150. However, its enhanced features justify the additional cost for many users. For those willing to invest in improved performance and durability, the Flip 6 offers excellent value.

Winner: JBL Flip 5

For budget-conscious buyers, the Flip 5 offers excellent value for its price.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose JBL Flip five if:

• You’re on a tighter budget and still want excellent sound quality.
• Waterproofing is sufficient for your needs, and you don’t require dustproofing.
• You value a lighter speaker for portability.

Choose JBL Flip six if:

• You want the latest features and improved durability.
• Audio quality is your top priority, especially with enhanced bass.
• It would help to have a speaker that can withstand water and dust.

Comparison Table

Feature	JBL Flip 5	JBL Flip 6
Dimensions	181 x 69 x 74 mm	178 x 68 x 72 mm
Weight	540 grams	550 grams
Waterproof Rating	IPX7	IP67
Audio System	Single Driver	Two-Way Driver System
Frequency Response	65 Hz – 20 kHz	63 Hz – 20 kHz
Bluetooth Version	4.2	5.1
Battery Life	12 hours	12 hours
Charging Port	USB-C	USB-C
Price Range	$90 – $120	$130 – $150

FAQs

Can the JBL Flip 5 and Flip Six pair with each other?

Yes, the Flip 5 and Flip Six support JBL’s PartyBoost feature, allowing them to pair with each other and other compatible JBL speakers for a synchronized audio experience.

Is the JBL Flip 6 worth the extra cost over the Flip 5?

For users who prioritize better audio quality, improved durability, and dust proofing, the Flip 6 is worth the extra cost. However, budget-conscious buyers may find the Flip 5 more appealing.

Are both speakers compatible with voice assistants?

Neither the JBL Flip 5 nor Flip 6 has built-in voice assistant functionality. However, they can connect to devices that support voice assistants like Google Assistant or Siri.

Which speaker is better for outdoor use?

The JBL Flip 6 is better for outdoor use due to its IP67 rating, protecting it from water and dust.

Can I use these speakers while charging?

Yes, the JBL Flip 5 and Flip 6 can be used while charging, making them convenient for extended listening sessions.

Additional Features and Considerations

Sound Customization with the JBL App

The JBL Flip 6 works seamlessly with the JBL Portable App, allowing users to customize and enhance their audio experience. The app’s equalizer settings enable users to fine-tune the bass, treble, and midrange to their preference. Users who enjoy experimenting with various sound profiles or want to customize the speaker for specific musical genres will find this feature helpful.

While offering excellent sound quality, the Flip 5 lacks this level of customization. It delivers a more straightforward listening experience, which may appeal to users who prefer simplicity.

Build and Environmental Impact

JBL has taken steps toward sustainability with Flip 6 by using eco-friendly packaging materials and incorporating recycled plastics in its construction. This is in line with the increasing demand for eco-friendly products, which makes Flip 6 a more desirable option for customers who care about the environment.

While durable and reliable, the Flip 5 does not include these sustainable design elements. However, its rugged build and classic design remain strong for many users.

Conclusion

The JBL Flip 5 and Flip 6 are exceptional portable speakers catering to various needs. Whether you prioritize affordability, cutting-edge features, or enhanced durability, there’s a JBL speaker. By understanding their unique specifications and comparing their strengths, you can confidently choose the model that best fits your lifestyle and preferences.

If you value a budget-friendly option with solid performance, the JBL Flip 5 is an excellent choice. It provides robust sound quality and waterproofing, making it a reliable companion for casual users. However, if you want a speaker with upgraded durability, richer sound, and customizable features, the JBL Flip 6 is the superior option. Its advanced capabilities justify the higher price tag, particularly for those who frequently use their speaker outdoors or in demanding environments.

Ultimately, both models exemplify JBL’s commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet day at the beach, or seeking a portable audio solution for your travels, these speakers deliver impressive performance. The choice comes down to your personal preferences, priorities, and budget, but either way, you can go right with a JBL Flip speaker.