When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, JBL has built a reputation for delivering high-quality audio experiences in compact and rugged designs. In particular, the JBL Flip line has been a favorite among music lovers, outdoor adventurers, and casual listeners alike. The JBL Flip 5 was widely praised for its powerful sound and portability, and with the arrival of the JBL Flip 6, many are left wondering—what’s the difference, and which one should you buy?
This article takes a deep dive into the core differences between these two popular Bluetooth speakers to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the JBL Flip 6 and Flip 5 look almost identical. Both feature a cylindrical design with passive bass radiators on either end and durable fabric mesh covering the exterior.
- Flip 5: Rugged and waterproof with an IPX7 rating, allowing it to be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes.
- Flip 6: Maintains the compact, rugged design but upgrades to an IP67 rating, making it both dustproof and waterproof—a definite plus for outdoor use.
The Flip 6 also includes a slightly updated logo design and comes in a broader range of colors to suit different style preferences.
Audio Performance
Audio quality is where the JBL Flip 6 clearly distances itself from its predecessor.
- Flip 5: Offers a monospeaker with JBL’s signature sound, focusing on deep bass and balanced mids.
- Flip 6: Features a new two-way speaker system—a racetrack-shaped woofer for low and mid frequencies and a dedicated tweeter for high frequencies.
This new setup delivers a noticeably richer and more detailed sound experience. The highs are crisper, and the separation between frequencies is more defined, making the Flip 6 a better choice for audiophiles or those seeking higher sound fidelity.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a critical factor for portable speakers, and both models perform similarly in this category.
- Flip 5: Up to 12 hours of playtime on a full charge.
- Flip 6: Also delivers up to 12 hours of playtime, depending on usage and audio volume.
Both speakers use a USB-C port for faster, more efficient charging. While the runtime remains unchanged, the newer speaker benefits from slightly optimized power management.
Connectivity and App Support
JBL has improved connectivity slightly with the Flip 6:
- Flip 5: Uses Bluetooth 4.2
- Flip 6: Upgraded to Bluetooth 5.1, offering a more stable connection and marginally faster pairing.
Another key advantage with the Flip 6 is its compatibility with the JBL Portable App. This allows users to:
- Customize EQ settings
- Access firmware updates
- Manage PartyBoost pairings
The Flip 5, although it supports PartyBoost, does not support EQ customization, limiting personal audio adjustments.
PartyBoost and Pairing Options
Both the Flip 5 and Flip 6 feature JBL’s PartyBoost technology, allowing you to pair multiple JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers for a more powerful stereo or multi-room sound experience.
One important thing to note is that PartyBoost is not backward compatible with JBL Connect+ devices. So, if you already own older JBL speakers using Connect+, you won’t be able to pair them with either the Flip 5 or Flip 6.
Price Comparison
Pricing can vary, but generally:
- Flip 5: Retails at a slightly lower price due to being an older model.
- Flip 6: Carries a modest premium, reflecting its newer hardware and improved audio capabilities.
That extra cost might be justified by the enhanced audio quality, better water and dust resistance, and access to EQ customization.
Which One Should You Buy?
Both the JBL Flip 5 and Flip 6 are excellent waterproof Bluetooth speakers that offer serious bang for your buck. However, the right choice depends on your priorities.
- Choose the JBL Flip 5 if:
- You want a high-quality speaker at a more budget-friendly price.
- You don’t need customizable EQ settings.
- You’ll mostly use it indoors or in wet but not dusty environments.
- Choose the JBL Flip 6 if:
- You want superior sound quality with separate tweeters and woofers.
- Dust resistance is essential for beach or desert trips.
- You value modern Bluetooth connectivity and app customization.
Overall, the JBL Flip 6 is a meaningful upgrade over the Flip 5. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel but refines many of the attributes that made the Flip 5 a solid performer. If you’re buying your first portable Bluetooth speaker or planning an upgrade, the Flip 6 offers better long-term value and cutting-edge features for only a slightly higher price.
FAQ
1. Is the JBL Flip 6 louder than the Flip 5?
Yes, the Flip 6 offers slightly higher volume and better sound clarity due to its two-way speaker setup with a dedicated tweeter.
2. Can I pair the Flip 6 with the Flip 5?
Yes, both speakers support PartyBoost and can be paired together. However, they cannot connect with older JBL devices that use JBL Connect+.
3. Is the Flip 6 worth the extra money over the Flip 5?
For users who prioritize sound quality, EQ customization, and durability, the Flip 6 is worth the slight price increase.
4. How long do the batteries last on each speaker?
Both the Flip 5 and Flip 6 offer up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge, depending on volume and usage.
5. Does the Flip 6 float in water?
No, neither the Flip 5 nor Flip 6 is designed to float. While both are waterproof, they may sink if dropped into water.
6. Can I use the Flip 6 as a speakerphone?
Unfortunately, no. Neither the Flip 5 nor Flip 6 includes a built-in microphone, so hands-free calling isn’t supported.
7. What’s included in the box?
Both speakers include a USB-C charging cable and a Quick Start Guide. Accessories like carrying cases are sold separately.