The JBL Flip series has been a popular choice for portable Bluetooth speakers, offering durability and excellent sound quality in a compact package. We dedicated time to listening to the JBL Flip 5 vs Flip 6 in a variety of settings and uncovered all the pertinent information regarding the comparison between these two generations. Digimigia will be comparing the two in order to determine whether JBL has truly enhanced the Flip line or if their money-printing formula has been compromised.
Overview of JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5
The JBL Flip 6 features numerous enhancements compared to its predecessor, the JBL Flip 5. The JBL Flip 5 speaker measures 7.13 x 2.91 x 2.72 inches, whereas the JBL Flip 6 speaker measures 7.13 x 2.6 x 2.8 inches. However, the JBL Flip 6 speaker clearly exhibits superior power and bass in this upgrade.
The JBL Flip 6 boasts a power output of 30W and is equipped with a dedicated tweeter and woofer for crystal-clear highs and midranges, whereas the JBL Flip 5 only has a power output of 20W, with a single driver handling the highs and bass. Furthermore, the JBL Flip 6 utilizes the most recent Bluetooth 5.1 technology for superior music streaming, whereas the Flip 5 utilizes Bluetooth 4.2. Both speakers additionally provide support for the audio streaming codecs A2DP 1.3 and AVRCP 1.6.
They possess lightweight and portable characteristics, with the JBL Flip 5 weighing 540g and the Flip 6 weighing 544g. The most significant enhancement of the Flip 6 pertains to its enhanced durability rating. Despite possessing an IPX7 waterproof rating, the Flip 6 boasts a comprehensive IP67 rating, rendering it both water- and dust-resistant.
Comparison of JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5
Let’s compare JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5 in some aspects in the following part:
Sound Quality
Despite having only one driver, JBL Flip 5 delivers surprisingly deep bass and crystal-clear highs. Due to the racetrack-shaped speaker driver, you can hear this speaker regardless of how you position it, which projects sound in all directions. It is noteworthy that the Flip 5 speaker is capable of effectively handling bass and beats, resulting in a tight and punchy sound with ample depth. The Flip 5 has a warmer sound signature than other speakers, and you can feel the emphasis on the bass. You can make the JBL Flip 5 sound better by turning up the volume. You can not hear any harshness in the treble ranges.
The JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5 sound quality is louder than the Flip 5 because it has 30W of power. It also has a tighter and cleaner bass. The Flip 6 is very good at singing, especially in the upper parts. The speaker has a special tweeter that makes the sound very clear and detailed. The Flip 6 also has a good soundstage and you can get a sense of where each sound is coming from. The Flip 6 sounds like the JBL Charge 5 but in a smaller size.
Battery Life
JBL claims that the Flip 5 and Flip 6 have a playtime of 12 hours. However, when testing standardized tests:
- The duration of the Flip 5 is nine hours and 27 minutes.
- The duration of the Flip 6 is nine hours and 25 minutes.
In actual usage, the battery life of the two models is substantially identical. Both devices fall short of the advertised 12 hours, yet they still provide sufficient power for a full day of usage in the majority of scenarios.
Price
The JBL Flip 5 launched in August 2019 for $120. In 2022, it’s a little cheaper now because it’s an older model. For instance, you can get it for less on the JBL website in the US and UK for $110. The Flip 6 was released in December 2021, and it costs $130. This is a reasonable price for the Flip 5.
Which One is Better, JBL Flip 6 or Flip 5?
The Flip 6 has better dust and water resistance than the Flip 5 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. However these differences may not significantly affect most users’ experiences. The difference in sound quality is small, so it’s not important. If you already have a Flip 5, you don’t need to upgrade unless you really need the dust resistance of the Flip 6. The Flip 6 is a good choice for new buyers, but the Flip 5 is still a good choice.
Conclusion
Both the JBL Flip 5 and the JBL Flip 6 are excellent Bluetooth speakers for their price. As Digimigia compared JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5, you noticed that the differences are minimal, and you will get a great sound from both. Having said that, we are inclined towards the Flip 6 due to its superior sound quality and extensive customization options. Due to their identical MSRPs, it is a no-brainer to choose the Flip 6 when deciding between the two. In any case, you will receive a clear and potent Bluetooth speaker from JBL’s Flip collection.