JBL Charge 5 vs. Flip 5: What Is the Difference?

Are you seeking to purchase a top-notch Bluetooth speaker? Bluetooth speakers from JBL are well-known for their adaptability, portability, and performance. If you have come across their most recent innovation, the JBL Charge 5 and Flip 5, you may have noted that each device triumphs and reigns supreme in its way. Check out this detailed "JBL Charge 5 vs. Flip 5: Comparative Guide" to help you decide which Bluetooth speaker to buy.

What features do you look for in a JBL Bluetooth speaker? Even though JBL produces some of the best Bluetooth speakers on the market, having one doesn't imply that it's the best option for you. The best Bluetooth speaker is the one that matches your need and priorities. For instance, the JBL Charge 5 is better built ("rated IP67 for dust and water resistance"), has a longer battery life, and has a more neutral sound profile.

However, if you're looking for a portable solution with exceptional sound quality and a more immersive soundstage without breaking the bank, the JBL Flip 5 is a fantastic choice. Therefore, read this comparison guide between the JBL Charge 5 and the Flip 5 to determine which option is ideal.

Comparison Between JBL Charge 5 And Flip 5

After extensive investigation, we concluded that Charge 5 and Flip 5 each excel in some but not all respects. Therefore, following a comprehensive evaluation of the portable speakers according to several criteria, here is the JBL Charge 5 vs Flip 5: Comparative Guide.

1. Features of JBL Charge 5 VS Flip 5

Here are the key differences:

• The Charge 5 can power other gadgets through a USB cable. However, Flip 5 lacks this functionality.
• A Charge 5 battery may last for over 20 hours on average. However, the 12-hour gameplay time on Flip 5 is respectable. (However, this time estimate is subject to changes based on the volume settings; playback time is likely to be shortened by louder volumes).
• Charge 5 is more audible but can cause distortion when the volume is too high. The volume of Flip 5 is lower, yet even at maximum volume, the sound is still evident. When listening from a great distance, Charge 5 sounds less crisp than Flip 5.
• Flip 5 triumphs in portability as it is smaller and lighter. However, Charge 5 is bigger but still manageable in size.
• Both of the speakers are water-resistant. While Charge 5 has an IP67 rating, Flip 5 has an IPX7 rating. The Charge 5 is resistant to dust too. Depending on your needs, this may be a deciding factor.
• Although the Charge 5's bass is more powerful, the Flip 5's soundstage is more expansive and convincing. The bass is handled differently by each speaker. The timbre is consistent, but the effect is different. The Flip 5 handles higher bass tones, while the Charge 5 excels at lower tones.
• Flip 5 is an earlier model; hence it supports Bluetooth 4.2 version. While Charge 5 supports Bluetooth 5.1, allowing a more rapid and stable connection. Neither JBL speaker, however, has connectivity concerns.

2. Design of JBL Charge 5 VS Flip 5

Both the Charge 5 and the Flip 5 are well-made and designed with functionality in mind. Here are the design differences:

A. JBL Charge 5:

Since the Charge 5 was released more recently, it features a more up-to-date design than the Flip 5 generation. The rubberized undercarriage features attractive diagonal lines for traction when you set it down, and the JBL logo has been enlarged to be more eye-catching. The Charge 5 is also considerably taller than the Flip 5, approaching wine bottle height. It is more secure against dust and can withstand being submerged in water up to a meter deep for up to 30 minutes, earning it the IP67 rating.

B. JBL Flip 5:

The Flip 5 is also watertight to the same depth, although it isn't dustproof. The Flip 5 is a scaled-down Charge, as JBL has maintained a constant design language throughout the years. It lacks a USB charging connector for phones and other devices but retains the same uncovered USB-C port charging port and sturdy build quality; you won't have to worry about it shattering if you drop it.

3. Sound Quality of JBL Charge 5 VS Flip 5

Without a doubt, both speakers are of high quality, but which should you prefer?

A. JBL Charge 5: 

The Charge 5's larger size and improved audio quality allow it to fill a larger room with sound. Vocals have lots of energy, and the leading edges of low-frequency notes are precise, giving the performance agility lacking in speakers with identical specifications. The new tweeter on the Charge 5 allows treble to shine, enabling undistorted tunes.

B. JBL Flip 5:

The Flip 5 exhibits a unique auditory personality; JBL has been making Bluetooth speakers long enough to have mastered an approachable yet engaging sound. The Flip 5 is less powerful or bass-heavy than the Charge 5, but it still produces a surprisingly robust sound for a device of its size.

4. Price of JBL Charge 5 VS Flip 5

When comparing the two models, the Charge 5 is more expensive. The Charge 5 and the Flip 5 are affordable for their sound quality and portability. If the Charge 5 is beyond your price range, consider the Flip 5.

5. Colors of JBL Charge 5 VS Flip 5

The two Bluetooth speakers are available in a wide range of colors. In this case, you are more likely to have too many options. Users appreciate the broad spectrum of colors used. Of course, Flip 5 comes in a wider variety of hues (eleven altogether) and may be personalized at an additional fee. Apart from the speaker's color, are there other visible differences between JBL Charge 5 and Flip 5? Here is what we found out.

What Are the Key Visible Differences Between JBL Charge 5 And Flip 5?

Here are the readily apparent distinctions between the JBL Charge 5 and the JBL Flip 5:

1. The JBL Charge 5:

• The battery life indicator is conveniently located at the top of the speaker.
• Compared to Flip 5, JBL Charge 5 is considerably larger and heavier. (Its length is 1.5 inches longer and has a broader diameter. Additionally, it's twice as heavy as Flip 5).
• The play/pause and volume controls stick out from the mesh and are made more prominent.
• The JBL logo appears in a bolder style on the Charge 5 case.

2. The JBL Flip 5:

• The battery status indicator for Flip 5 is located on the rear, next to the device's USB port.
• This JBL speaker's brand is smaller and less bold than on JBL Charge 5.
• A rubber plug securely seals off the charging port. (If you have a USB-C cable, you can connect it to your phone or charger by opening the case on one side).

However, do Charge 5 and Flip 5 have some similarities? Read on to find out.

Similarities of JBL Charge 5 And Flip 5

Some of the common features of these gadgets are as follows:

• A rubber lid protects the charging port on the JBL Charge 5 and Flip 5, so you won't have to worry about getting damaged.
• The Charge 5 and the Flip 5 are compatible because they support PartyBoost.
• Both the JBL Charge 5 and Flip 5 have PartyBoost technology, which allows for the synchronization of up to 100 speakers to produce a massive stereo effect.
• Both the JBL Charge 5 and the JBL Flip 5 are compatible with the JBL app, which enables syncing of speakers.

Conclusion

Was choosing between JBL Charge 5 and Flip 5 a concern? The JBL Flip 5 and the JBL Charge 5 are excellent Bluetooth speakers; choose one based on your preferences. Both gadgets can be carried around easily, are water-resistant, and are Bluetooth-enabled. The two speakers have a few drawbacks, such as "no aux port," but their benefits exceed them. With this JBL Charge 5 vs. Flip 5: Comparative Guide in hand, I'm confident you'll be able to make an informed purchase decision.

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