When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, JBL is a household name that has been synonymous with quality and reliability. Two of their most popular models, the JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5, have been making waves in the market with their impressive sound quality, sleek designs, and affordable prices. But what sets these two speakers apart, and which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between the JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5, exploring their design, sound quality, features, and more.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5 may seem identical, but there are some subtle differences in their design and build quality. Both speakers have a cylindrical shape, making them easy to hold and carry around. However, the JBL Flip 5 is slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor, measuring 7.1 inches in length and weighing 1.2 pounds.
One of the most noticeable differences between the two speakers is the material used in their construction. The JBL Flip 4 has a fabric-covered exterior, while the JBL Flip 5 features a more premium-looking rubberized exterior. The rubberized exterior of the JBL Flip 5 provides a more rugged and durable design, making it better suited for outdoor use.
Color Options
Both speakers come in a variety of colors, but the JBL Flip 5 has a more extensive range of options. The JBL Flip 4 is available in six colors, including black, blue, gray, red, teal, and white. The JBL Flip 5, on the other hand, is available in 11 colors, including some more vibrant and bold options like camouflage and sand.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, both the JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5 deliver impressive performance. However, the JBL Flip 5 has a slight edge over its predecessor. The JBL Flip 5 features a more powerful driver, which provides deeper bass and clearer highs. The speaker also has a more efficient amplifier, which allows it to produce more sound while consuming less power.
One of the most significant improvements in the JBL Flip 5 is its ability to produce more detailed and nuanced sound. The speaker has a more extended frequency response, which allows it to reproduce a wider range of frequencies. This results in a more immersive listening experience, with clearer vocals and more defined instrumentation.
Bass Response
The JBL Flip 5 also has a more impressive bass response than the JBL Flip 4. The speaker’s more powerful driver and improved amplifier allow it to produce deeper and more resonant bass notes. This makes the JBL Flip 5 better suited for genres like hip-hop and electronic dance music, which rely heavily on bass.
Features
Both the JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5 have a range of features that make them convenient and easy to use. However, the JBL Flip 5 has a few more features that set it apart from its predecessor.
Waterproofing
One of the most significant features of the JBL Flip 5 is its improved waterproofing. The speaker has a rating of IPX7, which means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The JBL Flip 4, on the other hand, has a rating of IPX7, but it’s not as robust as the JBL Flip 5.
PartyBoost
The JBL Flip 5 also features JBL’s PartyBoost technology, which allows you to connect multiple speakers together for a more immersive listening experience. This feature is not available on the JBL Flip 4.
Connectivity
Both speakers have Bluetooth connectivity, but the JBL Flip 5 also has a more advanced connectivity system. The speaker features Bluetooth 4.2, which provides a more stable and reliable connection. The JBL Flip 4, on the other hand, features Bluetooth 4.1.
Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, the JBL Flip 5 has a slight edge over the JBL Flip 4. The speaker has a battery life of up to 20 hours, while the JBL Flip 4 has a battery life of up to 12 hours.
Charging Time
The JBL Flip 5 also has a faster charging time than the JBL Flip 4. The speaker can be fully charged in just 2.5 hours, while the JBL Flip 4 takes around 3.5 hours to fully charge.
Price
One of the most significant differences between the JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5 is their price. The JBL Flip 4 is generally cheaper than the JBL Flip 5, with a price range of around $70-$100. The JBL Flip 5, on the other hand, has a price range of around $100-$150.
Value for Money
While the JBL Flip 5 is more expensive than the JBL Flip 4, it offers better value for money. The speaker’s improved sound quality, more advanced features, and more durable design make it a better investment for those who want a high-quality portable Bluetooth speaker.
Feature | JBL Flip 4 | JBL Flip 5 |
---|---|---|
Dimensions | 6.9 x 1.7 x 1.7 inches | 7.1 x 1.8 x 1.8 inches |
Weight | 1.1 pounds | 1.2 pounds |
Color Options | 6 colors | 11 colors |
Sound Quality | Good | Excellent |
Waterproofing | IPX7 | IPX7 (more robust) |
PartyBoost | No | Yes |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.1 | Bluetooth 4.2 |
Battery Life | Up to 12 hours | Up to 20 hours |
Charging Time | 3.5 hours | 2.5 hours |
Price | Around $70-$100 | Around $100-$150 |
In conclusion, while both the JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5 are excellent portable Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Flip 5 has a slight edge over its predecessor. Its improved sound quality, more advanced features, and more durable design make it a better investment for those who want a high-quality portable Bluetooth speaker. However, the JBL Flip 4 is still a great option for those on a budget, offering good sound quality and a range of features at an affordable price.
What are the main differences between JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5?
The main differences between JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5 lie in their design, sound quality, and features. The JBL Flip 5 has a more compact and lightweight design, making it easier to carry around. It also has a more durable and water-resistant build, with an IPX7 rating that allows it to withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
In terms of sound quality, the JBL Flip 5 has a more balanced and detailed sound signature, with deeper bass and clearer highs. It also has a more powerful amplifier, which allows it to produce louder sound without distortion. Additionally, the JBL Flip 5 has more features, such as a built-in microphone for hands-free calls and a PartyBoost feature that allows it to connect to other JBL speakers for a more immersive sound experience.
Which speaker is more portable, JBL Flip 4 or JBL Flip 5?
The JBL Flip 5 is more portable than the JBL Flip 4 due to its compact and lightweight design. It weighs only 540 grams, making it easy to carry around in a backpack or purse. The JBL Flip 5 also has a more durable build, with a rubberized exterior that provides a secure grip and protects it from scratches and drops.
In addition to its physical design, the JBL Flip 5 also has a longer battery life, with up to 20 hours of playback time on a single charge. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities, such as camping or hiking, where access to power outlets may be limited. The JBL Flip 5 also has a quick-charge feature that allows it to recharge to 3 hours of playback time in just 30 minutes.
How does the sound quality of JBL Flip 4 compare to JBL Flip 5?
The sound quality of the JBL Flip 4 is good, but it is outperformed by the JBL Flip 5. The JBL Flip 5 has a more balanced and detailed sound signature, with deeper bass and clearer highs. It also has a more powerful amplifier, which allows it to produce louder sound without distortion.
The JBL Flip 5 also has a more immersive sound experience, thanks to its PartyBoost feature that allows it to connect to other JBL speakers. This feature allows users to create a more immersive sound experience, with multiple speakers working together to produce a more detailed and engaging sound. Overall, the JBL Flip 5 has a more impressive sound quality than the JBL Flip 4.
Is JBL Flip 4 or JBL Flip 5 more water-resistant?
The JBL Flip 5 is more water-resistant than the JBL Flip 4, with an IPX7 rating that allows it to withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The JBL Flip 4, on the other hand, has an IPX7 rating as well, but it is not as durable and may not withstand being submerged in water for as long.
The JBL Flip 5’s water-resistant design makes it ideal for outdoor activities, such as swimming or kayaking, where it may be exposed to water. It is also a great option for users who want a speaker that can withstand accidental splashes or spills. Overall, the JBL Flip 5 is a more durable and water-resistant option than the JBL Flip 4.
Can I connect multiple JBL Flip 4 speakers together?
Yes, you can connect multiple JBL Flip 4 speakers together using the JBL Connect+ feature. This feature allows you to connect up to 100 JBL speakers together, creating a more immersive sound experience. However, the JBL Flip 4’s JBL Connect+ feature is not as advanced as the JBL Flip 5’s PartyBoost feature, which allows for more seamless and intuitive connectivity.
To connect multiple JBL Flip 4 speakers together, you will need to download the JBL Connect app and follow the instructions to pair the speakers. Once paired, you can control the speakers using the app, adjusting the volume and playback settings as needed. However, the JBL Flip 4’s JBL Connect+ feature may not be as reliable or seamless as the JBL Flip 5’s PartyBoost feature.
How long does the battery of JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5 last?
The battery life of the JBL Flip 4 and JBL Flip 5 varies, with the JBL Flip 5 having a longer battery life. The JBL Flip 5 has a battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge, while the JBL Flip 4 has a battery life of up to 12 hours.
The JBL Flip 5’s longer battery life makes it ideal for outdoor activities, such as camping or hiking, where access to power outlets may be limited. The JBL Flip 5 also has a quick-charge feature that allows it to recharge to 3 hours of playback time in just 30 minutes. This feature is convenient for users who need to quickly recharge their speaker on the go.
Is JBL Flip 4 or JBL Flip 5 more affordable?
The JBL Flip 4 is generally more affordable than the JBL Flip 5, with a lower price point that makes it more accessible to budget-conscious consumers. However, the JBL Flip 5’s additional features and improved sound quality may make it a better value in the long run.
The JBL Flip 4’s lower price point makes it a great option for users who want a basic portable speaker without breaking the bank. However, users who want a more advanced speaker with additional features and improved sound quality may want to consider the JBL Flip 5, despite its higher price point.