JBL Flip 6 review: a portable speaker with small and important upgrades

Top 10. JBL PULSE 4

Rating (2021): 4.50

5 reviews from resources taken into account: AliExpress

Bright lighting The entire surface of the speaker shimmers in different colors to the beat of the music. You can choose a color scheme, turn the backlight on or off.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 15990 rub.

• Total power: 20 W
• Frequency range: 60–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IPX7
• Battery: 7260 mAh
• Autonomy: 12 hours, charging time – 3.5 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 96*96*207 mm, 1.26 kg

PULSE 4 combines Jibiel's signature 360° sound with original lighting. Conveniently, this function can be turned off to save energy. The speakers are located at the top and bottom of the device. There are also keys for controlling the backlight, adjusting the volume and switching tracks. AliExpress users praise the sound of the portable speaker. Despite the powerful woofers, all frequencies are in balance, there is no predominance of bass. The main drawback was the lack of a plug on the charging connector. Because of this, water can get inside; you need to listen to music carefully in the shower or near the pool. Another disadvantage is that the speaker weighs a lot and is inconvenient to carry around.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Balanced sound with noticeable bass
• Stylish and bright design
• Convenient and simple controls
• Possibility to turn off the backlight

• Weighs more than similar models
• There is no plug on the charging socket

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Control and Connectivity

JBL has not changed the layout of the controls, using the same raised buttons, which are not backlit, are easy to feel and operate accurately.

On the top side of the JBL Flip 6 there are volume buttons and a multi-function control key. It is also responsible for playback and transition to the next track (you cannot switch to the previous melody from the column level). On the left is the PartyBoost button for connecting the Flip 6 to other compatible JBL speakers.

On the back side of the case there is a power button and a Bluetooth connection button, and the latter, after the connection is established, is highlighted. Nearby you will find a USB-C connector for charging via the included USB-C to USB-A cable.

Top 9. JBL PartyBox 310

Rating (2021): 4.60

24 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

The most powerful The total power of the device reaches 240 W - this is an absolute record. The speaker volume is enough for a small party or concert.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 39,990 rub.

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• Total power: 240 W
• Frequency range: 45–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IPX4
• Battery: 72 Wh (about 6000 mAh)
• Autonomy: 18 hours, charging time – 5 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 325.6*687.7*367.8 mm, 17.4 kg

JBL PartyBox 310 is not just a Bluetooth speaker, it is a full-fledged portable audio system. Like other models in the series, it is perfect for parties and other events. The speaker has maximum power and volume not only on AliExpress, but in general among similar devices. There is light music, and you can also connect microphones or instruments; separate inputs are provided for this. 4 speakers are responsible for the sound (HF drivers with a diameter of 65 mm, LF drivers with a diameter of 176 mm). There are handles on the case, and there are also wheels for conveniently carrying the audio system. There is moisture protection, the battery lasts a long time even at high volume. The only disadvantages buyers consider are the dimensions and the high price.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Impressive power without being plugged in
• Handles and wheels for carrying
• Possibility of connecting instruments
• Clear sound with impressive volume

• Highest cost
• Large weight and dimensions

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Top 8. JBL Boombox 2

Rating (2021): 4.65

136 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

Impressive autonomy Inside this device there is a rechargeable 10,000 mAh battery - enough for a day of work. Mains power is also available.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 27890 rub.

• Total power: 60–80 W
• Frequency range: 50–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IPX7
• Battery: 10000 mAh
• Autonomy: 24 hours, charging time – 6.5 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 484*201*256 mm, 5.9 kg

The highlight of this Jibiel model is its powerful battery, which provides up to 24 hours of music playback. The speaker is available in two design options - black and camouflage pattern. It has a wide and comfortable handle for carrying. Loud sound with noticeable bass is provided by 4 speakers. You can connect the device to the network if the battery charge is insufficient. Reviews confirm the high autonomy of the JBL Boombox 2. Of course, the portable speaker will play for 24 hours only at low volume, but for get-togethers with friends or a party it is quite enough. The sound purity is excellent, although low frequencies prevail - it is not very comfortable to listen to music in an apartment.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Up to 24 hours of operation without recharging
• Network connectivity
• Ergonomic design and comfortable handle
• Balanced and clear sound

• Bass is too strong for a small room
• Heavy case weight

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Top 7. JBL Xtreme 3

Rating (2021): 4.70

225 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

Best sound quality Thanks to 4 speakers and low-frequency drivers, the speaker produces loud, clear and pleasant sound. Over time it gets even better.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 16186 rub.

• Total power: 100 W
• Frequency range: 53–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IP67
• Battery: 5000 mAh
• Autonomy: 15 hours, charging time – 2.5 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 136*298.5*134 mm, 1.9 kg

JBL Xtreme 3 is a new generation of the acclaimed Jibiel model with reference sound quality. There are 2 passive low-frequency radiators and 4 speakers installed here. There is support for PartyBoost, so you can combine two portable speakers into a stereo pair. But the model does not work with outdated Connect+ technology; this is worth considering before purchasing. The case is protected not only from moisture, but also from dust. When compared with Xtreme 2, no major changes were found. Except that the device weighs a little less and charges faster. Reviews and testimonials say that the sound is focused on the mid frequencies. Bass is present, but does not put pressure on the ears. Over time, the Bluetooth speaker warms up, and low frequencies become more noticeable.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Updated PartyBoost technology
• Good speaker power
• Protection of the housing from dust and water
• Reduced weight and fast charging

• Lack of Connect+ support
• Not a lot of bass at first

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See also:

• 10 best waterproof speakers from AliExpress

Question of price

The last two models in the review can be purchased for an average of 2-4 thousand rubles. Even compared to budget analogues from little-known manufacturers, this price tag is more than attractive. Another thing is that these modifications do not demonstrate the best performance properties of the products of this manufacturer. But the question of how much a JBL portable speaker costs will probably scare off many for another reason - for example, the Pulse version is available for 11-12 thousand. According to even those who are completely satisfied with this model’s working qualities, the price tag is very high and not justifies the purchase.

Top 6. JBL Charge 5

Rating (2021): 4.75

134 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

Best functionality The powerful speaker is equipped with a capacious battery that is suitable for charging smartphones, tablets and other devices.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 11913 rub.

• Total power: 40 W
• Frequency range: 65–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IP67
• Battery: 7500 mAh
• Autonomy: 20 hours, charging time – 4 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 96.5*223*94 mm, 0.96 kg

The rating includes another new product for 2022, designed to replace the JBL Charge 4. The fifth generation features a modern design and improved sound quality. Thanks to 2 speakers at once, the speaker is suitable for playing any style of music. On AliExpress the model is sold in 8 nice colors. Its dimensions can be considered optimal for outdoor use. At a relatively low price, the portable speaker has everything you need: high power, balanced sound and maximum protection. And another nice bonus is the ability to charge smartphones and other gadgets. The main drawback was the lack of a 3.5 mm jack, but this is a standard situation for new models.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Stylish design and large selection of colors
• High sound quality
• Can be used as a power bank
• Powerful and compact speaker

• No mini-jack connector
• Not the highest playback volume

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See also:

• 10 unusual speakers from AliExpress

Appearance of fake and original packaging

This photo shows the original (left) and the fake (right). Even from the general appearance of the boxes, it is clear that the printing on the original box is of higher quality, the black color on the box is really black, and not with a grayish tint, like the fake one.

The print on the original is much better quality

The packaging contains more technical information on the characteristics of the device, including the registered Bluetooth logo. On fake minimum information, the Bluetooth logo may be missing.

The counterfeit packaging contains a minimum of technical information

The original has a textured print on the top of the box lid, which the fake does not have. The presence of a print will allow you to differentiate the original JBL.

There is no texture print on the fake

On the bottom of the package there is a barcode, serial number, EAN code, information about the importer to the territory of your state. On counterfeit goods such information is usually absent.

There is no barcode on the fake

When you open the package, the original has a black cover with the inscription “ CHARGE3

"
The fake does not have this inscription. Cover with the inscription “CHARGE3”
Inside the original everything is neatly packed, the documentation is in special envelopes. The Chinese equivalent has significantly worse packaging quality.

There is a clear difference in packaging quality

Top 5. JBL Clip 4

Rating (2021): 4.80

267 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

Ergonomic design The portable model looks impressive and children like it. It is easy to carry and hang thanks to the built-in carabiner.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 3495 rub.

• Total power: 5 W
• Frequency range: 100–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IP67
• Battery: 500 mAh
• Autonomy: 10 hours, charging time – 3 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 86.3*134.5*46 mm, 0.24 kg

This model is in second place in terms of budget and compactness after JBL Go 3. Jibiel calls the Clip 4 an ultraportable speaker. The round body with a handle resembles a handbag or a large door lock. The carabiner is completely built-in, so it easily attaches to your bag or belt buckle. Reviews complain that the Bluetooth speaker is not very powerful. But at the same time, the little one produces decent sound quality and average volume. The battery lasts for several hours of playback, although its capacity is the lowest in the rating. To improve the sound, it is recommended to adjust the equalizer. But pairing with other speakers is not available - because of this, AliExpress users often reduce their scores.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Light weight and compact
• One of the most budget JBL models
• Unusual design and 10 body colors to choose from
• Deep and spacious bass

• Not a very powerful model
• Cannot connect to other speakers

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What is important to know to start distinguishing JBL speakers

For more than 70 years, American has been producing products that meet the highest user expectations. Many audiophiles associate the brand with clear, natural-sounding sound, clear bass, and durable speakers made from high-quality materials. The company produces a variety of consumer products, from multimedia headphones to professional speakers. Which are used in studios, cinemas and churches, when organizing large concerts and other purposes.

The JBL brand is synonymous with quality

Due to its popularity, the JBL brand is a massive target of counterfeiting. Many pirates (especially manufacturers from China) produce counterfeit speakers by the thousands, making a lot of money from it and undermining the consumer experience of the American brand. This forces the company to carry out systematic educational work, focusing on the important differences between original JBL speakers and low-quality counterfeit ones.

Do you have a real JBL speaker?

This may be useful: How to turn on JBL wireless headphones.

Top 4. JBL PartyBox 100

Rating (2021): 4.85

166 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

Full set In addition to the charging cable and instructions, each buyer receives a karaoke microphone as a gift. It can be connected to a speaker.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 22491 rub.

• Total power: 160 W
• Frequency range: 45–18000 Hz
• Water protection: IPX7
• Battery: 2500 mAh
• Autonomy: 12 hours, charging time – 4 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 356*352*664 mm, 11.3 kg

Buyers who find the 310 model too powerful, heavy and expensive should take a closer look at the lightweight version of the JBL PartyBox 100. It comes complete with a microphone, and the speaker also has a built-in mixer for processing vocals. The characteristics are a little more modest than those of the 310, but the sound is just as clear and pleasant. There is light music, the ability to combine into a stereo pair and other functions of the PartyBox series. Jibiel has 2 speakers with high and low frequencies (5*13 cm and 5*6 cm). Reviews on AliExpress praise the stable Bluetooth connection and sound of the speaker. The only thing buyers don’t like is the quick battery drain – at high volume with the backlight on, it lasts for 4–9 hours.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Splash and water resistant
• Great alternative to PartyBox 310
• Microphone for karaoke as a gift
• Stable Bluetooth connection within a radius of up to 20 m

• The battery drains quickly
• The volume is not always enough

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Top 3. JBL Go 3

Rating (2021): 4.90

869 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

Best price The device costs less than any Bluetooth speaker manufactured by Jibiel sold on AliExpress.

The most compact portable model fits easily into the palm of your hand thanks to its weight of 209 grams and minimal dimensions.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 2264 rub.

• Total power: 4.2 W
• Frequency range: 110–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IP67
• Battery: 730 mAh
• Autonomy: 5 hours, charging time – 2.5 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 87.5*75*41.3 mm, 0.2 kg

JBL Go 3 is the most compact and budget speaker on AliExpress. It is not very powerful, but it is quite suitable for listening to music outdoors or in an apartment. There is only one speaker, its diameter is 43 mm. The frequency range of the portable speaker is modest, so you shouldn't expect impressive bass. The signal to noise ratio is about 80 dB. This is one of the older models, so it has not only Bluetooth, but also a classic connector for a 3.5 mm plug. Reviews praise the sleek design and nice materials, as well as the good build quality of the case. Water protection is present, there are plugs on the buttons and ports. For its size, Jibiel sounds perfect, although there is a lack of bass.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Quick connection to any audio sources
• Pleasant to the touch body
• Complete moisture protection of all elements
• Minimum dimensions and weight

• Lacks bass richness
• Relatively low volume

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General information about JBL portable models

JBL has significantly improved the latest models of its line of portable devices in a variety of ways - from small details in design to the introduction of new technologies like the Bluetooth wireless module. What's important: the JBL portable speaker continues to be of interest in terms of sound quality. The manufacturer does not skimp on using expensive element base materials, which allows the acoustics, along with support for mobility, to also provide pleasure from listening to music.

Developers pay special attention to the structural design of the models. Most modifications of this type have a cylindrical form factor, which increases convenience during physical operation. In addition, the JBL portable speaker features a rubberized shell for easy grip. The speaker output points are recessed into the housing niche, which increases reliability in use. In other words, the design is designed not just for mobile use, but also focuses on the active lifestyle of the user. The speakers can be mounted on a bicycle frame, placed outside a backpack, or placed on any flat surface.

Top 2. JBL Flip 5

Rating (2021): 4.95

291 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

Optimal price-quality ratio The Bluetooth speaker has good volume and a clear and deep sound. Its price is lower than that of analogues with the same characteristics.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 6922 rub.

• Total power: 20 W
• Frequency range: 65–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IPX7
• Battery: 4800 mAh
• Autonomy: 12 hours, charging time – 3 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 181*69*74 mm, 0.54 kg

The undoubted advantage of the JBL Flip 5 is its compactness. As with other products from the company, there is protection against splashes and immersion in water. The Jibiel brand also focuses on a whole “rainbow of colors”, because the assortment includes more than 10 design options. Reviews say that the sound is pleasant and spacious. The volume reaches 86 dB, which is quite enough for an apartment. Flip 5 supports PartyBoost and JBL Connect, so you can throw a party by combining multiple speakers. Among the shortcomings, buyers mention the stiffness of the keys, but this eliminates the possibility of false positives. Another disadvantage of the Bluetooth speakers is the lack of a connector for connecting a 3.5 mm wire.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Compact and powerful speaker
• Large selection of colors
• Pleasant and spacious sound
• PartyBoost and JBL Connect support

• No 3.5mm jack jack
• Tight key travel for control

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See also:

• 15 best bluetooth speakers from AliExpress