JBL Flip Review | 130 Data compared

The GadgetGear.nl review of the first-generation JBL Flip highlights a highly portable, versatile wireless speaker with robust, multi-orientation design, praising its clear, loud, and distortion-free audio. While the speaker offers functional hands-free calling via an integrated microphone, it is limited by a short battery life of approximately 5 hours and occasional Bluetooth pairing issues.

The WANT.nl review highlights the JBL Flip 5 as a highly portable, IPX7 waterproof Bluetooth speaker delivering surprisingly deep bass and clear audio, alongside a fast-charging USB-C port and a convenient PartyBoost feature. Key drawbacks include the removal of the 3.5mm AUX port and built-in microphone for speakerphone functionality, while the sound quality may diminish at maximum volume.

The Expert.nl review highlights the JBL Flip 5 as a portable Bluetooth speaker featuring a single 44 x 80 mm racetrack-shaped driver, delivering deeper bass and higher maximum volume compared to its predecessor. While praised for its 20-watt RMS output and improved low-end frequency response, the review notes the shift from dual drivers to a single transducer configuration, resulting in a mono audio output rather than stereo.

The JBL Flip 7 retains its iconic, durable design while introducing a highly secure car-seatbelt-style mechanism for the included strap, making it exceptionally travel-ready, according to the Expert.nl review. While the speaker offers impressive, visually active bass through its end-woofers, a notable drawback is that the design and layout remain largely unchanged from its predecessors.

The JBL Flip 6 is recognized as a rugged, portable Bluetooth speaker offering balanced, bass-heavy audio with an IP67 rating and a 12-hour battery life. Key advantages include its durable, waterproof design and a customizable equalizer app, while limitations include the lack of a microphone for calls, no power bank functionality, and restricted PartyBoost compatibility.

The JBL Flip 6 is praised in a Tweakers review for its robust, portable design, upgraded IP67 rating, and improved sound quality with a dedicated tweeter and woofer. User "Jeremiah" highlights the addition of in-app equalizer settings and a stable Bluetooth 5.1 connection, but notes cons including the speaker's inability to float, reduced battery life at high volumes, and the lack of a track-back button.

The Tweakers review of the JBL Flip 6 Martin Garrix Edition praises the speaker's excellent sound output, punchy bass, and robust, portable build quality, highlighting its striking custom aesthetic. However, the reviewer gives a 3 out of 5-star rating due to disappointing software, citing problematic, unintuitive companion app integration that fails to match the premium hardware.

The Consumentenbond reviews the JBL Flip 6 (Blue) as a portable 30-Watt Bluetooth speaker featuring a lightweight 0.544-kilogram design, easy pairing, and an IP-rated waterproof, submersion-resistant construction. Key strengths include a companion app with equalizer adjustments and extra bass, while identified limitations include the absence of a wall charging adapter, the lack of a 3.5mm AUX input, no power bank functionality, and a non-user-replaceable battery.

The JBL Flip 6 (Red) is a compact, 30-watt portable Bluetooth speaker weighing 0.544 kg, praised for its IP67 waterproof rating, app-enabled sound customization, and ease of use. Key drawbacks identified in the review include the lack of a charging adapter in the box, a non-replaceable battery, no power bank functionality via USB, and the absence of an AUX input.