Both JBL Flip 6 and Flip 5 are portable Bluetooth speakers. This article will put JBL Flip 6 versus JBL Flip 5 for a detailed comparison.
They have some differences in addition to similarities. In fact, JBL Flip 6 is an upgraded version of Flip 5.
Flip 6 has been released very recently- in December 2021 while Flip 5 was released in 2019. You can choose either Flip 6 or Flip 5. Because both speakers are great.
They differ in a few aspects such as design, audio quality, sound features, etc. In order to understand their differences fully, we need to dive deeper.
So, let us compare them in terms of their specific features. Read this article till the end and also go through the comparison table for a quick overview.
1. Functional Components
JBL Flip 6 has added more powerful functional components. Both Flip 6 and 5 integrate a 20-watt woofer. However, Flip 6 has a separate 10-watt tweeter that is absent in Flip 5.
A tweeter is a dome or horn-like speaker. It is responsible for producing high audio frequencies. So, Flip 6 performs better at high ends.
Flip 5 has a 40mm driver while Flip 6 has a 45mm driver. Further, both speakers have dual passive radiators. They are located at the poles and bounce with the music beat.
2. Audio Performance
In terms of audio performance, both speakers deliver crisp and crystal clear sound. While the sound profile is equally balanced in both speakers.
They provide you with a boosted and solid bass. Specifically, the low-end is excellent. They also ensure great mids and highs.
As compared to other portable Bluetooth speakers under the same price range, JBL Flip 6 and 5 deliver brilliant audio quality.
Overall, JBL Flip 6 comes with improved audio performance. JBL Flip 6 is better in terms of clarity and volume. Moreover, the high ends on Flip 6 are smoother.
Flip 6 gives 65Hz- 20kHz and Flip 5 gives 63Hz-20kHz frequency response. These improvements are slight and can be noticed by a side by side testing.
Flip 6 also excels in terms of EQ. The JBL app features a simple equalizer to adjust the EQ settings.
It offers 1-5 adjustments for treble, mid, and bass. So, it has more customization features as compared to Flip 5.
3. Design and Style
The basic design of both versions is similar. They are cylindrical in shape and come in a lot of colors. The material is sturdy and durable.
You can play these speakers both vertically and horizontally. Flip 5 weighs 1.2 pounds and Flip 6 is heavier with 2.5 pounds weight.
The dimensions of both speakers vary slightly. JBL Flip 5 measures 7.1×2.7×2.9. On the other hand, Flip 6 measures 7×2.6×2.8. There is a difference of only 1 inch.
The cylindrical design has the tendency of rolling. Flip 5 lacks any rubber stand on the base.
While Flip 6 comes with a rubber stand that prevents it from rolling. This stand is great for balancing the speaker.
4. Aesthetic Value
Flip 6 has improved aesthetics. It has a larger JBL logo integrated into the design and is located on the front. The color of the logo is the same as the color of the speaker.
This adds aesthetic value and an elegant look. On the other hand, Flip 5 has a small logo badge that looks like a cheap sticker.
The logo has a red base with ‘JBL’ printed on it in white color. Each color of JBL Flip 5 comes with the same red and white logo. Flip 6 comes in 9 colors and Flip 5 features 11 colors.
They are black, blue, camo, black camo, eco blue, eco, green, gray, dark green, pink, sand, red, teal, white, and yellow. More or less, the color range is the same.
Black is the most widely used color in JBL. However, you can also choose from other colors.
5. Bluetooth Technology
Both speakers connect over Bluetooth. However, the Bluetooth version matters for a stable connection. Flip 5 works on Bluetooth 4.2 version.
Flip 6 features Bluetooth 5.1 that is significantly efficient. Currently, it is the most advanced version. It supports high-resolution audio.
Bluetooth 5.1 can transfer 8 times more data than Bluetooth 4.2. Its speed is double and range is 4 times than 4.2 version. Wider range means lesser disconnections.
So, Flip 6 can operate from a large distance with greater signal strength. The 5.1 version can accurately tracks the signal direction and location.
It has another advantage of connecting with two devices at a time. Furthermore, the audio transmission is smooth and uninterrupted.
Lastly, Bluetooth 5.1 is energy efficient. So, if you want fast and strong connectivity, prefer JBL Flip 6 over Flip 5.
6. Control Options
Both speakers lack an aux port and built-in microphone. They are equipped with a USB-C charging port instead of a micro-USB.
The buttons are similar and located at the same positions. They are large in size, easy to press, and tactile. Both speakers feature backlit Bluetooth and power buttons side by side.
While volume control and play/pause buttons are not backlit. Nevertheless, you face no difficulty while using these buttons.
Also read: How To Reset JBL Speakers
7. Weather Resistance
Flip 6 has improved weather resistance. It is dustproof in addition to waterproof. Because it is IP67 rated. It means Flip 6 is resistant to damages from solid particles like sand and dust.
It is less vulnerable to scratch marks. Moreover, it can be submerged under 1 meter deep water for 30 minutes. So, you can easily take this speaker to a pool or beach party.
On the other hand, Flip 5 is IPX7 rated. It means it is waterproof and can be submerged 30 minutes upto 1 meter depth.
But, it is not solid proof, dust can harm it. So, you should choose JBL Flip 6 if you want a durable product.
8. Battery
There is no improvement in the battery. Both speakers feature a 4800 mAh battery that runs up to 8 hours at moderate volumes.
While at maximum volume, the battery can give only 6 hours of playtime. However, JBL claims 12 hours of playtime. But, 6-8 hours is still decent for budget friendly speakers.
Unfortunately, both speakers lack a power bank feature. This function allows you to charge your cell phone with your speaker. It is integrated into the JBL Charge Speaker series.
A subtle LED indicator is located on both speakers. There is no teasing flashing lights or loud voice warnings. But, the battery indicator can be unnoticed sometimes.
9. JBL App
Both speakers are supported by the JBL mobile app. They also have a PartyBoost function. This feature allows you to connect multiple JBL speakers together.
So, you can boost your party sounds. The JBL app is easy and simple to use. You can change your speaker name and check the battery percentage.
In addition, the app allows you to update the firmware and use the PartBoost feature. There are many other controls and customization options in the app.
JBL Flip 6 adds EQ adjustments as an extra feature. You can adjust bass, treble, and mids via the app. However, there are no presets or playlists.
Sometimes, the app can be buggy displaying wrong information. But, you can solve this issue by updating the app.
10. Portability
Both speakers have a portable design. They come in their fabric carrying bag. You can store them inside the bag and carry them anywhere.
Moreover, they also have a carrying strap, attach it to your speaker for convenient handling. JBL Flip 6 carries double weight than Flip 5.
But, still, it is light enough and portable. Both these speakers are ideal to accompany you while traveling, hiking, or hanging out. You can use them both indoors and outdoor.
11. Price
Both JBL Flip 6 and Flip 5 cost you less than $150. However, JBL Flip 6 costs you $20 more than the Flip 5. But, this extra amount does not excel over the improvements.
For $20, you get better audio, connectivity, and looks with Flip 6. They are affordable speakers in terms of features and performance.
They combine quality and affordability. Other brands may provide you same feature at a higher price.
12. What’s in the Box
Flip 5 has fewer items in the box as compared to Flip 6. You get a USB-C charging cable and a quick start guide with the JBL Flip 5.
While JBL Flip 6 comes with a USB-C cable, safety sheet, quick start guide, and warranty card. All the necessary items are given with the purchase.
Also read: Best JBL Speakers For Computers
JBL Flip 6 VS Flip 5 Comparison and Contrast Table
| Parameters of Comparison | JBL Flip 6 | JBL Flip 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware | 45mm driver and a 10 watt tweeter. | 40mm driver, lacks a tweeter. |
| Audio Performance | Improved sound clarity, output, and volume level. Features EQ adjustments. | Clear and crisp sound with decent output. |
| Bluetooth Version | Features the latest Bluetooth 5.1, faster and smoother transmission with wider range. | Bluetooth 4.2-limited range and slower speed. |
| Battery | 4800mAh battery with 6-8 hours playtime. | Essentially the same battery. |
| Design | Identical cylindrical design with a negligible reduction in dimensions. Weighs 2.5 pounds. | Weighs 1.2 pounds with the same design and build quality. |
| Aesthetics | Beautified version with an integrated JBL logo in larger size. | A red and white small JBL logo in the form of a sticker. |
| Weather Resistance | IP67 rated-dust resistant and waterproof. | IPX7 rated-not dust resistance just waterproof. |
| Price | Costs $20 higher than Flip 5. | Less than $150, slightly cheaper than Flip 6. |
Final Words
A side-by-side comparison of JBL Flip 6 and Flip 5 reveals that Flip 6 is better in many respects. Although they do not have a lot of major differences yet significant variations.
For example, the most notable improvement is that Flip 6 features Bluetooth 5.1. Moreover, it integrates a tweeter and a slightly larger driver.
It also features EQ adjustments via the JBL app. Another important difference is the design. Flip 6 carries greater aesthetic value as compared to Flip 5.
Furthermore, Flip 5 is only waterproof but Flip 6 is solid resistance too. This quality makes it more durable.
So, while deciding between JBL Flip 6 and JBL Flip 5, you should consider all these factors. Obviously, JBL Flip 6 is preferable due to its improved and added features.
