Winner
JBL
10%OFF
Editor’s Choice
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Winner
The JBL FLIP 5 is a portable Bluetooth speaker that excels in delivering premium sound quality with its stereo audio output and 20-watt maximum power. If you enjoy rich and clear sound, this speaker is a solid choice. With a 12-hour battery life, it offers a good amount of playback time, making it suitable for day trips or small gatherings without needing frequent recharging.
The speaker's IPX7 waterproof rating is a significant plus, allowing it to be submerged in water without damage, which is ideal for beach or poolside use. It's compact and lightweight, enhancing its portability, so you can easily carry it around in your bag. The wireless Bluetooth streaming feature ensures simple connectivity with various devices, and the option to pair multiple speakers with PartyBoost adds a fun element for social situations, creating a more immersive sound experience.
Despite these strengths, the FLIP 5 lacks some additional features like a built-in microphone for hands-free calls or voice assistant integration, which might be a drawback for some users. Its performance, especially in sound quality and durability, makes it a reliable choice for those seeking a robust portable speaker.
The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay A9 4th Gen is a stylish, powerful wireless speaker designed more for home use than on-the-go listening. Its sound quality stands out with seven drivers delivering rich and room-filling audio, enhanced by active room compensation that adjusts sound based on placement. This makes it great for music lovers who want a high-end listening experience in larger living spaces. However, it’s quite heavy (over 44 pounds) and needs to be plugged in, so it’s not portable or battery-powered like many Bluetooth speakers. Durability-wise, it’s not waterproof, so it’s best kept indoors. Connectivity options are strong with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast support, plus multi-room capability if you want to link several Bang & Olufsen speakers.
Additional features include customizable sound settings through an app and the option to wall-mount or stand it on its wooden legs, adding a touch of design elegance to your home. Although the speaker doesn’t support voice assistants, it offers solid wireless range and controls via the app. For those seeking a high-quality, visually striking speaker to complement home décor and enjoy premium sound with flexible connectivity, the Beoplay A9 serves as an excellent choice. On the other hand, if battery life, portability, or outdoor use are priorities, this model might not meet those needs.
The JBL Boombox 3 is a powerful portable Bluetooth speaker designed for users who want deep bass and loud, clear sound at outdoor parties or home gatherings. It features a 3-way speaker system delivering a strong 180-watt output, ensuring music stays rich and detailed even at high volume. The sound quality is one of its standout points, offering a full range from deep bass to crisp highs. Battery life is impressive, providing up to 24 hours of continuous playtime, which is great for long events without needing a recharge.
The speaker is fairly heavy at about 14.7 pounds, so while it has a sturdy metal handle for carrying, it’s less ideal for those seeking ultra-light portability. Its IP67 rating means it is fully waterproof and dustproof, making it durable enough to handle poolside use, rain, or dusty outdoor environments. Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth offering up to 10 meters range, and the PartyBoost feature allows pairing with other JBL speakers for stereo sound or bigger setups. Additional handy features include smartphone charging capability and app control, adding convenience during use.
The design is robust and stylish, with eco-friendly packaging as a bonus. A notable downside is the charging time, which is quite long at around 24 hours and may be inconvenient if you forget to charge it in advance. Also, its size and weight might be cumbersome for casual travelers who want something ultra-compact. This speaker is well-suited for those who prioritize sound quality, battery life, and durability, especially for outdoor or party use, rather than ultra-portability.