The latest version of JBL’s signature mini Bluetooth speaker is a great development. Taking a quick look at the Flip 6, the differences from the Flip 5 seem a bit subtle. While things like the USB-C charging port, power and Bluetooth buttons, and various media control layouts look similar, there have been some smart updates.
Sound quality is a little better thanks to the added 10W amplifier on top of the 20W amplifier. Compatibility with the JBL mobile app allows for some EQ adjustments to further customize sound quality, no matter which music player you’re using. Most importantly, the IP67 rating makes the Flip 6 ideal for a beach or camping trip. It’s a shame that battery life doesn’t see the same updates, although 12 hours is still good enough.
These quality updates make the $129 Flip 6 worth the price. In fact, it’s definitely one of the best portable speaker options out there. Between the audio driver updates and the JBL app that features a customizable equalizer, the sound quality here is great. These improvements, from dust resistance to design tweaks, go a long way to making the Flip 6 more than just a simple update.
JBL Flip 6
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The JBL Flip 6 is a great improvement over its predecessor, with exceptional sound quality and outstanding durability.
- Brand: JBL
- Speaker type: Mono speaker
- Maximum output power: 20 watts
- Contact: Bluetooth
- weight: 1.21 lbs
- Dimensions: 7 x 2.6 x 2.8 inches
- Meaningful design improvements from Flip 5 including IP67 dust resistance
- Great sound quality
- Heavy bass
- It cannot be used as a speaker
- Still no aux port
Design and features
As mentioned earlier, the design of the JBL Flip 6 hasn’t changed much aesthetically. However, the improvements go a long way in making it feel like more than just a mild rework. The JBL logo is much larger, and the side radiators feature the company’s inverted triangle and dot badge. Power and Bluetooth buttons, along with a USB-C charging port and LED battery indicator, push the design forward, fitting it into a smaller oval shell, and the mesh wraps around the entire speaker on the sides. For a nice extra touch, there’s a small bar that acts as a stand when the Flip 6 is placed down horizontally.
Although the Flip allows users to listen to the speaker vertically, it does not help them experience absolute sound quality; But it’s a cool trick. For individuals who like to color-coordinate their audio experience, the Flip 6 is available in six colors. The Flip 5 already features a sturdy build with IXP7 waterproofing. This time, the Flip 6 adds IP67 dust resistance, which means the sound quality shouldn’t deteriorate after multiple trips to the beach. The sturdy portable speaker alone can withstand bumps and drops without any problem as well.
In terms of features, the portable speaker retains the JBL PartyBoost feature that allows users to connect multiple Flip 6s for a louder party experience or stereo sound. Users can connect by pressing the PartyBoost button next to the pause/play and volume up/down buttons or through the JBL app. Besides displaying battery life and pushing firmware updates, there’s a handy equalizer that helps customize the Flip 6’s audio experience on the app as well. Nothing too complicated or powerful, but the JBL app helps improve the user experience.
It’s unfortunate that the speakerphone can’t be used for phone calls, which is odd considering that many users will likely connect to the Flip 6 through their phones. The biggest reason is that it doesn’t have a microphone. Having a microphone plus water and dust resistance would likely push the price beyond its fair price of $129, so it’s understandable.
After the release of the Flip 4, JBL eliminated the aux port on later releases, which is unfortunate, and this continues on the Flip 6. In addition to the fact that wired connections seem better, it would be nice to connect devices that may not have Bluetooth, such as some vinyl record players Or display devices. Having an aux port may also increase battery life on both the portable speaker and the device it’s streaming audio from. Sadly, the Flip 6 can’t do that.
Sound and battery life
The sound quality of the Flip series has always been incredibly bass-heavy with respectable volume levels. This continues with the Flip 6, but with some nice improvements. The addition of a 10-watt speaker allows for more musical nuances during listening sessions. If you’re listening to jazz, classical, or rock music in a quiet area, the mids and highs are clear enough to distinguish between layers of instruments. JBL’s mobile app can increase the sound clarity of more complex devices through EQ settings although the Flip 6 generally leans into bass-heavy territory.
When sitting poolside or lounging on the beach, the Flip 6 is definitely for individuals who prefer sound-heavy genres like EDM, Hip Hop, and modern pop music. Despite its size, some powerful lows come out of the speaker. While testing, two albums came to mind, including Rosalía Motomami The album was released earlier this year and is Beyoncé’s latest project influenced by House renaissance. Even with the bass turned up to max, the sound never cracked. JBL understands the Flip 6 market well, and the audio experience caters to that demographic.
Although JBL promises about 12 hours of battery life for the Flip 6, we were able to get 10 1/2 to 11 hours before it turned off completely. While using this test, the volume and bass were at maximum. This is definitely good enough for beach side play with friends and White Claws. It takes about 2.5 hours to charge the Flip 6, and it will stay on while charging. Also, it’s now easier to track battery life through the JBL app as well, considering the LED light doesn’t help much until it’s near death.
Should I buy JBL Flip 6?
The incremental updates from the JBL Flip 5 aren’t as easily noticeable over the Flip 6, but they make a difference. Everything from the audio experience to compatibility with the JBL mobile app helps elevate this small portable speaker. Simply put, the music listening experience on the Flip 6 is great regardless of genre. However, bass-heavy genres sound the best.
Design-wise, small changes, including a small stand bar, reduce the instability that kept previous iterations from being the best of the best. This time around, having IP67 dust resistance in the mix certainly provides a new layer of durability alongside the waterproof capabilities.
Once someone pulls out the Flip 6, it’s clear the party is about to start — especially if their outfit matches one of the available colors. During our time with the audio device, the Flip 6 was just a joy to use. All you have to do is understand that this Bluetooth speaker shines when you are outdoors for a weekend with friends or a group yoga session. Phenomenal sound clarity, smartly advanced design, serious durability, and respectable battery life make the Flip 6 a top contender for anyone needing a small wire-free speaker in the sub-$150 range. Hopefully the phone call won’t interrupt any emotions.
At $129, there’s a lot of value with this Bluetooth speaker, as the JBL Flip 6 is also one of the coolest portable speakers available today.
Buy it if…
- Want to appear on the beach or poolside?
- Your average music experience leans more towards bass-heavy genres like EDM, Pop, and Hip Hop
Don’t buy if…
- You also need to use your phone sometimes
- Want to connect outside of Bluetooth?
