The world of Bluetooth speakers just got better. JBL has released the Flip 6, the latest upgrade to its beloved Flip 5. If you’re thinking about buying one of these portable speakers in 2025, you’re probably wondering: Which one should I get? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Let’s break down the differences between the Flip 6 and Flip 5. We’ll look at sound quality, design, battery life, and more. And we’ll keep things fun, simple, and clear—just the way you like it.
Design and Build
At first glance, the Flip 6 and Flip 5 look almost the same. That’s because JBL kept the iconic cylindrical design. It’s sleek, tough, and easy to toss in a backpack. But there are a few small updates worth noting.
- Flip 6: Has a new JBL logo and more rugged feel.
- Flip 5: Simpler design that still looks classic.
Both speakers are IP67 waterproof and dustproof. That means you can take them to the beach or pool without stressing.
Sound Quality
This is where things get interesting. The Flip 6 comes with a big sound upgrade.
- Flip 6: Features a two-way speaker system. That means it has a separate tweeter for clearer highs and a racetrack-shaped woofer for deeper bass.
- Flip 5: Has just one full-range driver. It sounds good, but not as detailed or punchy as the Flip 6.
If you care about crisp vocals, deeper bass, and an all-around better sound, the Flip 6 is the clear winner.
Battery Life
Surprise! Both the Flip 6 and Flip 5 offer the same battery life—up to 12 hours on a single charge.
That’s more than enough for a day trip, picnic, or small gathering. The only real difference is the efficiency of the internals. The Flip 6 may handle power better at higher volumes, but in real life, they’re closely matched.
Connectivity and App Support
Bluetooth is the heart of these speakers. And in 2025, you want good, solid connections.
- Flip 5: Supports Bluetooth 4.2.
- Flip 6: Upgraded to Bluetooth 5.1 for faster pairing and better range.
Both work with the JBL Portable app, but only the Flip 6 lets you customize EQ settings. Want more bass? No problem. Need a bit more treble? Easy fix.
That custom EQ is a small feature, but it gives you more control over how your music sounds.
PartyBoost: Sync and Stream
One cool feature both speakers share is PartyBoost.
PartyBoost lets you connect multiple JBL speakers together for bigger and better sound. Planning a party with your friends? Bring all your JBLs, sync them up, and blast your playlist all night long.
Note: PartyBoost only works with other PartyBoost speakers. So you can’t connect it to older JBL models with JBL Connect+.
Portability: Still Pocket Rockets
Both speakers are lightweight and easy to carry. But they feel sturdy, like they could survive a few drops.
- Flip 5 weighs about 540 grams.
- Flip 6 is only slightly heavier at 550 grams.
That 10-gram difference? You won’t notice it!
Color Options and Style
Here’s the fun part—style!
Flip 5 comes in lots of colors, including some fun limited editions. Flip 6 keeps most of those colors and adds a few fresh shades. If you like your tech to match your vibe, both models give you plenty of choices.
You can find them in black, blue, pink, red, green, and more. JBL always has something cool for everyone.
Price: What Will It Cost You?
Pricing can vary based on where you buy. But here’s a rough idea for 2025:
- Flip 5: Around $80–$90
- Flip 6: Around $100–$120
So yes, the Flip 6 costs a bit more. But for the extra features—better sound, custom EQ, and Bluetooth 5.1—it might be worth it.
Which One Should You Buy?
Great question! It depends on what you care about most.
Buy the JBL Flip 6 if:
- You want clearer sound with richer bass.
- You need a better Bluetooth connection.
- You like customizing your audio with an EQ.
- You’re okay spending a bit more for better sound tech.
Buy the JBL Flip 5 if:
- You want to save money but still get great sound.
- You’re mostly using it for casual listening.
- You like the classic JBL look and feel.
Final Thoughts: The 2025 Verdict
Both the JBL Flip 6 and Flip 5 are awesome portable speakers. They’re tough, sound great, and last all day.
If you’re on a tight budget, the Flip 5 is still a solid choice in 2025. It’s got that JBL quality and fits anywhere.
But if you want better sound, more features, and future-proof tech, go with the Flip 6. It’s a worthy upgrade—especially if you love music with punch and clarity.
So grab your speaker, hit play, and enjoy the music—wherever 2025 takes you.