The JBL Charge 5 has made a significant splash in the portable speaker market, living up to the high standards set by its predecessors. Known for its durability, excellent sound quality, and the added bonus of being waterproof, the Charge 5 is an all-around performer. In this review, we’ll dive into its features, performance, and how it stands against the competition.
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Design and Build Quality
Rugged Yet Stylish
The JBL Charge 5 strikes a perfect balance between ruggedness and style. Encased in a durable fabric and rubberized housing, this speaker is built to withstand the elements. Its IP67 rating means it’s not only waterproof but also dustproof, making it ideal for beach outings, pool parties, or even a rainy hike. The speaker’s design is sleek and modern, with a variety of color options to suit different tastes. The iconic JBL branding and the large bass radiators on either side add to its aesthetic appeal.
Portability and Usability
Weighing in at 2.1 pounds, the JBL Charge 5 is slightly on the heavier side for a portable speaker, but it’s still easy to carry around. The built-in handle adds convenience, and the robust build ensures it can take a few knocks without any issues. The speaker features a straightforward control panel with buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, volume, and playback. The USB-C charging port is protected by a rubber flap, keeping it safe from water and dust.
Sound Quality
Impressive Audio Performance
The JBL Charge 5 shines in the audio department, delivering powerful, balanced sound across various genres. It features a racetrack-shaped driver, a separate tweeter, and dual bass radiators, which together produce clear highs, detailed mids, and deep bass. Whether you’re listening to bass-heavy tracks or acoustic tunes, the Charge 5 handles it all with aplomb. The speaker’s frequency response ranges from 65 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring a rich audio experience.
Loud and Clear
One of the standout features of the JBL Charge 5 is its ability to get loud without distortion. Even at maximum volume, the
sound remains crisp, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings where you need to fill a larger space. The speaker also supports JBL’s PartyBoost feature, which allows you to pair multiple JBL speakers for an even bigger sound. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to create a surround sound experience or amplify their music during a party.
Battery Life
Long-Lasting Power
The JBL Charge 5 is equipped with a 7500mAh battery, providing up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. This impressive battery life makes it a reliable companion for day-long events or weekend trips where access to a power outlet might be limited. Charging the speaker fully takes about 4 hours, which is reasonable given the longevity of its battery life.
Power Bank Functionality
One of the unique selling points of the JBL Charge series is the ability to use the speaker as a power bank, and the Charge 5 continues this tradition. With the USB-A port, you can charge your smartphone or other devices on the go. This feature adds a layer of convenience, especially when you’re outdoors and need to keep your devices powered.
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.1 for Seamless Pairing
The JBL Charge 5 features Bluetooth 5.1, which provides a stable connection with a range of up to 30 feet. Pairing the speaker with your device is quick and easy, and it can remember multiple devices for seamless switching. The Bluetooth 5.1 also ensures lower latency, which is great if you’re using the speaker to watch videos or play games.
Lack of AUX Input
One of the few downsides of the JBL Charge 5 is the lack of a 3.5mm AUX input, which might be a dealbreaker for those who prefer a wired connection. However, this omission is understandable given the trend towards wireless audio, and the Bluetooth connectivity more than compensates for this.
Durability and Waterproofing
IP67 Rating: Waterproof and Dustproof
The IP67 rating of the JBL Charge 5 is a testament to its durability. This rating means the speaker can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes without any damage, making it perfect for poolside use or even in the shower. The dustproof feature is also beneficial for those who plan to use the speaker at the beach or on dusty trails.
Built to Last
JBL has built the Charge 5 to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The rubberized edges provide additional protection against drops, and the fabric covering is resistant to wear and tear. Overall, the speaker feels solid and well-constructed, capable of handling rough conditions without compromising performance.
Customer Reviews
To provide a more comprehensive view of the JBL Charge 5, let’s take a look at what customers are saying about this portable Bluetooth speaker.
| Feature | Average Rating (out of 5) | Customer Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | 4.8 | “The bass is deep and the highs are clear, even at high volumes. Perfect for outdoor parties.” |
| Battery Life | 4.7 | The battery lasts all day, and I love that I can charge my phone with it too. |
| Durability | 4.9 | “I’ve dropped this speaker a few times and it’s still going strong. The waterproofing is also a lifesaver during pool parties.” |
| Connectivity | 4.5 | “Bluetooth connection is stable, but I miss the AUX input. Still, the range and ease of pairing make up for it.” |
| Portability | 4.6 | It’s a bit heavy, but the sound quality and battery life make it worth carrying around. The built-in handle is a nice touch.” |
Overall Customer Sentiment
The JBL Charge 5 has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from users, with particular praise for its sound quality, durability, and battery life. While some users miss the AUX input, the overall sentiment is that the speaker’s performance far outweighs this minor drawback.
Conclusion
The JBL Charge 5 is a top-tier portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers on all fronts. With its robust design, impressive sound quality, and long-lasting battery, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a speaker that can withstand the elements while providing an immersive audio experience. The waterproof and dustproof features make it ideal for outdoor use, and the ability to charge other devices is a valuable bonus. While the lack of an AUX input might be a downside for some, the overall performance and features of the Charge 5 make it a worthwhile investment.
If you’re in the market for a durable, high-quality portable speaker, the JBL Charge 5 should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to the beach, or simply enjoying music at home, this speaker will not disappoint.
