With global sales of portable Bluetooth speakers expected to top $7.5 billion in 2023, the market for premium audio on the go continues to boom. And few companies have capitalized on mobility better than audio giant JBL. Their iconic Charge speaker line has become synonymous with big sound in a compact form factor.
But is the latest incarnation, the JBL Charge 5, truly worth its $180 price tag? This comprehensive guide will explore everything potential buyers need to know.
A Decade of Dominance for JBL Charge
JBL first unleashed the original Charge speaker back in 2013. The uniquely tubular design, signature sound profile and integrated social features quickly earned it bestseller status.
True to its name, the Charge also let users power external devices via an integrated USB port. Popular challengers like the UE Boom simply couldn‘t match the Charge‘s sonic dexterity.
Over subsequent models, JBL augmented the Charge formula without deviating too far. The Charge 2 added better waterproofing and bass. The Charge 3 upgraded drivers and battery life. And the Charge 4 moved to USB-C and boosted clarity.
All the while, critics and consumers alike continued to sing praises:
{{< figure src="/images/jbl-charge-praise.png" alt="Collage of positive JBL Charge reviews" >}}
So in many ways, the Charge 5 enters a trial by fire. Can the newest chapter retain the magic?
Inside the JBL Charge 5
On paper, the Charge 5 checks all the boxes and then some:
- Two 1.7-inch woofers plus separate tweeter for balanced sound
- Dual passive bass radiators and 40W power amplifier for thunderous low-end
- Bluetooth 5.1, PartyBoost multi-pairing and 30+ feet range
- Ip67 dust/water protection (up to 3 feet for 30 minutes)
- 20 hour battery with 4 hour recharge cycle via USB-C
- 8.7 x 3.7 inch footprint at just over 2 pounds
Prepared to be impressed…but not surprised. One Charge hallmark remains the rugged yet refined styling:
{{< figure src="/images/jbl-charge-5- angles.jpg" alt="JBL Charge 5 speaker shot from multiple angles" caption="The familiar portable durability [Image credit: JBL]" >}}
Of course, you don‘t plunk down $180 for striking visuals alone. How does the latest generation actually sound?
Punching Above Its Weight Class
Just like its predecessors, the Charge 5 makes an immediate sonic statement. Many users highlight the sparkling clarity standing out first and foremost:
"The clarity is stunning, way better than my friend‘s newer JBL Flip 6. Way better sound separation too on busy tracks."
Vocals come through crisp without losing body, while instruments retain distinction across even hectic compositions:
"I can pick out every guitar pluck, every drum hit…just awesome definition. Makes me want to re-listen to all my favorite albums again."
Perhaps expectedly, the Charge 5‘s low-end also earns plenty applause:
"Killer bass response! You‘ll physically feel it pulsing if you max the volume out."
"I don‘t know what magic JBL performs but the Charge 5 sounds way bigger than its actual size."
All signs point to the 40 watts of amplification paying dividends. Of course, generating window-rattling bass from an ultra-portable chassis requires compromise elsewhere. But so far, users cite no glaring sonic downsides:
"Maybe slightly exaggerated thump on songs with really aggressive low frequencies? But I actually welcome the extra oomph."
On the contrary, many praise the Charge 5‘s EQ balance and dynamic versatility just as much:
"Honestly impressed by how balanced it sounds at lower volumes too. And it handles all genres well whether hip hop, country or classical."
That sonic agility serves the Charge 5 equally well indoors and out. Its storied legacy certainly helped set towering expectations. Yet by all accounts, JBL’s latest delivers the complete audio package.
Battery Built to Last
Class-leading battery life further boosts the Charge 5‘s every day appeal. The integrated 7500 mAh lithium-ion battery keeps the tunes flowing up to an incredible 20 hours.
For perspective, that‘s over 25% longer runtime than early Charges offered. Only a full recharge requires nearly four hours plugged in.
And JBL smartly includes a USB-C cable for both charging and wired aux input. Still, most opt for the freedom true wireless operation provides as happy users report:
"Two weekends of heavy pool and yard use only drained about 60% battery!"
"20 hours at medium volume as advertised. The convenience is amazing."
That staying power proves vital for the Charge 5’s premier portability. Few Bluetooth speakers on par sonically travel quite so effortlessly.
{{< figure src="/images/jbl-charge-5-lifestyle-1.jpg" alt="Woman carrying JBL Charge 5 poolside" caption="Pint-sized power on the go [Image credit: JBL]" >}}
Built Tough for Adventure
Of course, booming audio means little if a speaker can‘t endure daily rigors. Here too, the Charge tradition of resilience shows through. An IP67 ingress rating affords protection from dust and water immersion.
Users affirm a refreshing peace of mind from the ruggedness:
"So nice not having to baby this thing. Stands up to my three kids’ roughness and forgetfulness."
"Got caught in a storm kayaking but the Charge 5 kept blaring like a champ!"
That trailblazing spirit traces back to the original JBL Charge and its novel “adventureproof” design. Each iteration only amplifies durability further thanks to thoughtful touches like scratch-resistant housing and durable fabric coverings.
Yet despite the uncompromising build quality, the Charge 5 still looks and feels more sleek than tank-like. Form and function achieve an enviable balance.
Balancing Value and Investment
Of course, such premium engineering comes at a cost. And make no mistake — the JBL Charge 5 sits at the higher end of the portable Bluetooth speaker market.
Retailing around $180 means buyers must weigh the features and construction against cheaper alternatives like Anker‘s $100 Soundcore 3. More affordable models from Tribit, Sony and others bring capable sonics often below $50.
But those comparison shoppers chiefly prioritize budget over all else. The Charge 5 rather targets more discerning audio lovers. And many attest even the lofty cost gets offset through daily enjoyment:
"Yeah, it‘s expensive but honestly worth every cent. This little guy brings me huge grins daily!"
That said, the wise consumer still considers holding out for periodic deals in the $120-150 range. Patience paysoff for most luxury buys after all.
The Last Charge You’ll Need
When seeking premium, portable audio with room-filling sound, the JBL Charge 5 warrants a top spot on any short list. It continues to stand tall as a category innovator.
Those focused strictly on price can certainly find comparable noisemakers for less. But in terms of balancing sonic muscle, resilient engineering and style within an ultra-mobile form, few measure up.
Between storied brand esteem and overwhelmingly positive reception, the Charge 5 looks to extend JBL’s Bluetooth speaker dominance. Their winning formula charges forward yet again. Consider this a top-tier model that goes the extra mile to earn its keep.
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For other options beside the Charge 5, see our guide to Bluetooth speakers under $100. Or check out these JBL alternatives:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does the JBL Charge 5 compare to the Charge 4 or older Charges?
The Charge 5 builds on the solid lineage of past JBL Charge models. Key improvements include 30% longer battery life (20 hours vs 15 hours), Bluetooth 5.1 for farther wireless range, upgraded IP67 waterproofing and higher clarity drivers. It retains the same iconic design though with fresh color options.
What colors does the JBL Charge 5 come in?
Currently, JBL offers the Charge 5 in black, blue, gray, red, teal, camouflage print and light blue. So buyers have plenty of stylish customization.
Can you bring the JBL Charge 5 in the shower?
We don‘t recommend bringing any electronic items into the shower. However, the IP67 rating does mean the Charge 5 speaker can handle water spray and submersion down to 1 meter for 30 minutes. So using by a pool, lake or beach entails no issue.
What carrying case options exist for the JBL Charge 5?
JBL sells an official Charge 5 carrying case capable of holding the speaker plus cables that retails around $40. There are also more affordable third-party carrying cases in the $15 range. Or you can opt for a larger outdoor Bluetooth speaker backpack that will accommodate it.
How does the JBL Charge 5 compare to the JBL Flip 6 or JBL Pulse 5?
The JBL Flip 6 sells for around $130 and offers slightly less volume, bass and battery life (12 hours) in a more compact form weighing 1.2 pounds. The Pulse 5 has unique LED lighting features but weaker bass and battery than the Charge 5. Among JBL‘s portfolio, the Charge 5 makes the loudest audio statement.
