Portable Bluetooth speakers continue to be a popular gadget for listening to music on the go. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to decide which model best fits your needs and budget. Two of the latest releases in this category are the JBL Flip 6 and the Bose Soundlink Flex, both rugged and compact speakers packing impressive audio power.
In this in-depth comparison, we’ll examine the design, sound quality, features, battery life and more to help you determine the key differences between the Flip 6 and Soundlink Flex.
Overview
The JBL Flip 6 and Bose Soundlink Flex are both splashproof portable speakers with Bluetooth connectivity, a lightweight and durable build, and the ability to fill small-to-medium sized spaces with detailed audio.
Key Similarities:
- IP67 water and dust resistance rating
- Stereo pairing capable
- USB-C charging
- Integrated playback controls
- Compact, cylindrical shape
- 12 hour battery life
Key Differences:
- The Flip 6 has more vibrant sound with punchy bass, while the Soundlink Flex delivers clearer mids/highs
- The Soundlink Flex features automatic EQ optimization not found on the Flip 6
- The Flip 6 has manual EQ presets to customize sound
- The Soundlink Flex has better microphone quality for speakerphone use
- The Flip 6 charges fully around 1 hour faster
- The Flip 6 comes in more color options
Now let’s take a deeper look into each speaker‘s design, audio performance, features and value.
Design & Build Quality
JBL has stuck to the familiar cylindrical shape with rubberized ends and fabric coating across their Flip series. The Flip 6 looks nearly identical to its predecessor, apart from slightly larger dimensions. At 8.1 x 3.4 inches and 1.2 pounds, it strikes a balance of being compact yet loud enough for small gatherings.
Bose took a fresh approach with the Soundlink Flex, opting for a boxy shape that’s still small enough to toss in a bag at 6.3 x 2.1 x 2.4 inches and just under a pound. The Flex stands out through its wrap-around steel grill and soft silicone back that provides grip.
Both speakers have buttons for playback control rather than touch sensitivity, making them easy to operate even with wet hands. You’ll also find USB-C and a pairing button on each model.
In terms of durability, the Flip 6 and Soundlink Flex are quite evenly matched, both meeting the IP67 rating for dust and water protection. You can submerge them safely for up to 30 minutes.
JBL’s older Flip 5 endured extreme abuse tests like being frozen in ice and shot with arrows, emerging fully functional. The Flip 6 uses similar construction, inspiring confidence to toss it in a bag without worry.
Bose products are also typically over-engineered to deal with real world conditions. Overall build quality seems on par between the two speakers, giving you that crucial peace of mind.
Sound Quality & Features
Now let’s get into audio performance – the most vital consideration when buying a speaker.
Drivers:
The JBL Flip 6 packs a racetrack-shaped woofer measuring 2.75 inches by 1.75 inches which JBL says provides “mighty bass” in a compact footprint. It’s powered by two 40mm active drivers plus dual passive radiators on the sides for enhanced low end.
In comparison, the Bose Soundlink Flex houses a single full-range 2.25” x 3.5” racetrack transducer backed by two passive radiators located at the base of each end.
On paper, the Flip 6’s hardware seems more bass-heavy while the Soundlink Flex offers clearer mids and highs through its transducer. However real world listening reveals a more complex picture.
Sound Signature:
Over a week of testing with various genres, I found the JBL Flip 6 generally delivers more vibrant, exciting sound compared to the neutral profile of the Soundlink Flex.
The Flip 6 packs a serious punch – its enlarged woofer and radiators translate into thumping bass when called for, though slightly muddy compared to higher-end speakers. Mids are smooth if a bit recessed, while highs remain crisp without distortion even near full volume.
In contrast, the Bose Soundlink Flex puts out accurate audio closer to the original recording. The bass hits cleanly without blooming or muffling the mix. Both male and female vocals sound detailed and life-like. Treble is sparkly bright without harshness.
However, the Flip 6’s lively signature better suits pop, EDM, hip hop and other beats-driven genres. Its punchy low end brings out the rhythm while electronic effects pop nicely. The Soundlink Flex sounds comparatively flat here.
For jazz, classical and acoustic genres, the Flex reveals more subtle textures and nuance. Its balanced tilt lets various instruments shine clearly. The Flip 6 can’t match the same spaciousness and detail.
So genre preferences may dictate which speaker you’ll enjoy more – the Flip 6 for modern commercial music or the Flex for natural instruments.
Sound Adjustments:
A major distinguishing factor is the ability to tweak the audio settings…