JBL Flip 6: The Verdict

We’ll cover the basics here if you’re in a bit of a rush.

The JBL Flip 6 maximises every inch to improve its sonic character. It sports a 45 x 80mm racetrack woofer and a new 16mm tweeter, both hidden behind the wraparound grille that comes in a variety of very distinct colourways. To give it a bit of a bass boost and ensure sound is more evenly spread, JBL have also implemented a passive radiator at either end of the speaker.

The speaker has a 12-hour battery life – with a quick 2.5-hour recharge time – and it’s IP67-rated, meaning you’re getting dust protection and complete waterproofing for pool-side use, which is one of the key upgrades from the JBL Flip 5.

Connectivity-wise, the JBL Flip 6 features Bluetooth 5.1 and that’s it.

JBL have stripped back both Wi-Fi and physical connectivity, making it clear that this is meant for short-range wireless playback on the go. It’s also compatible with the JBL Portable app, giving you a basic bass/mid/treble equaliser and PartyBoost management, which we’ll cover later in the review.

So, let’s sum that up:

Specifications

JBL Flip 6 review

First impressions

I’m going to walk you through my time with the JBL Flip 6, but I won’t linger too long on the packaging because who wants to read a review about a box, right?

Nevertheless, when the JBL Flip 6 arrived, it came in a sturdy, very eye-catching little package. You don’t have to worry about the speaker getting dinged around in the post if you’re buying online.

Unboxing it, you’re met with a white cardboard sleeve with “Flip 6” embossed in the centre. This contains these accessories: a beautifully illustrated fold-out quick start guide, some safety instructions, and the USB-C charging cable.

This isn’t much in the way of goodies, granted, but that’ll be perfect for travel, especially considering this speaker also comes with a wrist strap to make it easy to pick up and play.

Underneath the cardboard sleeve, the presentation is on point.

The JBL Flip 6 sits squarely in the centre of a moulded cardboard cradle, ensuring the speaker’s large JBL logo is the first thing you see. The design of the speaker itself is both simple and modern, with a robust, cylindrical body that feels reassuringly solid without being heavy.

I got my hands on the black variant, but there are plenty of colours and patterns to choose from.

Build quality and design

In a lot of ways, the JBL Flip 6 reminds me of one of those 500ml energy drink cans. I didn’t have one with me to measure at the time, but the Flip is probably only a little bigger by comparison. It’s a bit heftier too, but that’s because most energy drinks don’t come with speakers built-in. Overall, it’s lightweight, easy to carry, and probably just as likely to keep you up at night if your kids get a hold of it.

Needless to say, if you’ve got room in your bag for drinks, you’ve got room for this. Just swap one out and you’re all set for a day trip with a soundtrack; poolside, seaside, mountainside, wherever.

The JBL Flip 6 is IP67-rated, meaning it’s fully dustproof and waterproof, and can withstand being submerged – so, accidental splashes shouldn’t damage it. Full disclosure, while I didn’t deliberately dunk the speaker to test this resistance during my demo, it was reassuring to know that using it next to the sink or strapped to my bag during the fickle British springtime didn’t pose any risk.

When it comes to build quality, the Flip 6 feels well-made. Its exterior is rugged all the way around, made from materials that are easy to grip. Rubber bumpers at both ends protect the passive radiators and allow the speaker to stand on either side. There’s also a rubber stopper below the power panel to prevent it from rolling backwards when sat horizontally.

Speaking of the power panel, the Flip 6 splits its controls into two sets: the rubberised pair on the back for power and Bluetooth pairing, and another set for functions, which are set on top and moulded in four large, distinct shapes.

These symbols are perfect for tactile volume adjustment, track skipping, play, pause, and PartyBoost activation. I can see this coming in especially handy when you can’t properly see the speaker – situations like low-light campfire playlists, listening with your eyes closed, or for those who are visually impaired, upholding accessibility alongside the speaker’s handy audible status cues.

Features

The simple layout and tactile feel of the controls ensure that managing your music feels very intuitive. It really is a pick-up-and-play design.

As for audio playback, the speaker’s one-and-only form of connection is Bluetooth 5.1. However, it doesn’t make you jump through hoops to connect and you can pair up to two devices at once – something that’ll come in especially useful if you’re sharing DJ duties.

The transition is seamless. Just play music from one device and it automatically pauses the other, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved.

Once you’ve connected, you’re free to explore the JBL Portable app. While not necessary for immediate use, this does offer basic EQ settings for bass, mid, and treble, as well as software updates, and more.

The available EQ isn’t the most in-depth audio customisation available, but if you think of it as fine-tuning rather than overhauling then it’s nice to have. It’s generally intuitive and easy to navigate, with only the occasional hiccup.

Honestly, besides the sound quality (which we’ll get to soon), I think the app layout is what left the largest impression on me. It doesn’t gatekeep like some manufacturer-designed apps I’ve experienced and does everything possible to make your experience easy. You even get a display for the speaker’s remaining battery, which is great if you’re away from a power source.

In that sense, the JBL Flip 6 ticks a lot of boxes for me and marries practicality and style.

The 12-hour battery life is another strong point for the Flip 6. It arrives charged and ready to use, which is considerate if you’re gifting this to someone. If you do deplete it though, recharging is quick (2.5 hours), so you’re back to full power without missing too many beats.

Sound quality

This is going to sound gimmicky, but despite its size, the JBL Flip 6’s sound defies its dimensions.

The bass response comes at you with a surprising oomph to begin with. It felt a bit boomy, possibly even leaning towards bass-heavy but not overbearing, especially after tweaking EQ. After a short period, this sensation settled into a well-rounded fullness.

The passive radiators are clearly pulling their weight. Maybe I just wasn’t expecting it from such a small speaker, but this is JBL after all. They’re fun and loud.

It doesn’t exactly create a sense of stepping into the recording studio, but it’s articulate and reveals little details that are legible no matter where you stand – though the sweet spot for listening is mainly in front.

I got to try this speaker out for a few days, and what surprised me most was the speaker’s adaptability across genres. My own playlists are usually peppered with catch-all “indie and alternative” tracks, but the clarity was especially commendable throughout, with backing vocals and basslines more discernible than usual.

Shifting to the eclectic mix of the AV.com Qobuz playlist, I put the Filp 6 to the test. Starting with Seal’s take on “Luck Be a Lady”, there was a liveliness that allowed the track’s classic swing qualities to ooze charm, even at higher volumes. A good start.

Then “Destroy All Humans” by Deadly Avenger burst through with enough vitality to keep things interesting, capturing the track’s cinematic energy without becoming overwhelming.

When you really push the Flip 6 to its volume limits, the clarity does take a hit, but to be fair, just one on its own isn’t designed to fill a large room. It’s a quality budget-friendly portable speaker that doesn’t pretend to offer a “high-end” experience – it’s about fun, it’s about bass, and it’s about a sound that fills your immediate space without any pretence.

If you need more power, that’s where PartyBoost comes in.

By adding a second Flip 6, you can upgrade to stereo mode or pair a range of PartyBoost-compatible speakers in mono – simply with additional sources of audio. JBL Charge 5, Xtreme 3, and Pulse 5 are all compatible. So if you’re planning a party and enjoy the sound of JBL, it makes perfect sense to suggest a friend gets one too. After all, the Flip 6 tends to do its own persuasive talking.

Who is the JBL Flip 6 suited to?

I can see the JBL Flip 6 making an appearance on quite a few top-pick lists.

It’s a prime choice for music lovers and considerably cheaper than speakers like the Sonos Roam, especially if you don’t mind sacrificing Wi-Fi connectivity. Its compact size and sturdy design also make it a staple for outdoor enthusiasts, eager to soundtrack their beach days, park picnics, or backyard barbecues.

Alternatively, the JBL Charge 5 isn’t much more expensive than the Flip 6, giving you a built-in power bank to charge your phone on the go, 20 hours of battery life, and more oomph. The Clip 4, on the other hand, is cheaper and even more portable, but it doesn’t come with PartyBoost or some of the advanced features of the Flip 6.

If you need a nice middle ground, the Flip 6 is relatively budget-friendly and would be a great speaker for students, everyday listeners, or gift givers.

Finally, the Flip 6 is for tech-savvy individuals who appreciate the ability to quickly connect multiple speakers via app control. If you’re upgrading from the previous generation, you can keep your Flip 5 and combine them using PartyBoost, amplifying your listening experience which is perfect for impromptu social gatherings where a single speaker just won’t cut it.

A brief history of JBL

JBL, short for James B. Lansing Sound, Inc., has been synonymous with acoustic innovation since 1946. The brand began revolutionising cinema sound, but they swiftly became a household name, known for crafting speakers that deliver high fidelity and powerful performance.

JBL’s speakers are best known for their pristine clarity, robust build, and consistent quality in an ever-evolving industry. From professional-grade sound equipment used in recording studios and live concerts to the portable Bluetooth speakers that have become a staple of modern mobile lifestyles, JBL have cemented their reputation across a spectrum of audiophile environments.

Some of JBL’s high-profile speakers include the iconic L100 Classic, a home audio system with a retro design that harks back to the golden age of hi-fi, as well as the PartyBox series, which are a visual spectacle as much as anything, with their built-in light shows and impressive power.

Their extensive range of products doesn’t stop at speakers; JBL also produces a variety of headphones, soundbars, subwoofers, and hi-fi electronics. Yet, it’s the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality that ensures whether it’s a party speaker or a pair of in-ear headphones if it bears the JBL name, it’s designed to impress and endure.

FAQs

Is the Flip 6 worth it?

The Flip 6 offers excellent value for its price. It combines advanced audio technology with a durable design, making it a great choice for both indoor and outdoor use. Its 12-hour battery life and dynamic sound profile provide significant improvements over previous models.

Is the Flip 5 or 6 better?

The Flip 6 is a noticeable upgrade over the Flip 5. JBL have updated Bluetooth from version 4.2 to 5.1, added a tweeter, refined the woofer, and improved the IP rating with dust resistance. These improvements make it a superior choice for those seeking the latest in portable technology.

Is the Flip 6 good for bass?

The Flip 6 delivers good bass for its size. With its newly designed drivers and bass radiators, the speaker produces rich and clear low frequencies. This makes it ideal for bass-heavy music genres and overall sound quality, ensuring a fulfilling listening experience.

Final thoughts

The initial reservations I had at the start of my JBL Flip 6 review were quickly overshadowed, leaving me thoroughly impressed. JBL’s portable speakers are just too lively and intuitive to dismiss, especially for the price. They certainly know their audience and cater to it brilliantly.

Considering using the JBL Flip 6 for your next barbecue? You might also want to explore a more permanent setup. We’ve reviewed the best outdoor speakers to enhance your garden’s sound this summer. Also, our step-by-step guide to connecting your JBL speakers can help you prepare for your new sound system.

As always, we’d love to hear what you think of the Flip 6! Did it live up to your expectations? Leave a comment below and let us know.