Our test laboratory has already visited a couple of different models of JBL portable solutions, representing one of the most compact series - the JBL CLIP 4 model - and a series of portable devices - the JBL Boombox 2 model, which you can’t put in a backpack, but take with you to the beach or to friends Still quite capable. Today we are testing a sample that is intermediate in size and weight. Already in the name of the JBL Charge 5 model is one of its features - the ability to recharge external devices. However, JBL Charge 5 has many other advantages, including its catchy appearance, the now traditional water protection, proprietary software features and the presence of two speakers at once for reproducing different frequency ranges.
Contents of delivery
Packaging and delivery of the JBL Charge 5
The speaker system is supplied in a box made of very thick cardboard. As with any other JBL product, the packaging of the JBL Charge 5 is colorful and attractive. But the delivery package is spartanly simple. The only thing supplied with the speaker is a USB charging cable and a small printed manual for getting started.
Specifications
- Speakers: two, low-frequency 20 mm, high-frequency 52 mm x 90 mm;
- Frequency range: 60 Hz – 20 kHz
- Output power: woofer 10W, tweeter 30W
- Signal to noise ratio: > 80 dB
- Battery: lithium-ion polymer, 7500 mAh
- Charging interface: USB Type-C (5 V/3 A)
- Interface for charging devices: USB Type-A (5 V/2 A)
- Battery charging time: 4 hours
- Music playback time: up to 20 hours
- Control: mechanical buttons
- Connectivity: wireless, Bluetooth 5.1
- Dimensions: 223 x 96.5 x 94 mm (Width x Height x Depth)
- Weight: 0.98kg (~1kg)
From the technical characteristics, you can notice an interesting feature - the model is both an audio system and an external battery for charging devices.
Equipment
The speaker comes in a heavy square box (all together ~1.5 kg), similar to a mini-suitcase. Its quality is pleasantly surprising - bright, neat and reliable, it is suitable for transporting the speaker to a party or nature.
The column itself flaunts on the front side, and its image is glossy and stands out from the background. On the sides there are a couple more bright pictures with the provocative phrase Dare to Listen (“Don’t be afraid to listen”). The back side lists the main features in several languages, including Russian. I note that there is a holder on top - perhaps in order to “attach” the box somewhere for carrying, although the impressive weight is unlikely to allow this to be done.
There is a black “tab” at the bottom with which you can open the box and see what’s inside. This method of opening evokes the idea that we are looking at a kind of “chest”, which is also, albeit a small, plus for the Charge 5. The box lid is held on by two barely noticeable magnets, which means the risk of accidental opening is minimal.
Inside there is a case with operating instructions, a warranty card, a safety brochure and a Type-C USB cable for charging, as well as the speaker itself, neatly packed in a cotton bag.
Interesting: inside the box there is a recess for the speaker, which means it can be used as a “chest” and you don’t need to buy an additional case.
This may seem unnecessary, but the textual documentation also leaves a pleasant impression. It has been translated into 19 languages, including Russian, and contains comprehensive information about Charge 5, ranging from technical parameters to tips on how to extend the life of the battery.
It’s surprising that so much can be said just about the packaging and accessories, but there’s more to come, because now I’ll tell you about the speaker itself.
What didn't you like about the JBL Charge 5?
Other than the power bank capabilities and JBL PartyBoost option, the Charge 5 doesn't offer much in the way of features you'd expect for the money. There's no 3.5mm jack, no Wi-Fi (meaning no Spotify Connect, no Apple AirPlay, etc.), and no built-in voice assistant compatibility.
The only way to play music is via Bluetooth, you can't connect audio devices via cable. Nor can Charge 5 be used with most desktop monitors, or interface with any of your smart home systems.
The kit doesn't include an AC adapter, meaning if you need to charge the speaker while traveling on the train, you'll have to use your own. Unfortunately, there is no wireless charging (Qi), so a cable is your only option.
Design and Features
In appearance, Charge 5 is as similar as possible to Charge 4 and Xtreme 3 – JBL engineers remain faithful to the design, which they probably consider ideal. There is some truth in this - the speaker looks quite stylish, and its dimensions (width is ~23 cm) will allow you to easily place it on a table/bedside table/on a blanket at a picnic, and so on. True, compared to Charge 4, the weight has increased, but only slightly (from 960 g to 980), but overall the speaker is quite weighty.
Interesting: JBL Charge 5 is sold in 9 colors: green, red, pink, gray, black, white, light blue, blue and camouflage
The case itself protects the speaker with a tactilely pleasant wicker “grid”, and all other elements, namely the buttons and the passive bass radiator, are covered with rubberized inserts.
The speaker's level of protection from external influences (moisture, dust) is IP67. The developers themselves offer to verify its reliability - the device can be immersed under water to a depth of 1 meter and kept there for 30 minutes, and it will work. It’s unlikely that anyone would think of doing this, but at a pool party you can impress others.
Under the JBL logo, which is made of matte plastic, there is a charge indicator. During operation, it begins to slowly fade (as in the picture below), although such a solution allows you to only approximately understand how much longer the battery will last. It would be clearer if the indicator was clearly divided into sections like 100%/75%/50%/25%/0%.
Even lower are rubberized feet that allow you to place the device in a horizontal position. This is a small innovation compared to version 4, where it was clearly lacking.
Above the logo there are buttons for turning on, pairing and control. Their purpose is intuitive, except that the infinity sign does not mean loop playback, but connection to other portable systems.
On the back there are connectors for charging the speaker and other devices. As mentioned above, JBL Charge 5 can act as an external battery. The Type-C connector for powering the speaker is located behind a rubber plug, but is also protected according to IP67 class. As for the plug itself, it fits so tightly that I didn’t open it the first time.
There are passive bass radiators on the sides, and they are protected by the same rubber coupled with a high-quality plastic plug.
Compared to Charge 4, the side supports have increased, which gives more clearance from below and, as a result, improves sound quality. These supports also allow the device to be positioned vertically. They slide on a wet surface, but you have to make an effort to make the speaker fall. Another question is the durability of the rubber feet, which only time will answer.
JBL Charge 5 leaves an extremely positive impression. There are no signs of poor quality assembly, the device can be positioned horizontally or vertically, the case is reliably protected, and the rubber and “grid” will remain pleasant to the touch even after a long period of use.
JBL Charge 3 portable speaker review
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The Harman company releases new models of high-quality portable audio systems every year. Last year was no exception: the company released several wireless speakers on the market, among which the JBL Charge 3 stands out. The fact is that this speaker is noticeably larger than other models, plus it is equipped with a number of useful features that may be useful to users.
JBL Charge 3: design
It's not small at all, but it's still portable. You can put it in your bag or backpack and go out of town, to train at the gym, or to the country house. Almost the entire surface of the device, with a few exceptions, is covered with a dense, pleasant-to-touch fabric. Thanks to the fabric, the speaker does not slip in your hands. The case itself is protected from water according to the IPX7 standard. You can throw the device into the pool and continue to enjoy music: the speaker will not be damaged. True, the developers do not recommend immersing the device in water for more than half an hour, to a depth of more than 1 meter.
The body has large and convenient buttons for controlling the main functions of the device, plus there is backlighting and translucent inserts at the ends and at the bottom. There are six regular, non-touch buttons. These are volume control, connection button with other speakers, on/off, activation of wireless communication (Bluetooth), Play/Pause. A big plus is that the device can be used as a headset, so the last button works in this mode and as a button to answer and end a call.
The speaker can be installed both vertically and horizontally - the sound quality does not change. JBL Charge is equipped with USB, AUX, microUSB ports. They are covered with a rubber cover, which protects the ports and the device itself from water, dust, and dirt. I would like to point out one point right away: if you are going to put the speaker in water, be sure to check that the lid on the compartment with the ports is tightly closed.
The speakers are available in a variety of colors, including grey, blue, black, red and aqua.
JBL Charge 3: features
First of all, I would like to note the sound. The power of the device is 20 W, which is an excellent result for a speaker of this size. It has two speakers with a diameter of 50 mm each and two passive radiators. The frequency range reproduced by the speaker is 65 Hz-20 kHz.
It’s worth talking about the quality of sound reproduction in more detail. Overall, JBL Charge 3 is a high-quality audio system that practically does not distort the sound and does not cut frequencies. For example, when listening to “Silent Shout” by The Knife, the speaker does not add distortion even at full volume. The volume level on the JBL Charge 3 is excellent - it's amazing how a small device can deliver such volume. Bass is good here thanks to two speakers and two passive radiators. Highs and mids are also well reproduced, as can be seen by listening to Bill Callahan's "Drover". The sound is generally rich and clear. Guitar, drums, vocals - everything is on point, there is no distortion. Even orchestral tracks sound ideal for a sound system of this size and price. Try listening to “The Gospel According to the Other Mary” by John Adams and you will definitely like it.
Under the cover there is a standard 3.5 mm jack. It may be useful to the user if he wants to connect a sound source without working with Bluetooth. In addition, the same port is suitable for connecting a microphone. The MicroUSB port is used to charge the device’s batteries, and the USB port is used to charge third-party gadgets from the speaker. There is a battery charge indicator on the device stand. JBL Charge 3 can work wirelessly with up to three devices simultaneously. As already mentioned, if you have several JBL Charge 3 speakers, it is possible to create a multiple audio system. A special button is provided to synchronize the speakers with each other.
The microphone, which is used when the JBL Charge 3 operates as a headset, is equipped with a noise reduction function. So the interlocutor will hear the owner of the device well even if the environment around the latter is quite noisy.
JBL Charge 3: battery
The battery charge lasts for a maximum of 20 hours of battery life. This indicator depends on the volume of music playback and whether the owner charges other devices from the JBL Charge 3 battery.
JBL Charge 3: specifications
- Sound: stereo, 2.0
- Frequency range: 65 Hz – 20000 Hz
- Signal to noise ratio: 80 dB
- Total Output Power (RMS): 20W (2x10W)
- Speakers: 2
- Material: rubber, metal, waterproof fabric finish IPX7
- Bluetooth support: yes
- Battery life: up to 15 hours
- Battery capacity: 6000 mAh
- Input: 3.5mm audio
- Ports: USB, micro USB
- Dimensions: 213 x 87 x 89 mm
- Weight: 800 g
- Compatibility: iOS, Android
JBL Charge 3: is it worth buying?
Yes, definitely worth it. This audio system is the best value for money. The speaker's capabilities, quality of music playback, and its protection from water and dust are positive aspects. There are no negative ones, or we simply could not detect them.
You can buy JBL Charge 3 in our store.
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Connection and control
Connecting the speaker to anything is quite simple - just press the power button, and then the Bluetooth icon, and the JBL Charge 5 will be ready to go. The connection is made quite quickly, the buttons only need to be pressed for 3 seconds. I note that switching on and accompaniment are accompanied by backlighting - a pleasant detail allows you to quickly understand the state of the speaker.
The Bluetooth 5.1 interface is responsible for the connection (Charge 4 has profile 4.2). The connection is stable, during a week of use it has never been interrupted. Moreover, the device goes into sleep mode if it is not used, and after a while it completely turns off.
As for controlling music, at first everything seemed trivial to me - there are a couple of mechanical buttons on the device itself (increase/decrease volume, stop/resume, pairing with other speakers), and the average user will be overwhelmed by them.
Note: the video was prepared solely to demonstrate the physical control capabilities of the speaker, and it does not convey anywhere near the sound quality
And this was enough for me too, but after reading the operating instructions, I discovered that you can additionally control the speaker using the proprietary JBL Portable application, available on Android and iOS.
In fact, it is quite simple and does not allow you to customize the sound. Designed for:
- Firmware updates;
- Connecting multiple devices to one audio system;
- More detailed tracking of charge level.
On the main screen you can immediately see all the described functions - for example, separate buttons are responsible for updating and PartyBoost, and the battery status is located in the center.
In the settings, which are located in the upper right corner, you can change the name of the device (for a party), familiarize yourself with the main functions of the application, remove/enable the response sound and check the firmware.
PartyBoost pairs with other speakers. So, in the “Party” mode you can connect as many devices as you like, according to JBL, and in the “Stereo” you will need a speaker compatible with PartyBoost to create surround sound. Unfortunately, Charge 4 is not suitable for this, no matter how strange it may be.
Note: the following JBL speakers are suitable for creating a stereo pair – Flip 6, Pulse 4, Xtreme 3, Boombox 2 and, of course, Charge 5
As you can see, the physical remote control of the JBL Charge 5 is quite basic, which is another plus.
Additional functions
The main feature of the JBL Charge 5 is right there in the name, and in practice reverse charging turns out to be quite useful.
The speaker has a USB-C input and a USB-A output; you can use the equipment as an external battery. Of course, given the 7500 mAh capacity, you won’t be able to recharge several smartphones, at least if you’re also going to listen to music. Fully charging a modern smartphone will use at least half of the Charge 5's energy reserve.
PartyBoost mode consumes energy approximately like recharging a smartphone. The essence of the function is that you can connect several Charge 5 speakers together and get louder and more powerful stereo sound.
Sound
In the fourth generation, the second speaker was removed, but it was in the third, and consumers did not really understand this decision. JBL Charge 5 also has a high-frequency speaker that works in conjunction with a pair of passive radiators on the sides and a full-range speaker.
Interesting: the device can be easily disassembled and the condition of the internal components can be checked
And no, JBL didn't go back to basics at all - for example, the third iteration had two full-range speakers, and this one has one tweeter and one woofer. The differences show up when playing music - the sound is richer and more detailed, while the bass remains quite bright.
The introduction of a 20mm tweeter doesn't provide stereo sound, but it still feels "wide". So, my speaker is located to the right of the laptop, but when watching TV shows, I didn’t feel as if the sound was somewhere on the side. Thus, the sound is at the limit of what can be expected from a portable device in this price category. Plus, you can combine two devices into a stereo pair and enjoy surround sound.
Charge 5 does not have an AUX output (mini-jack), and although the Bluetooth 5.1 interface is quite relevant, wireless communication still has delays, and ardent music lovers notice them and prefer a wired connection. The fourth version has a mini-jack. However, I note that although there are delays, they are almost imperceptible.
⇡#Conclusions
The JBL Charge 5 portable speaker system is suitable for everyone for whom the capabilities (as well as weight and size) of the JBL Boombox 2 are excessive, and the sound of the compact JBL CLIP 4 is no longer enough. Thanks to a pair of speakers, this speaker copes well with music of different genres and styles; its purpose is to create an atmosphere and a great mood at a meeting with friends, a sports field, a training session, or just a country picnic. Moreover, transporting the JBL Charge 5 does not require much free space in your backpack or effort, since this speaker does not weigh that much. Among the shortcomings of the new product, we can only note the absence of a button to go to the previous track, but there are more than enough advantages:
- magnificent design and the highest quality of workmanship;
- nine different colors;
- dust and water protection according to IP67 standard;
- does not sink in water;
- two installation options and effective vibration dampers on the housing;
- two speakers for playing different frequencies;
- relatively high playback quality;
- deep surround bass;
- very high maximum volume level;
- PartyBoost function with the ability to combine speakers into stereo pairs;
- long operating time without recharging.
At the same time, the cost of JBL Charge 5 cannot be called high. If you need a speaker with water protection, then for this amount you won’t find anything else.
Autonomy
The autonomy of JBL Charge 5 remains the same as that of version 4 - they promise up to 20 hours of playback, and the battery capacity (7500 mAh) really allows you to achieve this figure.
In practice, autonomy directly depends on the volume and frequency of use of the speaker. So, I listened to music at low volume, and it seemed that the charge was not draining at all. But as soon as I watched a couple of films and TV series, for which I turned the sound up almost to the maximum, the indicator began to rapidly go out. I am sure that one charge will be enough for one or two loud parties, no more.
Even though the declared power of the high-frequency speaker is 30 W, and the low-frequency speaker is 10 W, but this is RMS (Rated Maximum Sinusoidal - “Limit sinusoidal power”). That is, the speaker will produce 40 W, but after an hour it will already be discharged, and there is also a possibility of damage to the speakers, so you still shouldn’t turn up the volume all the way.
Charging is carried out via the USB Type-C port in just 4 hours. There is also standard USB-A for powering other devices (such as a phone).
My speaker ran out of charge after a week of using it at home: watching TV shows and movies, listening to music. On average, it was on for 3-4 hours every day. In my opinion, the autonomy is excellent, but it has not changed compared to the previous version.
The best JBL speakers for premium sound
Boombox
The next powerful unit from the brand with incredible volume is the Boombox. If the user wants to throw a fun party not only for himself, but also for his neighbors, this nominee will cope with this task. In a durable case with a weight of 5 kg you can see 4 active transducers at once; they provide powerful sound of techno, disco, rock, pop and other genres. The bass here is elastic and deep, making all objects in the room tremble. The design is laconic, bold, and has a handle for easy use. This means that the music source can accompany the owner anywhere. The 20,000 mAh battery will provide up to 24 hours of continuous sound, and the waterproof case is suitable for use on the beach.
Pros:
- Stable body;
- The most powerful clear sound;
- Maximum autonomy;
- Comfortable handle;
- Crazy bass;
- High build quality.
Minuses:
- Price;
- Speaker resonance with loud bass.
PartyBox 1000
If you need a really powerful device, choose the JBL Partybox 1000 portable speaker. This is a powerful speaker with high sound quality in 2.1 format. The total power of the speaker is 1.1 kW. It is controlled using a remote control and is powered from the electrical network. The capabilities of the device allow you to produce sound at a level from 30 to 20,000 Hz. It is better to buy this model if you need many interfaces, namely Bluetooth, USB, linear. There is a Power Bank mode. The dimensions of the device are 39.7x105x39 cm.
pros
- High power;
- Incredible sound;
- Can be used for a party;
- Modern design;
- USB support;
Minuses
- Large weight and dimensions;
- Plastic scratches easily;
Partybox 310
A popular portable speaker that is considered one of the most powerful in the JBL line. The device weighs a lot - more than 17 kg, so the manufacturer has provided a retractable vertical handle, like in a suitcase, and wheels for ease of transportation. The sound is so loud that you can organize a massive party right in the open space on the street. The sound quality is close to ideal - as they say in the reviews. The battery life is amazing - you can party for almost a day with a break for sleep. Also pleased is the ability to work from a power outlet. The bass feels powerful – fans of booming tracks will love it. What's important: when the volume is turned up to maximum, but no music is playing, there is no background noise coming from the speaker.
pros
- Excellent sound quality;
- Good build;
- High volume;
- Compactness;
- Battery;
- Stylish design;
- Possibility of connecting a microphone.;
Minuses
- There is no cable included for charging from the cigarette lighter;
- Slight play in the handle;
- Heavy weight;
Comparison with JBL Charge 4
Those familiar with the JBL Charge 4 will likely find many similarities with our current guest - and this is true. Of course, there are differences, but the device is not revolutionary - the JBL brand takes a proven formula and improves it, gradually moving towards its ideal. Here are the main differences from the fourth version:
- Two speakers - one high-frequency, the second low-frequency;
- Higher level of protection against moisture and dust;
- Design features (the charging port is moved out from under the plug, the indicator is in the form of a strip (there were circular ones), a rubberized stand, enlarged side supports, it is easier to press the buttons);
- Removed AUX port;
- Updated technology for combining devices into an audio system;
Moreover, the cost of the speaker has not changed - both 4 and 5 versions cost $180 at the start. But you should understand that these 180 bucks in 2021 in Russia are not the same as in 2022, so at the start of sales Charge 4 cost ~11,000 rubles, and Charge 5 is already selling for ~13,500 rubles.
Waterproof design
JBL Charge 5 is a little surprising with its large dimensions and weight. However, one would hardly expect anything else from such a powerful and portable speaker.
At the same time, the weight of the device seems ideal - it corresponds to the price and high quality of the Charge 5. The same goes for the materials used. The body is wrapped in a fabric that is pleasant to the touch, and the sides are covered with rubber panels. It’s surprising that even the rubber here is of better quality than on similar competitors’ speakers.
There are also several metal elements in the design. For example, the JBL logo with imitation red lighting under the letters in the center. Although the buttons and connectors are made of plastic, they don't feel cheap. When you press the keys you will hear a pleasant click. The charging cable fits tightly into the connector and does not wobble from side to side. There are two USB connectors, but only one is covered with a plug to protect it from water.
JBL has made sure your Charge 5 lasts as long as possible. The speaker has protection against water and dust of the IP67 standard; it can be wet, but it is better not to immerse it in depth.
In general, JBL did a good job on the design. Charge 5 has become one of the company's most beautiful portable speakers. I am pleased not only with the appearance or reliability of the case, but also with the way the device feels in the hands.
