Perhaps you’re looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker.
I see where you are coming from. JBL is synonymous with Bluetooth speakers.
But I can tell you’re a little puzzled and can’t decide between Clip 4 and Flip 5.
I understand they are both excellent speakers, and choosing between them is difficult.
That is why, in today’s article, I will compare and contrast both speakers to help you choose between them.
Introducing the Speakers
Before I break down them, let’s check a bit their background.
JBL Clip 4
The Clip 4 is another portable Bluetooth speaker that comes from the Clip series, a line-up that is made solely for providing great sound quality in a really portable form factor.
It’s so little and light that you can just grab it and go. You may clip it to your backpack or almost anywhere else. I see what you did with the Clip name, JBL.
It is really nicely crafted while also having an excellent IP rating.
Given its compact form factor, it sounds impressive.
JBL Flip 5
The JBL Flip 5 is part of the company’s more well-known Flip lineup, which is essentially their icon.
The Flip 5 is the fifth speaker in the Flip series by JBL. It falls somewhere in the middle of JBL’s portable speaker series.
It is lightweight and really nicely constructed. It will not be damaged by being beaten; just don’t take it too far, It still remains a piece of technology.
When it comes to sound quality, it’s just JBL tier. JBL never fails to deliver in this regard.
Design, Which One Can Withstand The Most Punishment?
Colors
Prior to purchasing the speakers, you have a variety of color options; JBL is known for giving its customers the freedom to pick the color that will suit them the most.
The JBL Flip 5 comes in 11 different color variations, while the Clip 4 comes in a total of 14. Both series cover the same colors in terms of color, so it comes down to personal preference.
What matters is that they sure look stylish in all colors.
Winner: Tie
When it comes to colors both speakers give you space on picking your desired color.
Portability
Both speakers are quite portable. After all, that’s why they are created in the first place.
However, Clip 4 puts a little more emphasis on this.
It measures 3.4 x 5.3 x 1.8 inches and weighs 0.53 pounds. Remarkably portable.
On the other hand, the JBL Flip 5 has a cylindrical shape that can easily be transported but not as easily as the Clip. It weighs 1.2 pounds and measures 7.12 x 2.91 x 2.71 inches.
Winner: Clip 4
More compact and portable.
Build Quality
When it comes to build quality, things change a bit.
The Clip 4 is well-protected from the elements, although the grill covers almost the whole front of the speaker.
There are small rubber rips behind the speaker that help to shield the speaker from excessive vibrations. This bad boy has a lot of power.
That being said, it is quite well built. However, the Flip 5 has a superior build quality.
It’s entirely composed of plastic, but wait for a second, it’s pretty good plastic with a robust and solid feel to it.
They are made of high-quality cloth that will not rip and will last a long time.
Winner: Flip 5
It is more robust.
Waterproof
You can relax and enjoy your pool party or beach party without worrying about your speakers getting splashed. Both the JBL Clip 4 and the JBL Flip 5 are waterproof.
The JBL Clip 4 is entirely waterproof and dust resistant, with an IP67 rating.
However, JBL is the better swimmer, with an IPX7 rating.
You can immerse it underwater for 30 minutes and then pull it out as if nothing happened. It will continue to sound as good as it did.
Winner: Flip 5
Higher IP rating.
Sound Quality, Which One Is The Better Performer?
Since we are done with the design part, let’s see connectivity and performance.
Sound Quality
I won’t lie: the Clip 4’s sound quality truly amazes me given its tiny size.
It generates JBL’s signature bass while providing a rich overall sound. The volume range is extensive and will accommodate most needs. Its top volumes are enough to fill a casual outdoor gathering with sound.
Flip 5 has superb sound balance across all ranges and genres. It certainly highlights the company’s trademark crisp highs and powerful bass.
The songs are presented in a pleasant stereo image with no loss of clarity.
Plain and simple. Both of them sound great.
Winner: Tie
Although JBL 5 is louder, I have to give them a tie since both speakers sound good on their own.
Bluetooth
The Clip 4 has an advantage when it comes to Bluetooth connectivity.
The Clip 4 uses Bluetooth 5.1, which is substantially quicker than the older 4.2 used by the Flip 5. It isn’t over here, though.
Flip 5 compensates for its old Bluetooth connectivity by allowing two speakers to be connected, which Clip 4 is not capable off
Nevertheless, both offer Bluetooth connectivity, which avoids the need for cables.
Winner: Clip 4
The 5.1 Bluetooth version stomps the 4.2 one.
Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, both devices may last a long period.
Just keep in mind that battery life is highly dependent on other things like volume level; higher volumes drain the battery faster.
The Flip 5 has a 12-hour battery life, while the JBL Clip 4 has a 10-hour battery life due to its compact size.
Winner: Flip 5
Bigger size, better battery life.
Final Words, Conclusion.
I’m having trouble announcing the winner. As you can see, both speakers are competing for back-to-back.
I’ll declare it a tie and you should purchase them according to your needs.
What I mean is that if you are someone who travels a lot, go for Clip 4. Due to its simplicity, you can just clip it on your backpack and enjoy your travels.
Flip 5 is the way to go if you prefer to stream music at small parties or social gatherings.
In the end, what matters is that they both come from a renowned company with a track record of success.
When it comes to JBL products, you just cannot go wrong.
Further Reading
Given that these two portable speakers are excellent, it is now time to investigate various speaker types, such as coaxial speakers, to see what they have to offer. After that, we should investigate wall mount speakers to learn how to mount them on the wall because some people may not be aware of this.
You can discover the greatest speakers here if you enjoy working out and want some that are appropriate for the gym. If you want to listen to music loudly, there are also speakers with the highest volume levels available, allowing you to get the most enjoyment out of the music.
Audio Engineer
You’ll never find anyone more passionate about audio as me. I love to share my knowledge with others and help people find the right equipment for them.
