JBL Clip 5 Bluetooth Speaker Review

The JBL Clip 5 is an ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker designed for those who love to take their music wherever they go. Combining durability with impressive sound quality, Clips 5 has some good updates over its previous model, including longer battery life, bigger and better driver, AuraCast connectivity, and better frequency response.

It is available in 9 different colors. It has 12 hours of playtime and 3 more hours with play boost, for a total of 15 hours. Its IP67 rating ensures it is waterproof and dustproof, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The speaker also features a built-in carabiner is very handy, so you can clip it to almost anything.

Featuring 50mm full range driver Clip 5 deliver crystal clear audio, with deep bass, JBL signature sound. Additionally, it also offers custom EQ through JBL Portable app. Additionally it features Bluetooth 5.3 with AVRCP 1.6 profiles for high-quality audio streaming.

In this price range there are other multiple options like JBL Flip 5, Tribit StormBox 2, both offers pretty long playtime, and powerful sound.

JBL Clip 5: Design

The JBL Clip 5 is designed with portability, durability, and functionality in mind; most of its components are made from recycled plastic and fabrics, showing JBL’s dedication to being environment friendly. The JBL Clip 5 design is almost similar to its previous model, Clip 4. The speaker dimensions are 3.4 x 5.3 x 1.8 inches and weighs 0.28 lb. Its standout feature is the redesigned, fully integrated carabiner, which allows you to clip the speaker to backpacks, belts, or even tents with ease. The device is available in 9 different colors, including camo.

The outer grille shell of Clip 5 is made of a fabric cover over a honeycomb-shaped hard plastic skeleton, providing robust protection and durability. The IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, and we confirm this rating by fully submerging the speaker in water and checking its functionality afterward. This rating makes the JBL Clip 5 ideal for various environments, from poolside parties to beach picnics, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions while delivering exceptional sound quality.

JBL Clip 5: Control

The JBL Clip 5 has 6 physical buttons strategically placed for easy access and convenience, divided between the front fiber grille and the left side of the speaker. On the front, there is volume down, play/pause, and volume up buttons. And the second row has power, Bluetooth, and Auracast feature buttons. In our test, each control button was tested for responsiveness and ease of use, ensuring the speaker’s interface was user-friendly and functional.

In addition to its physical controls, the JBL Clip 5 can also be controlled through the JBL Portable app. This app provides users with advanced options to customize their listening experience, including preset and custom EQ settings that allow for personalized audio profiles. The app also features a Playtime Boost on/off button, enabling users to extend battery life when needed. Additionally, the multi-speaker pairing option facilitates seamless connection with other JBL speakers for a stereo sound experience.

JBL Clip 5: Sound Quality

Despite its small size, the JBL Clip 5 delivers 7 watts of powerful sound with punchy bass through its high-performance 50 mm driver with 4-ohm impedance and passive radiator. The driver in clip 5 is slightly bigger and more powerful than in clip 4 and delivers more  powerful sound with deep bass, clear midrange, and crisp highs, ensuring a rich and balanced sound we love this upgrade.

Clip 5 driver has 95Hz to 20000 Hz frequency range, with this wide frequency rang speaker produce clear crisp sound. Clip 5 handles a wide range of music genres well, from pop and rock to classical and jazz. The sound is clear and loud enough for outdoor use.

JBL Clip 5: Battery

With a battery of 3.8 watts and 1400mAh capacity, the JBL clip 5 offers 5 more hours of playtime then its older version Clip 4. JBL claims 12 hours of playtime on a single charge, with an additional 3 hours available through Playtime Boost, making it ideal for all day or night use. But, this time vary depending on your audio volume, and overall usage.

This outperforms the older version JBL Clip 4, which offered 10 hours of playtime. Although Playtime Boost is useful, especially for travel or outdoor adventures, but it significantly reduces bass and sound quality.

In our Playtime test, the speaker lasted 11 hours and 16 minutes with mix tracks, and it took 2 hours and 35 minutes to go from 0% to 100%.

If you’re looking for an alternative in the same price range that offers longer playtime, faster recharging, and a bass-leaning sound profile, consider the Tribit StormBox 2. It offers an impressive 24 hours of playtime and an IPX7 waterproof rating, ensuring it can withstand accidental drops into the pool. Additionally, its sleek design makes it easy to slip into your backpack.

JBL Clip 5: Connectivity

The JBL Clip 5 features Bluetooth 5.3, which ensures a stable connection over a long distance. Additionally, it uses the A2DP 1.4 and AVRCP 1.6 Bluetooth profiles for high-quality audio streaming. You can also pair it with another Auracast speaker for true stereo sound, enhancing your listening experience. However, Clip 5 lacks a 3.5 mm connection and only supports wireless Bluetooth connections. If you are looking for a speaker for more versatile usage with a 3.5mm connection, Tribit StormBox 2 is worth considering offering a 3.5mm Aux connection.

Final verdict

The JBL Clip 5 is an outstanding portable speaker priced under $80. In addition to its highly portability, it offers advanced features such as an IP67 dust and waterproof rating, Auracast (exclusive to JBL speakers), and delivers powerful, crystal-clear sound with its 7-watt output.

Why Choose the JBL Clip 5?

• Portability: The integrated carabiner and compact size make it extremely portable.
• Durability: With an IP67 rating, it can withstand dust and water exposure.
• Sound Quality: Delivers impressive sound for its size, with strong bass and clarity.
• Battery Life: Offers a respectable 12 hours of playtime with an 3 hours extra boost option.

The other best alternative for clip 5 is the Tribit StormBox 2. Offers an AUX input, 34 watt of powerful sound, along 24 hours of playtime, and with IPX7 waterproof ratings.

But if you are willing to invest more in your sound gear, then consider JBL Flip 6, with 12 hours of playtime, IPX7 waterproof rating, and 20 watt of powerful deep bass sound.

Overall, the Clip 5 remains an excellent portable speaker, a well-rounded package that balances performance, portability, and durability. Perfect for those who want a device they can effortlessly clip onto their belongings and enjoy high-quality sound throughout the day.