JBL Flip 4 Review

The JBL Flip 4 is perfect for those that want something rugged and waterproof that can still produce a good amount of volume. Plus it does so in a reasonably small, lightweight package.

Performance Comparison

The JBL FLip 4's well-rounded performance earned it a relatively high overall score once all of our testing was through. Below we discuss its specific performances in all of the different tests we conducted.

Sound Quality

The Flip 4 stayed towards the top of our sound quality leaderboard. The bass very powerful given the speaker's size, but also sound quite crisp and doesn't produce muddled undertones. The treble is also fairly crisp, and the combination of the two creates a full, pleasant sound. The Bos SoundLink Color II does have slightly punchier bass and a slightly better overall sound, but the difference is not huge. Compared to the ultra portable UE Roll 2 the Flip 4 sound much more robust and fuller bodied. Bottom line, we think all but the most discerning audiophiles will be plenty happy with how this speaker sounds.

Portability

The Flip 4 earned a 7 out of 10 in our portability testing, putting it ahead of all but the super compact (and thus less powerful) models. Its cylindrical shape is fairly friendly when it comes to packing, and the IPX7 waterproof rating means this speaker can survive full submersion in water, or your secret T Swift karaoke session in the shower (don't worry, we won't tell anyone). At 19 ounces the weight is noticeable, but certainly not cumbersome.

If you want something loud with good bass this is about the most portable model you'll find. Models like the UE Roll 2 and the UE Wonderboom are smaller and lighter, but produce much thinner sound. The Slightly more melodious Bose SoundLink Color II weighs about the same, but is only water resistance as opposed to waterproof.

Volume

The JBL Flip 4 is incredibly loud, regardless of but especially considering its size. The only models that were louder were the Harmon Kardon Onyx Studio 4 and the JBL Charge 3, both of which are much larger and heavier. The Flip 4 was able to blast music through an apartment full of people in our volume testing, and will be plenty loud enough for any days at the beach or lake.

Battery Life

Posting a respectable 15 hours in our battery life test, the JBL Flip 4 provides plenty of battery for a full day of listening. However, it can't match the incredible performance of the few top models that broke the 24-hour mark.

Value

With a list price of $100, the JBL Flip 4 provides exceptional sound quality and portability for the price. If you don't mind spending a little more for better sound quality the Bose SoundLink ColorII may be a better value, but you do downgrade from waterproof to water resistant.

Concclusion