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The JBL Flip 5 is a solid choice if you want a portable outdoor speaker that can handle some rough conditions. It has an IPX7 waterproof rating, which means it can survive being submerged in water, making it great for poolside use or rainy weather. You get up to 12 hours of battery life, which is enough to last through a good part of your day or evening activities without needing a recharge. Sound quality is one of JBL's strong points, and the Flip 5 delivers clear, balanced stereo sound with decent volume for its size, though it might not fill very large outdoor spaces completely.
Connectivity is simple and reliable using Bluetooth, with a range of about 10 meters (roughly 30 feet), so you can easily stream music from your phone or tablet without cables. Portability is excellent since it’s lightweight (about 1.2 pounds) and compact, fitting easily in a backpack or large pocket. The design feels sturdy, made of durable plastic, so it should handle the bumps and drops that often happen outdoors.
The Flip 5 doesn’t have a built-in microphone for Alexa voice commands, so you'll need to use your phone to control Alexa or music playback. It can only pair with other Flip 5 speakers via JBL’s PartyBoost feature, which is handy if you want more volume or surround sound but limits compatibility with older JBL models. If you want a reliable, waterproof speaker with good battery life and solid sound for casual outdoor listening, the Flip 5 is a practical and user-friendly option.
The JBL Flip 6 is a portable Bluetooth speaker designed for outdoor use, offering a variety of features that cater to Alexa compatibility and general outdoor activities. One of its standout qualities is its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, which ensures it can handle exposure to water and dust, making it a reliable companion for poolside, park, gym, camping trips, and other outdoor activities.
Additionally, it boasts up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is convenient for long outings without frequent recharging. The speaker’s sound quality is commendable, with a 2-way speaker system delivering loud, clear, and powerful audio, enhanced by dual passive radiators for deep bass. The design is both bold and practical, allowing the speaker to be positioned vertically or horizontally and available in various vibrant colors.
Connectivity is straightforward with Bluetooth technology, and it includes JBL PartyBoost for pairing multiple speakers to amplify the sound, which is great for social events. Portability is another strength, as the speaker is lightweight at 1.21 pounds and compact in size, making it easy to carry around. However, while the speaker excels in many areas, it does not include an MP3 player and has a somewhat limited Bluetooth range of 10 meters. Also, the charging time of 2.5 hours may be a bit lengthy for some users. The JBL Flip 6 is a robust, versatile, and high-performing outdoor speaker suitable for a wide range of activities, with minor shortcomings in connectivity range and charging time.
The Sonos Move 2 is a versatile outdoor speaker designed for those who value both sound quality and portability. Featuring an advanced acoustic architecture with dual tweeters, it delivers a high-fidelity stereo sound with deep, dynamic bass, making it ideal for music enthusiasts looking for a rich audio experience outdoors. Thanks to its automatic Trueplay tuning, the speaker continually optimizes sound for its surroundings, ensuring top-notch performance no matter where you are.
With a robust 24-hour battery life, it allows for extended playtime, which is a significant improvement over its predecessor. The speaker is built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, boasting an IP56 rating for water and dust resistance, alongside shock-absorbent materials to protect against drops. This makes it a solid choice for outdoor activities, from beach outings to backyard parties.
Connectivity options are plentiful, with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, and Airplay support, ensuring seamless integration with various devices. It also includes a built-in handle and a wireless charging base, enhancing its portability and ease of use. However, the speaker's weight, at 6.61 pounds, may be a bit cumbersome for some users looking for a lighter option. Additionally, while it supports a broad range of connectivity, the 10-meter Bluetooth range might be limiting in larger outdoor spaces. The Sonos Move 2 is a reliable outdoor speaker that excels in sound quality, durability, and battery life, but its weight and Bluetooth range are points to consider based on individual needs.