JBL Charge 5 vs Bose Soundlink Flex – Which Should You Buy?
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JBL Charge 5 and Bose SoundLink Flex are durable Bluetooth speaker with excellent sound but they have some key difference. The Charge 5 is the more advanced with a longer battery life and extra features like a built-in powerbank. The SoundLink Flex stands out with its compact design, crisp audio tuning. This article will compare design, audio power, battery, durability, and more so you can confidently decide which speaker is best for your needs.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
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Sound Output:
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Tweeter Configuration:
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Party Mode Compatibility:
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Battery Life:
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Bluetooth:
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Charging:
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Sound Customization:
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Durability:
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Design:
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature | JBL Charge 5 | Bose SoundLink Flex |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8.7 x 3.8 x 3.7 inches | 7.9 x 2.1 x 3.6 inches |
| Weight | 2.11 lbs | 1.3 lbs |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| Charging Port | USB-C (speaker) + USB-A out (powerbank) | USB-C (charging only) |
| Built-in Powerbank | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 4.2 |
| Speaker Driver | 52 x 90 mm woofer + 20 mm tweeter | Custom transducer |
| Separate Tweeter | Yes | No |
| Audio Output Power | 30W RMS | Not officially disclosed |
| Waterproof & Dustproof | IP67 (waterproof and dustproof) | IP67 (waterproof and dustproof) |
| Microphone for Calls | No | Yes |
| App Support | JBL Portable | Bose Connect |
| Stereo Pairing | JBL PartyBoost | Bose SimpleSync |
| Colors Available | 9+ colors | 4 colors |
Who Should Buy What?Buy the JBL Charge 5 if you:
Buy the Bose SoundLink Flex if you:
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Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Processor | JBL Charge 5 |
| Built-in Powerbank | JBL Charge 5 |
| Louder Sound Output | JBL Charge 5 |
| Separate Tweeter | JBL Charge 5 |
| Bluetooth | JBL Charge 5 |
| JBL PartyBoost Support | JBL Charge 5 |
| More Color Options | JBL Charge 5 |
| Durability | JBL Charge 5 |
| Larger Driver Size | JBL Charge 5 |
| Battery Life | JBL Charge 5 |
| Higher Audio Output | JBL Charge 5 |
| Deeper Bass Response | JBL Charge 5 |
What They Have in Common
- Portable Design: Both speakers feature a compact, lightweight build, making them easy to carry for outdoor activities and travel.
- Water Resistance: Each model is rated for water resistance, allowing them to withstand splashes or rain without damage.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both use Bluetooth for wireless streaming, ensuring quick pairing and stable connections with smartphones and tablets.
- Strong Battery Life: Each speaker offers long-lasting battery performance, providing hours of uninterrupted music playback.
- Durable Construction: Both are designed with rugged materials that can handle drops, bumps, and daily wear, making them reliable for outdoor use.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Is the JBL Charge 5 louder than the Bose SoundLink Flex?
Yes, the JBL Charge 5 is louder due to its 30W RMS output and larger drivers, making it more suitable for outdoor use or bigger spaces compared to the more compact and moderately powered Bose SoundLink Flex.
Does the JBL Charge 5 have a microphone for calls?
No, the JBL Charge 5 does not include a built-in microphone, so it cannot be used for speakerphone calls or voice assistant interactions.
Can the Bose SoundLink Flex be used for phone calls?
Yes, the Bose SoundLink Flex includes a built-in microphone that supports hands-free calling and basic voice assistant access.
Which speaker is more waterproof?
Both the JBL Charge 5 and Bose SoundLink Flex are rated IP67, meaning they are equally waterproof and dustproof for protection against water immersion and outdoor elements.
Can I pair the JBL Charge 5 with other JBL speakers?
Yes, the JBL Charge 5 supports PartyBoost, which allows you to wirelessly pair it with other compatible JBL PartyBoost speakers for stereo or synchronized playback.
Does the Bose SoundLink Flex support stereo pairing?
Yes, the Bose SoundLink Flex supports stereo pairing with another SoundLink Flex, but its SimpleSync feature is more limited compared to JBL’s PartyBoost system.
Which speaker has better battery life?
The JBL Charge 5 has better battery life, offering up to 20 hours of playback, while the Bose SoundLink Flex provides up to 12 hours on a single charge.
Can the JBL Charge 5 charge other devices?
Yes, the JBL Charge 5 has a USB-A output port that works as a powerbank, letting you charge phones and other devices while playing music.
Is the Bose SoundLink Flex more portable?
Yes, the Bose SoundLink Flex is more portable due to its lighter 1.3 lb weight, slim profile, and built-in utility loop for easy attachment to bags or hooks.
Which speaker has better sound quality overall?
The JBL Charge 5 delivers louder and bass-heavier sound with better stereo separation, while the Bose SoundLink Flex provides more balanced and clear audio at lower volumes, making it better for casual listening in smaller spaces.