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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 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.
The JBL Charge 5 is a robust outdoor speaker that excels in several areas. Its sound quality stands out with JBL's original pro sound technology, featuring a powerful driver, separate tweeter, and dual bass radiators. This setup delivers rich and clear audio, making it suitable for outdoor environments. The speaker boasts an impressive 20-hour battery life, allowing for extended use without frequent recharging, which is a significant advantage for outdoor gatherings. Additionally, the built-in power bank function means you can charge other devices, adding more convenience to its use.
Connectivity is straightforward with wireless Bluetooth streaming, capable of linking up to two smartphones or tablets. The PartyBoost feature is a plus for those who want to connect multiple JBL speakers for a larger sound experience. The IPX7 waterproof rating ensures that the speaker is protected from water splashes and submersion, making it ideal for pool parties and beach outings. It also has a durable and dustproof design, enhancing its suitability for various outdoor settings.
On the downside, the JBL Charge 5 might be a bit bulky for some users when considering portability. Additionally, it lacks some advanced smart features integrated with Alexa, which could be a limitation for users specifically looking for Alexa compatibility in their outdoor speaker. Despite these minor drawbacks, the JBL Charge 5 is a solid choice for anyone needing a durable, high-quality sound solution for outdoor activities.