This article is an updated comparison of the recently launched JBL Flip 6 vs JBL Flip 5 portable speakers. JBL has finally launched the Flip 6 starting in the EU and the UK around this time in November 2021. The Flip 6 looks almost the same as the Flip 5 but comes with improved IP67 durability and a new 10W tweeter.
We are still awaiting the launch in the rest of the world to update the buy link.
Looks and Colors
JBL Flip 6 has 9 colours at launch, whereas Flip 5 has 11 colours. This may change later when JBL adds more colours, preferably rainbow, floral, fuchsia or neon purple would be nice. It is currently version 6 so we need new colours as the current selection looks stale. Fortunately, there are solid improvements under the skin which we will cover later in this article.
We also like the new large JBL logo compared to the tiny JBL logo on the Flip 5. The reason is simply to show off the speaker’s brand.
| Tech Specs | JBL Flip 5 | JBL Flip 6 (new!) |
| Release Date | August 2019 | Nov 2021 |
| Form Factor | ||
| Size | 180x74x69mm 7.12×2.91×2.71 in | 178 x 72 x 68mm 7.0 x 2.8 x 2.6 in |
| Weight | 540g (1.2lbs) | 550g (1.21 lbs) |
| Earbuds IP Rating | IPX7 | IP67 |
IP Rating Changes
- The IP rating of the Flip 6 will be IP67, which will be better than the Flip 5 IPX7, but the main difference is just the new dust-tight certification. There is no change in the waterproofing specification, which remains at 1m depth for 30mins.
| IP67 | Dust-tight. Complete protection against dust ingress. A vacuum must be applied. Test duration of up to 8 hours based on airflow. (New!) | Protected from water for 30mins. Depending on the size of test sample, the highest point must be >150mm below the water surface, or the lowest point must be >1m. (Same as Flip 5!) |
Read also:
Compare JBL Flip 6 vs JBL Charge 5
Bose Soundlink Flex vs JBL Flip 6 Comparison
Jabra Elite 3 Review
Although JBL only added a “dust-tight” certification, the benefit is quite substantial. The new “dust-tight” answers an important question of whether the speaker can withstand sand, dust and mud. 
JBL Flip 6 in mud waterThis new rating should provide confidence to that question except for “saltwater” (sodium chloride etc) or chlorine, which may cause reactions or erosion. IP ratings only address the level of seal and protection against solid and liquid ingress into the equipment and do not check for chemical or corrosion resistance in the contacted area. The effects of chemicals or corrosion may not be immediate but will happen after some time.
JBL recommended rinsing the speakers after exposing them to sea or swimming pool water (chlorine). This is the same as washing our goggles, pedals, and trunks after a swim.
Read also:
Compare JBL Flip 6 vs JBL Charge 5
Bose Soundlink Flex vs JBL Flip 6 Comparison
Jabra Elite 3 Review
New Tweeter
The JBL Flip 6 introduced a new tweeter next to the updated 45x80mm race-track woofer. The Flip 5 also has a race-track woofer but is slightly smaller at 44x80mm. There are also the same dual passive bass radiators at both ends, similar to Flip 5 and earlier models.
- The new 16mm (0.6″) tweeter produces crisp, clear high frequencies.
- The updated 45 x 80mm (1.75 x 3″) race-track woofer delivers low and mid-range frequencies.
- The dual passive radiators at both ends are for deep bass.
We are expecting an upgrade in the Flip 6 audio driver, which JBL wrote will deliver music with every stunning detail, from bass to mids-to-highs.
Bluetooth 4.2 to 5.1
The key differences between Bluetooth 4.2 and 5.1 are in the range where Bluetooth 5.1 is about 4 times that of Bluetooth 4.2.
- Bluetooth 5.1 transmits at 2 Mbps and has a maximum range of 240m.
- Bluetooth 4.2 transmits at 1 Mbps and has a range that varies between 40 – 60m.
JBL did not state the operating ranges of the JBL Flip 5 and 6, but we will expect an improvement in the operating range for this upgrade from Bluetooth 4.2 to 5.1. The higher transfer speed may also help to reduce the background noise we hear in Flip 5.
Mini-Stand
The external of the Flips 6 looks similar to the Flip 5 except for the “mini-stand” which helps to prevent rolling when the speaker is horizontal on the rounded side. Currently, the Flip 5 does not roll because the string attached stops the speaker from rolling backwards. Anyway, even if it rolls into the swimming pool, the speaker has an IP67 waterproof rating.
JBL Flip 6 at the pool
Final Thoughts
Currently, we currently have bought four JBL Flip 5 and deciding whether to add Flip 6 into the mix since they are linkable using party boost. For those who plan to bring portable speakers outdoor to the beach, camping or mountain biking, the IP67-rated JBL Flip 6 is a superb choice.
Our wishlist for the JBL Flip 7 features will include the power bank (aka. reverse charging) capability and also neon colour options. The Flip 5 and 6 both have 4800 mAh batteries that can be a backup for charging smartphones.
Read also:
Compare JBL Flip 6 vs JBL Charge 5
Bose Soundlink Flex vs JBL Flip 6 Comparison
Jabra Elite 3 Review
Summary of Technical Specifications
| Tech Specs | JBL Flip 5 | JBL Flip 6 (new!) |
| Release Date | 1st August 2019 | November 2021 |
| Form Factor | ||
| Size | 180x74x69mm 7.12 x 2.91 x 2.71in | 178 x 72 x 68mm 7.0 x 2.8 x 2.6 in |
| Weight | 540g (1.2lbs) | 550g (1.21 lbs) |
| Earbuds IP Rating | IPX7 | IP67 |
| Audio (Speaker) | ||
| Driver | – 44x80mm race-track shaped woofer -Dual passive radiators for deep bass | – 45x80mm race-track shaped woofer – Dual passive radiators for deep bass – 16mm Tweeter |
| Frequency Response | 65Hz – 20kHz | 65Hz – 20kHz |
| Connectivity | ||
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 5.1 |
| Range (Unofficially) | 50m | 240m |
| Multiple-Connection | 2 devices concurrently | 2 devices concurrently |
| Power and Battery | ||
| Output Power | 20W RMS for the woofer | 20 W RMS for the woofer 10 W RMS for the tweeter |
| Battery Capacity | Li-Po 4800 mAh (3.6V) 17.28Wh | Li-Po 4800 mAh (3.6V) 17.28Wh |
| Maximum Playing Time | 12h | 12h |
| Charging Port | USB-C | USB-C |
| Others | ||
| Special Features | Party Boost | PartyBoost New logo design |
Buy JBL Flip 5
Download: JBL Flip 6 Quick Start Manual
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