JBL Flip 6 vs Flip 5: which Bluetooth speaker is better?

The JBL Flip 6 and Flip 5 speakers in red with a 'versus' sign between them. The background is split diagonally: the left side is white, the right side grey.

JBL Flip 5

Bluetooth: 4.2
Features: IPX7 rating, PartyBoost speaker pairing, 12-hour battery life
Dimensions (hwd): 7.4 x 18.1 x 6.9cm
Weight: 540g

The Flip 5 might not be around for too much longer, so you should consider nabbing one while you can. While it's getting long in the tooth, the five-star portable remains a fond favourite due to its superb sound and portable, hardwearing build. With prices dropping and stocks running low, it's still one of the best-value speakers around. 

For

• Solid bass and timing
• Great sense of acoustics
• PartyBoost stereo pairing

Against

• No aux-in or microphone
• Not Connect+ compatible
• Basic app

JBL Flip 6

Bluetooth: 5.1
Features: IP67 rating, PartyBoost speaker pairing, 20-hour battery life
Dimensions: 17.8 x 6.8 x 7.2cm
Weight: 550g

Unlike The Matrix: Revolutions or Jaws 2, the follow-up to the Flip 5 is a worthwhile sequel that manages to build on its predecessor's legacy without losing what made the line so special in the first place. With improved sound, better features and a slightly sleeker design, it earns its five-star plaudits and the right to carry on the JBL Flip name. 

For

• Improved clarity and sonic precision
• Punchy bass for size
• Useful equaliser feature

Against

• More critical of recording and source quality
• Tough competition from Award-winning JBL Charge 5