Flip Essential 2 Portable Waterproof Speaker (JBLFLIPES2) Review
Introduction
The JBL Flip Essential 2 (JBLFLIPES2) promises bold portable sound in a compact, waterproof package. I’ve spent the last few weeks putting this little speaker through its paces, subjecting it to everything from poolside parties to impromptu kitchen dance-offs. This review delves into its performance, features, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right portable speaker for you.
Features
The Flip Essential 2 boasts a range of features designed for convenience and durability. The IPX7 waterproof rating means you can confidently take it to the beach, pool, or even submerge it briefly (though I wouldn’t recommend it!). Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity ensures a stable and seamless connection to your devices, and the battery life is impressive. I consistently got around 9 hours of playtime at moderate volume, exceeding the advertised 10 hours under ideal conditions. The compact size and included strap make it incredibly portable, easy to sling on a backpack or carry around the house.
JBL has also prioritized sustainability. The use of recycled materials in both the speaker and its packaging is a welcome addition, aligning with environmentally conscious consumer choices.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Weight | 870 g |
| Product Length | 21.5 cm |
| Product Height | 24.5 cm |
| Product Width/Depth | 23.5 cm |
| Model Number | JBLFLIPES2 |
| Model Name | JBLFLIPES2 |
Performance
Sound quality is surprisingly robust for such a small speaker. The bass response is decent, although it doesn’t quite match larger, more expensive models. Mid-range and treble are clear and well-balanced, making it suitable for a variety of music genres. At higher volumes, some distortion is noticeable, but it’s not overly distracting. The speaker’s sound projection is impressive for its size, filling a moderately sized room with ease. Pairing it with my phone was quick and painless, with no connection dropouts during my testing period.
I did notice a slight reduction in audio quality when the battery got low, but it was minimal and didn’t significantly affect the listening experience.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Compact and portable, IPX7 waterproof, decent sound quality, long battery life, eco-friendly design, easy Bluetooth pairing.
- Cons: Slight distortion at higher volumes, bass could be improved, battery life slightly less than advertised.
Final Verdict
The JBL Flip Essential 2 (JBLFLIPES2) offers an excellent balance of portability, durability, and sound quality. Its waterproof design and long battery life make it ideal for outdoor adventures and poolside gatherings. While some minor compromises have been made in bass response and high-volume clarity, the overall listening experience is enjoyable and the eco-conscious features are a significant plus. For its price point, the JBL Flip Essential 2 is a highly recommended portable Bluetooth speaker.
