The JBL Charge 5 is the latest iteration in JBL’s popular line of portable Bluetooth speakers. Promising powerful sound, long battery life, and rugged durability, it’s marketed as the perfect companion for adventures and parties alike. After weeks of rigorous testing, both indoors and outdoors, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review of the JBL Charge 5 (Model Number: 6.92528E+12, JBLCHARGE5SQUAD) in Squad color.

The Charge 5 boasts a compelling array of features. Beyond its impressive sound profile (which we’ll delve into later), it includes a built-in 7500mAh powerbank, making it a convenient charging solution for your phone or other devices. Its IP67 rating ensures it’s waterproof and dustproof, ready to withstand spills, splashes, and even a little bit of dirt. Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity ensures a stable and efficient connection with your devices, and the PartyBoost feature allows you to link multiple compatible JBL speakers for a truly immersive audio experience.

The JBL Charge 5 delivers on its promise of powerful sound. The optimized driver and dual bass radiators produce a surprisingly rich and full sound, exceeding expectations for a speaker of its size. Bass is deep and punchy, without being overpowering, and the highs are clear and crisp. Even at higher volumes, the sound remains relatively distortion-free. I tested the speaker in various environments, from a quiet living room to a noisy backyard party, and it consistently performed well. The 20-hour battery life also proved accurate in my testing, easily lasting through a full day of use. The built-in power bank was a welcome addition, conveniently charging my phone several times during extended outdoor use.

Pros:

• Powerful and balanced sound.
• Exceptional battery life (20 hours).
• IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating.
• Integrated 7500mAh power bank.
• PartyBoost functionality for linking multiple speakers.
• Solid build quality.

Cons:

• Charging via Micro-USB is outdated; USB-C would be preferred.
• Slightly bulky and heavy compared to some competitors.
• Price point is relatively high.

Overall, the JBL Charge 5 is a fantastic portable Bluetooth speaker. Its powerful sound, long battery life, and rugged durability make it a top contender in its class. While the Micro-USB charging and higher price point are minor drawbacks, the exceptional audio quality and convenient features outweigh these concerns. I wholeheartedly recommend the JBL Charge 5 to anyone looking for a versatile and high-performing portable speaker for both indoor and outdoor use.