Introduction

The JBL Charge 5 (JBLCHARGE5BLU) is the latest in JBL’s line of portable Bluetooth speakers, promising powerful sound, long battery life, and rugged durability. I’ve spent the last few weeks putting this speaker through its paces, subjecting it to everything from backyard BBQs to rainy hikes, to determine whether it lives up to the hype. This in-depth review will cover all aspects of the speaker, from its features and performance to its overall value.

Features

The Charge 5 boasts a compelling feature set. Its standout feature is undoubtedly the JBL Pro Sound, which delivers surprisingly rich and full audio for its size. The inclusion of a separate tweeter and dual bass radiators significantly improves the clarity and depth of the sound. The 20-hour battery life is also impressive, allowing for extended listening sessions without needing to recharge. Other key features include:

• IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating – perfect for outdoor adventures.
• Integrated powerbank – charges your devices on the go.
• PartyBoost – allows you to link multiple compatible JBL speakers for a truly immersive sound experience.
• Bluetooth 5.1 for seamless connectivity.

Performance

The audio quality of the JBL Charge 5 exceeded my expectations. The bass is surprisingly deep and resonant, without being overpowering. The mids and highs are clear and well-balanced, resulting in a pleasant listening experience across a variety of genres. I tested it with everything from acoustic folk to heavy metal, and it handled each with grace. Even at higher volumes, the sound remained relatively distortion-free. The 20-hour battery claim is accurate; I easily got over 18 hours of continuous playback at moderate volume levels. The waterproof and dustproof rating also proved to be incredibly useful; it survived several accidental splashes without issue.

Connectivity was also very reliable. I experienced no dropouts or interruptions during my testing. The PartyBoost feature worked flawlessly, seamlessly connecting to another Charge 5 speaker for a stereo or expanded sound experience.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality for its size.
• Long battery life (20 hours).
• IP67 waterproof and dustproof.
• Built-in powerbank.
• Reliable Bluetooth connectivity.
• PartyBoost functionality.

Cons:

• Can be a bit pricey compared to some competitors.
• No aux input (relies solely on Bluetooth).
• Charging takes a relatively long time.

Final Verdict

The JBL Charge 5 (JBLCHARGE5BLU) is an excellent portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers on its promises of powerful sound, long battery life, and rugged durability. While it’s a bit on the expensive side, the superior audio quality, impressive battery life, and convenient features justify the cost for those who prioritize these aspects. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and high-performing portable speaker that can handle anything you throw at it (literally!), the JBL Charge 5 is a strong contender.