In the world of portable Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Flip series has garnered a significant following due to its exceptional sound quality, durable design, and reliable battery life. Among these, the JBL Flip 3 and Flip 5 stand out as popular choices. If you’re contemplating whether to upgrade from the Flip 3 to the Flip 5, one of your primary considerations might be size. In this in-depth article, we will explore the dimensions of both models, compare their features, and help you understand why size might matter in your purchasing decision.
Understanding the Size Specifications
When discussing whether the Flip 5 is bigger than the Flip 3, it is essential first to dive into the specifications of both products. Here we will provide a direct comparison of the two speakers’ dimensions.
JBL Flip 3 Specifications
The JBL Flip 3 was launched as an upgrade to the original Flip model. Here are the specifications that define its size:
- Dimensions: 6.1 x 2.6 x 2.5 inches (155 x 65 x 64 mm)
- Weight: Approximately 1.0 lb (0.45 kg)
JBL Flip 5 Specifications
The JBL Flip 5 is often regarded as a robust enhancement in sound quality and features compared to its predecessor. Here are its relevant size specifications:
- Dimensions: 7.1 x 2.9 x 3.2 inches (181 x 75 x 81 mm)
- Weight: Approximately 1.2 lb (0.54 kg)
Side-by-Side Size Comparison
From the specifications mentioned above, we can perform a direct comparison of the sizes of the Flip 3 and Flip 5.
Overall Dimensions
When we look at the dimensions:
– The JBL Flip 3 measures 6.1 inches (155 mm) in length, while the JBL Flip 5 is 7.1 inches (181 mm), indicating that the Flip 5 is longer.
– The height of the Flip 3 is 2.6 inches (65 mm), while the Flip 5 stands taller at 2.9 inches (75 mm).
– Similarly, the Flip 5 is wider, having a thickness of 3.2 inches (81 mm) compared to Flip 3’s 2.5 inches (64 mm).
Weight Considerations
In terms of weight, the Flip 5 is slightly heavier at 1.2 lb (0.54 kg) compared to the Flip 3, which weighs 1.0 lb (0.45 kg). This means if you’re looking for a lightweight option, Flip 3 wins, but the difference isn’t substantial enough to discourage portability in the Flip 5.
Why Size Matters in Portable Speakers
Before setting your heart on one model, it’s worth understanding how size influences speaker performance and portability.
Sound Quality and Design
The JBL Flip 5, with its larger size, allows for more internal space, which can lead to an improved acoustic experience. The bigger body can accommodate a larger passive radiator, enabling deeper bass sounds and overall more robust audio performance.
On the other hand, the compact design of the Flip 3 is still impressive for music on the go, but it may lack the same depth that the Flip 5 can uniquely deliver, especially in outdoor environments where sound scattering occurs.
Portability
Being a portable speaker, size and weight play a significant role in its usability. If you often travel or spend time outdoors, a smaller and lighter speaker like the JBL Flip 3 can fit more effortlessly into bags and storage compartments.
Conversely, the JBL Flip 5, while slightly bulkier, still retains the quality of being portable, thanks to its carry-friendly design.
Feature Highlights: What’s New in the Flip 5?
Alongside physical dimensions, the Flip 5 introduces several features that can enhance your overall user experience.
Battery Life
Both models possess robust battery capabilities, but the Flip 5 showcases a noticeable upgrade:
– Flip 3: Features up to 10 hours of playtime.
– Flip 5: Offers up to 12 hours of continuous playback on a single charge.
This enhancement means you can enjoy music longer without the need for frequent recharging.
Waterproofing
One significant advantage of both speakers is their waterproof rating:
– Both the Flip 3 and Flip 5 possess an IPX7 rating. This capability allows them to withstand immersion in water, making them ideal for pool parties or beach outings.
Bluetooth Connectivity
The JBL Flip 5 comes with an upgrade in Bluetooth technology:
– Flip 3: Incorporates Bluetooth version 4.1.
– Flip 5: Adopts Bluetooth version 4.2, providing better connectivity range and improved battery efficiency.
PartyBoost Feature
An exciting addition to the JBL Flip 5 is the PartyBoost feature, allowing you to connect two similar JBL speakers for a more exciting audio experience. This feature is absent in the Flip 3, which can limit the setup if you aim to create a bigger sound system.
Aesthetic Appeal
Beyond the technical aspects, the design and aesthetic appeal of each model might influence your choice.
Color Options
The JBL Flip 3 offers a variety of vibrant colors. However, the JBL Flip 5 enhances this by introducing even more color options, catering to diverse preferences. These options can influence not just your audio setup but also its integration into your lifestyle and environment.
Build Quality and Design
Both speakers are built to meet high durability standards. The outer fabric is designed to be resistant to wear, making it suitable for various environments, whether you’re chilling indoors or going on a rugged outdoor adventure.
Final Thoughts: Which is Right for You?
When deciding between the JBL Flip 3 and Flip 5, several factors come into play:
– If size matters: The Flip 5 is indeed bigger, offering improved sound quality but sacrificing a bit of portability.
– Sound Quality: If superior audio performance is your priority, the Flip 5 should be your choice.
– Cost: With potential upgrades, the Flip 5 generally comes at a higher price tag, so consider your budget when making a decision.
Ultimately, both models serve excellent purposes, but the choice between them comes down to your personal preferences, lifestyle, and how important features like battery life, sound quality, and portability are to you.
In summation, although the Flip 5 is larger and offers advanced features compared to the Flip 3, both speakers possess their own unique advantages. So whether you lean more towards portability or performance, you can find a fitting option in JBL’s Flip series.
What are the dimensions of the JBL Flip 5?
The JBL Flip 5 measures approximately 7.1 x 2.7 x 2.9 inches (180 x 75 x 74 mm). Its design is compact and cylindrical, making it easy to carry around for outdoor activities or travel. The dimensions are designed for portability without sacrificing sound quality.
Additionally, the Flip 5 is lightweight, weighing about 1.2 pounds (0.54 kg), which adds to its usability for on-the-go listening. Thanks to its durable rubber housing, it’s built to withstand bumps and falls, further enhancing its travel-friendly attributes.
What are the dimensions of the JBL Flip 3?
The JBL Flip 3 has dimensions of approximately 6.9 x 2.6 x 2.6 inches (175 x 64 x 65 mm). Its design is fairly similar to that of the Flip 5, but it’s slightly shorter in overall height. This compact design allows for convenient portability, making it an ideal choice for casual use and outdoor adventures.
Like the Flip 5, the Flip 3 is also lightweight, with a weight of around 1.0 pound (0.45 kg). This weight makes it easy to carry in a bag or backpack, ensuring that music lovers can enjoy their favorite tunes wherever they go.
How does the weight of the JBL Flip 5 compare to the Flip 3?
The JBL Flip 5 weighs slightly more than the Flip 3. Specifically, the Flip 5 weighs about 1.2 pounds, while the Flip 3 has a weight of approximately 1.0 pound. This means that the Flip 5 is around 0.2 pounds heavier, which is a minor difference but can be noticeable for users who are sensitive to weight in portable devices.
The extra weight in the Flip 5 is often attributed to its upgraded components and improved sound quality. Many users find that this slight increase in weight is worth it for the enhanced audio performance, especially when compared to the older model.
Is the JBL Flip 5 more powerful in terms of sound output than the Flip 3?
Yes, the JBL Flip 5 generally offers clearer and louder sound output compared to the JBL Flip 3. The Flip 5 comes equipped with a 20W of output power, while the Flip 3 has a 16W output. This difference translates into a noticeable increase in volume and sound clarity, especially at higher volumes.
Moreover, the Flip 5 features an improved driver design that enhances bass response and overall audio quality. Users often appreciate this upgrade, particularly when listening to bass-heavy genres or using the speaker in larger spaces where more power is needed.
Does the JBL Flip 5 have any new features compared to the Flip 3?
Yes, the JBL Flip 5 comes with several new features that enhance its usability compared to the Flip 3. Notably, the Flip 5 has a USB-C charging port, which allows for faster charging and more convenient connectivity, while the Flip 3 uses a micro-USB port. This change is significant for users who appreciate quicker power-ups for their devices.
Additionally, the Flip 5 offers a PartyBoost feature that allows users to connect multiple JBL Connect+ compatible speakers for a more immersive sound experience. This feature is not available in the JBL Flip 3, making the Flip 5 more versatile for social gatherings and larger events.
Which speaker is more durable: the Flip 5 or Flip 3?
The JBL Flip 5 is generally considered to be more durable than the Flip 3. The Flip 5 boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes without suffering damage. This makes it ideal for poolside parties or beach outings where water exposure is likely.
While the Flip 3 is also water-resistant with an IPX7 rating, the overall build quality of the Flip 5 has been enhanced, ensuring it can withstand rougher conditions. Users frequently note that this improvement enhances their outdoor experience, further increasing the appeal of the JBL Flip 5 for adventurous listeners.
Which speaker offers better battery life: the Flip 5 or Flip 3?
The JBL Flip 5 has improved battery life compared to the Flip 3. With a battery capacity of 4800mAh, the Flip 5 offers up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge, depending on volume levels and audio content. This extended battery life allows for longer listening sessions without the need for frequent recharging.
In contrast, the JBL Flip 3 typically offers around 10 hours of playtime with its 3000mAh battery. Although still respectable, the shorter battery life may require more frequent charging for heavy users. Therefore, those seeking longer usage between charges may find the Flip 5 to be the better choice.