Best wireless JBL speakers

So you want a new wireless speaker, and you’ve seen that JBL has the category on lock. Which wireless JBL speaker should you get? Well, we can help you figure that one out.

JBL is one of the old guards of speaker tech—the company’s been around for decades. Now the undisputed kings of Bluetooth speakers for the mass market, wireless JBL speakers have made their name on a consistent level of quality with waterproofing, solid features, and reliable performance. Since they’ve been a part of Samsung, a lot more R&D money has seemingly made its way to JBL’s speaker division, and they’ve started to release improved drivers and configurations for pairing their speakers with modern smartphones.

Editor’s note: this list of the best wireless JBL speakers was updated on June 27, 2024, to add new top picks.

Why is the JBL Charge 5 the best JBL speaker for most?

First and foremost, the JBL Charge 5 is probably the best speaker for the best price in the whole line of wireless JBL speakers. While there are a few tradeoffs, it offers good sound quality, excellent battery life, and a slew of features that make life a lot more pleasant. Its IP67 dust—and water-resistant build, USB-C charging, and the ability to use the speaker’s battery to charge your phone makes this a formidable speaker.

It’s not all perfect, though, as the Charge 5 lacks a microphone and high-quality Bluetooth codec support. You also lose out on the option of a wired input, which is really the best way to improve audio quality. Still, its 20-hour battery life is sure to keep the party going, and Bluetooth 5.1 will maintain a strong connection between your phone and the speaker. For less than $200, this is one of the best Bluetooth speakers available.

Keep the party going with the JBL PartyBox 320

The JBL PartyBox 320 takes the party to new heights. This powerhouse speaker delivers a room-filling 240W output through its dual 6.5-inch woofers and 25mm dome tweeters, making it ideal for large gatherings.

With an IPX4 water-resistance rating, the Stage 320 is ready for poolside or beach parties. It offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint support, aux-in, and dual 1/4-inch inputs for microphones or instruments. Plus, the improved telescoping handle and wider wheels make it easier to transport.

The PartyBox Stage 320 boasts an upgraded light show with conjoined light rings, controllable via the intuitive top panel or the JBL PartyBox app. The app also allows for customization of the 5-band EQ and various sound presets. New features include a three-band EQ and reverb controls directly on the speaker, perfect for impromptu karaoke sessions. Battery life remains impressive at up to 18 hours, but the Stage 320 introduces swappable battery packs, allowing for extended playtime with a spare battery. You can also pair it with another compatible JBL speaker for an even more immersive sound experience.

At $599.95, the PartyBox Stage 320 is a premium investment, but its robust build, powerful sound, and versatile features make it the ultimate choice for those who take their parties seriously. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a full-blown house party, this speaker is ready to keep the music pumping and the crowd moving.

The JBL Flip 6 is extremely versatile

The Flip 6 has the same IP67 rating as the Charge 5 and works with JBL PartyBoost to connect up to 100 PartyBoost speakers for extra-loud output. Oddly, only two JBL speakers of the same generation work with stereo mode; the Flip 6 and Flip 5 will not work together for stereo sound. You get an improved IP67 build, compared to the Flip 5’s IPX7 build, and Bluetooth 5.0 this time around.

The JBL Flip 6 uses USB-C charging just as before and has even better battery life. You also get an upgraded driver system that reproduces louder bass and should sound good for most scenarios. Unfortunately, the JBL Flip 6 lacks a microphone but it retains the beloved passive bass radiators and woven speaker cover. While you don’t get any high-quality Bluetooth codecs to stream over, you do get Bluetooth multipoint, so the speaker can connect to two sources at once. There’s no headphone jack, which seems to be the norm for portable speakers these days.

It comes in five colors: grey stone, river teal, ocean blue, midnight black, or squad (camo), and costs $129. If you can forgive its foibles, the Flip 6 will serve you well.

The JBL Clip 5 is the best portable JBL speaker

The JBL Clip 5 continues the tradition of being the most compact and portable speaker in JBL’s lineup. While it won’t compete with larger models like the Xtreme or Charge series, it’s the perfect companion for those who prioritize portability and durability in their audio gear.

Improving upon its predecessor, the Clip 5 now boasts a more powerful 7W output, providing a noticeable boost in volume and clarity. The speaker retains its signature built-in carabiner, now wider for more versatile attachment options, making it ideal for hikers, campers, or anyone on the go.

New to the Clip series is support for the JBL Portable app, offering preset EQ options and a customizable 5-band EQ for fine-tuning your sound. The app also enables pairing with a second Clip 5 for stereo playback or connecting to other compatible JBL speakers via Auracast for an expanded listening experience. With an improved IP67 rating, the Clip 5 is now both waterproof and dustproof, ready to withstand outdoor adventures. Battery life has been extended to 12 hours, ensuring your tunes last throughout the day. Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with multipoint support allows easy switching between devices.

At $79.95, the JBL Clip 5 offers solid value for those seeking a rugged, portable speaker for casual listening. Whether you’re hitting the trails, lounging by the pool, or just need a compact audio solution for everyday use, the Clip 5 delivers impressive performance in a small package.

The JBL Go 4 is the best bang for the buck

The JBL Go 4 proves that good things come in small packages. This ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker builds on the success of its predecessor with some notable upgrades. Weighing less than a pound and small enough to fit in your pocket, the Go 4 is the perfect audio companion for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Despite its compact size, the Go 4 doesn’t skimp on features. It now supports the JBL Portable app, giving users access to a 5-band customizable EQ for personalized sound. The speaker maintains its IP67 rating, making it both dustproof and waterproof, while improved silicone protection enhances its durability for outdoor adventures.

With Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint connection, you can easily switch between devices. The Go 4 offers 4.2W of output, which, while not earth-shattering, provides clear and surprisingly robust sound for its size. Battery life has been extended to 7 hours, ensuring your tunes last throughout the day.

At just $49.95, the JBL Go 4 offers impressive value. Whether you’re hitting the trails, lounging by the pool, or just needing a compact audio solution for everyday use, the Go 4 delivers reliable performance in an incredibly portable package. It’s the ideal choice for those who prioritize convenience without sacrificing sound quality.

The best JBL speakers: Notable mentions

• JBL Charge 4: The Charge 4 is probably the best speaker for the best price in the whole line of wireless JBL speakers. Unlike the Charge 5, the older model has a headphone jack for wired playback. The buttons don’t light up, which can make it hard to operate the speaker if you’re gathered outside at night.
• JBL Clip 4: This is a great choice, even if it is a bit dated if you want a speaker ready for any urban or outdoor adventure.
• JBL Flip 5: This is a speaker for adventure, not critical listening. For under $100, it’s a steal and one of the best travel buddies you can get because it’s so small.
• JBL Go 3: The JBL GO 3 is a cheap and simple Bluetooth speaker built to handle whatever outdoor excursion you want to throw at it. It’s a pretty feature-light product, but it works well, the IP67 rating means it’s great for the beach or the trails.
• JBL Pulse 4: This is a great speaker if you’re looking for something a little showier than the rest of the company’s offerings. In addition to all the standard features a wireless JBL speaker offers, the Pulse 4 has a whole-body LED light display, which allows it to put on a bit of a show for you while you listen.
• JBL Xtreme 4: With improved battery life, better companion app support, and some added protection, the new JBL Xtreme 4 is undoubtedly a quality outdoor party speaker. It just doesn’t quite compete with the best in the market for the full asking price. But keep an eye out for sales.

What you should know about wireless JBL speakers

JBL offers a wide range of wireless speakers, from ultra-portable models like the Go 4 to larger-party speakers designed for significant output. This list focuses on more compact, affordable options suitable for everyday use and outdoor activities.

Water resistance

Many JBL speakers feature robust water resistance ratings. For instance, the Clip 5 and Go 4 both boast IP67 ratings, making them not only waterproof but also dustproof. This makes them ideal for beach trips, pool parties, or even shower use.

Compatibility and connectivity

JBL has updated its speaker connectivity features over the years. The latest models now support Auracast, allowing users to connect multiple compatible JBL speakers for an expanded listening experience. However, it’s important to note that older models may not be compatible with newer ones for multi-speaker setups. Some newer models, like the Xtreme 4, offer multipoint connectivity, allowing seamless switching between two devices.

App support and customization

Newer JBL models, including the Clip 5, Go 4, and Xtreme 4, now support the JBL Portable app. This app allows users to access preset EQ options and a customizable 5-band EQ for fine-tuning their sound. It also enables features like stereo pairing with identical models and the “Party Together” function for connecting multiple speakers.

Battery life and power

JBL continues to improve battery life across its range. For example, the Clip 5 now offers up to 12 hours of playback, while the Go 4 provides 7 hours. Some larger models, like the PartyBox Stage 320, feature swappable battery packs for extended playtime.

Sound quality

While smaller models like the Go 4 prioritize portability over powerful bass, larger speakers in the lineup offer more robust sound. Many models now include features to enhance audio quality, such as passive radiators for improved low-end response.

Price range

JBL offers speakers at various price points, from the budget-friendly Go 4 at $49.95 to premium options like the PartyBox Stage 320 at $599.95. This range allows consumers to choose a speaker that fits both their audio needs and budget.

Should you buy refurbished from JBL?

Times are tough, and losing money on a dud is a really bitter pill to swallow. I always recommend looking for refurbished units if you can—JBL’s refurbished program offers a way for you to save a bit more money than you might through Amazon or other third-party retailers. It’s also friendly to the environment because it helps save a speaker from being thrown out.

In addition to saving a couple of bucks, you also get the guarantee of an inspected product that works, backed by JBL’s warranty. That’s a nice perk, at the cost of a few potential scuffs here and there (and a short delay in shipping).

Additionally, some people don’t like the changes to the speaker designs offered by, say, the Charge 4, Pulse 4, and Flip 5. If you’re fine with micro-USB charging and want a speaker with two channels instead of one, buying a refurbished one is the best way possible to grab one of these models’ predecessors.

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Frequently asked questions about the best wireless JBL speakers