86
Bose
Bose SoundLink Max
- Exceptional audio quality with deep bass and clear mids
- Outstanding 20-hour battery life with USB-C fast charging
- Durable IP67 waterproof design suitable for outdoor use
JBL
JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi
badges.top-pick Editor's Pick
0 /100
Our Verdict
The JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi excels as a premium portable speaker combining excellent audio quality with Wi-Fi convenience and impressive battery life. While its premium price tag limits value-for-money appeal, it's an excellent choice for audio enthusiasts and those seeking a durable, feature-rich wireless speaker.
Detailed Scores
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional 360-degree sound with powerful bass and clarity
- Multiple connectivity options: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AUX
- Impressive 20-hour battery life with fast charging
- Rugged IP67 waterproof and dustproof design
- Built-in 4,200 mAh power bank for charging devices
Cons
- High price point compared to Bluetooth-only alternatives
- Wi-Fi connectivity requires setup and network access
- Relatively heavy at 960g for portable use
- No active noise cancellation technology
Specifications
specs.Connectivity Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
specs.Speaker Configuration 2x 20W drivers + 2x 10W passive radiators
specs.Frequency Response 50Hz - 20kHz
specs.Battery Capacity 6,000 mAh (speaker) + 4,200 mAh (power bank)
specs.Playback Time Up to 20 hours
specs.Charging Time 4 hours
specs.Waterproof Rating IP67 (waterproof and dustproof)
specs.Weight 960g
specs.Dimensions 225 x 150 x 95mm
specs.Colors Black, Blue, White, Red
Where to Buy
Amazon.co.uk
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Compare With
93
Sony
Sony WH-1000XM6
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- 40-hour battery life
- Exceptional sound quality
92
Bose
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation with multiple modes
- Exceptional audio quality with deep bass and crisp highs
- Ultra-comfortable ear cups with memory foam padding
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi be used underwater?
The JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi has an IP67 rating, which means it can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. However, it's not designed for continuous underwater use or diving.
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
The speaker offers up to 20 hours of playback time on a single charge, depending on volume levels and usage patterns. The integrated power bank can also charge other devices.
What's the difference between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity?
Bluetooth provides direct peer-to-peer connection with limited range (around 10-15 meters). Wi-Fi allows streaming from online services with greater range and multi-room audio capabilities when connected to your home network.
Is the JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi compatible with all devices?
Yes, it's compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS devices via Bluetooth. Wi-Fi connectivity works with any device on your network that supports standard Wi-Fi streaming.
Can I use the power bank while listening to music?
Yes, the integrated 4,200 mAh power bank allows you to charge other devices simultaneously while using the speaker on battery power.