The best JBL speakers in the UK 2023

With remarkable sound quality at an affordable price, JBL speakers, especially the portable ones, are becoming more and more popular with music lovers. These practical wireless speakers turn your smartphone into a real sound system. Are you more of a Filp or PartyBox person? If you're struggling to find the perfect speaker, our guide to the best JBL speakers will help you find the right one.

JBL Flip 5 1
9/10

Best value for money

JBL Flip 5

The best JBL speaker in 2021

Quality sound with deep bass and compact, the Flip 5 will accompany you in all your travels. Waterproof, it has a USB Type-C port and a 12-hour playback time.

111 £ on Boulanger

With its compact and lightweight design, the JBL Flip 5 provides excellent mobility, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music wherever you go. This JBL speaker provides up to 12 hours of autonomy, a formidable performance among the many speakers in its range for a 2.5-hour charge. We won't even mention the quality of the sound that distinguishes the JBL signature: powerful and with deep bass, to listen to your best songs.

What's more, the JBL Flip 5 is moisture-resistant thanks to the included IPX7 waterproof rating, making it the perfect compromise for enjoying music outdoors in any situation, so whether you're going to the pool, the beach, or even on a rainy day, your JBL speaker won't falter anytime soon. PartyBoost mode lets you have fun pairing the JBL Flip 5 with other compatible speakers for a fun-filled experience. The JBL Flip 5 is available in several bright, festive colors.

JBL Go 3 2
8/10

Best value for money

JBL Go 3

The best entry-level JBL speaker

This entry-level JBL speaker will easily win your heart with its eye-catching, avant-garde design, yet it doesn't compromise on sound quality.

31,99 £ on Boulanger

With the JBL Go 3, you'll be able to stream your hits for 5 hours straight, a certainly remarkable performance if you look at the size of this JBL speaker alone. The audio sound of this one does not decry the signature, it is of that premium quality that JBL devices have always been known for. But the JBL Go 3 is also water and dust resistant thanks to its IP67 rating: it is instinctively protected against temporary immersion up to one meter.

The JBL Go 3 comes in a variety of urban colors. The minimalist design does not make the sound quality insignificant: the JBL Go 3 delivers punchy bass that leaves nothing to be desired. Its textile finish and ergonomic handle for easy carrying round off the JBL Go 3's advantages.

JBL PartyBox 310 3
8/10

Best high end

JBL PartyBox 310

The best high-end JBL speaker

Set your parties, outings, or get-togethers with friends and family on fire with the JBL PartyBox 310. This high-powered JBL speaker will deliver a sound experience that's so good, you won't want to be without it.

439 £ on Boulanger

The JBL PartyBox 310 is the perfect speaker if you're looking for an explosive atmosphere to liven up your night out or party. It has powerful features to liven up the atmosphere, including a microphone and guitar input, karaoke mode and a dynamic light show. You also have USB playback to play your playlists and even charge your smartphone.

Precise sound lets you enjoy your broadcasts with crisp highs, pure midrange and thunderous bass. Its mind-blowing 18-hour battery life leaves you totally free in your mood, with no fear of breakup. Any device with Bluetooth connectivity is compatible with the JBL PartyBOx 310. The device is easy to move around thanks to its wheel system.

JBL Clip 4 4
7/10

Excellent selection

JBL Clip 4

The best nomadic JBL speaker

If you're on the go, we still suggest the JBL Clip 4, a powerful mini JBL speaker that lets you take your music with you.

47,99 £ on JBL

Don't let its tiny size fool you: the JBL Clip 4 offers the same dynamic, accurate and resonant Pro sound quality. With a JBL speaker like this, you get the advantage of mobility, and it's made even more secure by the built-in, sturdy carabiner. Another advantage is the IP67 rating, which guarantees water and dust resistance.

With a power output of 5 RMS and a 40 mm transducer, the JBL Clip 4 will keep you going for up to 10 hours in playback mode, a remarkable performance compared to its minimalist design. By getting this mini JBL speaker, you'll be able to stream your favorite tunes from any Bluetooth 5.1 compatible device.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best JBL speaker

Any specific needs?

The best JBL speaker in 2021

The best entry-level JBL speaker

The best high-end JBL speaker

The best nomadic JBL speaker

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best JBL speakers

TOP OF THE LINE CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
JBL Flip 5 5
9/10
JBL Go 3 6
8/10
JBL PartyBox 310 7
8/10
JBL Clip 4 8
7/10
OUR SELECTION
JBL Flip 5
JBL Go 3
JBL PartyBox 310
JBL Clip 4
Quality sound with deep bass and compact, the Flip 5 will accompany you in all your travels. Waterproof, it has a USB Type-C port and a 12-hour playback time.
This entry-level JBL speaker will easily win your heart with its eye-catching, avant-garde design, yet it doesn't compromise on sound quality.
Set your parties, outings, or get-togethers with friends and family on fire with the JBL PartyBox 310. This high-powered JBL speaker will deliver a sound experience that's so good, you won't want to be without it.
If you're on the go, we still suggest the JBL Clip 4, a powerful mini JBL speaker that lets you take your music with you.
Power output
20 W
4 W
240 W
5 W
Autonomy
12 hours
5 hours
18 hours
10 hours
Charging time
2.5 hours
2.5 hours
<3.5 hours
3 hours
Waterproofing
IPX7 (Fully waterproof)
IP67 (dustproof and waterproof to 1m)
IPX4 (Splashproof)
IP67 (Waterproof and dustproof)
Bonus
PartyBoost mode included
Ultra portable design with ergonomic handle
Synchronized light set
Pocket size, with built-in carabiner

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - JBL speaker

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How to choose your JBL speaker

JBL is the star of mobile speakers in recent years, and has benefited from the company's expertise in the audio sector for many years. Moreover, they come in all sizes, shapes and colours. And what are the 5 criteria for choosing a JBL speaker?

#1 - The size

First, it is important to define the use in order to choose the appropriate size. This criterion includes the acoustic quality, as well as the transportability. Indeed, it is necessary to remember that a tiny mobile speaker cannot be completely autonomous insofar as the battery cannot be powerful in a small speaker. Also, it is preferable to opt for a more respectable size to have a more autonomous power technology.

#2 - The power

The power is an important criterion, especially that for the case of a nomadic speaker, the balance between amplifier and capacity is to be taken into account. In this context, according to those in the know, weight is a good indicator of quality in terms of power. This varies from 3 to 4 watts for small speakers, and up to 20 watts depending on the size by increasing.

#3 - Autonomy

The autonomy is also to be taken into account for the choice, especially to ensure the displacement. It can range from 5 to 24 hours, and the best option is to choose a battery that can be easily replaced.

#4 - The resistance

When

possible, it's best to choose a JBL speaker with IPX5 or IPX7 waterproof certification. Otherwise, a mesh speaker cover or a plastic or metal shell can help ensure more resistance to dust and water.

#5 - How it works

Finally, it is imperative to choose the mode of operation, either Bluetooth, NFC pairing or Wi-Fi. Apart from that, you should also choose a model with or without a built-in microphone as a hands-free kit from the start.

JBL, a brand that guarantees quality

JBL is a leading brand in the field of speakers, headphones and earphones. The brand is named after the creator James Bullough Lansing, whose existence dates back to 1946. But who really is JBL?

Once upon a time JBL

JBL is the initials of the creator of one of the best audio systems in the cinema sector. Nowadays, this brand is called JBL by Harman. This reflects the acquisition of the brand by Harman International Industrie, a subsidiary of the Samsung group, a leader in electronic objects.
Surrounded by the best technologies, including Harman Kardon and AKG acoustics, JBL by Harman becomes even more successful in the professional audio manufacturing sector.

JBL, a speaker professional

For over 70 years, JBL has been a specialist in speakers and loudspeakers, and its reputation is well established. Its products are of the highest quality, aesthetically pleasing, designer and above all, top of the range. Since its beginnings until now, the brand's speakers have been dressing up living rooms in such a way as to transform them into an innovative home cinema. In addition to the more discreet mini-speakers, JBL speakers enhance the sound of various mobile or stationary equipment to offer high-definition quality sound, whether for iPods, iPhones or even televisions.

The different types of JBL speakers

JBL offers several types of speakers to better meet the needs and requirements of users. Indeed, adapting to technology, JBL has also integrated the world of mobility and wireless to accompany different lifestyles, with music that accompanies users to the beach, in the car or elsewhere than at home. Discover the different types of JBL speakers.

Portable speakers

Self-contained and space-saving, JBL's portable speakers combine audio quality and power with flip 5 technology. Operating via bluetooth and with a rechargeable lithium ion polymer battery, this type of speaker benefits from an autonomy of up to 12 hours. Best of all, it's waterproof, so there's no risk even in the event of unexpected rain. JBL's portable speakers have the advantage of being able to be connected together for a better atmosphere, while creating an aesthetic effect thanks to the varied colors.

The party box speakers

The

party box is another innovation from JBL, embarking on the light shows and the speaker for a well-animated evening. It comes in 3 models including 200, 300, as well as 1000 version, with power depending on the models. The first two versions are battery operated, and the latest 1000 version is power operated.

Sound bars

JBL sound bars are more aimed at a home theater, with its series of audio bars to be connected to the TV. They are particularly suitable for Oled 4K or full HD for an optimal result. This type of speakers offers the user the possibility to choose the language and subtitles on Netflix. Available in 7 products in the range, it also offers a Dolby Surround sound for a total immersion in the sound.

Bluetooth speaker or sound bar?

Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL speaker is very popular with consumers because of the compact size of many products, which can be carried everywhere. It is the ideal accessory for young people to organize their little outdoor party. The batteries enjoy up to 15 hours of autonomy, while on some models it is possible to charge a phone or a tablet.

The first thing that bothers about the JBL speaker is the presence of background noise on several models, altering the listening pleasure. While the speaker enjoys a long battery life, many users have noticed that it decreases over time. Some even claim that the lifespan is very limited.

Sound bar

The sound bar has a pleasant design, takes up little space, and is affordable. You install it under your TV, it will provide you with an intense sound rendering and more diffuse in space. Thanks to its connectivity, the sound bar avoids overloading us with cables from our devices.

What's unfortunate is that we feel that the sound is not diffused around us, but from a single point, namely under the TV. The sound bar also lacks bass. As a result, it is sold with a subwoofer that will take up extra space.

Verdict

The bluetooth speaker is mostly used outside because of its size, smaller than a sound bar. The latter on the other hand is used most often under the television, in your living room i.e. inside.

Tips

The right scope limit

Bluetooth connectivity is dedicated to proximity wireless connection. All you need to do is pair with your smartphone or tablet, devices that are always within range. Also, a long range is not necessary, a few meters between the speaker and your device is more than enough. Therefore, we establish the average range of a Bluetooth speaker at about ten meters.

The connectivity of a Bluetooth speaker

A

Bluetooth speaker has an NFC chip that allows the source device to identify it to establish the connection. To connect your Bluetooth speaker to a device without a transmitter, opt for a speaker equipped with a mini-jack or RCA input. Use this opportunity to charge your source device to your Bluetooth speaker. In recent years, Wi-Fi connectivity on speakers has increased their potential.

Powerbank function

With

a battery life of several hours, you can very well use the Bluetooth speaker as a backup charge for your smartphone or tablet. However, some Bluetooth speakers are now equipped with a powerbank function. The power in this case is doubled, and you can be sure that both your source device and your Bluetooth speaker will not run out of battery.

Pairing multiple Bluetooth speakers

It'

s possible to play the same music or different music in different rooms, and from a single source. To do this, all you need to do is place the speakers within a maximum range of 10 meters. This process, which works thanks to Bluetooth, is called multiroom. There are also applications, including AmpMe, that can transmit sound from a smartphone to multiple speakers.

The ideal power for a Bluetooth speaker

In

general, a Bluetooth speaker develops a power between 5 and 100 W. 10 or 12 W are more than enough to broadcast music in a room or an office. For a larger area, you will have to choose a more powerful speaker, but also a larger size. Beware of speakers with a lot of power, but not the right size.

FAQ

What is the best JBL speaker?

The best JBL speaker depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide to find the best products out there.

What is the battery life of a Bluetooth speaker?

Battery life is one of the main criteria for choosing a Bluetooth speaker. Most portable Bluetooth speakers have a battery life of up to 10 hours of listening. That's more than enough time to get through the day. However, when you're on holiday and need to use it almost daily, it's best to choose a larger speaker with a 30-hour battery life.

What design for a Bluetooth speaker?

You will have to wear your Bluetooth speaker on your shoulder or put it on a piece of furniture. The design should therefore be in keeping with its use or its user. A speaker intended for outdoor use will be more circular, so that the sound spreads in all directions. If you use it indoors, it is more aesthetic.

More or less buttons on Bluetooth speakers?

In general, compact Bluetooth speakers have minimal controls. These include the power and volume buttons, as well as the playback mode control. But if you want to stay connected with your smartphone, then you'll need advanced settings buttons, such as answer phone, for example, or an outright smartphone and tablet app.

How do I connect a Bluetooth speaker?

The Bluetooth speaker allows you to listen to your favourite music from your smartphone. The connection is established as soon as the two devices are connected to each other. To do this, simply search for the "Bluetooth" function in the settings of your smartphone or tablet. Once you have activated it, the search for the speaker will be automatic and its name will be displayed on your screen.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , quechoisir.org
  2. , consumerreports.org
  3. , whathifi.com
  4. , lifewire.com
  5. , audioadvice.com
  6. , soundguys.com
  7. , techradar.com
  8. , rtings.com
  9. , consumersearch.com
  10. , fr.jbl.com
  11. , boulanger.com
  12. , fnac.com
  13. , darty.com
  14. , amazon.co.uk
  15. , boulanger.com
  16. , but.fr
  17. , be.jbl.com
  18. , amazon.co.uk
  19. , idealo.fr
  20. , fr.jbl.com
  21. , joueclub.fr
  22. , enceinteportable.fr
  23. , ca.jbl.com
  24. , laredoute.fr
  25. , support.jbl.com
  26. , bfmtv.com
  27. , darty.com
  28. , but.fr
  29. , lesnumeriques.com
  30. , cdiscount.com
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
JBL Flip 5 9
JBL Flip 5
JBL Go 3 10
JBL Go 3
JBL PartyBox 310 11
JBL PartyBox 310
JBL Clip 4 12
JBL Clip 4

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