Is the Charge 5 good for outdoor use?

Yes. Its IP67 rating means it is dustproof and can be submerged in water briefly, so pool decks, beaches and rain are fine. It is also loud enough to fill a patio.

How does it compare with the JBL Flip 6?

The Charge 5 is larger, plays louder and has more bass, and it lasts longer and can charge your phone. The Flip 6 is smaller and easier to carry but has less low end and no powerbank feature.

Can it charge my phone?

Yes. It has a USB port that uses its built-in battery as a powerbank for a phone or other small device, which draws down its own playtime.

Does it have a microphone for calls?

No. The Charge 5 has no microphone, so it cannot take calls or act as a speakerphone. You would need a JBL model with that feature.

PartyBoost links two compatible JBL speakers for stereo or many for a bigger spread of sound. It only works with other PartyBoost-enabled JBL speakers, not older Connect+ models.

What comes in the box?

The speaker, a USB-C cable, a quick-start guide, a safety sheet and a warranty card. No wall charger is included.

Where is the JBL Charge 5 Personalized cheapest?

At JBL by Harman, for $179.95, as of our latest check.

JBL Charge 5 Personalized

Best price now

$179.95at JBL by HarmanChecked 20 h ago

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission. Price via Klarna.

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What reviewers say

Owners and reviewers rate the Charge 5 as one of the best loud, rugged portable speakers in its class, praising bass output, battery life and water resistance. Common complaints are its size and weight, the missing speakerphone and the modest app.

What people mention

BassPraisedListeners say the dual passive radiators give it punchy low end that most rivals its size cannot match.
BatteryPraisedOwners report it plays through a full day and beyond on one charge, and it can top up a phone.
BuildPraisedReviewers note the IP67 rating holds up to pool splashes, rain and brief submersion.
SizeCriticisedSome buyers find it too big and heavy to carry on long walks or stuff into a small bag.
CallsCriticisedThere is no microphone, so it cannot be used as a speakerphone.
AppMixedThe JBL app handles PartyBoost and EQ, but users say it offers little else.

About the JBL Charge 5 Personalized

The JBL Charge 5 Personalized is a portable Bluetooth speaker. It uses JBL Original Pro Sound, with an optimized long excursion driver, a separate tweeter and dual JBL bass radiators. The speaker is IP67 waterproof and dustproof.

It streams wirelessly over Bluetooth from up to 2 smartphones or tablets. PartyBoost lets two compatible speakers pair for stereo sound, or links multiple speakers together. A built-in powerbank charges other devices, and the battery provides up to 20 hours of playtime.

Battery life

Up to 20 hours

Connectivity

Wireless Bluetooth, up to 2 smartphones or tablets

Sound

Long excursion driver, separate tweeter, dual bass radiators

Durability

IP67 waterproof and dustproof

Powerbank

Built in, charges your devices

Multi-speaker

PartyBoost for stereo pairing or linking multiple speakers