JBL Authentics 500 Review

The JBL Authentics 500 is meant for home use, so is not as portable as the JBL Flip 4. The Authentic 500 is also larger in size compared to the Flip 4. Additionally, the Flip 4 is cheaper, and also has a water resistance rating that the Authentics 500 does not, and the Authentics 500 needs a main power connection while the Flip 4 is battery-powered. However, the Authentics 500’s companion app features a graphic equalizer for sound customization, which the Flip 4 lacks. So, if you want portability more than anything else, you should look at our JBL Flip 4 review.

The JBL Authentics 500 supports multidevice connectivity, as owners can pair two different devices to it. The Sonos Move 2 can only be paired to one device at a time. However, the Sonos Move 2 is much more compact in size and more affordable, and its lower weight makes it ideal for moving around compared to the heavier Authentic 500. For more on the Sonos Move 2, check it out in our Sonos Move 2 review, but if you’d prefer a more compact home speaker, then our IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf review might be worth a look.

The JBL Authentics 500 is a lot bulkier and more expensive than the Bose Home Speaker 500, but in terms of sound output, the Authentics 500 comes out on top, with features like a room correction tool to optimize sound based on a room’s acoustics and a higher max volume output compared to the Speaker 500. Here’s our Bose Home Speaker 500 review for more information on what else it has to offer, but if you’re in the market for a more portable alternative, then our Bushnell Wigman View review might come in handy.