JBL’s Bluetooth speakers are known for their robust build quality, well-balanced sound profile, and versatile connectivity options, making them an excellent choice for various needs. From the portable JBL Flip and Clip lineups to the powerful PartyBox series, you can find models that deliver deep bass, clear highs, and enduring battery life. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, these speakers often feature IP ratings for water resistance and durable construction to withstand the elements, ensuring you get the most out of your audio experience.
For those seeking the best Bluetooth speaker, our guide highlights three top-performing JBL models. We analyzed over 100 Bluetooth speakers and 1,151,224 reviews, revealing that 92% of expert reviews were untrustworthy. We use a unique approach that certifies products as tested and filters out fake reviews through our proprietary Trust Rating. The winning JBL speakers excelled in our evaluations, showcasing excellent sound quality, robust build, and impressive battery life, making them standout choices for any audio enthusiast.
How Did We Rank the Best JBL Bluetooth Speakers?
Our rigorous evaluation process included over 200 sites, combining customer reviews and expert opinions to identify the best JBL Bluetooth speaker. Using our True Score system, we scrutinise critical criteria, focusing on 2 required test results, 1 nice-to-have test result, and 1 must-have specification. This guide simplifies your decision-making, spotlighting the essential features for the ultimate audio experience. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
?️ Minimum Specifications
- Must be JBL
? Test Criteria
- Battery Life: Lasts a minimum of 9 hours before the battery needs recharging.
- Volume Output: The speaker should deliver powerful and immersive sound performance, exceeding 91 decibels in volume output.
? “Nice To Haves”
- Low-End Roll Off: Implementing a low-frequency roll-off below 60 Hz ensures the presence of subtle rumble in the bass, enhancing the immersive quality of your music or movie-watching experience.
Latest Updates
- 04/14/2024: Published the list of best JBL Bluetooth speakers based on our True Score system.
Top JBL Bluetooth Speakers For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
To make the cut, a JBL Bluetooth speaker must ace our tough audio quality test. No compromise on excellence!
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
JBL Charge 5
Best For Shower
The JBL Charge 5 epitomizes JBL’s dedication to quality, performance, and value. With deep bass, balanced mids, and practical features, it’s perfect for all audio enthusiasts seeking affordable excellence.
True Score
848513Experts
9436kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
$179.95
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof construction
- Well-balanced sound profile
- Portable 2.0-lb construction
- 14-5 hour battery life
- Dual-device Bluetooth 5.1 connection
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks support for stereo
- Narrow soundstage
- Doesn’t support any voice assistants
- Mediocre low-bass
- Poor Bluetooth latency is not good for movies
Specifications
Battery Charge Time 4 hrs 
Battery Life 20+ hrs 
Built In Microphone No 
Charge Time 4 hrs 
Depth 3.67″ 
Height 3.76″ 
IPX Rating IP67 
Size – 
Smart App JBL Portable 
Speaker Pairing Yes 
Water Resistant Yes 
Wattage 30W 
Width 8.7″ 
Wireless Range 10 m All Specs
Test Results
Battery Life (Hours) 17 Volume Output (dB) 91 Low End Roll Off (Hz) 63 High End Roll Off (Hz) 6,640 All Retailers
$179.95Availability
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Yes
$179.99Availability
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Yes
$179.95$200Save $20Availability
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Yes
$179.95Availability
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Our Verdict
For a more budget-friendly JBL alternative, the JBL Charge 5 is an excellent Bluetooth speaker, offering remarkable value. Balancing cost and performance, it earns the title of Best Value among its peers, perfect for audiophiles seeking quality sound at an affordable price.
While the Charge 5’s low-end roll-off at 63.5 Hz falls short of the Boombox 3’s 52.63 Hz, it still provides deep, resonant bass, vital for music lovers seeking immersive sound. This speaker has the lowest high-end roll-off on our list at 6,639.82 Hz, ensuring balanced mids for clear and accurate instrument reproduction. However, you won’t get the crisp highs of other options, but it is sufficient for most genres of music.
Furthermore, the JBL Charge 5 prioritizes sound quality and practicality, serving diverse needs. Whether enhancing outdoor escapades or providing dependable home audio, its durable construction, extended battery life, and expansive wireless range offer versatility. Offering a wireless range of 100 meters (roughly 328 feet) ensures seamless connectivity even in larger spaces or outdoor environments. With added water resistance and a reasonable recharge time of 4 hours, it excels across different situations with ease.
The JBL Charge 5 is a testament to JBL’s commitment to combining quality, performance, and value. Whether you’re an audiophile or a casual listener, its impressive bass performance and practical features make it a compelling choice for a wide range of audio needs.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
JBL Partybox 110
The JBL Partybox 110 is the ultimate party speaker. It boasts impressive volume output and versatile features for outdoor events, ensuring an unforgettable music experience.
True Score
84832Experts
944kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $50$399.95$349.95Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Guitar and mic inputs
- Balanced sound profile and has a great battery
- Speaker gets really loud
- Customizable RGB lights
- IPX4-rated water-resistant design
Reasons to Avoid
- Lack voice assistant
- Lacks speakerphone features
- Directional soundstage
- Mediocre Bluetooth latency
Specifications
Battery Life 12 hrs Built In Microphone No Charge Time 3.5 hrs Depth 11.8″ Height 22.4″ IPX Rating IPX4 Smart App JBL PartyBox Speaker Pairing Yes Water Resistant Yes Wattage 160W Width 11.6″ Wireless Range 10 m All Specs
Test Results
Battery Life (Hours) 15 Volume Output (dB) 98 Low End Roll Off (Hz) 63 High End Roll Off (Hz) 17.7k All Retailers
- $349.95$400Save $50
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $349.99$400Save $50
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No - $349.95$400Save $50
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In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $349.95$400Save $50
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a party speaker, the JBL Partybox 110 is an excellent option, particularly due to its impressive volume output. With a best-in-class maximum volume of 98.3 dB, this speaker ensures your music resonates with clarity and power, perfect for outdoor events or large gatherings. It delivers concert-like experiences at backyard barbecues or beach parties, making it a versatile option for various settings.
While the Partybox 110 has a respectable wireless range of approximately 50 meters (roughly 166 feet), it falls short compared to the JBL Charge 5, which offers a range of 100 meters (328 ft.). However, this should offer uninterrupted connectivity, requiring minimal physical adjustments for most parties or get-togethers.
Although the Partybox 110’s 15-hour battery life is the shortest among our selections, it provides ample music playback time for extended outdoor adventures or all-night celebrations. Furthermore, with a quick recharge time of just 3.5 hours, also the shortest on our list, you can ensure the speaker will be ready for the next gathering. Moreover, this speaker has an IPX4 water resistance rating, ensuring durability in outdoor environments where it might encounter splashes or light rain.
The remarkable volume output and dependable performance of the JBL Partybox 110 make it an irresistible option for those in search of a robust, enduring speaker capable of invigorating any environment. Its versatility extends beyond entertainment, proving ideal for outdoor activities and events, where its powerful sound is crucial.
Category Snapshot
Speakers
- Total Brands/Products Tested
33 Brands, 109 Products
- Top 2 Brands
Bose, JBL
- Price Range (Budget-Premium)
$20-$500
- Average True Score
77.25
- Important Test Criteria
Frequency Response (Hz)
Max Volume (dB or dB SPL)
- Most Trusted Testers
- Top Speaker Experts
- Typical Warranty
1-2 years
- Covered by Insurance
Yes – AKKO
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
JBL Boombox 3
Best For Airplay
The JBL Boombox 3 is a premium option for those prioritizing robust sound and durability. It features unparalleled battery life and versatile features.
True Score
82816Experts
933kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $123$549.99$426.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Great sound quality
- Long battery life
- Great build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- 14.7-pound weight may be heavy for some
Specifications
Battery Charge Time 6.5 hrs Battery Life 24 hrs Built In Microphone No Depth 20″ Height 25.7″ IPX Rating IP67 Size – Smart App JBL Portable Speaker Pairing Yes Water Resistant Yes Wattage 180 W Width 48.2″ Wireless Range 30 ft All Specs
Test Results
Battery Life (Hours) 30 Volume Output (dB) 94 Low End Roll Off (Hz) 53 High End Roll Off (Hz) 15.8k All Retailers
- $426.99$550Save $123
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $499.95
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you don’t mind paying for a premium speaker, the JBL Boombox 3 is an exceptional option, particularly for those who value robust sound and durability. its unparalleled battery life, which peaks at an astounding 30 hours, far greater than its peers, ensures prolonged usage without the constant need for recharging. This is good because it also has the longest recharge of its peers, with 6.5 hours.
This speaker has a broad frequency range, with a best-in-class low-end roll-off at 52.63 Hz, which is crucial for music enthusiasts who crave a rich, full-bodied sound experience, as it ensures the bass lines in your favorite tracks are not just heard but felt. Combined with a high-end roll-off of 15,792.24 Hz, you get rich and detailed sound across multiple genres, from the punchy bass of dance music to more nuanced melodies. The Boombox 3 has a maximum volume of 94.5 dB, only slightly quieter than the JBL Partybox 110, so you can fill large spaces with rich, immersive sound, making it an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings or spacious indoor environments.
Furthermore, the Boombox 3 boasts exceptional features beyond its size, an unsurpassed range of 102 meters (roughly 335 feet) wireless range, and water resistance, enhancing its versatility. Even though it has a portable design, its weight of about 15 pounds may deter some of those seeking portability, it excels in environments where its potent sound and enduring battery life are valued. It’s also worth considering for those looking for a reliable speaker that can handle the rigors of outdoor use, adding to its broad appeal across various user scenarios, whether relaxing by the beach or hosting lively poolside gatherings.
Which Criteria Matters for Testing Best JBL Bluetooth Speakers?
By focusing on these criteria (2 required, 1 nice to have), anyone can quickly and easily compare these speakers and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase a speakers that will sound great.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Life (Hours) | > 9 Hr | Yes | The length of time a Bluetooth speaker can play before the battery goes flat. |
| Volume Output (dB) | > 91 dB | Yes | The maximum volume that a Bluetooth speaker is able to output when turned to max. |
| Low End Roll Off (Hz) | < 60 Hz | No (nice to have) | The point at which bass response starts to fall sharply, causing it to rapidly become inaudible. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 50+ Bluetooth speaker reviewers and only 9 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating). The three we have listed below are our most trusted for Bluetooth speakers.
- Becca Fischer – Rtings, MuckRack
- Michelle Powell – TechGearLab, MuckRack
- Brent Butterworth – Wirecutter, MuckRack, LinkedIn
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every Bluetooth speaker review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Bluetooth Speaker Test Data & Results
1. Battery Life Test Results
Your Bluetooth speakers are more than likely going to be battery powered. They might not run solely on battery power, but it is more common than not for Bluetooth speakers to be able to play without being plugged into a wall. That means, you’ll want your speaker to be able to play for as long as possible without having to be plugged in to charge, so even if you forget your charging cable, you’re not shackled to 4 hours of play time.
It’s for this reason that we recommend that Bluetooth speakers have at least 9 hours of playtime – enough to get you through a full day of playing your speakers. That said, there’s no upper limit to battery life – the more you can get “under your belt”, the better. If your speaker can deliver more than 17 hours of battery life on a single charge, you’ve got more than enough for two days and change, which is plenty of time to remember you need to plug the speaker in.
Battery Life
> 9 Hours
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The amount of time speakers can play before the battery dies.
Units of Measurement: Hours
Tools to Measure: Timer
Why It’s Important:
Battery life is what keeps your speaker going when you’re out and about, otherwise your speaker can’t survive heavy usage in a day or a weekend.
Battery Life (in hours; higher is better)
2. Volume Output Test Results
Volume Output
>90 dB
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The maximum volume that a Bluetooth speaker can hit at 100%.
Units of Measurement: dB (Decibels)
Tools to Measure: Sound level or decibel meter
Why It’s Important:
Max volume is how you ensure you’ve got enough volume to hear your music at a party without audio becoming heavily distorted.
Maximum volume is the most straightforward test to grasp when it comes to Bluetooth speakers: it simply refers to the loudest level at which the speaker can play. However, the importance of having a high maximum volume might not be immediately obvious. Beyond the ability to fill rooms with sound or serve as party speakers, higher maximum volumes play a crucial role in ensuring audio clarity at typical listening volumes.
This concept is known as “headroom.” Adequate headroom in a Bluetooth speaker means it can reproduce sounds at a level that is both loud enough and clear enough, ensuring that your usual listening levels for music or podcasts are crisp and free from distortion. Your Bluetooth speaker should have a minimum of 90 dB of maximum volume, but 91 dB or even higher is ideal. The higher the maximum volume, the better the speaker is at delivering sound that can fill increasingly large spaces without sacrificing sound quality.
Volume Output (in dB; higher is better)
3. Low End Roll Off Test Results
The low-end roll off is key in determining how deep the bass on your Bluetooth speaker will sound. A Bluetooth speaker with a roll off that doesn’t start at a sufficiently low frequency leads to bass that sounds weak or is missing entirely, which makes music sound thin. Essentially, the deeper the bass can extend before rolling off, the more robust the sound.
For the majority of Bluetooth speakers and typical usage scenarios, aiming for a roll off that begins no higher than 60 Hz is advisable. However, the lower the frequency where roll off begins, the better the bass experience. It’s important to understand that there’s a limit to how low the roll off can go, so expecting Bluetooth speakers to achieve roll off points in the teens might be unrealistic. It’s also important to remember that Bluetooth speakers don’t have subwoofers and are also generally small, which limits how deep their bass can get.
Low End Roll Off
< 60 Hz
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The point at which bass begins to sharply decline and becomes rapidly inaudible.
Units of Measurement: Hz (Hertz)
Tools to Measure: Oscilloscope
Why It’s Important:
If bass takes longer to start rolling off, it’ll generally be more present in your speaker’s output, which will give music much more “punch” and depth.
Low End Roll Off (in Hz; lower is better)
Best JBL Bluetooth Speakers: Mistakes To Avoid
- Sound Quality: While JBL, like the top Bose speakers, is known for its quality audio, it’s important not to rely on the brand reputation solely. Take the time to listen to the speaker in person or research reviews to ensure it meets your expectations for sound performance. Factors such as frequency response, clarity, and bass output should be considered.
- Battery Life: A Bluetooth speaker’s portability is one of its main advantages. However, overlooking battery life can lead to frustration, especially if you frequently use the speaker on the go. Be sure to check the specifications for battery life and consider your usage patterns to ensure it aligns with your needs. Additionally, remember to factor in the length of time in charging a Bluetooth speaker to ensure it will always be ready when you need it.
- Portability: JBL offers a range of speakers with varying sizes and weights. It’s essential to consider how and where you plan to use the speaker. For instance, if you intend to bring it along for outdoor activities or travel, a compact and lightweight design might be preferable. Don’t overlook portability features like carrying handles or straps if you anticipate moving the speaker frequently. You can read our JBL Boombox 2 review for another portable Bluetooth speaker from JBL.
- Connectivity Features: Bluetooth speakers offer convenience by wirelessly connecting to your devices. However, not all speakers have the same connectivity options. When searching for the best smart speaker, consider models that offer Bluetooth connectivity and incorporate smart features like voice assistants for hands-free control and integration with smart home devices.Some may support additional features like NFC pairing or multi-device connectivity. Evaluate your connectivity needs, such as range and compatibility with your devices, to ensure the speaker meets your requirements.
The Best JBL Bluetooth Speakers Tests Compared
Product |
True Score
|
Battery Life
|
Volume Output
|
Low End Roll Off
|
High End Roll Off
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 84 |
|
|
|
|  $179.95 |
| 84 |
|
|
|
| $349.95 $400 $50 |
| 82 |
|
|
|
|  $426.99 $550 $123 |
