JBL Flip 6 vs. Bose SoundLink Flex Speaker

We’ll begin with the first and most important criterion to consider: sound. The JBL Flip 6 features a two-way speaker system that delivers powerful, loud, crystal-clear audio. The racetrack-shaped subwoofer within the device offers stronger low frequencies and midrange, while the tweeter produces high frequencies that are crisper than ever. The subwoofer is additionally supported by dual passive radiators that have been fine-tuned using an advanced algorithm for optimized, deeper bass. Ultimately, the sound is perfectly balanced across all tonal ranges. With the JBL Flip 6, you can expect 30 watts of output power and a dynamic frequency response range from 63Hz – 20kHz. These numbers represent the speaker’s ability to accurately reproduce audio via frequencies. All music and podcasts you stream on this device will be through Bluetooth 5.1, offering faster data transmission and a wider range of 40 feet.

The Bose SoundLink Flex speaker is crafted with state-of-the-art engineering, along with a custom-designed 60mm transducer and a dual passive radiator. The transducer and radiator both deliver strong, clear sound, with deep bass you can feel thumping in your chest. Together, custom algorithms, proprietary code and digital signal processing (DSP) technologies will work to provide the most optimized sound no matter what environment you’re in. While we’ll get further into the design of the speakers later, you can play your music with both of these devices lying or standing in multiple positions. The Bose SoundLink Flex, though, also has PositionIQ Technology. With PositionIQ, you can expect fully optimized and balanced audio that adjusts EQ levels based on the speaker’s physical orientation. Bose does not provide any wattage or frequency range information on their site, but we do know streaming is completed via Bluetooth 4.2, which offers a 30-foot range.

If you are a music lover who prioritizes bass in your music, the JBL Flip 6 may be more your style, as it has a subwoofer where Bose doesn’t. But if you want the highest quality audio overall with consistent optimization, the Bose SoundLink Flex is a better choice for you. The several technologies, PositionIQ and the stereo speakers ensure that every song sounds its absolute best.

So what technology do both of these speakers carry to help support their superior sound? To begin, both speakers have their own apps. The JBL Flip 6 is compatible with the JBL Portable app. There, you can get product support and updates, amplify the audio, unlock features and tweak the bass to your liking. The Bose SoundLink Flex, on the other hand, utilizes the Bose Connect app. This app can also provide product updates, unlockable features, audio tips and customizable settings. Both speakers also give you the ability to pair with multiple devices. Using the PartyBoost feature, you can pair the JBL Flip 6 with another PartyBoost-compatible speaker to create stereo sound. Another option is to link multiple compatible speakers together, truly pumping up the music for every party and celebration.

The Bose SoundLink Flex can pair with other speakers via Party Mode or Stereo Mode on the app. Party Mode will let you pair your speaker with another Bose Bluetooth speaker from the SoundLink series so they can play in perfect sync. Stereo Mode can also pair with another Bose SoundLink speaker, enabling a stereo audio experience instead. No matter which mode you use, the Bose SoundLink Flex will remember the eight most frequently used devices for easier connection. While the JBL Flip 6 doesn’t have a built-in microphone, the Bose SoundLink Flex does. With this mic, you can make and answer phone calls, as well as use Google Assistant and Siri. These virtual assistants can control your music and perform tasks on your smartphone, all with just a voice command.

If you prioritize the ability to pair multiple speakers for bigger, bolder sound, the JBL Flip 6 is the speaker for you. If you want to be able to control your music with buttons, an app AND your voice, the Bose SoundLink Flex is the most versatile choice for your needs.

None of the audio and technology offered to you on either of these speakers will be any good if you don’t have a solid battery to power your device. Both the JBL Flip 6 and Bose SoundLink Flex offer 12 hours of playtime on just one charge. They also both come with a USB-C charger that can be plugged into an outlet or a USB port on devices like computers. The JBL Flip 6 even offers a USB-C charging protection system. This system audibly alerts you when the connector senses salt, water or other chemicals that may cause harm to the device. To hit full battery life on the JBL Flip 6, you’ll need 2.5 hours of charging, while the Bose SoundLink Flex requires four hours.

Both speakers share the same battery life, so there is no overwhelming winner in this comparison. But if ultra-fast charging is important to you, the JBL Flip 6 is the speedier option

It’s important to know the build and construction of your speaker if you prioritize style or if you want your device to last a long time. The JBL Flip 6 is cylindrical and coated in a fabric mesh, while the Bose SoundLink Flex features a silicone exterior and a steel grille. Both speakers are compact, durable and tough overall. But the grille of the Bose SoundLink Flex has a powder coating for additional protection and to provide a rugged texture. This coating won’t peel or flake either, as it’s resistant to UV light and corrosion. Both speakers have buttons on the outside if you prefer to manually control your music. These buttons control power, playback, volume and connectivity. The JBL Flip 6 has an additional button for PartyBoost pairing, while the Bose SoundLink Flex has an additional button for phone calls and voice control.

Both speakers are also IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof, so feel free to take them to the pool or the beach anytime. The Bose SoundLink Flex takes this protection a step further, though. Should you drop your Bose speaker into water, it’s built to float. Also, all acoustic components, including the passive radiators and transducer, are built with waterproof materials and sealed tightly to keep dust and water out. Both speakers come in dynamic colors to fit any personality or aesthetic. The JBL Flip 6 comes in black, blue, camouflage, grey, red and teal, while the Bose SoundLink Flex comes in black, green, blue, and white. The biggest design difference in these speakers is the utility loop on the Bose SoundLink Flex. With this loop, you can secure your speaker to almost anything. Use a carabiner to attach it to a backpack or a beach chair on your next adventure.

Both speaker designs are of the highest quality. Your device will be protected from damage caused by the elements and you can also enjoy the same color variety with either brand. The Bose SoundLink Flex is only a small step above, with its powder coating and fully sealed components.

So which portable speaker should you opt for—the JBL Flip 6 or the Bose SoundLink Flex? The devices are both extremely similar and bound to provide an amazing listening experience either way. But here’s what you should note as you make your decision:

The JBL Flip 6 delivers faster Bluetooth connections, streaming and charging. It also provides more bass to your music and its speaker pairing abilities are more expansive.

The Bose SoundLink offers more advanced audio technology and optimization, as well as voice assistance for playback controls and phone calls. The speaker also has slightly more durable design features.

Both of these top-notch speakers, plus plenty of other models, are available at Abt and ready for you to browse. To learn more about speakers similar to these products, begin with our wireless speaker buying guide. Looking for more audio gear to complete your collection? We’ve also crafted a list of gifts for audiophiles, so treat yourself to better sound today.