For a number of reasons, the JBL Flip series is one of the most well-liked Bluetooth speaker collections. The most significant of these was the fact that each Flip speaker cost less than $100. Although the JBL Flip 4 is ancient now, it is still in use today. How does it currently compare against the more modern competition? Briefly stated, very darn well. The speaker, a visibly orange charging cord, together with the warranty and instruction sheets, are all included in the box.
The Flip 4 is offered in a variety of colours and keeps the same cylindrical shape as its predecessors. It weighs 515g, which makes it lightweight and simple to use in one hand. Except for the borders and a silicone strip that runs the length of the speaker, the speaker’s body is almost entirely covered with mesh fabric. Due to passive radiators on either end, the Flip 4 is intended to be utilised horizontally.
[content-egg-block template=offers_logo hide=price]There are buttons for pairing Bluetooth devices and managing audio playback. Although they are not lit, they have a lovely clicky sensation about them. Despite its cylindrical shape, the Flip 4 doesn’t roll around thanks to a silicone strip that protrudes slightly and serves as a comfortable base for the speaker.
The Flip 4’s rear features a lighted power button, five LED dots that indicate the battery level, and a backlit Connect+ button that enables you to connect more than 100 Flip 4 devices to one another. A rubber flap to shield the Micro-USB port and a 3.5mm auxiliary connector are placed next to them. If you don’t have a suitable surface for the speaker to stand on, you can hang it from something with the help of the Flip 4’s hook and built-in lanyard.
Both the Android and iOS devices we tested were easily paired over Bluetooth, and the procedure went smoothly. Even with the addition of walls and doors, connection remained strong across the entire house. Within a 75-foot radius outside, we can report no interruptions or dropouts. After there, things began to worsen, but 75 feet ought to be more than sufficient for the majority of uses.
Although not the best speaker available, given its size and cost, the quality is quite good. When the volume is turned up, the bass is fairly robust and well-rounded, and neither undesirable clipping nor distortion is audible. Speaking of diving, the Flip 4’s waterproofing rating of IPX7 means it can be underwater for up to 30 minutes in three feet of water. The Flip 4’s battery life is passable but not ideal. We won’t mince words and claim that the 12 hours it is rated for are always correct. The Flip 4 features a modest 3000mAh battery, which is similar to other portable speakers.