If you want a powerful speaker that doubles as a power bank and can handle getting wet, this is it

Durable, high-quality, IP67-rated water-resistant build, Sleek aesthetic despite ruggedization, Premium materials for a great in-hand feel, 20 or more hours of battery is easily within reach, USB-A port for reverse wired charging at 10W, Multi-speaker pairing via PartyBoost, Powerful bass down to...

Bluetooth-only, No voice assistant access, 65Hz to 20kHz instead of 20Hz to 20kHz frequencies supported

Today in our JBL Charge 5 Bluetooth Speaker review, we’re going to focus on JBL’s newest speaker – The Charge 5. It’s designed for people who want a rugged, no-nonsense Bluetooth speaker that’s portable and convenient.

If you don't need fancy smart features then the JBL Charge 5 is a great sounding and long-lasting Bluetooth speaker that can also charge your phone.

Great sound; Durable design; Acts as power bank; Long battery life;

Basic app;

The JBL Charge 5 is an iteration on a winning formula. The Charge series of speakers is known for balanced sound, high volume, and long battery life, and that hasn’t changed in this fifth generation.

Balanced sound quality, Gets extremely loud, Long battery life

Long charge time, Distortion at high volume, No more aux jack

It took me a few days to wrap my head around the key stamp that this product makes upon the Bluetooth speaker market: it’s really two products in one. You can charge any USB-equipped device—be it a smartphone, tablet, game controller, or even some laptops—using the Charge 5’s pass-thru.

Solid sound quality, Built-in powerbank is very useful, Dust- and water-proof

Not everyone will want/need the added charging feature

The paradox of choice is ever present in the bluetooth speaker world. When looking to buy one, you’ll be faced with tons of options to the point you may feel so overwhelmed and spend weeks researching before you get the slightest idea of what you want.

This portable Bluetooth speaker delivers astounding audio considering its relatively diminutive scale. Our main criticism is its somewhat boisterous looks and the long four-hours recharge time. Otherwise this blasts out the bass, all while being rugged and waterproofed for use wherever you please.

Poignant and bassy sound for this size of unit; Fully waterproof and dust-sealed; Decent battery life;

Can't deliver below 65Hz; Design quite boisterous; No 3.5mm input this time; Slow recharging;

Excelente calidad de sonido; Diseño duradero; Batería externa;

App muy básica;

It doesn't exactly rip up trees with lots of new features, and the lack of a battery life upgrade is a bit of a bummer, but the fundamental fact is that the JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi takes a very good speaker and makes it better. Having all the benefits of portability, along with those of Wi-Fi connectivity, for under $200 makes it a really solid option for those who want a new all-purpose speaker. It's as at home on the kitchen counter or on a camping trip, which you can't say is true of that many of its competitors.

Great full-bodied sound; Wi-Fi brings sound improvements; Solid, rugged build;

Pretty heavy; Slightly dated design;