Design and build:

Comparing JBL Flip 3 vs Flip 5, the Flip 3 is splashproof which means it can withstand water sprays but you can not submerge it into water. On the other hand, the Flip 5 is more durable with an IPX7 rating. The weight and size are almost similar where the Flip 5 is slightly bigger. These speakers are highly portable and quite easy to carry. They have rugged speaker body that has a cloth type grille. Overall, the build quality is sturdy and long lasting.

Performance:

Comparing JBL Flip 3 vs Flip 5, the Flip 5 has bigger drivers and work with more power output. Inside the Flip 5 speaker there is a 1.75" x 3.125" full range driver along with 2 1.75” passive radiators. it uses DSP to improve the sound quality. The Flip 3 has dual 1.5625" drivers and 1.5" passive radiators. It is a warm sounding speaker with average soundstage and decent bass.

It can deliver full sounding performance and sounds bigger than its size. Instrumental sounds like guitar and voices are quite clear. The speakers can get loud for compact spaces. Comparing the JBL Flip 5 vs 3, the Flip 3 can play stereo sound but from such a small speaker it does not make much difference. Flip 5 plays in mono and with bigger drivers, it plays well than the Flip 3. It focuses on producing JBL Signature Sound with same amount of highs and lows.

Features:

Let us have a look at the dissimilarities in features.

Connectivity:

JBL Flip 3 vs Flip 5 comparison shows they differ in terms of connectivity. The Flip 3 has an aux port along with Bluetooth whereas the Flip 5 only has Bluetooth. If you are willing to connect wired devices, then the Flip 3 is great for you.

Multiple speaker pairing:

Both these speakers can connect to one or more other JBL speakers but not all models. The JBL Flip 3 uses JBL Connect feature and can connect to only JBL Connect compatible speakers. JBL Flip 5 uses PartyBoost and will connect to PartyBoost supported JBL speakers. If you have a large room, then you can use two speakers in the same room to have powerful sound.

Use case:

 They are designed to take it on the go. Whether you are going to the campus, partying at your friends or hanging out in the garden, the Flip speakers are for you. Since the Flip 3 is splashproof, you need to be careful as you use it by the pool or beach. With Flip 5, there is no issue as it is waterproof.

Ease of use:

Like other portable speakers, the JBL Flip 3 and 5 are easy to use.

Battery life:

JBL Flip 3 and Flip 5 has good battery life. In real life the lifetime varies slightly compared to that shown in advertise. They last around 8 hours which is more than enough for a day.

Control options:

The Flip 3 uses JBL Connect app whereas the Flip 5 uses the new JBL Portable app. JBL renamed the Connect app to Portable later on. Physical control includes play/pause, volume up/down, Bluetooth, PartyBoost/Connect buttons. With the Flip 3, you can use the Play/pause button to answer phone calls.  

Cost:

 JBL Flip 3 and Flip 5 are affordable Bluetooth speakers that are available under $100.

FAQ

What is the best alternative to the JBL Flip 3 and Flip 5 speakers?

You can have a look at the Bose SoundLink Flex. This speaker can deliver balanced sound with deeper bass. You can crank up the volume without noticing any major distortions. It is also versatile as it supports voice assistants.   

Are portable Bluetooth speakers powerful enough for open spaces?

Portable speakers like JBL Flip 3 and Flip 5 are built in such a way that they are ideal for open fields and other areas like porch, picnic spaces, pools or beaches. They are powerful enough to produce sound for such places. That said, since you are using the speaker outdoors, you need to be forgiving about what you hear.