Design and build:

JBL Flip 4 and 6 models are available in several colors.

Similarities:

Since they belong to the same line up, size and looks are similar. They are almost the same size and weight. They have the popular cylindrical body covered with fabric grille. Build quality is long lasting, seems rugged and durable.

Differences:

Comparing JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 6, the Flip 6 has an IP67 rating which means it is resistant against dust and water. On the other hand, the Flip 4 has IPX7 rating so if you take it outdoors make sure you do not expose it to dust prone areas.

Performance:

JBL Flip 4 and Flip 6 speakers have difference in their sound performance.

Similarities:

They can get quite loud and play without distortion at moderate volumes.

Differences:

JBL Flip 4 has two 1.56” driver and 2 1.5” passive radiators. It uses half the power of JBL Flip 6 which has 0.625" dome tweeter and 1.75" x 3" woofer along with 2 1.75” passive radiators. Another major difference is, the Flip 4 plays in stereo whereas the Flip 6 plays sound in mono mode. Comparing JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 6, the Flip 6 has better performance.

It has independent woofer that delivers deep and clean bass. High ends are detailed and rich, mids are decent. Although JBL Flip 4 plays in stereo, it sounds average in such a compact speaker.

Use case:

Due to low latency, JBL Flip 4 is suitable for movies. It can deliver clear vocals so you will not have nay problem in understanding. Both the speakers are good for music. They are suitable to take outdoors and will be able to withstand sudden water splashes.

Ease of use:

Just like any portable speaker, the Flip 4 and 6 are easy to use.

Battery life:

As per the JBL website, both speakers should run for 12 hours. As we played and tested, the Flip 4 can last around 5 to 6 hours. The Flip 6 is a bit better and can play around 6 to 8 hours. Users also reported that the Flip 4 lasts longer for around 9 hours. Charging method varies as well. While the Flip 6 uses USB-C charging, the Flip 4 has micro USB.

Control options:

Control options are basic and easy to use. Both speakers have play/pause, volume up/down, Bluetooth and multiple speaker pairing button (PartyBoost for Flip 6, Connect+ for Flip 4). In terms of mobile app, they use the same app but the Flip 6 comes with EQ options. The Flip 4 does not have any additional button for phone call or voice assistant. You need to use the play/pause button for that.

Portability:

They come with a little carrying strap making it easier to carry with one hand. They are compact in size and lightweight, so they are highly portable.

Features:

JBL Flip 4 and Flip 6 differs in terms of features.

Connectivity:

One major difference between JBL Flip 4 and 6 is their available ports. Flip 6 has no port and relies only on Bluetooth. The Flip 4 has aux input along with Bluetooth. While both shows stable Bluetooth connection, the Flip 4 has much lower latency.

Multi-device pairing:

JBL Flip 4 uses the older Connect+ technology to connect multiple speakers. JBL Flip 6 uses the PartyBoost method. You can not connect JBL Flip 4 to Flip 6 due to this difference.

Others:

Comparing JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 6, the Flip 4 has built-in microphone which means you can take phone calls through the speaker. It also supports voice assistants through the phone like Google Now and Siri. These make the JBL Flip 4 one of the best versatile Bluetooth speakers in the market.

Cost:

JBL Flip 6 is cheaper than the Flip 4. The Flip 4 is packed with features which might be a reason for the price hike. It is available under $150. Flip 6 is available under $100.

FAQ:

Are portable speakers powerful enough?

Portable speakers are powerful but not as much as bookshelf speakers. JBL manufactures some of the best portable speakers at a reasonable price. Flip 4 and 6 are some examples of it. These speakers can make music listening experience enjoyable indoors and outdoors.

Can I connect JBL Flip 6 to Sonos?

JBL Fip 6 will not connect to Sonos or portable speaker from any other brand. They will connect to JBL speakers that are compatible with PartbyBoost feature only.