Design and build:

JBL Xtreme 2 and Charge 5 are available in multiple color options. With Charge 5, you will have more color options to choose from.

Similarities:

The speakers have similar shape and design with a JBL logo at the front of it. The build quality is quite good and sturdy. It has rubber body that protects the speaker and driver along with giving a firm grip.

Differences:

Comparing the JBL Xtreme 2 vs Charge 5, the Xtreme 2 is heavier and larger in size. The Xtreme 2 comes with built-in hooks to attach a carrying strap so that you can easily carry it on your shoulder. It can also be used as bottle opener. While the Xtreme 2 has IPX7 rating, the Charge 5 has IP67 which means it is resistive against dust and water.

Performance:

Comparing JBL Xtreme 2 vs Charge 5, the Xtreme 2 can play sound in stereo mode. JBL Xtreme 2 has two 0.75" tweeters and 2.75" woofers. On the other hand, the Charge 5 has a 0.75" dome tweeter and 2" x 3.5" woofer. JBL Xtreme 2 delivers more balanced sound. It has deeper bass and can get louder than the Charge 5. With high SPL, you can use the Xtreme 2 for large spaces.

Although the highs are average, the mids are precise. It has clear vocals and instrumental sound. The JBL Charge 5 app comes with graphic EQ so you can adjust the level of bass, mid and treble. This helps you to change the sound profile as per your taste. The speakers have average soundstage which is quite expected.

Features:

The Charge 5 and Xtreme 2 differs in terms of features.

Connectivity:

JBL Xtreme 2 and Charge 5 differs in terms of connectivity. While the Xtreme 2 has both aux port and Bluetooth, the Charge 5 only has Bluetooth option. If wired connectivity is important for you, then choose the Xtreme 2 speaker. The Xtreme 2 has good Bluetooth connection with extremely low latency.

Multiple speaker pairing:

JBL Charge 5 vs Xtreme 2 shows that the Charge 5 uses PartyBoost feature and the Xtreme 2 uses the Connect+ feature. Both of them can connect multiple speakers but the Charge 5 will pair with PartyBoost supported JBL speaker whereas the Xtreme 2 will connect with Connect+ speakers. The Charge 5 and Xtreme 2 will not connect with each other.   

Microphone:

Comparing JBL Xtreme 2 vs Charge 5, the Xtreme 2 is a versatile speaker. It has built-in microphone with which you can take crystal clear phone calls. It also supports Google Now and Siri voice assistants.

Ease of use:

The wireless speakers with mobile app and long battery life are quite easy to use.

Battery life:

Both Xtreme 2 and JBL Charge 5 have long battery life. JBL Charge 5 has a playback time of around 12 or 13 hours whereas the Xtreme 2 lasts around 15 hours.

Control options:

Physical options on the speakers are similar and quite basic. There are some differences like the Xtreme 2 has voice assistant option. You can use the play/pause button as voice assistant but for that you will need the app. Mobile apps are available for both speakers named as JBL Portable app.

Portability:

While both are easy to carry on the go, the Charge 5 is more portable due to small size and low weight.

Use case:

Like other JBL Bluetooth speakers, these are designed for indoor and outdoor use. Since the Charge 5 has an IP67 rating, it is suitable to take it beside beaches, pool, kitchen or bathroom. The Charge 5 will be much easier to carry here and there as it is lightweight. These speakers are suitable for medium sized rooms.

Cost:

These are some of the best portable Bluetooth speaker under $150. They are affordable so anyone can buy them.

FAQ:

Do JBL Xtreme 2 and Charge 5 float on water?

None of them can float on water so make sure not to drop them off.

Which Bluetooth speaker has powerful soundstage?

Soundstage is something that we get perfectly from soundbars. However, even the portable speakers are capable of producing decent soundstage. Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 is an excellent speaker with powerful soundstage. It has 360-degree design that can produce sound in all direction. This results in an immersive sound field.