JBL FLIP 4

Design & Construction

JBL's most popoular, bestseller speaker is back in demand. The Flip 4 launches to replace the older Flip 3. Taking the same design cues from its predecessor, the speaker measures approximately 68 x 175 x 70 (mm) and weighs 515g. Rugged fabric material surrounds the whole peaker with rubber pads at the bottom and dual passive radiators at the side of the speaker. It is good to know that the speaker is now IPX7 rated for waterproofing. However, the speaker does not float so if you drop it into a deep river, you might need to jump in immediately to retrieve it. All the controls are at the top of the speaker. There is (From Left To Right): the Bluetooth Pairing button, the Volume buttons and the Play/Pause button. There are also another 2 buttons and a 5 LED indicator for battery life right above the row of controls; the Power button and JBL Connect+ button. The Play/Pause button can be customised to allow easy access to Google Assistant via the JBL Connect App, downloadable via the App & Play Store. Moving down and under the water protection flap, there is the 3.5mm input for wired usage and a Micro-USB port for charging.

Sound Quality

The sound reproduction of the Flip 4 is what you can expect from a speaker of this size. At 75% volume, it can fill a mid-sized room. The bass hits deep and slightly better than competitors of similar sizes. Highs sound bright and are not too sharp to listen to. Mids are very forward but small details do get drown out a bit due to the lack of soundstage. However, these characteristics are apparent on speakers of this sizes as the drivers are positioned near each other. Adding a 100 other speakers like another Flip 4 or other newer JBL speakers with the JBL Connect+ feature is possible if you need louder sound. However, do note that only JBL speakers with Connect+ feature will work only. Call quality is average, the caller on the other end managed to hear me but said that the background noises were rather prominent, hence I need to raise my voice slightly or move closer to the speakerphone to make a call. 

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Connectivity & Portability

Bluetooth Ver 4.2 and a 3.5mm audio-in port is offered for wired usage. Its battery life peaks at a maximum of 12 hrs. The speaker does charge with the standard Micro-USB cable. The package also include a carry strap for you t ohang the speaker at a height for listening enjoyment.

PROS

• Durable Construction

• Bright Sound Signature

• Rugged & Rounded Design

• A Range Of Colours

• Wireless Party Chain

• Long Battery Life

• IPX7 Water-Proof

• 360° Sound

• Carry Strap

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CONS

• Not Dust-proof

• Does Not Float In Water

• No 360° Sound

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The Bottom Line

The JBL Flip 4 is one speaker you to consider if you are looking to upgrade your small portable speaker. With a bright and boomy sound signature and durable build. it is suitable for personal enjoyment and life on-the-go. A range of colours will also suit every type and gender of users.

WE RATE IT!

9.5/10