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JBL Clip 5 vs JBL Clip 4: Which ultra-portable speaker is better?
May 30, 2025
JBL released the Clip 5 last year, the latest iteration of its ultra-portable, backpack-ready speaker. We discovered it brings some meaningful upgrades over its predecessor, once again making it a standout in the compact speaker category.
In this article comparing the JBL Clip 5 and JBL Clip 4, we’ll outline these improvements to help you decide which of these adventure-ready Bluetooth speakers is worth your money.
- On May 30th, 2025, to mention the JBL Flip 7 and Soundcore Select 4 Go as modern alternatives.
What’s it like to use the JBL Clip 5 compared to the JBL Clip 4?
Physically, the new Clip 5 doesn’t stray too far from the Clip 4 design. It retains its IP67 protection rating, making it dustproof and waterproof. Of course, you still get the signature carabiner, but now, with more distance between the top of the unit and the bottom of the carabiner, the Clip 5 does better with placement options.
While the Clip 4’s integrated carabiner design extends around the speaker enclosure, almost as a bumper for protection, the Clip 5 has a more low-profile design, with rubberized silicone protecting the speaker’s edges instead. Controls are virtually the same; your raised playback buttons are on the face of the speaker in typical JBL fashion.
However, a new mini-control strip is integrated into this silicone on the left side of the Clip 5. It comprises your power, Bluetooth, and a new Auracast button for connecting to other Auracast-supported JBL speakers. There are minor design changes, but the new Clip 5 is dead simple to use, just like the Clip 4.
Should you use the apps of either JBL Clip 5 or JBL Clip 4?
Here is the most significant upgrade to the JBL Clip 5. It now features support from the JBL Portable companion app, which is a big deal because the Clip 4 has no software support. This now means EQ options, including a 5-band customizable EQ so you can personalize the sound of your Clip 5.
The app will also allow you to pair a second Clip 5 for stereo performance, link up with other Auracast-supported JBL speakers like the new Go 4 and Xtreme 4, and access any potential firmware updates.
The Clip 5 connects to your device via Bluetooth 5.3 and supports multipoint connection if you and a friend want to take turns cueing up your favorite party tunes. The Clip 4 connects to your device via Bluetooth 5.1 and does not feature multipoint. Both speakers are SBC only.
Another point for the Clip 5 here. JBL has improved its performance, offering 12 hours of playback compared to 10 hours from the Clip 4. Of course, your mileage will vary depending on factors like volume and your EQ settings.
Does the JBL Clip 5 sound better than the JBL Clip 4?
You need to have reasonable sound expectations for smaller, mono Bluetooth speakers. You won’t exactly be rattling any windows with its bass response, but cutting right to the chase, the Clip 5 sounds better than the Clip 4 for several reasons.
Firstly, we see a wattage increase. The Clip 5 now offers 7W of output compared to the 5W output provided by the Clip 4. The second reason the Clip 5 sounds better is its customizable sound. For example, diving into the 5-band EQ will allow you to squeeze more low-end out of this ultra-portable speaker, compared to being stuck with the Clip 4’s stock sound, no matter what genre you’re listening to.
Increasing the treble frequencies also naturally helps reveal cymbal-related details and liven up some reverberated vocal tones in rock and instrument-based music. Experimenting with the 5-band EQ to customize your sound can make your time with the Clip 5 even more enjoyable, even though adding the extra bass might cost you some battery life.
Should you get the JBL Clip 5 or JBL Clip 4?
There’s no need to beat around the bush here. With companion app support, better battery life, and even more output, the new JBL Clip 5 is undoubtedly the better Bluetooth speaker to buy. It’s as simple as that.
What should you get instead of the JBL Clip 5 and JBL Clip 4?
If you’re on a budget but still want an ultra-portable speaker to take with you on your next adventure, check out the JBL Go 4. ($49.95 at Amazon) You won’t get the same performance; the Clip 5 has a better bass response thanks to its higher wattage. However, the Go 4 is still ultra-portable and weighs less than half a pound.
Similarly, the Soundcore Select 4 Go is also worth a look. It offers the same IP67 protection rating, but an even more customizable sound, thanks to its 9-band custom EQ. Find one for $34.99 at Amazon.
If you’re looking for something a bit larger with more output, the JBL Flip 7 ($149 at Amazon) is worth considering. It delivers higher wattage and improved durability, offering a solid performance upgrade while still being easy to pack. Check out our video above to see what the Flip 7 brings to the picnic table.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Both speakers have an IP67 rating, meaning they can survive a dunk in water up to a meter for 30 minutes.
No. The Clip 5 can only connect to recently updated JBL speakers like the Go 4 and Xtreme 4.
The Clip 5 has the JBL Portable app, but there is no software support for the Clip 4.
Yes. Either speaker can be used while charging.
No. Neither the Clip 5 nor the Clip 4 feature a microphone.
No. Neither the Clip 5 nor the Clip 4 feature an AUX input. Bluetooth is your only connection option.