JBL Grip vs Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen): Which ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker is better?

The JBL Grip and Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) are brand-new ultra-portable Bluetooth speakers for 2025. Both promise rugged build quality and reliable sound in a compact, go-anywhere frame. I’ve tested both, and while the JBL brings the flash with LED lighting and app-based EQ, the Bose refines its portable design with a redesigned strap and updated connectivity. So, which one earns a spot in your bag? Let’s find out in this JBL Grip vs Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) article.

What’s it like to use the JBL Grip compared to the Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)?

The JBL Grip and Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) are both built for portability and designed to withstand the great outdoors. The JBL Grip resembles a mini upright Flip 7, with a tall, cylindrical body that’s easy to grab with one hand. I like how it stands upright on a desk and fits easily into a backpack. Its IP68 rating, fabric shell, and rear LED strip make it outdoor-ready. At 385g, and with a built-in carrying loop, the Grip has no problem tagging along on your next adventure.

The Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) sticks to its palm-sized, rectangular roots. It’s slightly lighter at 330g, and the new removable fabric strap makes it easy to attach to a bike or bag. Bose kept the soft silicone exterior, and it now charges via USB-C. One tradeoff: there’s no built-in mic this time compared to the original. It’s also IP67-rated for protection against the elements. Whichever speaker you choose, you won’t have to baby it.

Does the JBL Grip or Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) have more features?

Both speakers offer app support and stereo playback when paired with an identical model, but JBL pulls slightly ahead when it comes to fun and flexibility. The JBL Grip includes a customizable 7-band EQ, a built-in carabiner loop for easy attachment, and a playful ambient lighting strip that adds visual flair during playback. These features make it feel a bit more versatile and party-ready.

The Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) counters with a 3-band EQ, support for aptX on Snapdragon devices, and a programmable shortcut button. You can set this button for quick access to Spotify Tap or to instantly link with other compatible Bose speakers.

While both are well-equipped, JBL wins for its broader customization and the addition of lighting — a small but fun bonus for casual use.

How do the JBL Grip and Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) connect?

Both speakers connect to your device via Bluetooth 5.4. The JBL Grip supports the SBC and AAC codecs and JBL’s new Auracast connectivity, which lets you link it with other compatible JBL speakers like the Charge 6 or Flip 7 for multi-speaker setups. Just a heads-up: it does not support older PartyBoost speakers like the Charge 5 or Flip 6.

The Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) also supports SBC and AAC, and uniquely includes aptX Adaptive for Snapdragon device users — a nice perk if you have a compatible phone. It supports multipoint pairing, so you can stay connected to two devices simultaneously. The Micro can also sync with other recent Bose speakers like the SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen), SoundLink Max, and SoundLink Plus for synchronized mono playback.

Is battery life better on the JBL Grip or Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)?

The JBL Grip advertises up to 14 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is excellent for a speaker in this size class. However, the last two hours are only achievable by engaging JBL’s PlayTime Boost feature. It sounds fancy, but it’s really just an EQ preset that cuts a significant chunk of the bass response to prevent the speaker from working too hard. It doesn’t sound particularly great.

In comparison, the Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) offers up to 12 hours of battery life — a solid improvement over the first generation, which topped out around 6 hours. While both speakers can get you through a full day of moderate use, the JBL Grip still holds a slight edge in overall endurance.

Does the JBL Grip sound better than the Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)?

Both speakers deliver impressive audio for their sizes, but the JBL Grip edges ahead in overall tonal balance and clarity.

The Grip uses a single full-range driver with dual passive radiators to achieve punchy bass and clear treble. Jamming to tracks like Tame Impala’s “The Less I Know the Better,” the Grip reproduced the bass guitar with more bass precision and depth, offering less muddiness and a fuller low-end than the Clip 5 — and outperforming the Bose Micro (2nd Gen) in bass strength. Rock tracks like “Back in Black” by AC/DC have enough brilliance in the treble and midrange strength to keep the guitars upfront, right down to the pick attack on the strings. While it can’t move as much air as the Flip 7, the Grip still produces a full sound with satisfying low-end impact for its compact size.

The Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) also impressed me with its clarity and natural tonal balance. It follows Bose’s signature tuning, delivering detailed treble, slightly recessed mids, and surprisingly controlled bass for such a small speaker. On synthwave tracks like “Jason” by The Midnight, the synth bass provided a steady pulse, though the recessed midrange pushed some of the synths further back in the mix than I prefer. At higher volumes, Bose’s DSP reduces low-end energy to prevent distortion, resulting in a cleaner but less powerful presentation compared to JBL.

The JBL Grip works well for small gatherings or casual hangs with a few friends. Meanwhile, the SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) feels better suited for personal listening or more intimate settings with just one or two people.

Should you get the JBL Grip or Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)?

Buy the JBL Grip if you want a more feature-packed portable speaker with stronger bass, a cool ambient lighting strip, and a customizable 7-band EQ. It’s also slightly cheaper at $99.95, making it a better overall value for casual outdoor use.

Choose the Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) if you prefer its more rectangular shape and premium build quality, or if you’re already in the Bose ecosystem with another current SoundLink speaker. It supports aptX for Snapdragon devices and delivers excellent sound quality at moderate volumes right out of the box. At $129, it’s a more premium pick.

If your goal is to pack the most fun and flexibility into a small speaker, the JBL Grip is the smarter buy. But if you want that familiar Bose sound in the smallest possible form factor, the SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen) remains a satisfying — if pricier — companion.

What should you get instead of the JBL Grip and Bose SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen)?

If you’re after something more budget-friendly, you’ve got a few good options. While these speakers don’t quite match the output of the JBL Grip or the SoundLink Micro (2nd Gen), they cost significantly less. For something ultra-compact, check out the JBL Go 4 ($49.95 at Amazon). The Soundcore Select 4 Go ($34.99 at Amazon)is another great-performing, grab-and-go speaker — and it even offers a 9-band EQ to customize the sound to your liking. Lastly, the JBL Clip 5 ($79.95 at Amazon) remains a popular choice thanks to its integrated carabiner.