In addition to the handy Go 4, JBL has also updated the robust Clip speaker, which comes with a practical hanging hook. The JBL Clip 5 now finally also has app support, an equalizer and Auracast. Find out more in our test.
Technical data
| The product | Clip 5 |
| Power output | 7 watts |
| Bluetooth version | 5.3 |
| Connections | USB-C (charging port) |
| Codecs | SBC |
| Battery capacity | unknown |
| Battery life | up to 12 hours |
| Special features | IP67 certification, Auracast, snap hook |
| Size | 86 mm x 135 mm x 46 mm |
| Weight | 287 grams |
| Scope of delivery | Clip 5; charging cable (USB-A to USB-C); quick start guide |
| Price | € 66.89 * |
JBL Clip 5 test: Hang it higher
- handy design, low weight
- Practical carabiner hook; but cannot be used upright
- waterproof design
The handy JBL Clip 5 weighs just 287 grams and, alongside the Go 4, forms the lower end of the Harman subsidiary’s Bluetooth speaker range. Measuring 86 mm x 135 mm x 46 mm, it is only slightly larger than the Go, but no longer quite fits in a trouser pocket.
However, this is only due to the integrated snap hook on the top. This allows the clip to be hung on many surfaces, while the hook is also pleasantly robust thanks to the metal and is very easy to open without being too loose.
This is very practical, but due to its rounded shape, the speaker cannot be placed upright and can only be used lying down or hanging.
Otherwise, the Clip 5 also relies on a robust and high-quality mesh design and is fully protected against the ingress of water thanks to IP67 certification. This means that the Clip 5 is just as well equipped for hiking tours as it is for a relaxing day by the sea or in the swimming pool. Or for use in the bathroom while showering.
Operation, app and battery life
- Intuitive operation
- App with equalizer
- 12 hours battery life
The operating concept of the JBL Clip 5 is similar to that of the Go 4. On the front you will find the three main buttons, which are responsible for playback control and increasing and decreasing the volume.
On the left-hand side, next to the power and Bluetooth buttons, is the Auracast button, which can be used to pair two Clip 5s as a stereo pair and to connect several compatible speakers in series. Too bad: Unfortunately, it is not possible to skip to the previous or next song at the touch of a button.
JBL Portable is used as a companion app, but its range of functions is just as limited as that of the Go 4. At least there is now app support with equalizer and custom EQ – which was not the case with the predecessors.
It is also possible to extend the battery life using PlaytimeBoost. However, this is noticeably at the expense of sound quality and is not really recommended.
Keyword battery life: The JBL Clip 5 has a strong 12 hours, even though the housing itself is only slightly larger than that of the Go 4. This is a really strong value for such a handy speaker. The PlaytimeBoost increases the runtime by an additional three hours. A similarly compact Marshal Willen (our test) lasts even longer – up to 15 hours are possible here.
Sound quality of the JBL Clip 5
While the Go 4 was already convincing with its lively and full sound, the JBL Clip 5 goes one better. Even if it is beyond 70 percent of the maximum volume.
This is mainly due to the increased power of the driver, which here delivers 7 watts. The sound is pleasantly balanced with a significantly greater emphasis on the treble, which gives instrumental music and vocals more brilliance and airiness.
On the other hand, the Clip 5 doesn’t sound as fun and relaxed as the Go 4 and can quickly sound a little overambitious and strained on some songs. However, the 5-band equalizer can also be used to quickly remedy this. Overall, the Clip 5 sounds really good for its size and scores with a strong maximum volume. At very high levels, however, it tends to distort, but this is quite normal.
Listening to music with the JBL Clip 5 is a real pleasure, across all genres. This is especially true if you actually hang the speaker on an object. This is because the sound cannot fully unfold when it is lying down.
JBL Clip 5 test: Conclusion
Small, light, robust and quite powerful. The JBL Clip 5 offers a lot for very little money. The robust and waterproof design makes it an interesting companion for the bathroom, but also for outdoor trips or relaxing days at the swimming pool.
JBL rounds it all off with a convincing battery life and a practical snap hook with which the speaker can be hung up. Which it should be, as otherwise you will have to accept a loss of sound quality.
JBL Clip 5
Workmanship
Usability
Sound quality
Features
Value For Money
85/100
Handy, waterproof and sonically convincing Bluetooth speaker at an affordable price, which justifies the extra charge over the Go 4 thanks to its better sound and longer battery life.
