The JBL Clip 5 arrives as the latest evolution in ultra-portable audio, and I found myself genuinely surprised by what this palm-sized speaker delivers. After weeks of testing across various environments—from morning showers to camping trips—the JBL Clip 5 has proven itself as more than just another small Bluetooth speaker.
Design and Build Excellence
The JBL Clip 5 immediately impresses with its thoughtful design improvements over its predecessor. I particularly appreciated the completely redesigned carabiner, which features a wider opening that makes clipping significantly easier. During my testing, I successfully attached it to everything from my gym bag to bicycle handlebars without any stability concerns.
The build quality feels premium despite the £59.99 price point. The speaker combines woven fabric covering with a silicone midsection, creating a tactile experience that suggests durability. I found the five rubber strips on the back provide excellent grip when laying the speaker flat, though I wished it could stand upright for desktop use.
JBL's commitment to environmental responsibility shows through the incorporation of post-consumer recycled materials in both the speaker grille fabric and packaging. The IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating isn't just marketing speak—I've used this speaker in the shower countless times and even subjected it to our pool submersion test with zero issues.
Audio Performance That Surprises
For a speaker that fits comfortably in one hand, the JBL Clip 5's audio capabilities genuinely impressed me. The 7W output represents a 40% increase over the previous Clip 4, and this power boost translates into noticeably better performance across all frequencies.
Bass response deserves particular praise. Tracks like Massive Attack's "Angel" revealed the speaker's ability to deliver low-frequency impact that you can actually feel through surfaces. The high-bass boost compensates cleverly for the physical limitations of the 1.75-inch driver, ensuring kick drums and basslines maintain their punch without overwhelming the mix.
Vocal clarity remained consistently impressive throughout my testing. I found dialogue in podcasts crisp and detailed, while singers like Justin Hawkins from The Darkness came through with remarkable presence and depth. The mid-range balance allows instruments to layer naturally without competing for attention.
However, the JBL Clip 5 does reveal limitations when pushed hard. Above 75% volume, I noticed treble frequencies developing a harsh, tinny edge that becomes particularly apparent with complex orchestral pieces. The mono output represents an inevitable compromise for this form factor, but the outstanding directivity means audio remains consistent regardless of listening position.
Smart Features and App Integration
The JBL Portable app transforms the Clip 5 from a simple speaker into a customisable audio device. I found the five-band equaliser particularly useful for tailoring sound to different music genres, though the three preset options (JBL Signature, Energetic, and Vocal) cover most users' needs effectively.
Auracast connectivity impressed during group testing sessions. Pairing the Clip 5 with other compatible JBL speakers created an expanded soundscape that maintained synchronisation perfectly. The PartyTogether mode makes multi-speaker setup genuinely effortless—a significant improvement over previous connection methods.
Bluetooth 5.3 provides rock-solid connectivity with multipoint support, allowing seamless switching between devices. I experienced no dropouts even at extended ranges, and the connection process remains consistently reliable across different device types.
Battery Performance and Practical Use
Real-world battery testing revealed performance that largely matches JBL's claims. At moderate 50% volume, I achieved approximately 11.5 hours of continuous playback—impressive for such a compact device. Higher volume levels naturally reduce this to around 6-7 hours, but this remains competitive within the ultra-portable category.
The charging experience proves hassle-free with the included USB-A to USB-C cable. I appreciated the automatic power-off feature that activates after 20 minutes of inactivity, helping preserve battery during forgetful moments.
Value Proposition and Competition
At £59.99, the JBL Clip 5 occupies a challenging position in the portable speaker market. The price represents a significant jump from the JBL Go 4, though the audio quality improvements justify the premium for users prioritising sound performance over budget constraints.
Compared to the larger JBL Flip 5, the Clip 5 trades volume and battery life for ultimate portability. I found this trade-off worthwhile for active lifestyles where the carabiner attachment proves indispensable.
Final Assessment
The JBL Clip 5 succeeds brilliantly at its primary mission: delivering surprisingly good audio in an extremely portable package. While it can't defy physics regarding deep bass extension or maximum volume, it provides remarkably satisfying performance within realistic expectations.
I found the JBL Clip 5 particularly excellent for solo listening scenarios—morning workouts, shower sessions, and outdoor activities where traditional speakers prove impractical. The improved carabiner design and robust IP67 rating make it a reliable adventure companion, while app integration provides welcome customisation flexibility.
The audio quality improvements over previous generations, combined with enhanced features and build quality, make the JBL Clip 5 a worthwhile investment despite premium pricing. For users seeking genuine portability without significant audio compromise, few alternatives match its combination of convenience and performance.