JBL is probably the most popular brand name in the portable Bluetooth speaker category. While looking for a reliable speaker, you have probably seen the JBL Charge Essential 2 vs Charge 5 comparison. Each claims great sound, durability, and longevity, but which is right for you?
Let’s carefully analyze both speakers, as we will do in this article, from their features and performance to how they compare to one another. By the end of the article, you will know which one is the most appropriate speaker for your needs.
JBL Charge Essential 2 vs Charge 5: A Quick Overview
The JBL Charge Essential 2 and JBL Charge 5 are in the same series, known as the Charge series from JBL. The Charge Essential 2 is a lower-end model that is easy to transport and has great sound. The Charge 5 is the newest model and comes with better sound quality, a tough chassis, and improved features.
Both are meant to be used wherever the customer is. Still, differences exist that need to be considered. Let’s discuss them in detail.
Design and Build Quality
JBL Charge Essential 2: Compact and Cute
The JBL Charge Essential 2 weighs 0.96 kg (2.1 lbs), enabling owners to cram it into a backpack with ease. If you are heading to the beach, lounging at home, or moving from room to room, this compact Bluetooth speaker is easy to carry. Most users will find the minimalist design appealing, and the soft-touch finish plush to the fingers.
Key Features:
- Portable and easy to carry
- IPX7 Waterproof rating: Worry not; poolside parties or lounging on the beach will not be a problem.
- Rubber exterior: Protects the speaker from minor bumps or drops.
JBL Charge 5: Off-road Shape and Need
The JBL Charge 5 weighs 1.0 kg (2.2 lbs), making it slightly bulkier than the Charge Essential 2. However, the added weight comes with benefits. The Charge 5 is designed for more rugged use cases. This means it can survive harsher conditions, making it a great start for any outdoor activities.
Key Features:
- IP67 rated waterproof and dustproof: You can take this speaker to the beach and not worry about getting sand in it.
- Larger body for better sound: This enables the speaker to produce more bass and higher volume.
- Tough exterior: Added shock-resistant materials allow the speaker to take more abuse during drops and bumps.
In terms of portability, the Charge Essential 2 is a lightweight, more ergonomic option. The Charge 5 is more versatile, sturdy, and overall more durable.
Sound Quality: Which Speaker Comes Through More in the Mix?
| Feature | JBL Charge Essential 2 | JBL Charge 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 30 watts | 40 watts |
| Frequency Response | 60 Hz – 20 kHz | 60 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Bass Quality | Balanced bass, not too immersive | Stronger bass, rich, deep, and punchy |
| Key Technology | JBL Bass Radiators | JBL PartyBoost, larger passive radiator |
JBL Charge Essential 2: Balanced Sound for Casual Listening
The JBL Charge Essential 2 has enhanced low-frequency delicacy thanks to its specially equipped JBL Bass Radiators. This helps it produce a balanced sound with clear trebles and good bass. The bass isn’t nuclear but indeed satisfactory for a casual setting.
Power: 30 watts
Frequency Response: 60 Hz – 20 kHz
Battle Rating: Too strong to quake on its own like the Charge 5, but perfectly fine for most occasions.
JBL Charge 5: Stronger Sound and More Bass
The JBL Charge 5 represents the next level of superior sound. The added drivers, alongside the larger passive radiator, allow for even stronger bass, punchy highs, and brilliant vocals. The technology that makes all of that possible is called JBL PartyBoost.
Power: 40 watts
Frequency Response: 60 Hz – 20 kHz
Battle Rating: Too powerful for the Charge Essential 2. Mind-blowing quakes AND deep vocals with thumping highs.
In terms of sound quality, the Charge 5 Bluetooth speaker delivers richer bass and is more immersive compared to the Charge Essential 2, making it more suitable for active and social usage. For casual uses and small spaces, the Charge Essential 2 does its job perfectly.
Battery Life: Keep the Music Going
| Feature | JBL Charge Essential 2 | JBL Charge 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 20 hours (may extend up to 50 hours at low volume) | 20 hours (more efficient) |
| Charging Time | 2.5 hours with USB-C | 2.5 hours with USB-C |
JBL Charge Essential 2: Good, But Not the Best
For people who want to keep the music going for an extended period, both speakers can last approximately 20 hours, with the Charge Essential 2 lasting the longest. Most suitable for beach trips or camping, but don’t expect to use them for multiple days without charging it.
Battery Life: 20 hours (may extend up to 50 hours at low volume)
Charging Time: Almost 2.5 hours through a USB-C.
JBL Charge 5: Longer and More Efficient
With 5 more hours of charging and the use of the Charge 5, it becomes more efficient. The speaker lasts longer and is perfect for situations where over-hearing is not an issue.
Verdict: Both the Charge Essential 2 and Charge 5 have the same battery life. However, the Charge 5 is able to recover faster and is perfect for those who want better battery usage efficiency.
Connectivity: Maintain the Connection
| Feature | JBL Charge Essential 2 | JBL Charge 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
| PartyBoost | No | Yes |
| Connection Range | Standard Bluetooth range | Extended Bluetooth range |
JBL Charge Essential 2: Regular Bluetooth
The Charge Essential 2 comes with Bluetooth version 4.2, which is good enough for the average user. Although it is possible to link many devices at the same time, other connection options are missing that the Charge 5 has.
Key Features:
- Bluetooth 4.2: Good enough for daily tasks.
- JBL Connect: Lets you connect various JBL speakers for a heightened sound experience.
JBL Charge 5: Enhanced Connectivity
The Charge 5 has Bluetooth version 5.1, which helps in easier and stronger connections at greater distances. It also has JBL PartyBoost, which lets the user link the speaker with another PartyBoost-compatible speaker for enhanced stereo sound.
Key Features:
- Bluetooth 5.1: Stronger and more power-saving.
- PartyBoost: Joins up with other JBL speakers that have the PartyBoost feature.
The JBL Charge 5 has better connectivity features, which allow users to connect several devices or speakers at once. On the other hand, the JBL Charge Essential 2 has fewer advanced functionalities, making it more suitable for casual users.
Pricing:
You can get the JBL Charge Essential 2 between $100 and $120, making it the cheaper option, considering the Charge 5 price range is between $150 and $180.
For Charge Essential 2 users that are budget-conscious, it’s a good product to get. For those that don’t mind paying a little more for enhanced features, the Charge 5 is ideal for them.
Conclusion
In the end, it’s all a matter of preference. Both the JBL Charge Essential 2 and Charge 5 have commendable sound quality, portability, and durability, all while remaining at reasonable prices. The Charge 5 version has a better-sounding speaker, extended battery life, and a more rugged design compared to the Charge 2 version, making it ideal for users who require a little more.
In the end, it all comes down to what is important to you. If additional features and more powerful sound are what you want, the Charge 5 excels in those areas. However, if you’re looking for something smaller and cheaper, the Charge Essential 2 will do the job well.
The real question is, are you ready for the powerful music experience of the JBL Charge 5, or do you feel like the Charge Essential 2 suffices your needs?
