JBL flip 3 review- Features, Good, Bad [2023 Edition]

JBL released the JBL flip 3 in 2015; it was another perfect JBL product to add to the list. Though there already is a newer version, the flip 4, the JBL flip 3 still has charm.

The JBL flip 3 is currently the cheapest in the flip series going for $89.99. In this flip 3 review, we’ll see if the price determines the quality.

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Specifications

• Dimensions (in) – 2.5 x 6.7 x 2.5
• Weight (lbs) – 0.99
  Bluetooth version – 4.1
• Maximum music playing time (hrs) – 10
• Battery capacity (mAh) – 3,000
• Charging time (hrs) – 3.5
• Output power (W) – 2 x 8
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio – Less than 80dB
• Frequency Response – 85Hz – 20kHz
• Output power – 2 x 8W
• Transducer – 2 x 40mm
• 3.5 mm audio cable Input

Performance

The JBL flip 3 is fitted with the latest Bluetooth connectivity (4.1), making connecting with other devices much easier. You can connect up to three devices simultaneously at 30 feet from the speaker. This is, however, quite low as speakers these days can go up to 100 feet.

One thing I love about this JBL flip 3 splashproof wireless Bluetooth speaker is its wired connection. Even though it has a perfect wireless connection, you can still use an auxiliary cable to connect to another device, and they also provide a 3-foot USB cable.

The speaker function on this flip-3 is perfect. It has a built-in microphone that allows you to take calls hassle-free. The sound is also very clear and audible.

This JBL 3 is also very easy to use. The onboard controls are easily accessible and straight to the point, so you can operate your speaker however you want.  

You can use the call button on your phone to control the JBL speaker flip 3. Press it once to play audio, twice to skip forward, and thrice to skip back. You can also connect to other JBL flip speakers for a better sound experience, and they’ll act as support speakers for a surround sound effect.

The battery life of this JBL flip 3 Bluetooth speaker is quite disappointing. Compared to competitors who are now even going for 18 hours, this speaker could have done better than 10 hours. Even worse, it depends on how much you use your JBL Bluetooth speaker flip 3, meaning it could go for less.

Any decent outdoor speaker at the moment is either splashproof or completely waterproof, and this JBL flip 3 waterproof did not disappoint. Once you cover the ports with the sealable flap, you can clean them under a running tap. I do not recommend this, though. The flip3 speaker can take a lot of splashing but cannot be submerged in water. 

Pros

• Has splash-proof fabric
• Can be carried around easily
• It’s affordable
• Good sound quality

Cons

• The battery life is mediocre
• It cannot be submerged in water
• It has no playback controls

UE Boom vs. JBL Flip 3

Differences

	UE Boom	JBL Flip 3
Frequency Response	90-20K	85-20K
Midrange Size	1.75	1.5625
Battery life	15 hours	10 hours
Waterproof	Can be submerged in water	Can’t be submerged in water
Bluetooth connections	Up to 8 smartphones	Up to 3 smartphones

Similarities

• They have the same mid-range type
• Both Support hands-free calling
• Their aux inputs are the same (3.5mm)
• They do not charge other devices via USB

JBL Flip 3 vs. Bose Soundlink Color

Differences

	Bose Soundlink	JBL Flip 3
Battery Life	8 hours	10 hours
Controls	Buttons	Touch
Bluetooth	4.2	4.1
Drivers	2 x 1.57” / 40mm	1 x 57” / 40mm
Noise Cancellation	No	Yes

Similarities

• Both can connect at a 30ft range
• Both have built-in microphones.
• They’re both splash-proof
• They both have stereo speakers

Conclusion

This flip3 review highlights the features available on the JBL flip 3 speaker. It may not be the best in the pack, but from the many flip 3 reviews customers have made, it is not disappointing. However, by today’s standards, it may not be the best option to give you great sound satisfaction, so instead of getting the JBL flip3, consider spending a little more to get the upgraded version, the Flip 4 or Flip 5.

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