JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 3 Review

JBL’s Flip 3 was met with many great reviews, but can their newly released fourth generation Flip speaker hold its own compared to its predecessor? Get all the details in our JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 3 review.

JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 3 Review

JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 3 – Packaging

First, there are a few noticeable differences from the get go. The JBL Flip 4 ships in a box that is slimmer and taller than that of the Flip 3. This is essentially indicative of the shape of the fourth generation speaker, which is now slightly slimmer and taller.

JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 3 – Build & Design

The JBL Flip 3 measures up at 64 x 169 x 64 mm while JBL Flip 4 is at 68 x 175 x 70 mm. In addition, the Flip 3 is a bit lighter, weighing 450 grams while the Flip 4 weighs 515 grams. In all honesty, the slender frame feels better in my hand. It’s not a huge difference, but a tiny alteration that makes the speaker feel that much more portable. The slim body seamlessly slips into the corner of my purse as easy as it slips into the palm of my hand. No need to tightly grip the unit with my fingers. Also, the flat strip along the body of the Flip 4 is built so that the speaker is less prone to rolling about when the bass rattles the speaker.

When it comes to aesthetic, I noticed both ends of the speaker feature a geometric-dash design over the company logo. The former model featured a solid logo.

JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 3 – Features

The exterior still showcases tightly woven mesh fabric and rubber housing that is durable enough for transporting to work, the gym, and even the pool. However, the fiber of the JBL Flip 4 feels softer. Still wondering if this is just all me, but it feels smoother. Maybe this has something to do with the Flip 4 being completely waterproof with a grade of IPX7. This basically means the speaker can be submerged under water for about half an hour. The Flip 3 is splash proof, not waterproof, so it can withstand a little rain and a splash in a pool from time to time – but no skinny dipping!

JBL speakers also incorporate Connect technology which allows users to sync multiple speakers together for a more immersive experience. The Flip 3 is built with Connect while Flip 4 uses Connect+ which permits up to 100 other Connect+ enabled devices to sync together. This is perfect for house parties!

JBL Flip 4 vs Flip 3 – Sound

When it comes to sound, the Flip 3 reaches a frequency response range of 85 to 20,000 Hertz while the Flip 4 extends a bit deeper, reaching a frequency response range between 70 to 20,000 Hertz. Listening to the speakers side-by-side you can hear quite a difference. The Flip 4 features a more relaxed bass line than the Flip 3. The mids and highs sparkle above the bass and are a bit brighter. Regardless, there is clarity and detail across the frequency range. The Flip 3, on the other hand, sounds boomier with less accuracy. The highs and mids are present, but not as pronounced as in the Flip 4. Also, the Flip 3 runs for a total of 10 hours while the Flip 4 runs for up to 12 hours. Both speakers require 3.5 hours to fully re-juice.

All-in-all, the Flip 4 is indeed a better speaker worth the $20 increase in price. The JBL Flip 4 is available at Audio 46 for the lowest price. Use code “majorhifi” to apply discount and receive a percentage off the base price of $99.95. The Flip 4 is also sold on Amazon for $99.95. If the Flip 4 isn’t your thing, check out other Bluetooth speakers at Audio46.com.

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