The Soundtrack to Your Adventures, Evolved: Introducing the JBL Clip 5 – What’s New?
In the ever-expanding universe of portable Bluetooth speakers, few product lines have carved out as distinct and beloved a niche as JBL’s Clip series. Renowned for its unique integrated carabiner, rugged build, and surprisingly potent sound for its diminutive size, the Clip has become the go-to audio companion for adventurers, commuters, students, and anyone who values music on the move. Each iteration has brought refinements, building upon the core concept of ultra-portability married with respectable audio performance. Now, the lineage continues with the arrival of the JBL Clip 5.
The announcement of a new Clip model invariably sparks excitement and questions among audio enthusiasts and loyal JBL customers. What improvements does it bring? How does it stack up against its incredibly popular predecessor, the Clip 4? Is the upgrade worthwhile? This article aims to provide a comprehensive, detailed exploration of the JBL Clip 5, meticulously dissecting its design, features, performance, and, most importantly, answering the crucial question: What’s new?
We’ll delve deep into the subtle and significant changes, comparing them directly with the Clip 4 where appropriate, and analysing how these enhancements translate into the real-world user experience. From aesthetic tweaks and structural refinements to potential audio upgrades and expanded connectivity options, join us as we unpack everything the JBL Clip 5 has to offer.
A Legacy of Portable Sound: The Enduring Appeal of the JBL Clip Series
Before we dive into the specifics of the Clip 5, it’s worth appreciating the foundation upon which it’s built. The JBL Clip series didn’t just appear; it evolved.
- The Original JBL Clip & Clip+: These early models established the core concept: a small, puck-shaped speaker with an integrated clip (initially more of a hook or basic carabiner) and surprisingly decent sound for personal listening. They were simple, effective, and introduced the idea of effortlessly attaching your music to your gear. They often included features like a built-in 3.5mm audio cable, highlighting a different era of connectivity.
- JBL Clip 2: This iteration marked a significant step up. It introduced a more robust, fully integrated carabiner design and, crucially, added IPX7 waterproofing. This transformed the Clip from a convenient gadget into a genuinely rugged, adventure-ready speaker. It also featured wireless daisy-chaining, allowing two Clip 2 speakers to connect for amplified sound.
- JBL Clip 3: The Clip 3 refined the design further, adopting a rounder shape and integrating the carabiner more seamlessly into the speaker’s frame, acting as a protective bumper. It maintained the IPX7 rating and offered improved battery life and sound quality over its predecessor. However, it dropped the daisy-chaining feature and the integrated audio cable of earlier models, focusing purely on Bluetooth.
- JBL Clip 4: This was arguably the most significant redesign yet. The Clip 4 adopted a more oval shape, featured a larger, more robust carabiner that was easier to open and felt more premium, and showcased a bold new aesthetic with prominent JBL branding and a wider range of vibrant, dual-tone colourways. It upgraded the charging port to USB-C, improved sound quality with JBL Original Pro Sound tuning, and boasted an IP67 rating (adding dustproof capabilities to the waterproofing). It quickly became a bestseller, lauded for its blend of style, portability, durability, and sound performance at its price point.
The Clip 4 set a high bar. Its success means the Clip 5 enters the market with significant expectations. It needs to not only match the Clip 4’s strengths but also offer tangible improvements to justify its existence and entice users to upgrade or choose it over its still-excellent predecessor.
Unboxing and First Impressions: Setting the Scene for the Clip 5
While the core experience lies in the speaker itself, the initial unboxing often sets the tone. JBL typically employs eco-conscious packaging, often featuring soy-based inks and recyclable materials, a trend likely continued with the Clip 5. Expect a compact box showcasing the speaker prominently, highlighting key features like Bluetooth connectivity, battery life, IP rating, and perhaps any new standout capabilities like app support or multi-speaker pairing.
Inside the box, the contents are usually minimalist, reflecting the speaker’s straightforward nature:
- The JBL Clip 5 Speaker: The main event, immediately noticeable for its design and carabiner.
- USB Type-C Charging Cable: Typically a short, JBL-branded cable in a coordinating colour (often orange).
- Quick Start Guide & Warranty Information: Essential documentation for setup and support.
Holding the Clip 5 for the first time, users familiar with the Clip 4 will likely notice subtle differences in texture, weight distribution, or the feel of the materials. New users will be struck by its compact size, reassuring density, and the tactile quality of the fabric grille and rubberized housing. The star, of course, is the carabiner – its size, mechanism, and integration with the speaker body will be immediate points of focus. Does it feel sturdier? Is the gate wider? Is it easier to operate one-handed? These initial tactile impressions are crucial for a device designed for constant interaction and portability.
Design and Build Quality: Refining a Winning Formula
The visual identity of the Clip series is strong, and JBL rarely makes radical departures. The Clip 5 likely builds upon the Clip 4’s aesthetic language while introducing refinements aimed at improving both form and function.
- Overall Shape and Aesthetics: The Clip 5 appears to retain a similar overall form factor to the Clip 4 – a slightly elongated, rounded shape that fits comfortably in the hand. However, subtle changes in curvature, proportions, or edge finishing might be present to give it a refreshed look. Expect a continuation of the durable fabric grille covering the front speaker driver and a robust, rubberized housing encompassing the sides and back for grip and shock absorption.
- The Carabiner – The Heart of the Clip: This is often the most significant area of evolution between Clip generations. The Clip 4 featured a large, sturdy carabiner integrated into the upper portion of the speaker frame. The key potential change in the Clip 5 is a redesigned carabiner with a noticeably wider opening. This addresses a minor limitation of the Clip 4, where the carabiner, while robust, might have struggled to clip onto thicker straps, branches, or handlebars. A wider gate significantly enhances versatility, making it easier to attach the speaker to a broader range of anchor points. The materials might also be updated – perhaps a different metal finish, a revised hinge mechanism for smoother operation, or subtle changes to its integration with the main speaker body for improved durability or aesthetics. The satisfying click and secure feel of the carabiner are paramount to the Clip experience.
- Materials and Finish: JBL consistently uses high-quality materials for the Clip line. Expect the Clip 5 to feature durable, acoustically transparent fabric for the grille, potentially with updated textures or weave patterns. The surrounding chassis will likely be made of tough plastic with extensive rubberized sections for impact resistance and grip. The interplay between these materials contributes significantly to the speaker’s rugged yet refined feel.
- Colorways: The Clip 4 was known for its extensive and often vibrant dual-tone colour options. The Clip 5 is expected to continue this trend, launching with a fresh palette of colours. These might include classic options like black, blue, and grey, alongside bolder, more contemporary choices, potentially incorporating patterns or subtle gradients, reflecting current design trends. The colour often extends to the carabiner itself, creating a cohesive look.
- Physical Controls: Button placement and tactility are crucial for on-the-go use. The Clip 5 is likely to retain the familiar JBL control layout found on the Clip 4 and other portable speakers: physical buttons for Power, Bluetooth pairing, Play/Pause (which often doubles for track skipping with multiple presses), and Volume Up/Down. These buttons are typically raised and rubberized, located on the top or side edge for easy access without looking. Expect clear tactile feedback – a satisfying click that confirms a press, essential when operating the speaker while it’s clipped to something or in low light. Subtle refinements might include slightly larger buttons, improved spacing, or enhanced weather sealing around them.
- Ports: Simplicity reigns here. The Clip 5 will undoubtedly feature a USB Type-C port for charging, continuing the standard set by the Clip 4. This port is usually covered by a rubber flap to maintain the speaker’s water and dust resistance. It’s unlikely the Clip 5 will reintroduce a 3.5mm auxiliary input, as the focus remains firmly on wireless Bluetooth connectivity for modern devices.
- Durability – Ready for Anything: The Clip 4 boasted an excellent IP67 rating, meaning it was fully dust-tight and could be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The Clip 5 proudly carries forward this IP67 rating. This level of protection is critical for a speaker designed to be used outdoors, near pools, beaches, or even in the shower. It provides peace of mind, ensuring the speaker can handle splashes, rain, accidental dunks, and dusty environments without issue. The combination of the IP rating and the inherently rugged design (rubberized housing, protected driver) makes the Clip 5 a truly resilient audio companion.
Comparing Design: Clip 5 vs. Clip 4
- Carabiner: The most prominent visual and functional difference is likely the wider carabiner gate on the Clip 5, enhancing its clipping versatility compared to the Clip 4.
- Subtle Aesthetics: Minor changes in shape, texture, branding placement (e.g., the size or finish of the JBL logo), and colour options differentiate the Clip 5 visually.
- Core Strengths: Both models share the fundamental design philosophy: fabric grille, rubberized housing, integrated carabiner, USB-C charging, and IP67 rating. The Clip 5 refines rather than revolutionizes the Clip 4’s successful design.
Audio Performance: Bigger Sound from a Small Package?
While portability and durability are key selling points, a speaker is ultimately judged by its sound. The Clip series has always impressed with the volume and clarity it achieves given its small size. The Clip 4 utilized JBL Original Pro Sound tuning to deliver a surprisingly punchy and balanced sound signature. The Clip 5 aims to build on this.
- JBL Original Pro Sound: Expect this branding and audio tuning philosophy to continue. It generally signifies a sound profile that is clear, relatively balanced, with a slight emphasis on bass and treble for an engaging listening experience, especially outdoors where lower frequencies can get lost.
- Driver and Power Output: JBL has likely tweaked the internal components. While official specs might not always detail significant changes, potential improvements could include:
- A slightly more powerful amplifier (perhaps moving from the Clip 4’s 5W RMS to something marginally higher).
- A redesigned transducer (driver) for improved efficiency, better frequency response, or reduced distortion at higher volumes.
- Refined passive radiator implementation (if applicable, though less common in this size) or digital signal processing (DSP) for enhanced bass perception.
- Sound Quality Analysis:
- Bass: Given the physical limitations of a small driver, deep sub-bass is unrealistic. However, the Clip 5 likely aims for punchier, more defined mid-bass than the Clip 4. The goal is presence and rhythm, not room-shaking lows. Expect improvements in bass clarity, avoiding muddiness even at moderate volumes.
- Mids: Vocals and instruments should sound clear and present. JBL typically does well with midrange clarity in its portable speakers. The Clip 5 might offer slightly more detail or a more natural vocal reproduction compared to its predecessor.
- Highs: Treble should be crisp and detailed without sounding harsh or sibilant. This is important for clarity, especially outdoors. The Clip 5 may feature slightly extended or smoother highs.
- Volume and Soundstage: The Clip 5 will likely get marginally louder than the Clip 4, pushing the boundaries of its small enclosure. However, it remains a mono speaker, so don’t expect a wide stereo soundstage. The sound is directional, primarily projected forward. At maximum volume, some compression or hardening of the sound is inevitable, but the goal is to maintain better composure than the previous generation.
- Subjective Improvements: Early listeners and reviews often note subtle but noticeable improvements. The Clip 5 might sound “fuller,” “clearer,” or “more balanced” than the Clip 4, even if the on-paper specs seem similar. These refinements often come down to improved DSP tuning.
Comparing Audio: Clip 5 vs. Clip 4
- Potential Enhancements: The Clip 5 likely offers subtle improvements in overall clarity, potentially slightly better bass definition, and maybe a touch more maximum volume with less distortion, thanks to refined drivers and tuning.
- Core Character: Both speakers will likely share the characteristic “JBL sound” – energetic, clear, and surprisingly loud for their size. The Clip 5 aims to refine this, not reinvent it.
- Mono Limitation: Both remain mono speakers, ideal for personal listening or small groups but not for immersive stereo experiences.
Connectivity and Features: The Biggest Leaps Forward?
This is where the Clip 5 introduces some of its most significant and tangible upgrades over the Clip 4, moving beyond simple refinements to add genuinely new capabilities.
- Bluetooth Version Upgrade: The Clip 4 utilized Bluetooth 5.1. The JBL Clip 5 steps up to Bluetooth 5.3 with LE (Low Energy) audio support. This upgrade brings several potential benefits:
- Improved Efficiency: LE audio consumes less power, which can contribute to better battery life or allow for more processing power for other features.
- Enhanced Stability and Range: While influenced by the environment, Bluetooth 5.3 generally offers a more stable connection and potentially slightly better range compared to 5.1.
- Multi-Stream Audio (Auracast Potential): Bluetooth 5.2 and higher lay the groundwork for features like Auracast broadcast audio, allowing one source to broadcast to multiple compatible devices simultaneously. More on this below.
- Faster Pairing: Quicker connection times to paired devices.
- JBL Portable App Integration: This is arguably the most significant new feature for the Clip line. While previous Clip models were standalone devices, the Clip 5 integrates with the JBL Portable app (formerly JBL Connect). This opens up a world of possibilities previously unavailable on a Clip speaker:
- Customizable EQ: The app allows users to tailor the sound signature to their preferences. Whether you want more bass, enhanced vocals, or brighter treble, adjustable equalizer settings provide personalization that the Clip 4 lacked entirely. This could include preset EQ modes (e.g., Outdoor, Vocal, Bass Boost) and potentially a graphic EQ for fine-tuning.
- Firmware Updates: Receive over-the-air firmware updates directly through the app. This means JBL can improve performance, fix bugs, or even add new features to the speaker after purchase – something impossible with the Clip 4.
- Battery Level Indicator: Check the precise battery percentage within the app, offering more detail than the simple LED indicator on the speaker itself.
- Product Information & Support: Access manuals, FAQs, and support directly via the app.
- Potential Future Features: App integration allows JBL to potentially add features like customizable button mapping or sleep timers in the future via updates.
- Auracast™ Enabled Multi-Speaker Connectivity: This is another major potential upgrade facilitated by Bluetooth 5.3 and LE Audio. While the Clip 4 had no multi-speaker connectivity features (unlike larger JBL speakers with PartyBoost), the Clip 5 introduces Auracast™ support. Auracast™ is a Bluetooth broadcast technology that allows a single source device (like your phone or the Clip 5 itself, potentially) to broadcast audio to an unlimited number of nearby Auracast™-compatible receivers (other Clip 5s, future JBL headphones, compatible speakers from other brands, or even hearing aids).
- How it Works: Instead of the complex pairing process of PartyBoost (which creates a closed network), Auracast™ works more like public Wi-Fi or a radio broadcast. Devices can “tune in” to an available Auracast™ stream.
- Use Cases:
- Personal Stereo: Connect two Clip 5s for a true wireless stereo (TWS) experience, finally bringing stereo sound to the Clip line (this specific implementation depends on JBL’s software).
- Shared Listening: Broadcast audio from one Clip 5 to multiple other Clip 5s (or other Auracast™ speakers) simultaneously. Imagine friends each bringing their Clip 5 to a picnic and all syncing up effortlessly to the same music source.
- Public Audio Sharing: In the future, Auracast™ could be used in public spaces (airports, gyms) to broadcast audio directly to compatible devices.
- Compared to PartyBoost: Auracast™ is a more open standard, potentially allowing connection between different brands in the future. It’s designed for broadcasting rather than just creating a synchronized party chain, although JBL might implement specific features like TWS pairing using the underlying Auracast™ technology. This is a significant leap beyond the Clip 4’s standalone nature. Confirmation of specific Auracast features like TWS pairing depends on JBL’s final implementation.
- Battery Life and Charging: The Clip 4 offered a respectable battery life of up to 10 hours. The JBL Clip 5 boasts an improved battery life of up to 12 hours on a single charge. Furthermore, it includes a Playtime Boost mode accessible via the JBL Portable app. Engaging this mode optimizes audio tuning (likely adjusting EQ and dynamics) to extend playback by up to 3 hours, potentially reaching 15 hours in total, albeit with a potential slight change in audio character. This added flexibility is a welcome improvement for longer outings. Charging remains via the convenient USB-C port, with a full charge likely taking around 3 hours, similar to the Clip 4.
Comparing Features: Clip 5 vs. Clip 4
| Feature | JBL Clip 4 | JBL Clip 5 | What’s New? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 with LE Audio support | Newer standard, improved efficiency, foundation for Auracast™. |
| App Support | None | Yes (JBL Portable App) | Customizable EQ, firmware updates, precise battery status, Playtime Boost. |
| Multi-Speaker | None | Yes (Auracast™ Enabled) | Allows connecting multiple Auracast™ speakers, potential TWS pairing. |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 12 hours (+ 3 hrs w/ Playtime Boost) | Longer standard playtime + optional boost mode via app. |
| Carabiner | Standard integrated | Redesigned with Wider Opening | Easier clipping onto thicker objects, enhanced versatility. |
| Audio Tuning | JBL Original Pro Sound | JBL Original Pro Sound (likely refined) | Potential subtle improvements in clarity/balance, plus app EQ control. |
| IP Rating | IP67 | IP67 | No change, excellent durability maintained. |
| Charging Port | USB-C | USB-C | No change, modern standard maintained. |
| Aux Input | No | No | No change, focus remains on Bluetooth. |
| Design | Oval shape, various colours | Similar shape, new colours, subtle refinements | Evolutionary design changes, notably the carabiner. |
Use Cases and Portability: Where the Clip 5 Shines
The core appeal of the Clip series remains unchanged: ultimate portability. The Clip 5, with its enhanced carabiner and feature set, excels in numerous scenarios:
- Hiking and Backpacking: Clip it securely to a backpack strap using the wider carabiner. Its rugged build and IP67 rating handle trail dust and unexpected rain. The extended battery life (+ Playtime Boost) is ideal for longer treks.
- Cycling: Attach it to handlebars (using the wider clip or an accessory mount) or your bag for music on rides without blocking crucial traffic sounds like headphones do.
- Travel: Toss it in your carry-on or clip it to your luggage. Perfect for hotel rooms, hostels, or providing personal audio on the go.
- Beach and Poolside: The IP67 rating means no worries about sand or splashes. Clip it to a beach chair, umbrella, or cooler.
- Shower Speaker: Its waterproof nature makes it a great companion for singing in the shower (though prolonged direct streams aren’t recommended for any IP67 device).
- Around the House/Yard: Clip it to a belt loop while gardening, hang it in the garage while working, or move it from room to room easily.
- Dorm Rooms and Small Apartments: Provides personal audio without taking up much space. The Auracast™ feature could allow friends with Clip 5s to easily share audio.
- Casual Listening: Clip it to your bag while running errands, use it at your desk for background music, or take it to the park for a picnic.
The combination of the improved carabiner, robust build, extended battery life, and now app control and multi-speaker options makes the Clip 5 even more versatile than its predecessors across all these use cases.
Who is the JBL Clip 5 For?
The target audience for the Clip 5 remains broad but can be categorized:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hikers, campers, cyclists, climbers – anyone needing a durable, easily attachable speaker for adventures. The wider carabiner and IP67 rating are key selling points here.
- Travelers: Those seeking a compact, lightweight, and resilient speaker for trips. The extended battery life is a bonus.
- Students: Ideal for dorm rooms, studying in common areas, or clipping to a backpack between classes. The price point is usually accessible.
- Casual Users: Anyone wanting a simple, portable Bluetooth speaker for everyday use around the house, yard, or on the go.
- Existing JBL Users: Those already invested in the JBL ecosystem might appreciate the familiar sound signature and potential integration via Auracast™ with future JBL products.
- Tech-Savvy Users: The addition of app support (EQ customization, firmware updates) and Auracast™ appeals to those who value greater control and connectivity features.
- Clip 4 Owners Seeking an Upgrade: Users wanting longer battery life, the flexibility of app control (especially EQ), the potential for multi-speaker pairing via Auracast™, and the improved carabiner might find the Clip 5 a compelling upgrade.
Comparison with Competitors
While the Clip series has a unique form factor, it competes in the broader ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker market. Key competitors might include:
- Bose SoundLink Micro: Known for excellent sound quality (especially bass for its size) and a tear-resistant strap instead of a carabiner. Often considered slightly more premium in sound and price. Lacks the specific app EQ and Auracast™ features of the Clip 5.
- Sony SRS-XB100 (or similar models like XB13): Offers good sound with extra bass emphasis (Sony’s signature). Features a multi-way strap. May offer stereo pairing with another identical unit but lacks the broader Auracast™ potential and app EQ of the Clip 5.
- Ultimate Ears Wonderboom Series (e.g., Wonderboom 3): Known for 360-degree sound, excellent durability (IP67, floatable), and good battery life. Offers stereo pairing with another Wonderboom. Larger and differently shaped than the Clip 5, lacking the integrated carabiner but featuring a flexible loop.
- Tribit StormBox Micro 2: A strong budget competitor often praised for good sound quality, impressive battery life (sometimes exceeding the Clip’s), a built-in strap, and the ability to act as a power bank (a feature the Clip 5 lacks). May lack the refined app control or Auracast™ of the Clip 5.
The JBL Clip 5 differentiates itself primarily through its unique and improved integrated carabiner design, the addition of JBL Portable App control (with EQ), its Auracast™ capability, and the JBL brand reputation and sound signature. Its specific combination of features, portability, and durability remains compelling within this competitive landscape.
Value Proposition: Is the JBL Clip 5 Worth It?
The Clip series typically sits at an affordable price point within the portable speaker market (often under $100 USD at launch). The Clip 5, with its added features, might launch at a slightly higher price than the Clip 4 initially did, or perhaps push the Clip 4 down to an even more attractive price point.
The value proposition depends on the user’s needs:
- For New Buyers: The Clip 5 offers a compelling package: proven durability, enhanced portability (wider clip), longer battery life, modern Bluetooth, and crucially, app control and future-proof Auracast™ connectivity. It represents the latest and most feature-rich iteration of the Clip line.
- For Clip 4 Owners: The decision to upgrade is more nuanced. If you desperately wished for EQ control, need slightly longer battery life with the boost option, frequently find the Clip 4 carabiner restrictive, or are excited by the potential of Auracast™ multi-speaker pairing, then the upgrade could be worthwhile. If your Clip 4 still meets your needs and you don’t require app control or advanced connectivity, it remains an excellent speaker, and the upgrade might not be essential immediately.
- Compared to Competitors: The Clip 5’s value lies in its specific blend of the signature carabiner design, IP67 ruggedness, good sound, improved battery, and the newly added smart features (App/Auracast™). It offers a more modern and potentially more versatile feature set than many competitors in its direct size and price class.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Even with its improvements, the Clip 5 isn’t without potential limitations inherent to its size and design:
- Mono Sound: Despite Auracast™ potentially enabling TWS pairing with another Clip 5 (if implemented), a single Clip 5 remains a mono speaker. Don’t expect an expansive stereo image from one unit.
- Limited Bass Response: Physics dictates that a speaker this small cannot produce truly deep bass. While likely punchy and clear, it won’t satisfy bass heads looking for room-shaking lows.
- No Aux Input: Continuing the trend, there’s no wired connection option. You must use Bluetooth.
- App Dependence for Some Features: Accessing the EQ and Playtime Boost requires using the JBL Portable app. Users preferring a completely standalone experience might see this as added complexity.
- Auracast™ Ecosystem Still Developing: While Auracast™ is a promising technology, its full potential relies on wider adoption across devices. Initially, its primary use might be connecting multiple Clip 5s or other new JBL Auracast™ products.
Conclusion: The Evolution of an Icon
The JBL Clip 5 represents a thoughtful and significant evolution of one of the most popular portable speaker lines on the market. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it intelligently refines the formula that made the Clip 4 so successful while addressing key areas for improvement and modernization.
What’s truly new and exciting in the JBL Clip 5?
- Redesigned Carabiner: The wider gate is a practical enhancement that significantly boosts the speaker’s versatility and ease of use.
- JBL Portable App Integration: This is a game-changer for the Clip line, bringing customizable EQ, firmware updates, and precise battery monitoring, adding a layer of personalization and control previously absent.
- Auracast™ Connectivity: Moving beyond a standalone device, Auracast™ support opens the door to multi-speaker experiences, whether it’s potential TWS stereo pairing or broadcasting to multiple compatible speakers – a major leap in connectivity for this form factor.
- Extended Battery Life + Playtime Boost: Offering up to 12 hours standard and potentially 15 hours with the app-controlled boost provides greater endurance for longer adventures.
- Upgraded Bluetooth 5.3: Ensures a more efficient, stable connection and enables the advanced LE Audio features like Auracast™.
- Subtle Audio Refinements: While likely evolutionary, expect continued improvements in clarity, balance, and performance at volume, further enhancing the JBL Original Pro Sound experience.
The JBL Clip 5 successfully carries the torch of its predecessors. It retains the core strengths – exceptional portability, rugged IP67 design, surprisingly potent sound, and user-friendly controls – while layering on meaningful technological advancements. The addition of app control transforms it from a simple playback device into a smarter, more adaptable audio tool. The introduction of Auracast™ hints at exciting future possibilities for shared listening experiences.
While the Clip 4 remains a fantastic speaker, the Clip 5 justifies its existence by offering tangible benefits in connectivity, customization, battery life, and everyday usability thanks to the improved carabiner. It’s a refinement that feels both necessary and well-executed, ensuring the JBL Clip remains the benchmark for ultra-portable, clip-and-go audio for the foreseeable future. Whether you’re upgrading or joining the Clip family for the first time, the JBL Clip 5 stands ready to be the durable, versatile, and great-sounding soundtrack to your next adventure.