The portable Bluetooth speaker market is saturated with options, ranging from pocket-sized devices to large boomboxes. JBL aims to carve out a niche with the JBL Grip, a compact and lightweight speaker that incorporates a unique LED light show. This JBL Grip Review: A Bluetooth Speaker With Lava Lamp Vibes explores whether this new offering from JBL strikes the right balance between portability, sound quality, and visual appeal.
Table of contents
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Main Points
The JBL Grip is positioned between the JBL Flip 7 and the JBL Go 4/Clip 5 in terms of size and portability. It’s 32 percent smaller than the Flip 7 and weighs just 0.8 pounds, making it easy to carry in a backpack. JBL claims a 14-hour battery life, but testing revealed closer to 10.5 hours at 50% volume. The speaker boasts an IP68 rating, ensuring dust and water resistance. The integrated LED light show offers four colors and five display modes, adding a visual element reminiscent of a lava lamp. This JBL Grip Review: A Bluetooth Speaker With Lava Lamp Vibes further investigates the sound capabilities and design choices of the device.
Despite its smaller size, the JBL Grip aims to deliver impressive sound. The single racetrack driver produces clear and balanced audio that can reach surprisingly high volumes. However, at maximum volume, the speaker may exhibit some distortion, particularly in the lower frequencies. The placement of the LED panel on the rear of the speaker means that users must choose between facing the light show or the driver towards them, slightly impacting sound clarity.
Design and Features of the JBL Grip
The JBL Grip is available in multiple colors, including red, white, black, purple, “squad” (camo), and blue. The speaker is designed for vertical use, with controls positioned for easy access in this orientation. A built-in loop prevents the speaker from rolling when laid down horizontally. While the Flip 7 has passive radiators at both ends that are vulnerable to damage, the Grip features solid silicone rubber ends, enhancing its durability. This JBL Grip Review: A Bluetooth Speaker With Lava Lamp Vibes acknowledges the importance of these design choices for overall user experience.
The LED light show is a distinctive feature of the JBL Grip, offering four color options (purple, red, icy-blue, and vibrant blue) and five display modes controlled via the JBL Portables app. However, the light’s brightness is limited, making it most effective in darkened environments. The animated modes do not sync to the music, creating more of a lava lamp effect than a dynamic light show. For those seeking beat-coordinated lighting, alternative options like the Tribit StormBox Mini+ may be more suitable.
Sound Performance and Battery Life
The JBL Grip delivers clear and balanced audio for its size, capable of filling a large room with sound. While the speaker can reach high volumes, distortion may occur at maximum levels, particularly in the bass frequencies. The placement of the LED panel on the rear of the speaker impacts sound clarity, especially in the upper midranges and highs. This JBL Grip Review: A Bluetooth Speaker With Lava Lamp Vibes considers the compromise between visual appeal and optimal sound projection.
JBL claims a 14-hour battery life for the Grip, but real-world testing at 50% volume yielded approximately 10.5 hours. The PlayTime Boost mode may extend battery life in situations where maximizing playtime is essential. The IP68 rating ensures the speaker is dustproof and waterproof, making it suitable for outdoor use. However, the Grip does not float, so caution is advised near water.
Concluding Thoughts on the JBL Grip
The JBL Grip offers a compelling combination of portability, durability, and a unique LED light show. While the light show may not be as dynamic as some users might prefer, it adds a fun visual element to the speaker. The sound quality is impressive for its size, although distortion may occur at high volumes. The battery life falls slightly short of JBL’s claims, but is still adequate for most listening sessions. Ultimately, this JBL Grip Review: A Bluetooth Speaker With Lava Lamp Vibes finds that the Grip is a solid choice for those seeking a compact and visually appealing Bluetooth speaker.
For its price point, the JBL Grip provides a good balance of features and performance. The IP68 rating and durable design make it suitable for outdoor adventures, while the LED light show adds a touch of personality. While the rear placement of the light impacts sound projection, the overall audio quality is still commendable. This JBL Grip Review: A Bluetooth Speaker With Lava Lamp Vibes suggests the JBL Grip is a worthwhile contender in the crowded portable speaker market, especially for those drawn to its lava lamp-esque aesthetics.
Technology Disclaimer: Product specifications and features may change. Always verify current information with official sources before making purchase decisions.
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