JBL is one of the top names in Bluetooth speakers, known for delivering powerful sound in portable packages.
Two of their most popular portable Bluetooth speakers are the JBL Charge 5 and the JBL Xtreme 3. But which one is better for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the JBL Charge 5 and JBL Xtreme 3 head-to-head, looking at key factors like sound quality, battery life, durability, and more. By the end, you’ll have all the info you need to decide which JBL portable Bluetooth speaker best fits your needs and budget.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | JBL Charge 5 | JBL Xtreme 3 |
| Size | More compact and portable | Bigger and heavier |
| Sound Quality | Bold, powerful audio | Louder, richer sound with more bass |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 15 hours |
| Durability | More durable for travel | Rugged but heavier if dropped |
| Extra Features | Stereo pairing | Party boost, more input modes |
| Price | Around $150 | Around $250 |
Overview And Design
The JBL Charge 5 and JBL Xtreme 3 have similar cylindrical designs but different dimensions.
The Charge 5 has a height of 8.39 inches and diameter of 3.43 inches. It weighs 1.76 pounds. The cylindrical shape has exposed drivers on both ends and features a durable fabric material finish.
The Xtreme 3 is bigger with a height of 10.4 inches and diameter of 4.33 inches. It’s heavier too at 2.9 pounds. Like the Charge 5, it sports JBL’s cylindrical design with exposed drivers and fabric exterior.
Both models have an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating so they can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. Each has one-touch Bluetooth pairing and comes in multiple color options. The Xtreme 3 adds JBL’s signature “party boost” feature that lets you connect multiple JBL speakers for amplified sound.
Overall, the Xtreme 3 is the larger and heavier option better suited for home use while the Charge 5 has a more portable-friendly size. But both deliver the iconic JBL Bluetooth speaker design in a rugged, waterproof package.
Sound Quality
When it comes to audio performance, the JBL Charge 5 and Xtreme 3 each deliver their own strengths.
The Charge 5 houses a proprietary JBL driver in a racetrack-shaped enclosure with two radiators, delivering clear mids/highs and deep bass. Dual passive radiators enhance the low end for bold, powerful sound. The speaker has a frequency range of 65Hz to 20kHz and max SPL of 80dB.
With two woofer drivers and dual external passive radiators, the Xtreme 3 takes bass and volume up a notch. The drivers provide thumping yet clear lows, sparkling mids, and crisp highs. The Xtreme 3 has an expanded frequency range of 55Hz to 20kHz and higher max SPL of 84dB.
The Xtreme 3 also supports JBL’s party boost feature, letting you connect over 100 JBL speakers to create a makeshift PA system. This allows for far louder and expansive sound than a single speaker can produce.
Overall, while the Charge 5 can deliver impressively bold audio for its size, the Xtreme 3 edges it out with louder, richer sound and party boost support. The Xtreme 3 is the better choice if audio performance is your top priority.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for portable Bluetooth speakers. Here’s how the JBL Charge 5 and Xtreme 3 compare:
The Charge 5 is equipped with a 7800mAh battery that delivers up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. That provides enough juice for all-day listening between charges.
Despite its larger size and louder sound, the Xtreme 3 packs a 10,000mAh battery with up to 15 hours of playtime.
Both models can be used to charge devices like smartphones via their USB-C port when not playing music. This gives them additional utility as portable chargers.
The Charge 5 wins in terms of battery life, able to last over 5 hours longer on a charge. But 15 hours is still solid performance for the Xtreme 3’s size and output. For multi-day camping trips or long days at the beach, the Charge 5 may be the safer bet. But the Xtreme 3 offers enough endurance for most applications.
Also Read: Comparison Between JBL Go 3 And Clip 4.
Durability
With their IP67 rating, cylindrical shape, and fabric covering, both the Charge 5 and Xtreme 3 are built to withstand the rigors of daily use.
The Charge 5 feels incredibly solid and has proven itself able to handle bumps, drops, and splashes without issue. Users report it surviving drops from counters and tables with minimal damage thanks to the resilient build.
While the Xtreme 3 shares the same waterproof fabric exterior, its larger size can make it slightly more prone to tipping over if stood vertically. The weight also gives it more momentum if dropped. Still, it’s undeniably a rugged speaker able to deal with bumps, humidity, rain, dust, and splashes.
Both models have a two-year limited warranty for added peace of mind. Overall, the Charge 5 may have a durability edge thanks to its smaller size and weight. But the Xtreme 3 should have no problem keeping up with an active lifestyle.
Also Read: Is MEGABOOM 3 Better Than JBL Xtreme 3?
Other Features
Charging devices and party boost were already covered, but here are some other noteworthy features of each speaker:
JBL Charge 5
- Dedicated play/pause and volume buttons
- Built-in microphone for calls
- Stereo pairing mode
- Bluetooth 5.1
JBL Xtreme 3
- Four input modes: Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary, radio
- Built-in powerbank
- JBL Portable app integration
- Carry strap
- Bluetooth 5.0
The Charge 5 keeps things simple as a Bluetooth-focused speaker. But the Xtreme 3 adds more ways to play music, like a radio tuner and wired aux input. It also supports the JBL Portable speaker app for extra customization.
Prices
The JBL Charge 5 retails for $179.95 but can be found on sale from major retailers for around $150.
The larger JBL Xtreme 3 carries a higher retail price of $349.95. Discounted prices are typically in the $250 range.
So the Charge 5 is clearly the more affordable option. But the Xtreme 3 may still be worth the step up in price for some buyers, especially thanks to its louder audio output.
Also watch the video to know more!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The JBL Charge 5 is better for portability and battery life while the JBL Xtreme 3 delivers louder, more powerful sound. Go with the Charge 5 if you prioritize travel use or the Xtreme 3 for big sound at home.
The JBL Xtreme 3 is the better choice if your top priority is audio performance and maximum loudness. But the JBL Charge 5 is superior for portability and battery life.
The JBL Xtreme 3 is a significantly larger speaker than the JBL Charge 5. The Xtreme 3 is 10.4 inches tall with a 4.33 inch diameter while the Charge 5 is 8.39 inches tall and 3.43 inches in diameter. The Xtreme 3 is also nearly 1.5 pounds heavier.
The JBL Xtreme 3 is a significantly larger speaker than the JBL Charge 5. The Xtreme 3 is 10.4 inches tall with a 4.33 inch diameter while the Charge 5 is 8.39 inches tall and 3.43 inches in diameter. The Xtreme 3 is also nearly 1.5 pounds heavier.
Also Read: Is JBL Clip 4 Better Than Sony XB13?
The Verdict
So which Bluetooth speaker wins? Here’s a quick recap:
- The JBL Charge 5 has a more portable design, longer battery life, and lower price. It’s arguably more durable and better suited for travel.
- The JBL Xtreme 3 delivers louder, richer sound with party boost support. It also offers more input options and app integration.
For portable use where battery life and ruggedness are key, the JBL Charge 5 is likely the better fit. It packs impressive performance in a lightweight and durable frame built for life on the move.
But the JBL Xtreme 3 shines for home use. The bigger sound and party-friendly features make it better suited if audio performance is the priority over portability.
So choose based on your needs. For bold sound around the house that can also hit the road, the Xtreme 3 wins. But travelers and commuters are better served by the ultra-portable Charge 5.
Either way, these two JBL speakers represent the best in Bluetooth audio. You really can’t go wrong with either model.