Head-to-head · Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) vs JBL Charge 6

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

JBL Charge 6 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about outdoor adventurers needing rugged waterproofing — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)

4.2

$149

The Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) offers the same durable, waterproof design as its predecessor but with minor improvements to the control interface. SoundGuys praised its rugged build and IP67 rating, calling it ideal for outdoor use, though they noted lackluster EQ options and minimal hardware upgrades from the original. TechRadar user highlighted its daily reliability and portability, making it a solid choice for those seeking a dependable portable speaker for travel or outdoor activities.

Strengths

— IP67 rugged build for dust and water resistance
— Durable rubberized finish with metal speaker grill
— Improved control strip with dedicated Play/Pause button

Watch-outs

— Lackluster EQ options
— Minimal upgrades from 1st Gen

$149 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

JBL Charge 6

4.5

$199

The JBL Charge 6 builds on its predecessor with notable upgrades including IP68 water resistance, a 7-band customizable EQ, and improved durability with thicker rubber bumpers and drop-proof certification. PCMag's Mark Knapp praised its rugged design and enhanced audio features, though noted the Playtime Boost feature compromises sound quality. SoundGuys reviewer Shiun Okada highlighted the detachable handle and improved bass response, while also pointing out the lack of backward compatibility with older JBL models. This speaker is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a durable, weatherproof option with customizable sound.

Strengths

— IP68 waterproof rating allows submersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes
— 7-band customizable EQ available through JBL Portable app
— Detachable handle offers dual functionality as traditional handle or carrying loop

Watch-outs

— Playtime Boost feature negatively impacts sound quality
— No backwards compatibility with older JBL speakers using Party Boost

$199 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)

The Bose SoundLink Flex offers a rugged IP67 build and improved control strip, but lacks the EQ customization of the JBL Charge 6 and the advanced features of the JBL Boombox 4. Compared to the Soundcore Boom 3, it provides better sound quality and durability, though it has minimal upgrades from its predecessor. Unlike the Bose SoundLink Max, it's more affordable but lacks powerful bass and call functionality.

JBL Charge 6

The JBL Charge 6 stands out with its IP68 waterproof rating and detachable handle, features not found in the Soundcore Boom 3 or Bose SoundLink Flex. While the JBL Boombox 4 offers more playtime and multi-speaker support, the Charge 6's improved durability and customizable EQ via app make it a better choice for rugged outdoor use. Unlike the Bose SoundLink Max, it lacks premium sound transparency but provides superior drop protection and water resistance.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen)	JBL Charge 6
Weight	589g	988g
Waterproof	IP67	IP68
Battery	Up to 12 hours	24 hours (up to 28 hours with Playtime Boost)
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C	Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C (lossless audio and charging), Auracast
Dimensions	203 x 45 x 89 mm	229 x 99 x 94 mm
Color Options	Alpine Sage, Sandstone, Blue Dust, Black	Black, White, Pink, Red, Blue, Purple, Squad
Frequency Response	—	56 Hz - 20 kHz (-6 dB)

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