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Which Is Better: JBL or Ultimate Ears? The Bluetooth Speaker Brands Compared

Over the past decade, we’ve spent countless hours listening to JBL and Ultimate Ears (UE) Bluetooth speakers, writing detailed reviews, and keeping up with what other audio enthusiasts have to say about them. Both brands have earned their reputations for delivering loud, crisp, and immersive sound in portable packages, making them favorites among music lovers on the go. If you’re a die-hard fan of either brand, rest assured—both JBL and UE make fantastic products. But instead of fueling the debate over which brand is “better,” we want to focus on helping you decide which one to choose based on your specific needs, budget, and use cases.

In this article, we’ll break down the strengths of each brand and highlight the scenarios where one might outshine the other. Whether you’re looking for a compact speaker for travel, a rugged option for outdoor adventures, or a powerhouse for parties, we’ll guide you through the decision-making process. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of when to pick a JBL speaker and when to go with an Ultimate Ears model, so you can get the perfect Bluetooth speaker for your lifestyle. Let’s dive in!

JBL vs. Ultimate Ears: Which Is Better?

When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, two names consistently rise to the top: JBL and Ultimate Ears (UE). Both brands have earned their stripes in the audio world, delivering powerful sound, rugged designs, and innovative features that cater to music lovers, adventurers, and party enthusiasts alike. But with so many models and options available, how do you decide which brand is the right fit for you? Is it JBL’s signature bass-heavy sound, or UE’s 360-degree audio and bold designs? This isn’t just a debate for audiophiles—it’s a practical decision that can enhance your daily life, whether you’re hiking, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just relaxing at home.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the JBL vs. Ultimate Ears debate, exploring their histories, key features, and standout models. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which brand aligns with your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Let’s turn up the volume and get started!

Introduction to JBL vs. Ultimate Ears: Which Is Better?

Portable Bluetooth speakers have become a must-have accessory for modern life. They’re compact, wireless, and deliver impressive sound quality, making them perfect for everything from beach days to impromptu dance parties. Among the sea of options, JBL and Ultimate Ears have emerged as leaders, each with its own loyal fanbase and unique strengths.

Why This Debate Matters

The choice between JBL and Ultimate Ears isn’t just about sound quality—it’s about finding the right tool for your lifestyle. Do you need a speaker that can survive a camping trip? Or one that fills a room with rich, immersive sound? Maybe you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance. Understanding the differences between these two brands can help you make an informed decision that enhances your listening experience.

A Brief History

JBL: Founded in 1946, JBL has a long history of innovation in audio technology. Known for its professional-grade sound systems, JBL brought its expertise to the portable speaker market with models like the Flip and Charge series, which quickly became fan favorites.
Ultimate Ears: Originally founded in 1995, UE started by creating custom in-ear monitors for musicians. In 2008, the company shifted its focus to consumer audio, launching the UE Boom series, which revolutionized portable speakers with its cylindrical design and 360-degree sound.

Both brands have continued to innovate, pushing the boundaries of what portable speakers can do. But which one is better for you? Let’s break it down.

Key Benefits and Importance

Choosing the right portable speaker can make a world of difference in how you enjoy music, podcasts, and more. Here’s why the JBL vs. Ultimate Ears debate matters:

Sound Quality: Both brands deliver exceptional audio, but they excel in different areas. JBL is known for its deep bass, while UE offers balanced, 360-degree sound.
Durability: Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or just dealing with the occasional spill, both brands offer rugged, water-resistant designs.
Portability: Compact and lightweight, these speakers are perfect for on-the-go use.
Battery Life: Long-lasting batteries mean you can enjoy hours of uninterrupted music.
Customization: Many models come with companion apps that let you tweak sound settings or connect multiple speakers for a bigger sound.

Types and Varieties

Both JBL and Ultimate Ears offer a wide range of models to suit different needs and budgets. Here’s a quick overview of their most popular lines:

JBL

JBL Flip Series: Compact and affordable, perfect for casual listeners.
JBL Charge Series: Larger and more powerful, with built-in power banks to charge your devices.
JBL Xtreme Series: Big, bold, and designed for parties, with massive sound and rugged durability.
JBL Go Series: Ultra-portable and budget-friendly, ideal for travel.

Ultimate Ears

UE Boom Series: The flagship line, known for its cylindrical design and 360-degree sound.
UE Megaboom Series: Larger and louder, with deeper bass and extended battery life.
UE Wonderboom Series: Compact and affordable, with a focus on portability and durability.
UE Hyperboom: A premium, party-ready speaker with booming sound and advanced features.

How to Select the Best JBL or Ultimate Ears Speaker

Choosing the right speaker depends on your specific needs. Here are some tips to help you decide:

Consider Your Budget: JBL offers more budget-friendly options, while UE tends to be slightly pricier.
Think About Portability: If you need something ultra-compact, go for the JBL Go or UE Wonderboom.
Evaluate Sound Quality: Bass lovers might prefer JBL, while those who want balanced sound should consider UE.
Check Durability: Look for IPX7 waterproof ratings if you plan to use the speaker outdoors.
Explore Features: Some models offer unique features like power banks (JBL Charge) or customizable EQ settings (UE Boom).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring battery life: Make sure the speaker can last as long as you need it to.
Overlooking size and weight: A bulky speaker might not be ideal for travel.
Skipping reviews: User feedback can provide valuable insights into real-world performance.

Top 5 Recommendations

Here are our top picks from both brands:

JBL Flip 6
- Standout Features: Rich bass, waterproof design, PartyBoost for multi-speaker pairing.
- Pros: Affordable, great sound for its size.
- Cons: Lacks a power bank feature.
- Tip: Use PartyBoost to connect multiple JBL speakers for a surround sound experience.
Ultimate Ears Boom 3
- Standout Features: 360-degree sound, customizable EQ, Magic Button for playlist control.
- Pros: Durable, balanced sound, stylish design.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than similar JBL models.
- Tip: Use the UE app to fine-tune the sound to your preferences.
JBL Charge 5
- Standout Features: Built-in power bank, deep bass, long battery life.
- Pros: Versatile, great for outdoor use.
- Cons: Heavier than other models.
- Tip: Use the power bank feature to keep your devices charged on the go.
Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3
- Standout Features: Powerful sound, deep bass, floating design.
- Pros: Excellent for parties, durable.
- Cons: Expensive.
- Tip: Pair two Megaboom 3 speakers for stereo sound.
JBL Go 3
- Standout Features: Ultra-portable, affordable, waterproof.
- Pros: Perfect for travel, great value.
- Cons: Limited bass and volume.
- Tip: Use it as a personal speaker for small gatherings or solo listening.

User Tips and Best Practices

To get the most out of your JBL or Ultimate Ears speaker, follow these tips:

Keep It Clean: Wipe down the speaker regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
Update Firmware: Check for updates via the companion app to ensure optimal performance.
Use a Protective Case: For added durability, especially during travel.
Experiment with Placement: UE’s 360-degree sound works best in the center of a room, while JBL’s directional sound benefits from strategic placement.

Which Is Better for a Limited Budget: JBL or Ultimate Ears?

Under $50: JBL Has the Cheapest Option

At the cheapest end, JBL is the only game in town. Check our pick the JBL Go 3.

Under $100: Ultimate Ears Best for Sound

The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 listed below is the best option for sound, though the JBL Clip 3 is much cheaper and more portable.

Under $150: Ultimate Ears Offers Our Favorite Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The portable speaker I actually use most is in the middle price range: the Ultimate Boom 3 described below.

Over $150: We’d Choose JBL

The larger rugged speakers that are worth a few hundred our in our opinion the Xtreme 3 and Boombox 2 from JBL.

The Best Palm-Sized Speaker is from JBL: Why the JBL Go 3 Stands Out

When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, size matters. Whether you’re traveling light, heading to the beach, or just need a compact speaker for your desk, a palm-sized option can be a game-changer. Among the many contenders in this category, one speaker consistently rises to the top: the JBL Go 3. This tiny powerhouse from JBL proves that big sound can come in small packages. But what makes it the best palm-sized speaker on the market? Let’s dive in and explore why the JBL Go 3 is a must-have for music lovers on the go.

Why Palm-Sized Speakers Matter

Palm-sized speakers are all about convenience and portability. They’re designed to fit in your hand, slip into a bag, or even clip onto your gear, making them perfect for:

Travel: Lightweight and compact, they won’t weigh you down.
Outdoor Adventures: Durable enough to handle the elements.
Everyday Use: Great for small spaces like desks, kitchens, or bathrooms.

The JBL Go 3 excels in all these areas, but it’s not just about size—it’s about delivering a surprisingly robust audio experience in a tiny form factor.

What Makes the JBL Go 3 the Best?

1. Compact and Lightweight Design

The JBL Go 3 is incredibly small, measuring just 3.4 x 2.7 x 1.6 inches and weighing a mere 209 grams. It’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand or even your pocket, making it one of the most portable speakers available. Despite its size, it feels sturdy and well-built, thanks to its rugged fabric material and rubberized edges.

2. Surprisingly Powerful Sound

Don’t let its size fool you—the JBL Go 3 delivers impressive sound for such a compact device. It features a 40mm driver that produces clear, balanced audio with a surprising amount of bass. While it won’t replace a larger speaker for parties, it’s more than capable of filling a small room or outdoor space with rich, enjoyable sound.

3. IP67 Waterproof and Dustproof Rating

One of the standout features of the JBL Go 3 is its IP67 rating, which means it’s fully waterproof and dustproof. You can submerge it in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, making it perfect for poolside use, beach trips, or even rainy hikes. Its durability ensures it can handle whatever adventures you throw at it.

4. Long Battery Life

The JBL Go 3 offers up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is impressive for its size. While it’s not the longest battery life on the market, it’s more than enough for a day out or a short trip. Plus, it charges quickly via its USB-C port, so you can get back to your music in no time.

5. Affordable Price

At around $40, the JBL Go 3 is an incredible value. It’s one of the most affordable speakers in JBL’s lineup, yet it doesn’t compromise on quality or features. For the price, you get a durable, great-sounding speaker that’s perfect for everyday use.

How the JBL Go 3 Compares to Other Palm-Sized Speakers

While there are other palm-sized speakers on the market, the JBL Go 3 stands out for several reasons:

Sound Quality: Many compact speakers sacrifice sound for size, but the Go 3 delivers a balanced audio experience that rivals larger models.
Durability: Its IP67 rating makes it more rugged than many competitors, such as the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 (which is also excellent but slightly larger and more expensive).
Portability: The Go 3 is smaller and lighter than most other options, making it the ultimate travel companion.

Who Should Buy the JBL Go 3?

The JBL Go 3 is perfect for:

Travelers: Its compact size and durability make it ideal for on-the-go use.
Outdoor Enthusiasts: Whether you’re camping, hiking, or lounging by the pool, the Go 3 can handle it all.
Budget-Conscious Buyers: It offers premium features at an affordable price.
Minimalists: If you want a simple, no-fuss speaker that gets the job done, the Go 3 is for you.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your JBL Go 3

Use the Loop: The built-in strap makes it easy to attach the speaker to your bag, bike, or gear.
Pair Two Speakers: While the Go 3 doesn’t support stereo pairing, you can connect multiple JBL speakers using PartyBoost for a bigger sound.
Keep It Charged: With 5 hours of battery life, make sure to charge it before heading out for the day.
Experiment with Placement: Place it on a hard surface to enhance bass and overall sound quality.

Small, Powerful Speakers: The JBL Clip 4 vs. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2

When it comes to small yet powerful Bluetooth speakers, two models consistently stand out: the JBL Clip 4 and the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2. Both are compact, durable, and deliver impressive sound for their size, making them perfect for outdoor adventures, travel, or everyday use. But which one is the better choice for you? In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll break down the features, strengths, and weaknesses of each speaker to help you decide.

Why Small, Powerful Speakers Matter

Small Bluetooth speakers are ideal for those who want portability without sacrificing sound quality. They’re perfect for:

Outdoor Activities: Hiking, camping, beach trips, and more.
Travel: Lightweight and easy to pack.
Everyday Use: Great for small spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, or workspaces.

Both the JBL Clip 4 and the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 excel in these areas, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Let’s dive into the details.

JBL Clip 4: The Ultimate Portable Speaker

Key Features

Compact Design: The Clip 4 is incredibly small and lightweight, with a built-in carabiner for easy attachment to bags, belts, or gear.
Sound Quality: Despite its size, it delivers clear, balanced sound with decent bass.
Durability: IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge.
Price: Affordable, typically priced around $70.

Pros

Ultra-Portable: The carabiner clip makes it easy to carry and attach to almost anything.
Durable: Perfect for outdoor use, thanks to its rugged design and waterproof rating.
Long Battery Life: 10 hours of playtime is impressive for such a small speaker.

Cons

Limited Bass: While the sound is clear, the bass isn’t as powerful as larger speakers.
No Stereo Pairing: You can’t connect two Clip 4 speakers for stereo sound.

Best For

Outdoor Enthusiasts: The carabiner clip and durability make it ideal for hiking, camping, and other adventures.
Budget-Conscious Buyers: It’s affordable without sacrificing quality.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2: The Pocket-Sized Powerhouse

Key Features

360-Degree Sound: Delivers immersive, balanced audio in all directions.
Compact Design: Slightly larger than the Clip 4 but still highly portable.
Durability: IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, and it can float in water.
Battery Life: Up to 13 hours of playtime.
Price: Typically priced around $80.

Pros

Immersive Sound: The 360-degree audio is perfect for group listening.
Durable and Fun: Floats in water and comes in a variety of vibrant colors.
Outdoor Boost: A dedicated button enhances bass for outdoor use.

Cons

No Microphone: You can’t use it for phone calls.
Slightly Bulkier: Not as compact as the Clip 4.

Best For

Social Gatherings: The 360-degree sound makes it great for parties or group activities.
Water Lovers: Its ability to float makes it perfect for pool or beach use.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Feature	JBL Clip 4	Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2
Size	Ultra-compact	Slightly larger
Sound Quality	Clear, balanced	360-degree, immersive
Bass	Decent	Enhanced with Outdoor Boost
Durability	IP67 waterproof and dustproof	IP67 waterproof, floats
Battery Life	10 hours	13 hours
Special Features	Carabiner clip	Outdoor Boost, floats
Price	~$70	~$80

How to Choose Between the Two

Choose the JBL Clip 4 if:

You prioritize portability and want a speaker that can clip onto your gear.
You need a durable, waterproof speaker for outdoor adventures.
You’re on a budget but still want great sound quality.

Choose the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 if:

You want immersive, 360-degree sound for group listening.
You need a speaker that can float in water for pool or beach use.
You’re willing to spend a bit more for enhanced features.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Speaker

For the JBL Clip 4:

Use the Carabiner: Attach it to your backpack, bike, or belt for hands-free portability.
Experiment with Placement: Hanging it from a higher position can improve sound projection.
Keep It Charged: With 10 hours of battery life, it’s perfect for day trips.

For the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2:

Activate Outdoor Boost: Use the dedicated button to enhance bass for outdoor settings.
Pair Two Speakers: Connect two Wonderboom 2 speakers for stereo sound (a feature the Clip 4 lacks).
Float It: Take it to the pool or beach—it floats and is fully waterproof.

Sonic Powerhouses the Size of a Tall Beer Can: The JBL Flip 6 vs. Ultimate Ears Boom 3

When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers that pack a punch, the JBL Flip 6 and the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 are two of the most popular options on the market. Both are roughly the size of a tall beer can, making them highly portable, yet they deliver sound quality that rivals much larger speakers. But which one is the better choice for you? In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll dive into the features, strengths, and weaknesses of each speaker to help you decide.

Why These Speakers Matter

Portable speakers like the JBL Flip 6 and Ultimate Ears Boom 3 are perfect for:

Outdoor Adventures: Durable and waterproof, they’re ideal for camping, hiking, or beach trips.
Social Gatherings: Their powerful sound and 360-degree audio make them great for parties.
Everyday Use: Compact enough for small spaces but powerful enough to fill a room.

Both speakers are designed to deliver big sound in a small package, but they each have unique features that set them apart. Let’s break it down.

JBL Flip 6: The Bass-Lover’s Choice

Key Features

Sound Quality: Features a racetrack-shaped driver and separate tweeter for clear highs and deep bass.
Design: Sleek, cylindrical design with a durable fabric covering and rubberized ends.
Durability: IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
Battery Life: Up to 12 hours of playtime.
Connectivity: PartyBoost feature allows you to connect multiple JBL speakers for a bigger sound.
Price: Typically priced around $130.

Pros

Rich Bass: Perfect for bass-heavy music genres like EDM, hip-hop, and rock.
Durable Build: Rugged and waterproof, making it great for outdoor use.
Customizable Sound: Use the JBL Portable app to adjust the EQ settings.

Cons

No Microphone: You can’t use it for phone calls.
Limited Stereo Pairing: PartyBoost only supports mono pairing, not true stereo.

Best For

Bass Enthusiasts: If you love deep, punchy bass, the Flip 6 won’t disappoint.
Outdoor Use: Its rugged design and waterproof rating make it ideal for adventures.

Ultimate Ears Boom 3: The 360-Degree Party Speaker

Key Features

Sound Quality: Delivers balanced, 360-degree sound with deep bass.
Design: Iconic cylindrical shape with a two-tone fabric covering and bold colors.
Durability: IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, and it can float in water.
Battery Life: Up to 15 hours of playtime.
Connectivity: Can pair with up to 150 other Boom and Megaboom speakers for a massive sound experience.
Price: Typically priced around $150.

Pros

Immersive Sound: 360-degree audio is perfect for group listening.
Durable and Fun: Floats in water and comes in a variety of vibrant colors.
Magic Button: Allows you to play, pause, and skip tracks directly from the speaker.

Cons

No EQ Customization: You can’t adjust the sound profile via an app.
Slightly Pricier: More expensive than the Flip 6.

Best For

Party Hosts: The 360-degree sound and ability to pair multiple speakers make it ideal for social gatherings.
Water Lovers: Its ability to float makes it perfect for pool or beach use.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Feature	JBL Flip 6	Ultimate Ears Boom 3
Size	Compact, cylindrical	Compact, cylindrical
Sound Quality	Deep bass, clear highs	Balanced, 360-degree sound
Bass	Punchy and powerful	Deep and immersive
Durability	IP67 waterproof and dustproof	IP67 waterproof, floats
Battery Life	12 hours	15 hours
Special Features	PartyBoost for multi-speaker pairing	Magic Button, floats, 360-degree sound
Price	~$130	~$150

How to Choose Between the Two

Choose the JBL Flip 6 if:

You prioritize deep bass and customizable sound.
You want a durable, waterproof speaker for outdoor use.
You’re looking for a more affordable option.

Choose the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 if:

You want immersive, 360-degree sound for group listening.
You need a speaker that can float in water for pool or beach use.
You’re willing to spend a bit more for advanced features like the Magic Button.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Speaker

For the JBL Flip 6:

Use PartyBoost: Connect multiple JBL speakers for a bigger sound.
Customize the Sound: Use the JBL Portable app to tweak the EQ settings.
Keep It Charged: With 12 hours of battery life, it’s perfect for day trips.

For the Ultimate Ears Boom 3:

Activate Outdoor Mode: Enhances bass for outdoor settings.
Pair Multiple Speakers: Connect up to 150 Boom and Megaboom speakers for a massive sound experience.
Use the Magic Button: Control playback directly from the speaker for added convenience.

Larger Cylinder-Shaped Speakers: The JBL Charge 5 vs. Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3

When it comes to larger cylinder-shaped Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Charge 5 and the Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 are two of the most popular and highly regarded options. Both speakers are designed to deliver powerful sound, long battery life, and rugged durability, making them ideal for outdoor adventures, parties, and everyday use. But which one is the better choice for you? In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll break down the features, strengths, and weaknesses of each speaker to help you decide.

Why Larger Cylinder-Shaped Speakers Matter

Larger cylinder-shaped speakers like the JBL Charge 5 and Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 are perfect for:

Outdoor Adventures: Their rugged, waterproof designs make them ideal for camping, hiking, or beach trips.
Social Gatherings: They deliver powerful, room-filling sound that’s great for parties.
Everyday Use: They’re versatile enough for home use, whether you’re relaxing or hosting a get-together.

Both speakers are designed to deliver big sound in a portable package, but they each have unique features that set them apart. Let’s dive into the details.

JBL Charge 5: The Portable Powerhouse with a Built-In Power Bank

Key Features

Sound Quality: Features a racetrack-shaped driver and dual passive radiators for deep bass and clear highs.
Design: Sleek, cylindrical design with a durable fabric covering and rubberized ends.
Durability: IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours of playtime.
Power Bank: Built-in USB-C port allows you to charge your devices on the go.
Connectivity: PartyBoost feature allows you to connect multiple JBL speakers for a bigger sound.
Price: Typically priced around $180.

Pros

Rich Bass: Perfect for bass-heavy music genres like EDM, hip-hop, and rock.
Durable Build: Rugged and waterproof, making it great for outdoor use.
Power Bank Feature: Charge your devices while enjoying your music.
Long Battery Life: 20 hours of playtime ensures all-day use.

Cons

No Microphone: You can’t use it for phone calls.
Limited Stereo Pairing: PartyBoost only supports mono pairing, not true stereo.

Best For

Bass Enthusiasts: If you love deep, punchy bass, the Charge 5 won’t disappoint.
Outdoor Use: Its rugged design and waterproof rating make it ideal for adventures.
Tech-Savvy Users: The power bank feature is a handy addition for charging devices on the go.

Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3: The 360-Degree Party Speaker

Key Features

Sound Quality: Delivers balanced, 360-degree sound with deep bass.
Design: Iconic cylindrical shape with a two-tone fabric covering and bold colors.
Durability: IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, and it can float in water.
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours of playtime.
Connectivity: Can pair with up to 150 other Boom and Megaboom speakers for a massive sound experience.
Price: Typically priced around $200.

Pros

Immersive Sound: 360-degree audio is perfect for group listening.
Durable and Fun: Floats in water and comes in a variety of vibrant colors.
Magic Button: Allows you to play, pause, and skip tracks directly from the speaker.
Long Battery Life: 20 hours of playtime ensures all-day use.

Cons

No EQ Customization: You can’t adjust the sound profile via an app.
Slightly Pricier: More expensive than the Charge 5.

Best For

Party Hosts: The 360-degree sound and ability to pair multiple speakers make it ideal for social gatherings.
Water Lovers: Its ability to float makes it perfect for pool or beach use.
Music Enthusiasts: Balanced sound and deep bass cater to a wide range of music genres.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Feature	JBL Charge 5	Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3
Size	Compact, cylindrical	Compact, cylindrical
Sound Quality	Deep bass, clear highs	Balanced, 360-degree sound
Bass	Punchy and powerful	Deep and immersive
Durability	IP67 waterproof and dustproof	IP67 waterproof, floats
Battery Life	20 hours	20 hours
Special Features	Power bank, PartyBoost for multi-speaker pairing	Magic Button, floats, 360-degree sound
Price	~$180	~$200

How to Choose Between the Two

Choose the JBL Charge 5 if:

You prioritize deep bass and a built-in power bank.
You want a durable, waterproof speaker for outdoor use.
You’re looking for a more affordable option.

Choose the Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 if:

You want immersive, 360-degree sound for group listening.
You need a speaker that can float in water for pool or beach use.
You’re willing to spend a bit more for advanced features like the Magic Button.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Speaker

For the JBL Charge 5:

Use PartyBoost: Connect multiple JBL speakers for a bigger sound.
Charge Your Devices: Take advantage of the built-in power bank feature.
Customize the Sound: Use the JBL Portable app to tweak the EQ settings.

For the Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3:

Activate Outdoor Mode: Enhances bass for outdoor settings.
Pair Multiple Speakers: Connect up to 150 Boom and Megaboom speakers for a massive sound experience.
Use the Magic Button: Control playback directly from the speaker for added convenience.

“Smart” Speakers: The JBL Link 10 & 20 vs. Ultimate Ears Blast & Megablast

In the world of portable Bluetooth speakers, “smart” features are becoming increasingly popular. With built-in voice assistants, Wi-Fi connectivity, and app-based controls, smart speakers like the JBL Link 10 & 20 and the Ultimate Ears Blast & Megablast offer more than just great sound—they bring convenience and functionality to your listening experience. But which brand and model are the best fit for your needs? In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll explore the features, strengths, and weaknesses of these smart speakers to help you decide.

Why Smart Speakers Matter

Smart speakers combine high-quality audio with voice assistant capabilities, making them ideal for:

Hands-Free Control: Use voice commands to play music, check the weather, or control smart home devices.
Seamless Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options provide flexibility for streaming.
Enhanced Functionality: Access to apps, EQ settings, and multi-room audio setups.

Both JBL and Ultimate Ears have entered the smart speaker market with impressive offerings, but they cater to slightly different audiences. Let’s break it down.

JBL Link 10 & 20: Google Assistant-Powered Smart Speakers

Key Features

Voice Assistant: Built-in Google Assistant for hands-free control.
Sound Quality: Balanced sound with decent bass, suitable for small to medium-sized rooms.
Design: Compact and portable (Link 10) or larger and more powerful (Link 20).
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, with Chromecast built-in for multi-room audio.
Battery Life: Up to 5 hours (Link 10) or 10 hours (Link 20).
Price: Link 10 (~ $150), L ink 20 ($ 200).

Pros

Google Assistant Integration: Seamless voice control and smart home compatibility.
Portability: The Link 10 is lightweight and easy to carry.
Multi-Room Audio: Chromecast built-in allows you to connect multiple speakers.

Cons

Limited Battery Life: Shorter playtime compared to non-smart speakers.
No Alexa Support: Only Google Assistant is supported.
Bulkier Design: The Link 20 is less portable than the Link 10.

Best For

Google Ecosystem Users: Ideal for those who rely on Google Assistant and Chromecast.
Home Use: Great for small to medium-sized rooms, with the Link 20 offering more power.

Ultimate Ears Blast & Megablast: Alexa-Enabled Smart Speakers

Key Features

Voice Assistant: Built-in Amazon Alexa for hands-free control.
Sound Quality: 360-degree sound with deep bass, suitable for larger spaces.
Design: Rugged, cylindrical design with waterproof and dustproof ratings.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, with the ability to pair multiple speakers.
Battery Life: Up to 12 hours (Blast) or 16 hours (Megablast).
Price: Blast (~ $150), M e g ab l a s t ($ 250).

Pros

Alexa Integration: Seamless voice control and smart home compatibility.
Durability: IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, with the Megablast being floatable.
Immersive Sound: 360-degree audio is perfect for group listening.

Cons

No Google Assistant: Only Alexa is supported.
Higher Price: The Megablast is more expensive than the JBL Link 20.
Limited Multi-Room Options: Lacks Chromecast built-in.

Best For

Alexa Ecosystem Users: Ideal for those who rely on Amazon Alexa.
Outdoor Use: Rugged and waterproof, making them great for adventures.
Party Hosts: 360-degree sound and long battery life are perfect for social gatherings.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Feature	JBL Link 10	JBL Link 20	Ultimate Ears Blast	Ultimate Ears Megablast
Voice Assistant	Google Assistant	Google Assistant	Amazon Alexa	Amazon Alexa
Sound Quality	Balanced, decent bass	Powerful, balanced sound	360-degree, deep bass	360-degree, immersive sound
Design	Compact, portable	Larger, more powerful	Rugged, cylindrical	Rugged, cylindrical, floatable
Durability	IPX7 waterproof	IPX7 waterproof	IP67 waterproof and dustproof	IP67 waterproof and dustproof
Battery Life	5 hours	10 hours	12 hours	16 hours
Special Features	Chromecast built-in	Chromecast built-in	Alexa integration	Alexa integration, floats
Price	~$150	~$200	~$150	~$250

How to Choose Between the Two

Choose the JBL Link 10 or 20 if:

You use Google Assistant and want seamless integration with the Google ecosystem.
You need a speaker with Chromecast built-in for multi-room audio.
You prefer a more affordable option with decent sound quality.

Choose the Ultimate Ears Blast or Megablast if:

You use Amazon Alexa and want seamless integration with the Alexa ecosystem.
You need a rugged, waterproof speaker for outdoor use.
You want immersive 360-degree sound and longer battery life.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Smart Speaker

For the JBL Link 10 & 20:

Set Up Multi-Room Audio: Use Chromecast built-in to connect multiple speakers.
Customize Sound: Use the Google Home app to adjust EQ settings.
Maximize Battery Life: Keep the speaker charged and use Wi-Fi for longer playtime.

For the Ultimate Ears Blast & Megablast:

Use Alexa Skills: Explore Alexa skills to enhance functionality.
Pair Multiple Speakers: Connect multiple Blast or Megablast speakers for a bigger sound.
Take It Outdoors: Use the rugged design and waterproof rating to your advantage.