Weekly Gadget Highlight: JBL's Water-Resistant, Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The JBL Flip 3, the third generation of Bluetooth speakers from JBL, is a popular choice for those seeking a portable, durable, and affordable audio solution. This compact, wireless speaker boasts a robust design and decent battery life, making it an ideal companion for outdoor activities or casual listening at home.
Design-wise, the JBL Flip 3 is designed to be compact and portable, with a cylindrical shape that is typical of the Flip series. The speaker is built with durable materials to withstand rough handling and is splashproof, making it suitable for outdoor use and resistant to accidental spills.
In terms of sound quality, the speaker features two 40mm drivers, each capable of producing 8W, totaling 16 Watts. The frequency response ranges from 85 Hz to 20 kHz, providing a solid sound output with noticeable bass, although it may lack the precision found in later models like the Flip 4. The JBL Flip 3 is also equipped with two passive bass radiators for deeper, richer bass.
The JBL Flip 3 comes equipped with a 3000 mAh Li-ion battery, offering up to 10 hours of continuous playback. It takes approximately 3.5 hours to fully charge the battery using a USB charger.
Connectivity-wise, the Flip 3 supports an older version of Bluetooth compared to newer models and does not support the multi-speaker connection features seen in newer models like Auracast. However, it does connect via Bluetooth or a 3.5mm audio jack and uses 'Connect' technology to link compatible speakers for a multi-point soundscape.
The JBL Flip 3 is available in eight different colours and can be purchased from various electronics retailers. It can also be used as a speakerphone, making it a versatile device for both personal and professional use. The price of the JBL Flip 3 is €129.
Despite being an older model, the JBL Flip 3 remains a solid choice for those seeking a compact, portable speaker with decent sound quality and durability. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in newer models, its robust design, decent battery life, and affordable price make it a worthwhile investment for many.
The JBL Flip 3's robust design and decent sound quality, coupled with its affordability, make it a smart choice for those looking for a compact speaker that doubles as a gadget, contributing to a smart-home setup. In addition to its use as a Bluetooth speaker, its versatility extends to serving as a speakerphone, thus being applicable for both personal and professional engagements.
