The JBL Charge 5 is a premium portable Bluetooth speaker built for users who want more than just decent audio — it brings bold JBL sound, a sturdy IP67-rated body, and up to 20 hours of battery life. With added features like power bank functionality and PartyBoost pairing, it delivers excellent all-round performance. Although it’s a bit heavy and takes a while to charge fully, its strengths in sound, durability, and utility make it a highly recommended speaker for both indoor enjoyment and outdoor adventures.
Specs
Battery Capacity: ~ 7,500 mAh (Li-ion/Li-polymer)
Playtime: Up to ~20 hours (moderate volume)
Charge Time: ~4 hours via USB-C
Output Power: ~ 30W (woofer) + 10W (tweeter) or around 30W total depending on listing
Bluetooth Version: 5.1
Colors Available: Black, Blue, Red, Gray etc.
Pros
Strong bass and rich sound quality for its size
Long battery life (~20 hrs) and large capacity (7,500 mAh)
Durable build: IP67 waterproof/dustproof, solid for outdoor use
Doubles as a power bank — adds utility
Good Bluetooth version (5.1) + ability to pair with another via PartyBoost
Cons
Bulky/heavy for pocket carry (~0.96 kg)
Charging time (~4 hrs) is a bit long compared to smaller speakers
At high volumes some users report bass or clarity drop-off (or distortion) in certain environments
No voice assistant built in, and lack of WiFi in standard model (unless you get special version)
JBL Charge 5 Review
The JBL Charge 5 combines powerful audio, long battery life, and rugged durability into one portable speaker. It’s designed for people who love music on the go — whether at home, at the beach, or during outdoor adventures. In this JBL Charge 5 review, we explore its sound quality, battery life, connectivity, and overall value to see why it remains a top Bluetooth speaker in Kenya.
Sound and Audio Quality
The JBL Charge 5 produces the signature JBL Pro Sound that feels rich and full. Its long-excursion woofer delivers deep, punchy bass, while the separate tweeter keeps the highs crisp and clear. Together, they create a balanced sound that fills both indoor and outdoor spaces easily. The dual passive radiators add extra depth, giving the music a strong low-end thump. Covering a frequency range from 60 Hz to 20,000 Hz, it handles almost every genre beautifully.
Battery, Portability, and Power Bank Feature
The built-in 7,500mAh battery offers up to 20 hours of continuous playtime under normal use. That’s enough to power your day outdoors or a weekend trip. It recharges in about 4 hours using the USB-C port. Moreover, the Charge 5 doubles as a power bank, letting you charge your phone or small gadgets while enjoying music. This feature makes it perfect for travel and camping.
Durability and Outdoor Use
The IP67 rating ensures the JBL Charge 5 resists both water and dust. You can use it by the pool, on the beach, or during hikes without worry. Its silicone outer shell and rubberized buttons add extra protection from bumps and drops. Overall, it’s built tough for outdoor adventures.
Connectivity and Extra Features
With Bluetooth 5.1, the connection stays stable and quick. You can link up to two devices at once, switching easily between phones or tablets. Additionally, the JBL PartyBoost feature lets you pair multiple JBL speakers for stereo or louder sound during parties.
Price in Kenya
In Kenya, the JBL Charge 5 typically sells between KSh 22,000 and KSh 28,000, depending on the retailer and color variant. It’s available at major stores like Avechi, PhonePlace Kenya, and Jumia.
Final Thoughts
The JBL Charge 5 stands out for its bold sound, sturdy design, and long-lasting battery. It’s not the smallest speaker, but it delivers consistent power and versatility. Whether you’re at home or exploring outdoors, it ensures your music never stops. For its price, it offers durability, clarity, and convenience — making it one of the best portable speakers in Kenya today.
