JBL Charge 6: Winning Comeback or Just an Update?
JBL unveils its new portable Bluetooth speaker, the Charge 6 , following the Charge 5, which was praised for its excellent value for money. The question is simple: does this new version really deserve its premium price in the face of increasingly aggressive competition? To find out, I tested it in real-world conditions, both indoors and outdoors, to assess its true progress.
Visually more robust, with a removable carrying handle that improves mobility (even if the design will not be unanimous), the Charge 6 plays the card of measured evolution . The sound performance remains solid, faithful to the JBL DNA: generous bass , clear mids and good reproduction outdoors. There are some technical improvements (Bluetooth 5.4, increased autonomy, equalizer via the app), but also persistent limitations : still no jack port, no AAC or aptX codec , and a audio imbalance at high volume.
At €199 introductory price , the investment may seem difficult to justify, especially since the still very competitive Charge 5 regularly comes in under €100. The Charge 6 remains an excellent choice for fans of portable sound, but it doesn't completely eclipse its predecessor .
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Unboxing and Getting Started: Between Good Ideas and Questionable Savings
Upon opening, the JBL Charge 6 remains true to the brand's DNA : classic packaging, neat visuals, but without any real surprises. Inside, we find the essentials... or even a little too little. The speaker, a user manual, and that's it. No mains charger, a habit now, but more surprisingly, the USB-C cable also seems absent . A regrettable withdrawal for a speaker sold for €199, especially when the competition continues to include this type of accessory.
Fortunately, JBL has introduced a welcome new feature : a carrying strap , which comes standard. Attachable via two integrated hooks, it allows for easy hand or shoulder carrying without interfering with the speaker's use. This small detail makes all the difference for portable use, especially when hiking or traveling.
Here we find a direct inspiration from the JBL Xtreme 4 , which already relied on this type of accessory. On the Charge 6, this handle reinforces the all-terrain aspect and really improves the ergonomics, without weighing down the product. A good point that (partially) compensates for the omissions in the box.
Redesigned design: more stability, more practicality
The JBL Charge 6 retains the Charge 5's aesthetic guidelines, but introduces several welcome tweaks . The most visible: a rubber bead at the base of the speaker. Inspired by the JBL Xtreme 4, this detail significantly improves stability in a horizontal position. The result? Less vibration, better grip on smooth surfaces, and sound less muffled by the stand. It's a subtle change, but it really does make a difference in use.
The controls are grouped on the top, with an intuitive layout:
Backlit buttons : power, Bluetooth, Auracast mode
Classic controls: volume +/-, play/pause
Another practical addition: the ends are reinforced with rubber , which protects the passive radiators while allowing vertical use. For horizontal positioning, two non-slip silicone pads ensure perfect stability, even outdoors.
Finally, on the front, the orange-circled JBL logo remains clearly visible, accompanied by a LED battery gauge. Overall, the design evolves without disrupting habits, but with a clear orientation towards robustness and nomadic practicality .
Connectivity and features: timid progress, questionable compromises
On paper, the JBL Charge 6 is making progress , but some technical choices may be divisive. It adopts Bluetooth 5.4 , which is more stable and energy-efficient. But JBL insists on only offering the SBC , even at this price point. A frustrating decision, especially since much cheaper speakers now offer the AAC or even aptX for better sound reproduction . A real shortcoming for demanding users or fans of high-quality streaming.
Another disappointment: the total absence of a 3.5 mm jack port . It is therefore impossible to connect a wired audio source, which limits versatility in certain cases (DJs, turntables, computers without Bluetooth).
Fortunately, JBL includes some thoughtful features:
Multipoint Bluetooth : possibility of connecting two devices simultaneously , practical for alternating between music and calls between friends.
Auracast : a new technology replacing PartyBoost, it allows you to chain an unlimited number of compatible speakers . Ideal in theory for creating a multi-room or stereo audio system. In practice, reliability is still perfectible: I noticed random disconnections , especially when trying to pair with a Charge 5. A promising function, but not yet 100% stable.
Finally, note: the Powerbank function is still available via the USB-C port. Practical for recharging a smartphone while out and about, this feature remains true to the DNA of the Charge and is still just as useful on the go.
A complete application… but still perfectible
The JBL Portable app accompanies the Charge 6 and acts as a command center. It lets you track battery status, update management, and key audio options. But limitations persist : it's still impossible to adjust the volume or navigate between tracks from the app. A surprising lack of usability in 2025, especially for a premium product.
The heart of the app is the built-in equalizer . JBL offers several sound presets :
JBL Signature : the most balanced
Energetic : bass boost
Vocal : Ideal for podcasts
Chill : too flat and without relief
In reality, only the 7-band manual equalizer allows you to fully exploit the speaker's audio potential. This is where you can fine-tune the sound to better suit your tastes and the listening environment.
Another great feature is Playtime Boost . This mode turns off some of the bass to give you up to 3 hours of extra battery life . Perfect for outdoor use or when there's no outlet nearby. It's a simple but well-thought-out feature that reinforces the Charge 6's portable appeal.
A rich sound signature, but which finds its limits at high volume
The JBL Charge 6 features a two-way audio architecture : a 30W RMS woofer and a 10W RMS tweeter , supported by two passive radiators on the sides. This combo provides a surprisingly wide soundstage for a speaker of this size .
From the first few minutes of listening, we find what makes JBL strong:
Deep, dynamic bass , well present without being stifling. It brings a certain punch to electro or hip-hop tracks.
Clear, well-defined midrange with excellent vocal reproduction. Podcasts, videos, and acoustic tracks all come through naturally.
Precise and well-chiseled highs , without aggressiveness (as long as the volume remains reasonable).
This versatile sound rendering allows the Charge 6 to adapt equally well to listening to music, outdoor use or for simple group calls.
But not everything is perfect : past 75% volume , the balance collapses.
The bass loses its impact , the details compress , and the treble becomes shrill , generating a feeling of saturation. This distortion phenomenon is common on compact portable speakers, but we could have hoped for better from JBL on this sixth generation.
👉 Recommended use : To fully enjoy the rich sound of the Charge 6, limit the volume to 60-70% . You will then obtain a balanced, ample and pleasant reproduction, without auditory fatigue.
Battery life and waterproofing: a speaker designed for adventure
With the JBL Charge 6, battery life takes a leap forward: the manufacturer promises up to 24 hours of continuous playback , and in fact, the results are more than satisfactory. In our tests at moderate volume (around 40%) , the speaker lasted nearly 20 hours without weakening . In more sustained use, we oscillate between 14 and 17 hours , which remains very comfortable for a speaker of this size.
Full charge : Allow approximately 3 hours via the USB-C port , with an LED gauge on the front to monitor battery status in real time. Convenient for on-the-go use.
But where the Charge 6 really impresses is in its resistance to the elements . JBL equips it with an IP68 certification :
Completely dustproof,
Submersible up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
In short, it will easily survive a fall in the pool, a downpour while hiking or a sandy afternoon at the beach. The woven fabric covering and rubber reinforcements absorb shocks well, making it an all-terrain speaker par excellence .
Bonus : It can also be used as an external battery power bank function . You can charge a smartphone or headphones directly from the speaker while you're on the go.
Our final verdict on the JBL Charge 6
The JBL Charge 6 is a perfect continuation of the lineup, improving on several aspects of the Charge 5. Its design is more practical, notably thanks to the integrated handle, and the arrival of Auracast marks a nice evolution. The sound quality, faithful to the JBL signature, remains a major asset, with deep bass and good overall presence. The battery life and reinforced waterproofing make it a reliable ally for traveling.
But some technical choices dampen enthusiasm. The lack of a headphone jack and advanced audio codecs is difficult to justify at this price. Moreover, the sound is unbalanced at high volumes, a flaw we would have expected less from a model in this range. Finally, with a launch price of around €200, the question of value for money arises, especially when faced with the still-competitive Charge 5.
In short, the Charge 6 is ideal for those looking for a rugged, durable, and high-performance speaker for outdoor use. However, owners of the Charge 5 may not see it as a revolution. For new buyers, the choice will mainly depend on the value they place on the new features offered.
What are the best alternative speakers to the JBL Charge 6?
The JBL Charge 6 stands out as a must-have in the world of portable speakers, thanks to its excellent balance between power, battery life, and durability. However, the market is highly competitive, and several competing models deserve your attention depending on your specific needs and budget. After extensive testing, here's an overview of the most interesting alternatives.
Cheap alternative: Anker Soundcore Boom 2
If you're looking for great value without sacrificing power, the Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Plus is a solid choice. It features:
Pros : Impressive raw sound power with deep bass, generous battery life, and an app-customizable equalizer for sound tailored to your preferences.
Limitations : A more functional design than premium, and a sound rendering sometimes less precise in the midrange compared to the Charge 6.
High-end alternative: Sony SRS-XG300
For those who value balanced sound with party features, the Sony SRS-XG300 is a direct competitor:
Benefits : Balanced sound signature, LED lighting synchronized to music for an immersive atmosphere, retractable handle for easy transport.
Limitations : Larger and heavier speaker, less compact than the Charge 6, with sometimes lower waterproof certification depending on the version.
360° sound alternative: Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3
If omnidirectional diffusion is your priority, the MEGABOOM 3 offers perfectly homogeneous 360° sound, ideal for gatherings:
Advantages : Omnidirectional sound thanks to its cylindrical shape, robustness with IP67 certification, design designed for outdoor use.
Limitations : Bass less powerful and deep than the Charge 6, overall sound clearer but less warm.
Ultra-portable alternative: Bose SoundLink Flex
For nomads looking for a compact speaker without compromising on sound quality, the Bose SoundLink Flex is a benchmark:
Benefits : Ultra-compact and lightweight format, elegant design, refined sound with PositionIQ technology which adapts the sound reproduction according to the position of the speaker.
Limitations : Reduced power compared to the Charge 6, lighter bass, less suitable for sound reinforcement in large outdoor spaces.
