JBL Charge 6 Review: The Bluetooth Speaker to Beat
The JBL Charge 6 adds lossless audio, a user-replaceable battery and an impressive 28 hours of playtime.
We spent 4 weeks testing the JBL Charge 6 as part of our daily routine to see how it holds up beyond the spec sheet. Here is everything you need to know before you buy.
Price and Availability
The JBL Charge 6 is available now from JBL and major retailers starting at $199. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, as we regularly see discounts during major shopping events.
Key Specifications
| Spec | JBL Charge 6 |
|---|---|
| Output | 45W |
| Battery | 24 hours + 4 hours Playtime Boost |
| Water resistance | IP68 |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.4, Auracast |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
Design and Comfort
The JBL Charge 6 is comfortable to wear for hours at a time. JBL has clearly paid attention to weight distribution and fit, and the controls are intuitive once you learn them.
Sound Quality
Out of the box, the JBL Charge 6 offers a warm, engaging sound with tight bass, clear mids and detailed highs. The companion app's EQ lets you fine-tune the sound to your taste.
Noise Cancellation and Battery
Noise cancellation effectively muted airplane rumble and office chatter in our tests. Battery life matched JBL's claims, and quick charging gives you hours of playback from a few minutes plugged in.
Pros and Cons
What we like
- Loud, punchy sound
- Excellent battery life
- Rugged IP68 build
What we don't like
- No 3.5mm input
- App EQ is basic
Verdict: Should You Buy the JBL Charge 6?
For a portable party speaker that survives anything, the Charge 6 is our top pick.
Our score: 8.9/10