When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, two popular options are the new JBL Clip 5 ($79) and the Anker Soundcore 2 ($45). Let's dive into how these speakers compare and which might be the better choice for your needs.
The portable speaker market has come a long way in recent years. The Soundcore 2 was released back in 2017, while the Clip 5 just launched in 2024. This seven-year gap shows in their technical capabilities - particularly in areas like Bluetooth versions, water resistance ratings, and sound processing technology.
The JBL Clip 5 uses a single 7-watt driver paired with a passive radiator (which helps enhance bass without requiring additional power). This newer design produces surprisingly full sound from its compact size. The speaker leverages JBL's latest audio processing to prevent distortion at higher volumes.
The Anker Soundcore 2 takes a different approach with dual 6-watt drivers (12 watts total). While this might seem more powerful on paper, raw wattage doesn't tell the whole story. The newer JBL processing and tuning actually deliver clearer audio, especially at higher volumes.
In practice, the Clip 5 produces noticeably clearer highs and more controlled bass. Its sound stays clean up to about 75% volume, while the Soundcore 2 shows some compression artifacts (audio distortion) when pushed to its limits. For casual listening at moderate volumes, both speakers perform well, but the Clip 5 pulls ahead when you need more volume or better clarity.
The Clip 5's Bluetooth 5.3 provides better range and stability compared to the Soundcore 2's older 4.2 standard. More importantly, the Clip 5 supports Auracast - a new technology that lets you connect multiple compatible speakers together for expanded sound. This feature alone might justify the price difference if you plan to add more speakers later.
Here's where things get interesting. The Soundcore 2 boasts an impressive 24-hour battery life compared to the Clip 5's 12-15 hours. However, these numbers assume moderate volume levels - crank things up and both will drain faster. The Clip 5 uses modern USB-C charging while the Soundcore 2 relies on older micro-USB, making the Clip 5 more convenient if you've already modernized your charging cables.
The Clip 5 features IP67 certification, meaning it's fully dustproof and can handle submersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The Soundcore 2 offers basic water resistance but isn't rated for submersion. For pool parties or beach days, the Clip 5 provides much better peace of mind.
The Clip 5's signature carabiner design is more than just a gimmick - it's genuinely useful for hanging the speaker from backpacks, shower rods, or tent poles. The Soundcore 2 uses a traditional rectangular design that works well on flat surfaces but lacks mounting options.
Both speakers feel solid, but the Clip 5 uses newer materials including recycled plastics and fabrics, showing JBL's commitment to sustainability. The rubberized exterior of both speakers provides good grip, though the Soundcore 2 tends to show fingerprints more readily.
The JBL Portable app provides EQ customization and firmware updates for the Clip 5. While the differences between EQ settings are subtle, having this control adds value. The Soundcore 2 doesn't offer app support, limiting you to its default sound profile.
At nearly half the price of the Clip 5, the Anker Soundcore 2 represents solid value for basic audio needs. However, the JBL Clip 5 justifies its higher price through better sound quality, modern features like Auracast, superior water resistance, and more mounting options.
Neither speaker is ideal as a primary home theater solution, but the Clip 5's Auracast support means you could potentially use multiple units for surround effects. Still, dedicated home theater speakers would be a better choice for this purpose.
The Clip 5's carabiner design and better water resistance make it the clear winner for outdoor adventures. Its ability to hang from various objects while providing quality sound makes it incredibly versatile.
The Soundcore 2's traditional design works well on a desk, and its longer battery life means less frequent charging. If you're primarily using it as a desktop speaker, the extra features of the Clip 5 might not justify its higher price.
Choose the JBL Clip 5 if:
Choose the Anker Soundcore 2 if:
Recent advances in audio processing and driver technology give the Clip 5 a clear technical advantage. Its newer Bluetooth standard provides better connectivity, while features like Auracast support make it more future-proof. The improved water resistance rating also shows how durability standards have evolved since the Soundcore 2's release.
While both speakers serve their purpose well, they target slightly different users. The Clip 5 represents the latest in portable speaker technology, with better sound quality and modern features to match its premium price. The Soundcore 2, while older, remains a solid budget choice that handles basic audio needs competently.
For most users who can afford it, the Clip 5's superior sound quality and features make it worth the extra investment. However, if you're looking for a basic speaker for casual listening and want to save some money, the Soundcore 2 remains a reasonable choice despite its age.
Remember that the best speaker is the one that fits your specific needs and budget. Consider how you'll primarily use the speaker and whether the Clip 5's premium features justify its higher price for your situation.
| JBL Clip 5 | Anker Soundcore 2 |
|---|---|
| Price - Base investment required | |
| $79 (premium pricing) | $45 (budget-friendly) |
| Audio Power - Impacts maximum volume and clarity | |
| 7W single driver with passive radiator (clearer at high volumes) | 12W dual drivers (more power but some distortion at max) |
| Battery Life - Time between charges at moderate volume | |
| 12-15 hours (with Playtime Boost) | 24 hours (longer but older battery tech) |
| Water Resistance - Protection against elements | |
| IP67 (fully dustproof and waterproof) | IPX5 (splash resistant only) |
| Bluetooth Version - Affects range and stability | |
| 5.3 (latest standard, better range) | 4.2 (older standard, shorter range) |
| Multi-Speaker Support - Ability to expand sound | |
| Yes (Auracast compatible) | No |
| Physical Design - Portability and mounting | |
| Integrated carabiner clip, 0.628 lbs | Traditional rectangular, 0.7 lbs |
| App Support - Sound customization | |
| Yes (EQ controls via JBL app) | No app support |
| Charging Port - Convenience factor | |
| USB-C (modern standard) | Micro-USB (older standard) |
| Driver Configuration - Sound production method | |
| Single driver + passive radiator (better bass response) | Dual drivers (wider sound stage) |
| Release Date - Technology generation | |
| 2024 (current gen) | 2017 (previous gen) |
| Construction - Build quality and materials | |
| Recycled materials, premium finish | Standard materials, rubberized finish |
Neither the JBL Clip 5 nor Anker Soundcore 2 is ideal for primary home theater use. However, if you need a supplementary speaker, the Clip 5's Auracast feature allows multiple speaker connectivity, making it more versatile for home theater applications.
The JBL Clip 5 costs $79, while the Anker Soundcore 2 is priced at $45. The $34 difference reflects newer technology and additional features in the JBL model.
The JBL Clip 5 offers superior sound quality with clearer highs and better bass control, despite its smaller size. While the Anker Soundcore 2 has higher total wattage, the JBL's newer audio processing technology provides better overall sound.
The Anker Soundcore 2 offers 24 hours of playback, while the JBL Clip 5 provides 12-15 hours. However, actual battery life depends on volume levels and usage patterns.
Both can be used outdoors, but the JBL Clip 5 has superior IP67 water and dust protection compared to the Anker Soundcore 2's basic water resistance, making it better suited for outdoor activities.
The JBL Clip 5 is more portable thanks to its integrated carabiner clip and lighter weight (0.628 lbs). The Anker Soundcore 2 (0.7 lbs) uses a traditional rectangular design that's less convenient for on-the-go use.
The JBL Clip 5 supports Auracast technology for connecting multiple compatible speakers. The Anker Soundcore 2 doesn't offer multi-speaker connectivity.
The JBL Clip 5 features newer Bluetooth 5.3 with better range and stability, while the Anker Soundcore 2 uses older Bluetooth 4.2 technology.
Neither speaker is ideal for primary movie watching. However, the JBL Clip 5's clearer audio output and potential for multiple speaker connectivity makes it a better choice if you must use a portable speaker for movies.
The Anker Soundcore 2 works better as a desktop speaker due to its traditional design and longer battery life. The JBL Clip 5's clip design, while versatile, isn't optimized for desktop use.
The JBL Clip 5 offers app support with EQ customization through the JBL Portable app. The Anker Soundcore 2 doesn't have app support.
The Anker Soundcore 2 offers better value for basic audio needs at $45. However, the JBL Clip 5's premium features and superior sound quality justify its higher price for users who need these capabilities.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: howtogeek.com - soundguys.com - youtube.com - rtings.com - gymcaddy.net - jbl.com - mm.jbl.com - soundguys.com - th.jbl.com - hu.harmanaudio.com - community.anker.com - forums.androidcentral.com - community.anker.com - youtube.com - community.anker.com - community.anker.com - wirelessplace.com - cnet.com - youtube.com - walmart.com - us.ankerwork.com - support.soundcore.com
