When it comes to portable audio, choosing the right Bluetooth speaker can feel overwhelming. Today we're comparing two popular but very different options: the premium $169 Marshall Stockwell II and the ultra-portable $59.99 JBL Clip 5. While both speakers let you enjoy music on the go, they take notably different approaches to achieving that goal.
Portable Bluetooth speakers have evolved significantly over the past few years. The category now spans everything from tiny clip-on speakers to substantial portable boomboxes. The key developments we've seen include better battery life, improved water resistance, and more sophisticated audio processing that helps small speakers sound bigger than their size would suggest.
The most important factors to consider are:
The Marshall Stockwell II, released in late 2018, takes design cues from Marshall's iconic guitar amplifiers. With its retro aesthetic and analog control knobs, it's clearly aimed at music enthusiasts who appreciate both style and substance. The metal grille and silicone exterior provide durability, though its IPX4 rating only protects against light splashes.
In contrast, the JBL Clip 5, announced at CES 2024, represents the latest in ultra-portable design. The built-in carabiner and IP67 waterproof/dustproof rating make it virtually adventure-proof. JBL has also incorporated sustainable materials, using post-consumer recycled plastic and fabric for the speaker grille.
The Stockwell II employs a sophisticated three-amplifier system:
This configuration, combined with a bass-reflex cabinet design (which uses a port to enhance low-frequency response), delivers impressive stereo separation and clarity. The physical control knobs for bass and treble let you dial in your preferred sound signature without fumbling with an app.
While smaller, the Clip 5 benefits from JBL's latest audio engineering:
The sound is notably improved over the Clip 4, with better bass response and higher maximum volume. However, physics still limits what's possible from such a small enclosure.
Having tested both speakers extensively, here's how they perform in different scenarios:
The Stockwell II excels indoors, where its stereo separation and room-filling capability shine. It's perfect for apartments or home offices, providing enough volume to energize a medium-sized room while maintaining clarity. The bass response, while not earth-shattering, is satisfying for most genres.
The Clip 5 performs admirably in small spaces but lacks the presence for room-filling sound. It's ideal for personal listening or background music in a bathroom or kitchen.
Outdoors, the Stockwell II maintains good sound quality but sometimes struggles with bass presence in open spaces. Its larger size and weight (1.38 kg) mean you'll need to plan for transport.
The Clip 5 really finds its element outdoors. While it can't match the Stockwell II's volume or bass, its clip design and weatherproofing make it perfect for hiking, biking, or beach trips. The directional sound works well for personal or small group listening.
The Stockwell II offers impressive battery performance:
The Clip 5 is competitive for its size:
The Clip 5 showcases newer technology:
The Stockwell II offers:
At $169, the Stockwell II represents a premium option in the portable speaker market. You're paying for:
The $59.99 Clip 5 delivers excellent value through:
Choose the Marshall Stockwell II if:
Go for the JBL Clip 5 if:
Both speakers excel in their intended use cases. The Stockwell II delivers premium sound and classic style for those who prioritize audio quality and don't mind carrying a larger speaker. The Clip 5 represents the pinnacle of portable design, perfect for active users who need durability and convenience more than room-filling sound.
Remember, the best speaker is the one that fits your specific needs and lifestyle. Consider where and how you'll use it most often, and choose accordingly.
| Marshall Stockwell II | JBL Clip 5 |
|---|---|
| Price - Core consideration for value assessment | |
| $169 (premium pricing) | $59.99 (budget-friendly) |
| Sound Output - Determines volume and audio quality | |
| 20W total (10W woofer + 2x5W tweeters) | Single driver with passive radiator |
| Size & Weight - Critical for portability | |
| 180 x 161 x 70 mm, 1.38 kg (larger but room-filling sound) | 86 x 135 x 46 mm, 0.285 kg (ultra-portable) |
| Battery Life - Important for extended use | |
| 20 hours, quick charge (6 hours from 20 min charge) | 12-15 hours, standard charging |
| Water Resistance - Determines outdoor usability | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant only) | IP67 (fully waterproof and dustproof) |
| Audio Controls - Affects ease of use | |
| Physical bass/treble/volume knobs | App-based EQ control |
| Bluetooth Version - Impacts connection quality | |
| 5.0 (30ft range) | 5.3 with LE Audio support |
| Additional Features - Adds versatility | |
| Multi-host connection, 3.5mm input | Auracast support, carabiner clip, multi-point connection |
| Sound Characteristics - Key for listening experience | |
| Stereo with better bass response, room-filling sound | Mono with directional audio, limited bass |
| Design Focus - Indicates intended use case | |
| Premium home/travel speaker with retro aesthetic | Adventure-ready ultra-portable with modern features |
The $169 Marshall Stockwell II is significantly better for home theater use due to its stereo sound and higher power output. While neither speaker is ideal as a primary home theater speaker, the Stockwell II can serve as a decent temporary solution for small spaces or as auxiliary audio in adjacent rooms.
The Marshall Stockwell II costs $169, while the JBL Clip 5 is priced at $59.99, making it $109 less expensive.
The Stockwell II offers 20 hours of playback with quick charging capability, while the Clip 5 provides 12-15 hours of playback time.
Both can be used outdoors, but the JBL Clip 5 is better suited with its IP67 waterproof rating. The Stockwell II only has IPX4 splash resistance.
The Marshall Stockwell II delivers superior sound quality with its 20W total output (10W woofer + 2x5W tweeters) and stereo separation. The Clip 5 has good sound for its size but can't match the Stockwell II's audio performance.
The Stockwell II can connect to a TV via its 3.5mm auxiliary input, while the Clip 5 only offers Bluetooth connectivity, which may cause audio lag with video content.
The JBL Clip 5 is significantly more portable at 0.285 kg with a built-in carabiner clip. The Stockwell II weighs 1.38 kg and requires a bag for transport.
The JBL Clip 5 supports Auracast for multi-speaker connectivity with other JBL speakers. The Stockwell II doesn't offer multi-speaker connectivity.
The Stockwell II features physical knobs for volume, bass, and treble adjustment. The Clip 5 uses app-based controls through the JBL Portable app.
Both can serve as computer speakers, but the Stockwell II is better suited with its stereo sound and auxiliary input. The Clip 5 works but is designed more for portable use.
The JBL Clip 5 features newer Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio support, while the Stockwell II uses Bluetooth 5.0. Both support multi-point connection for multiple devices.
The JBL Clip 5 offers excellent value at $59.99 for portable use. The Stockwell II at $169 is worth it if you prioritize sound quality and home use over ultimate portability.
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: bestbuy.com - stuff.tv - idownloadblog.com - stereoguide.com - kendallgiles.com - termagoods.com - aplaze.com - manua.ls - youtube.com - sg.tcacoustic.asia - marshall.com - youtube.com - howtogeek.com - soundguys.com - youtube.com - rtings.com - gymcaddy.net - jbl.com - mm.jbl.com - soundguys.com - th.jbl.com - hu.harmanaudio.com
