JBL's Grip is the latest addition to the company's line of portable Bluetooth speakers, offering a unique blend of size, sound, and ruggedness. Weighing in at just 0.8 pounds, the Grip is significantly lighter than its larger counterparts, such as the JBL Flip 7, making it an ideal choice for those who need a speaker that can be easily tossed into a backpack or cross-body bag.
The Grip boasts impressive sound quality for its size, producing clear and balanced audio that can fill large spaces. However, at higher volume levels, distortion becomes noticeable, particularly in low-frequency tracks. The built-in LED light show is another standout feature, offering four colors to choose from and five display modes - although it's essential to note that this feature doesn't sync with music playback.
One of the Grip's greatest strengths lies in its durability, boasting an IP68 rating for dust- and waterproofing. Additionally, the speaker features a solid silicone rubber design on both ends, making it highly resistant to shocks. However, there are some notable omissions, including no auxiliary input or backlit buttons, which may be seen as drawbacks by some users.
The Grip's value proposition is somewhat compromised by its lack of extras compared to competitors, such as the Tribit Stormbox Mini+, which offers additional features like a built-in speakerphone and auxiliary inputs at a lower price point. Nevertheless, JBL's Grip remains an attractive option for those seeking a portable speaker that can withstand rough handling.
Ultimately, the Grip's unique blend of size, sound, and ruggedness makes it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and compact speaker for casual use. While its price may be slightly higher than some competitors, the additional features and durability offered by JBL make it well worth considering - particularly if you're looking for a holiday gift with a bit of flair.
The Grip boasts impressive sound quality for its size, producing clear and balanced audio that can fill large spaces. However, at higher volume levels, distortion becomes noticeable, particularly in low-frequency tracks. The built-in LED light show is another standout feature, offering four colors to choose from and five display modes - although it's essential to note that this feature doesn't sync with music playback.
One of the Grip's greatest strengths lies in its durability, boasting an IP68 rating for dust- and waterproofing. Additionally, the speaker features a solid silicone rubber design on both ends, making it highly resistant to shocks. However, there are some notable omissions, including no auxiliary input or backlit buttons, which may be seen as drawbacks by some users.
The Grip's value proposition is somewhat compromised by its lack of extras compared to competitors, such as the Tribit Stormbox Mini+, which offers additional features like a built-in speakerphone and auxiliary inputs at a lower price point. Nevertheless, JBL's Grip remains an attractive option for those seeking a portable speaker that can withstand rough handling.
Ultimately, the Grip's unique blend of size, sound, and ruggedness makes it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and compact speaker for casual use. While its price may be slightly higher than some competitors, the additional features and durability offered by JBL make it well worth considering - particularly if you're looking for a holiday gift with a bit of flair.