[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] In the past, I thought the previous Charge models were a bit too large and clunky for my taste... But I was really impressed with this one. It's compact enough to compete with the Flip, is also waterproof, but is significantly more powerful. It's a little heavy, but they've clearly packed a lot of tech into the smaller frame. I tried a variety of genres, and the biggest stand-out point was the bass on genres that are mid-heavy. It has great projection, too. The only time when I found the bass to be a little lackluster was when listening to edm or music that is very bass-specific - it still hit the notes but didn't sound as prominent compared to other genres that have distinctly different layers happening at the same time. The battery power is impressive as well, particularly with its longevity. I use this speaker for outdoor sports - so the projection, size, durability, and battery power are HUGE pluses to make this my new go-to.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This is a great larger speaker measuring about 8 3/4" wide. It has that heavy duty feel to it so I'm sure it will last a long time. As expected the sound quality is excellent and my Daughter is already trying to take it after hearing it! An unexpected feature is that it has a USB out plug do you can charge your phone and other devices! It runs off the standard USB-C cable and one is included. Overall a great sounding speaker built to last.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Portability: The JBL Charge Essential 2 is effortlessly portable, thanks to its compact design and integrated strap. Whether you're on the move, at the beach, or just around the house, it's a convenient companion that goes wherever you do. Waterproof Design: Having an IPX7 waterproof rating, the JBL Charge Essential 2 can endure being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for a duration of 30 minutes. This feature ensures it is appropriate for usage at the pool, beach, or even in the shower, providing peace of mind. Long Battery Life: The speaker showcases a remarkable battery life, lasting up to 20 hours (duration may vary based on volume levels), providing optimal sound quality; it could reach up to 16 hours. This assurance of uninterrupted music enjoyment throughout the day makes it well-suited for outdoor adventures or prolonged events. JBL Pro Sound: Even with its small dimensions, the speaker produces robust and harmonious sound, characterized by rich bass and crisp highs. Overall: I believe the Charge Essential 2 would offer a better value proposition for a portable speaker compared to the Charge 5, considering its price and specifications.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Choosing a Bluetooth speaker is never easy. There are hundreds to choose from at every price point and with every type of feature. The JBL Charge Essential 2 not only sounds great, but has an extra added feature that everybody will need sooner or later. Like other JBL speaker I’ve owned, the Charge Essential 2’s sound is clear and crisp with a thumping bass. Every type of music sounds great coming out of this tall boy styled speaker. And if you really want to crank it up around the pool or at the beach, don’t worry, it gets plenty loud and it is waterproof. The sound is great and all, but what sells this speaker is the added USB charge port for your phone. It’s not a trickle type charger, it is lightning fast. So you can jam out to tunes from your phone and never worry about not having enough power to go all day. My only dislike about this speaker is that it needs some kind of handle or strap to carry it around. It’s fat in the middle, and if you don’t have big hands, you will have to cradle it like a football to carry it around. If you want a Bluetooth speaker with a powerful sound, and the added ability to charge your phone at the same time, go get you a JBL Charge Essential 2. You will not regret it.

Impressive sound! Easy pairing

good sound quality, hoping to get another one just waiting for a sale price.

Love this speaker

Brutal

This little thing is amazing. I bought it mainly due to JBL's sound quality and it did not disappoint. Beautiful sound and a charge lasts forever. It doesn't have an app, but I use my music source's equalizer.

I got mine in december. I use it almost daily and it holds a great charge. It sounds very good.