Cambridge Soundworks OontZ Ultra
Score: 77/100
JBL Flip 5
Score: 80/100Rankings
The JBL Flip 5 offers powerful, balanced audio in a rugged, cylindrical design with up to 12 hours of battery life and IPX7 waterproof protection. While it lacks an aux input and a built-in mic, its PartyBoost feature and solid durability make it a strong choice for outdoor gatherings.
The OontZ Ultra offers 14 W stereo sound, IPX7 waterproofing and a 20-hour battery in a compact, USB-C-charged package. It excels in range and durability but suffers from a very long charge time and a lack of premium build materials.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
20 hoursbest | 12 hours | |
14 watts | 20 wattsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 20 hours | 2.5 hoursbest |
| ↓ lower better | 480 gbest | 544 g |
— | 1 metersbest | |
30.48 metersbest | — | |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio Performance(1) | ||
Output Power (watts) | 14 watts | 20 watts |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 20 hours | 12 hours |
Charging Time (hours) | 20 hours | 2.5 hours |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.4 | 5.1 |
Auxiliary Input | true | false |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 480 g | 544 g |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional editors emphasize the OontZ Ultra's standout 100-ft Bluetooth range, robust IPX7 waterproofing, and rich bass response, noting the advanced antenna design and the rarity of stereo pairing in this price segment. They praise its sound and durability while noting typical budget-friendly trade-offs.
Everyday users consistently praise the speaker's loud, clear audio, exceptional battery life, and reliable waterproof performance, especially for outdoor and poolside use. Common complaints revolve around the lengthy 20-hour charging time, lack of a battery indicator, and occasional issues with stereo pairing or bass distortion at high volumes.
“louder and clearer than expected for its size.”
“Played music all day at a beach party and still had charge.”
“Dropped it in the pool-still works perfectly.”
Professional reviewers praise the Flip 7 as the best compact Bluetooth speaker yet, highlighting its IP68 rating, 14-hour battery, Bluetooth 5.4 stability, and improved driver separation. Earlier Flip 6 reviews note balanced sound, USB-C charging, and PartyBoost, while noting the loss of a microphone and lack of an AUX port.
Everyday users consistently applaud the Flip series for its punchy bass, rugged waterproof design, effortless Bluetooth pairing, and PartyBoost capability. Common complaints revolve around the missing microphone, occasional app glitches, faster battery drain at high volumes, and the heavier feel of newer models.
