JBL Flip 7 vs Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: two audio giants, only one winner

Bose and JBL: two titans of the audio world, and two real household names. Between them, these companies have released some of the best Bluetooth speakers around for many a year, and they both consistently deliver models that pack in stellar sound quality, intelligent design, and plenty of smart features.

So, recently I pitted two of my favorite models from each brand against one another. In the red corner, we have the JBL Flip 7, an impeccable cylindrical audio companion, that produces sound so bold and so refined, that it almost defies belief. And in the blue corner, we’ve got the Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2 – an effortlessly stylish and carefully crafted model that’s been a mainstay for me over the last year or so.

I’ve tested both speakers extensively, comparing each of them across areas like audio quality, looks, and value for money. And spoiler alert – both of these are strong performers that I’d happily recommend to anyone reading. However, only one can come out on top. Here’s the breakdown.

JBL Flip 7 vs Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: price and availability

These Bluetooth speakers are sitting in a similar ballpark price-wise. The JBL Flip 7 comes in at $149 / £129 / AU$179, although I did see it drop below $110 / £80 in the US and UK respectively over Black Friday. That’s pretty impressive too, given that the Flip 7 only hit shelves in April 2025.

Meanwhile, the Bose SoundLink Flex launched in September 2024 at $149 / £149.95 / AU$249.95. Like its rival from JBL, I’ve also seen this model going for significantly less during sales events – it’s occasionally available for less than $100 / £100, which is a great deal in my book. Both models are also available in a range of colors.

You’ll find the Flip 7 in red, purple, black, camo… you name it. The SoundLink Flex Gen 2 has a number of variants too, such as Alpine Sage (green); Sandstone (brown); and my personal favorite, Blue Dusk.

JBL Flip 7 vs Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: specs

JBL Flip 7 vs Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: features

It should be no surprise to you that both the JBL Flip 7 and Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2 come equipped with a whole lot of user-friendly features. Both have the basics nailed – I’m talking multi-point connectivity, companion app compatibility, and multi-speaker pairing… you get the gist.

But both also bring some special sauce to the party that you may not find elsewhere. Let’s start with JBL. The Flip 7 has Auracast support, which makes it seamless to link to a range of other compatible models from the brand, including the JBL Grip, the JBL Charge 6, and even the rear speakers on the JBL Bar 1300 MK2.

It also delivers AI Sound Boost tech for optimized audio output, a PlayTime Boost option to give you a little bit more battery life, and USB-C audio passthrough capabilities for a more stable, quality-focused listening experience.

But don’t count Bose out – its speaker also brings a strong suite of features to the table. For instance, its PositionIQ tech enables it to deliver the best possible sound regardless of how it's positioned, which has served me well over the last year. Snapdragon Sound is onboard too, meaning that you can make use of the aptX Adaptive codec for higher-resolution Bluetooth music streaming – but only if you’ve got a compatible device.

That’s not to mention that the SoundLink Flex Gen 2 also has a built-in microphone, which means you can seamlessly take hands-free calls and even make use of voice assistant capabilities. Still, though, I think Bose misses a trick in a few areas.

For example, I’m not a big lover of the SoundLink Flex Gen 2’s approach to EQ adjustment. There are a few basic presets, and a three-band equalizer – which enables you to adjust bass, mids, and treble – but that’s genuinely it. The Flip 7, though, has a much better list of presets, and its inclusion of a seven-band custom equalizer affords much more control to a user. Sure, it’s not quite parametric EQ levels of control, but it’s better than what Bose is offering!

I also would’ve liked to have seen Bose’s mid-priced speaker deliver a little bit more battery life. Twelve hours isn’t terrible by any means, but it’s significantly less than the maximum 16-hour playtime available to Flip 7 users. I think it’s a fairly close contest on most points, but JBL’s superior battery life and EQ tweaking give it the edge for me.

JBL Flip 7 vs Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: sound quality

As you’d expect from this pair, you get great sound quality from both – but there are a few differences worth exploring.

The JBL Flip 7 is a truly spectacular-sounding speaker, especially given its limited confines. When I tested it for my best Bluetooth speakers buying guide, I was astonished by its deep yet controlled bass more than anything. There are few speakers in its size category that can reach down so low, sound so regimented, and still not overwhelm other sounds in the frequency range.

Speaking of which, the Flip 7 offers a surprisingly detailed listen in the mid-range, with vocals sounding ever-so-slightly forward when using the default tuning, helping them to sound emotive and expressive. Treble is clean and personality-filled as well, and I was satisfied with the speaker's dynamics.

Of course, some larger models can offer a little more nuance and power, as well as stereo sound capabilities, but for a speaker this small, there are very few meaningful negatives to note. You’ll experience some compression at peak loudness, with bass slightly thinning, but that’s the case for Bose’s mid-sized speaker too.

On the topic of the SoundLink Flex Gen 2, let’s discuss how it compares to JBL in the audio department.

We’ll kick off with the good stuff. I’m often impressed with the SoundLink Flex Gen 2’s instrument separation – the speaker is capable of giving individual elements their own pockets in which to operate, making for a very engaging listening experience. Sounds in the mids and treble frequencies come through with particular clarity on this model, with plenty of detail poured into every note, especially when making use of the aptX Adaptive codec.

The area that perhaps lets this model down a bit, though, is its bass output. Out of the box, the low-end sounds pretty underwhelming, lacking the raw energy that you’d expect from the Flip 7. With some tuning, things do get a lot more impactful, and bass output is certainly clean – not ‘boom-y’ or anything. But even still, I just think the Flip 7 performs better, and delivers a more attention grabbing low-frequency performance.

Another aspect that can work to the detriment of Bose’s mid-range model is its front-facing design. This limits the fidelity of audio at certain listening angles – a problem that the Flip 7 doesn’t have to deal with. If you’re just listening on your own, this shouldn’t be a big issue, but if you’re using the speaker for a party or gathering, it may not be ideal. Don’t get me wrong, this is still a very good-sounding speaker, but I think JBL takes the win.

JBL Flip 7 vs Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: design

In terms of design, it’s a pretty close contest. See, when it comes to pure practicality, it’s hard to argue against the JBL Flip 7. We already mentioned the benefits of its wraparound speaker, but there are a few other areas where it outdoes Bose’s mid-sized model.

First of all, it has slightly better waterproofing. Its IP68 dust and waterproof rating is class-leading, and a slight lead on Bose’s IP67. Both models are fully dustproof and can survive being submerged underwater – but the JBL can be dunked under a meter and a half of water without accruing meaningful wear, which is 0.5 meters more than the Bose can withstand.

The Flip 7 also feels a fair bit more rugged than its Bose counterpart. Its fabric exterior and drop-proof design make it the ideal speaker to take out and about, whether that be on a hike, beach trip, or whatever. The SoundLink Flex Gen 2 is fairly durable itself, and its rubber casing should keep it safe from a few drops, but it doesn’t quite supply the same level of rough and ready protection that JBL’s model does.

However, if we’re talking about looks, I think Bose is very hard to beat.

I absolutely adore its sleek, curved build – it gives a real look of luxury. Its rubbery body and well-finished grille are very eye-catching, and help it to stick out in a convoluted market. As do its various color variants, which are truly stunning. Options like Blue Dusk and Citrus Yellow are genuinely mouth-watering, and I’d recommend them highly.

I don’t have an issue with the look of the Flip 7. Its well-sized button controls, iconic cylindrical form, and similarly wide array of color options make it a great pick. I just don't think it has the flair and panache of its Bose rival. The tiny upgrade in waterproofing and slightly sturdier build of the Flip 7 is tempting, but the pure beauty and style of the SoundLink Flex Gen 2 is undeniable, and give it the upper hand here.

JBL Flip 7 vs Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: value

And finally, let’s talk about what is arguably the most important thing of all – value for money. It’s been a pretty close contest so far, and so it will likely be of little surprise that these speakers are priced very closely indeed.

The JBL Flip 7 comes in at $149 / £129 / AU$179, while its Bose rival typically goes for $149 / £149.95 / AU$249.95. Both also go on sale semi-regularly, but still tend to sit at a similar sort of comparative cost. So, if you’ve got $150 to spend, let’s say, which Bluetooth speaker actually gives you the best bang for your buck?

Personally, I think you’ll get a tiny bit more out of the Flip 7. At the heart of it, you simply get slightly better performance across a number of key areas. Bass hits with more impact and intent, battery life is that bit longer, EQ options are more fleshed-out, and waterproofing is a tad stronger. A lot of the improvements are small, but together, they make a convincing case for JBL.

If style is your priority, I think that the SoundLink Flex Gen 2 is a really great alternative, though. For a similar cost, you’re getting a speaker that still offers plenty of detail, high build quality, and also a built-in mic – something that the Flip 7 also offers. But I think JBL nails it in the areas that matter most – and that’s why I’d give it the nod in this battle for the ages.

JBL Flip 7 vs Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2: verdict

So, there you have it. As I suggested in the Value section, I think the JBL Flip 7 is the best overall pick. It’s close, don’t get me wrong, but the improved battery life, stellar sound quality, and ruggedness of JBL’s mid-range model is why it sits as the best overall pick in our guide to the greatest Bluetooth speakers.

I do have a big soft spot for the Bose SoundLink Flex Gen 2, though. I’ve been using it consistently for a long time now, and its combination of detailed audio with a flashy design make it easy to recommend.

If I was going to spend my money on one of these, then, it would be the JBL Flip 7. But do you agree? Let me know your thoughts down in the comments.

The best Bluetooth speakers for all budgets

➡️ Read our full guide to the best Bluetooth speakers
1. Best overall:
JBL Flip 7
2. Best under $50 / £50:
JBL Go 4
3. Best small speaker for audiophiles:
Bang & Olufsen A1 3rd Gen
4. Best party speaker:
Tribit Stormbox Blast 2

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