JBL Flip 7 vs JBL Grip: I tested these Bluetooth speakers side-by-side to see which is worth buying

JBL is probably the first name that comes to mind whenever I think about Bluetooth speakers. The audio specialist has delivered time after time, with rugged, swell-sounding models that we've reviewed highly time after time.

So, if you're looking to grab a JBL speaker which one is best? Well if you're after something super-portable, you could do a whole lot worse than the JBL Flip 7 or the JBL Grip. These small-sized audio companions both impressed me in their own ways, but which one would I recommend?

Well, I've tested them side-by-side, and now I'm here to give you the lowdown. We'll cover features, sound quality, design, and even value for money, in order to find out which speaker you should buy. These both performed very well indeed, easily competing with the very best Bluetooth speakers around, so scroll on down to find out which one I'd pick...

JBL Flip 7 vs JBL Grip: price and availability

The JBL Flip 7 released in March 2025, more than three years after its predecessor. It's usually available for $149 / £129 / AU$179. However, I've seen it go on sale for less already in some territories, falling lower than $110 / £80 in the US and UK respectively over Black Friday.

Meanwhile, the JBL Grip arrived in September 2025, and is the very first speaker in its line. It’s priced at a mid-point between the JBL Clip 5 and Flip 7, and will usually set you back $99.95 / £89.99 / AU$129. You can purchase both of these models in a range of colors, such as: Black; Blue; Pink; Purple; Red; Squad (camo); and White.

JBL Flip 7 vs JBL Grip: specs

JBL Flip 7 vs JBL Grip: features

As you'd probably expect, there are a lot of similarities between the JBL Flip 7 and Grip in terms of features. Both pack in Auracast connectivity, neat EQ options, and AI Sound Boost tech for optimized audio. (On daisy-chaining them for beefier audio, forget JBL's older Partyboost tech; it's all about Auracast now for connecting multiple speakers – and happily, both models have it).

However, there are some notable differences between these cylindrical Bluetooth speakers.

For instance, the JBL Flip 7 offers USB-C audio passthrough, which delivers lossless sound quality, ie. better quality audio than you can expect to experience over a Bluetooth connection. Unfortunately, the Grip leaves this out, and it doesn't have an AUX port either – not ideal for those in search of wired listening.

One thing the Grip offers over its slightly larger cousin, though, is LED lighting. With the JBL Portable app, you can customize the color and pattern of lighting available, which emits from a strip on the reverse side of the speaker. This creates some nice ambience when you're listening to your tunes, although I do wish there was an option to sync lighting to the Grip's audio output.

As it's a little smaller, the JBL Grip also has slightly less playtime at its disposal. You can get up to 14 hours with this model. That's only if you're using the PlayTime Boost function, though, which gives you two additional hours of play for slightly reduced sound quality.

Meanwhile, the Flip 7 has a 16 hour battery life with PlayTime Boost on, which is very solid for a Bluetooth speaker in its size class.

Ultimately, there's not much that separates these two in terms of functionality. And the speaker that you prefer will simply come down to whether you value USB-C audio or smart lighting more.

JBL Flip 7 vs JBL Grip: sound quality

The sound quality department is where we start to see more of a divergence between these two seemingly similar audio companions. The JBL Flip 7 is ever-so slightly larger than the Grip, but it produces more than double the power.

That's right, the JBL Flip 7 harnesses the might of a 25W woofer alongside a 10W tweeter to deliver a maximum power output of 35W. Meanwhile, the Grip solely relies on a 16W full-range driver. But what does this actually mean in practice?

Well, the Flip 7 can get a fair bit louder than the Grip, and it has more full-bodied overall audio. The key area where I heard a difference was in the bass department. While the Grip was fairly punchy for a seltzer-sized speaker, the Flip 7 absolutely blew me away with imposing, deep bass, which was impactful and immersive, but also agile and controlled.

Of course, there are going to be some limitations in the low-end from both models. The Flip 7 extends down to 60Hz, while the Grip only goes to 70Hz. Don't get me wrong: that's respectable for small portable speakers, but it means that tracks with dark sub-bass won't be replicated with that intoxicating low-frequency rumble.

Mid-range clarity is pretty good on the Grip, and it can handle a vast array of genres with commendable skill. In Rains again by Solji, expressive vocals sounded clean and well balanced, and details like the singer's breathiness remained audible throughout. The Flip 7 is even better in this regard, providing stronger instrument separation, which allows vocals to sound more defined and distinct in the mix.

Treble is tight across both units, though you'll get a slightly more expressive sound from the Flip 7.

The wraparound design on each model also means that music sounds great from every angle. One shared downside, I suppose, is that both speakers leave out higher-resolution Bluetooth streaming, so there's no LDAC or aptX codecs on board. Still, you get a very decent listen from the JBL Grip, and an exceptional one from the Flip 7 – the clear winner in this category.

JBL Flip 7 vs JBL Grip: design

The thing that sets the Grip apart from other speakers in JBL's array is its upward standing configuration. It's modelled on a slim soda can, and I'm a fan of the tall and slender look. The fabric and rubber exterior also makes it incredibly easy to, you know, grip.

On the other hand, the JBL Flip 7 sticks with the side-oriented build, and otherwise looks very similar to the Grip. The bottom line is, it's also a nice looking model – especially if you get it in a vibrant color like purple or red.

Both units are also very practical, coming with IP68 dust and waterproofing. This means that they can survive being dunked under a meter and a half of water for 30 minutes – pretty impressive! Combine that with a drop-proof build, and you're looking at an extremely rough and ready duo.

As we discussed in the features section, the Grip adds an attractive LED light panel, which can illuminate a wall behind the model for a more immersive and atmospheric listening experience. That's one of its key wins over the Flip 7, which may sound better, but perhaps doesn't have the same flare looks-wise.

One small difference is that the Grip comes with a small fabric hook, which is useful to sling over a coat hanger or shower handle, say. Meanwhile, the Flip 7 comes with a handy carry strap and carabiner. Both are brilliantly portable regardless, and can easily be carried around in one hand or thrown into a small bag.

It's a pretty close contest in the design department, but I'd edge the Grip here for its lighting and sleek up-standing build.

JBL Flip 7 vs JBL Grip: value

A key selling point of the JBL Grip is that it's priced below $100 / £100, making it a nice option between the cheap JBL Clip 5 and the more mid-priced Flip 7. Is it good value for money? Overall, I'd say yes. You get very solid audio from the full-range 16W driver, an attractive soda can-inspired design, and plenty of features through the JBL Portable app.

If anything, the reason the Grip is just 'good' rather than 'great' value for money, is because the Flip 7 exists. When you consider its modest $149 / £129 / AU$179 price tag and small size, the raw power and sonic skills on display are almost hard to believe. It's an exceptional performer, wonderfully rugged, and serves up plenty of playtime.

More full-sounding audio, better battery life, and USB-C playback. All of that for a marginally higher spend? I know which model I'd pick!

JBL Flip 7 vs JBL Grip: verdict

So, the Value section may have given it away there, but the JBL Flip 7 is the speaker I'd personally spend my money on.

The LED lighting and sleek look of the JBL Grip are certainly enticing, and it is a good-sounding speaker all things considered. If you're looking for a slightly cheaper option and don't need all the power in the world, it's still worth considering.

But the JBL Flip 7 doesn't simply sound good. It sounds sensational. It's an awesome value for money choice, and even sits atop my guide of the best Bluetooth speakers. That in itself tells you everything you need to know!