If you want a portable Bluetooth speaker like the JBL Flip, compare the Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) and Sony ULT FIELD 1 by size, protection, battery claims and speaker-linking features. The Bose has a stated IP67 rating and a battery figure tied to specific test conditions; Sony lists its speaker’s dimensions and weight but not a comparable IP rating or runtime in the cited specifications. Neither manufacturer’s specifications establish which sounds best, so audition candidates if sound preference is your deciding factor.
What the JBL Flip 7 offers as a baseline
The current JBL reference point here is the Flip 7. JBL lists Bluetooth 5.4, IP68 protection, Auracast support and dimensions of 182.5 × 69.5 × 71.5 mm. Its detailed battery specification gives a maximum music playback time of 14 hours. JBL separately promotes up to 16 hours when Playtime Boost adds two hours; these are distinct manufacturer claims, and actual playback depends on use. JBL Flip 7 specifications
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JBL says its IP68 claim is based on lab testing in fresh water up to 1.5 metres deep for up to 30 minutes, and separately describes a 1-metre drop test onto concrete. These are manufacturer test claims, not guidance to repeat the tests at home.
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| Model | Protection and size | Battery information | Connectivity and linking |
|---|---|---|---|
| JBL Flip 7 | IP68; 182.5 × 69.5 × 71.5 mm | 14 hours maximum music playback in the detailed specification; up to 16 hours promoted with Playtime Boost | Bluetooth 5.4; Auracast |
| Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) | IP67; about 1.3 lb; compact body with a carry loop | Up to 12 hours in Bose’s stated test: Bluetooth A2DP at 50% volume, 68°F–77°F, default EQ and no charging of an external device | Bluetooth 5.3; Bose describes party and stereo modes for linking two speakers |
| Sony ULT FIELD 1 | Sony lists approximately 206 × 77 × 76 mm and 650 g; product copy describes it as waterproof, dustproof and shockproof, but the cited specifications do not establish an IP rating | A comparable runtime figure is not stated in the cited Sony specifications | Sony’s cited specifications do not establish a multi-speaker linking feature |
These are manufacturer specifications and descriptions, not results from a common test. In particular, runtime figures are not directly comparable when testing conditions differ or are not stated. Bose SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) specifications; Sony ULT FIELD 1 specifications
#1 Best Overall
- MUSIC CALLS: The Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Bluetooth Speaker (2nd Gen) packs big, bold sound in a portable size that’s perfect for sharing tunes and good times anywhere on your travels
- SOUND THAT TAKES YOU PLACES: Take advantage of the surprisingly powerful performance of this Bose wireless speaker with its clear, balanced, high-fidelity audio and deep bass that is easy to take with you
- PERFECTLY PORTABLE, WITH BATTERY LIFE TO MATCH: This Bluetooth speaker is small enough to fit in your hand or clip onto a bag using the utility loop, plus it has up to 12 hours of battery life* so you can focus on the fun at the beach, hikes, or pool
- TOSS IT, DROP IT, IT’S ALL GOOD: This IP67 rated Bose portable Bluetooth speaker is waterproof and dustproof and is wrapped in a durable, silicone-wrapped body to withstand drops, shocks, and rust
- STEREO ON THE GO: Amp up the adventure with more sound when you link two compatible Bose speakers, choose Stereo Mode for left and right channels, or go for Party Mode for even bigger, bolder sound
Which alternative fits your priorities?
Choose Bose if its protection rating and linking modes matter
The SoundLink Flex (2nd Gen) is a candidate if IP67 water and dust resistance, a compact body with a carry loop, or Bose’s two-speaker party and stereo features fit your needs. Treat its 12-hour figure as an estimate under Bose’s stated test setup, not a guaranteed everyday runtime.
Consider Sony if you want the ULT FIELD 1 form factor
Sony’s published dimensions and weight—approximately 206 × 77 × 76 mm and 650 g—give you useful physical details for judging portability. Its product description calls it waterproof, dustproof and shockproof, but the cited specifications do not give a specific IP rating or comparable runtime. Do not infer either from the descriptive terms.
Rank #2
- MUSIC CALLS: The Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Bluetooth Speaker (2nd Gen) packs big, bold sound in a portable size that’s perfect for sharing tunes and good times anywhere on your travels
- SOUND THAT TAKES YOU PLACES: Take advantage of the surprisingly powerful performance of this Bose wireless speaker with its clear, balanced, high-fidelity audio and deep bass that is easy to take with you
- PERFECTLY PORTABLE, WITH BATTERY LIFE TO MATCH: This Bluetooth speaker is small enough to fit in your hand or clip onto a bag using the utility loop, plus it has up to 12 hours of battery life* so you can focus on the fun at the beach, hikes, or pool
- TOSS IT, DROP IT, IT’S ALL GOOD: This IP67 rated Bose portable Bluetooth speaker is waterproof and dustproof and is wrapped in a durable, silicone-wrapped body to withstand drops, shocks, and rust
- STEREO ON THE GO: Amp up the adventure with more sound when you link two compatible Bose speakers, choose Stereo Mode for left and right channels, or go for Party Mode for even bigger, bolder sound
Stay with the Flip format if JBL’s stated features suit you
The Flip 7 is the benchmark among these three for a stated IP68 rating, Auracast support and the dimensions listed above. If you are considering a different speaker because of battery life, keep JBL’s 14-hour detailed specification separate from its up-to-16-hour Playtime Boost promotion.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- State-of-the-art design: SoundLink Flex outdoor speaker is packed with exclusive technologies and a custom-engineered transducer for deep, clear, and immersive audio at home or on the go
- Clearest possible sound: Proprietary PositionIQ technology automatically detects the position of your portable Bluetooth speaker for optimal sound quality in any orientation or environment
- Waterproof wireless speaker for travel: SoundLink Flex is rigorously tested to meet IP67 waterproof speaker standards. Crafted and sealed with waterproof materials, it even floats for outdoor adventures
- Portable Bluetooth speaker: Built to resist water, dust, and debris, in a design that withstands drops and rust, this compact speaker goes wherever you do. It's also easy to hold and store, and resistant to corrosion and UV light
- Rechargeable wireless speaker battery: Portable speaker charges through USB-C cable (included). Lithium-ion battery offers up to 12 hours of life per charge
Rank #3
- MUSIC CALLS: The Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Bluetooth Speaker (2nd Gen) packs big, bold sound in a portable size that’s perfect for sharing tunes and good times anywhere on your travels
- SOUND THAT TAKES YOU PLACES: Take advantage of the surprisingly powerful performance of this Bose wireless speaker with its clear, balanced, high-fidelity audio and deep bass that is easy to take with you
- PERFECTLY PORTABLE, WITH BATTERY LIFE TO MATCH: This Bluetooth speaker is small enough to fit in your hand or clip onto a bag using the utility loop, plus it has up to 12 hours of battery life* so you can focus on the fun at the beach, hikes, or pool
- TOSS IT, DROP IT, IT’S ALL GOOD: This IP67 rated Bose portable Bluetooth speaker is waterproof and dustproof and is wrapped in a durable, silicone-wrapped body to withstand drops, shocks, and rust
- STEREO ON THE GO: Amp up the adventure with more sound when you link two compatible Bose speakers, choose Stereo Mode for left and right channels, or go for Party Mode for even bigger, bolder sound
How to make the final choice
- Check the dimensions and weight against how you plan to carry or store the speaker.
- Compare the stated water and dust protection, but distinguish a specific IP rating from general product descriptions.
- Read the conditions attached to each battery figure; a maker’s maximum or tested runtime is not a promise of the same result in every setting.
- Confirm that the speaker’s multi-speaker feature matches the devices you already own and the way you want to use them.
- Listen to the candidates if sound is decisive. The specifications cited here cannot establish a listening-test winner or predict which speaker you will prefer.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
