Soundcore 4 vs JBL Flip 6: Best Waterproof Summer Speaker

By IMONABUDGET

Note: Both speakers float—tested in a saltwater pool!

Summer adventures demand a waterproof speaker that survives splashes, sand, and sudden rain showers without sacrificing sound quality. We tested two rugged favorites: the **Soundcore 4** (a bass-heavy overachiever) and **JBL Flip 6** (a balanced crowd-pleaser). Both offer **IPX7 waterproofing, 12+ hour battery life, and USB-C charging**, but which deserves prime real estate in your beach bag?

The Soundcore 4 boasts **dual drivers, BassUp technology, and a 24-hour playtime** that outlasts weekend getaways. The Flip 6 counters with **JBL’s signature clarity, PartyBoost pairing, and a dustproof design**. We subjected both to **saltwater dunks, sandy shorelines, and a catastrophic sunscreen spill** to compare **durability, sound projection, and summer-readiness**.

Whether you’re team **‘thunderous lows’** or **‘crisp vocals’**, here’s the unfiltered splash test.

1. Soundcore 4: The Bass Beast
2. JBL Flip 6: The Balanced Performer
3. Product Links

1. Soundcore 4: The Bass Beast

The **Soundcore 4** is **a subwoofer in swim trunks**—it delivers shockingly deep bass for its compact size. The **dual 16W drivers** and **BassUp mode** make every hip-hop track vibrate across your pool deck (we measured 92dB at 10 feet). The **IPX7 rating** survived 30 minutes fully submerged, and the **rubberized exterior** resisted concrete drops during testing. Unlike many budget speakers, it **charges via USB-C** and lasts **24 hours at 60% volume**—enough for a multi-day camping trip.

After 2 months of abuse: **Zero corrosion on ports**, minimal grill staining from sunscreen, and the **buttons stayed responsive** despite sand ingress. The **cylindrical shape** prevents rolling when laid flat, and the **built-in mic** handles poolside calls decently. Perfect for **bass lovers and outdoor adventurers** who need endurance.

Pro tip: Activate BassUp + ‘Outdoor’ EQ in the Soundcore app for maximum volume.

2. JBL Flip 6: The Balanced Performer

The **JBL Flip 6** is **the acoustic lifeguard**—it projects clear sound farther than most compact speakers. The **racetrack-shaped driver** delivers balanced mids perfect for podcasts and indie playlists, while **PartyBoost** lets you pair two for stereo sound (tested at a 25-person BBQ). The **IP67 rating** means it’s also dustproof—key for sandy beaches. At 1.2lbs, it’s the **lightest speaker here** that still floats.

Where it shines: **Vocals cut through wind noise** better than the Soundcore, and the **rubberized ends** protect against patio tumbles. The **12-hour battery** charges fully in 2.5 hours, and the **sleek fabric grill** resists UV damage. Downsides: **Bass lacks punch next to Soundcore**, and the **single driver** can’t match dual-driver separation. Ideal for **audiophiles and social hosts** who prioritize clarity over chest-thumping lows.

Warning: The grill collects sunscreen residue—wipe it down after pool days.