The three Bluetooth speakers have an IP67 rating, making them waterproof and dust-resistant. The UE Megaboom 3 speaker weighs the same as the JBL Charge 5, at ~2 pounds each. The Xtreme 3 speaker is much larger and weighs over 4 pounds. The most significant difference between the JBL Charge 5 and Xtreme 3 in terms of the design is the size and weight difference. The JBL speakers have forward-facing speakers with passive radiators on the left and right-hand sides, whereas the Megaboom 3 features a 360-degree speaker that delivers omnidirectional sound, perfect for outdoor listening. Instead of a true cylinder, the speakers are slighly oblong and football-shaped. JBL Xtreme 3 and Charge 5 have a similar, yet slightly modified, shape. The Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 has the classic cylindrical speaker shape that is common with portable speakers. Sound Winner: JBL Xtreme 3 (even though the volume difference isn’t as large as you would expect, considering the price disparity) This makes for a great party speaker, since it sounds good from any location in the room. The Megaboom, like all Ultimate Ears products, excels when it comes to 360 degree sound with no dead zones. The vocals and instruments are much punchier, crisper, and in the end, sound much clearer when played at a higher volume. The JBL Xtreme 3 wins hands down regarding clarity. The Megaboom 3 is slightly disappointing compared to the others, and the sound is muffled. The signature JBL sound profile has more balance than what you get from the UE, which accentuates bass.Ī portable Bluetooth speaker’s sound quality needs to be crisp, clear, and have a kick to it in terms of sound clarity. However, if you value the mids and treble that focus on the vocals and instruments, look to both JBL speakers. If you are looking for a portable speaker that cranks up the bass, the UE Megaboom 3 should probably be your first choice in the sub-$200 price range. The Xtreme 3 provides more volume at a higher price, but we have previously discussed that the difference in volume isn’t as noticeable as you would expect. The JBL Charge 5 and Xtreme 3 are similarly built, and the sound profiles are similar. So, deciding which portable Bluetooth speaker is better will be a challenging call. And the apps are relatively simple and easy to navigate. The UE Megaboom 3, JBL Charge 5, and JBL Xtreme 3 are robust in their design while also being water resistant and dustproof. The Megaboom 3, which was released a few years earlier than both JBL products, shows its age in a few areas, as well. The JBL Charge 5 and Xtreme 3 have a handy power bank to charge your devices, a feature the Megaboom 3 lacks. The UE Megaboom 3 and the JBL Charge 5 weigh the same and cost the same, but the features differ quite a bit. The Xtreme 3 is a bit larger and heavier speaker and costs approximately $100 more than the Charge 5. All three are solid options for anyone that wants a portable speaker with a little extra oomph.īut how do they square up against the other regarding sound clarity, the overall design, durability and battery life? All of that - and more - will be discussed.Īlthough the JBL Charge 5 and the JBL Xtreme 3 are very similar portable speakers, the significant differences are their size, how much they weigh, an AUX port, and their price point. Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3, JBL Charge 5, and JBL Xtreme 3 are popular speakers that share similar key features.
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