JBL Grip Review: A Bluetooth Speaker With Lava Lamp Vibes

Despite the Grip’s small size, JBL delivers a maximum battery life of 14 hours on both speakers. At least on hold, this could be extremely promising. When I ran the speaker continuously at 50% volume, I only got about 10.5 hours. If you really need to squeeze out a few more songs, using the JBL’s Playtime Boost mode can help.

The family resemblance continues with the grip’s ability to withstand the elements. Like the Flip 7, it’s rated IP68, making it effectively dust and waterproof. They’re both shockproof, and yet the grip is arguably more durable because both ends are solid silicone rubber. The flipped ends are passive radiators, which can be permanently damaged by a sharp object. Just keep in mind that while the grip won’t hurt when submerged in water, it won’t float. So if you throw it in the pool, someone will dive in to retrieve it.

One difference between these siblings (besides size, power, and the grip’s built-in light show) is orientation. While the Flip 7 can be used vertically or horizontally, the Grip is designed for vertical use only. Not that there’s anything stopping you from laying it down – the built-in loop will keep it from rolling up too far. But the controls are positioned for easy access while standing, and the rear LED panel will be partially obscured if the speaker is on the side.

Photograph: Simon Cohen

lava lamp

Speaking of that LED panel, it’s a fun add-on, but don’t expect it to light up your get-together. There are four colors to choose from (violet, red, an icy blue and a vibrant blue), controlled by the JBL Portables app, and five display modes: four that animate and one that’s static. In full light, it can’t compete with a well-lit room, and outdoors, you’ll definitely have to keep your expectations in check. Still, in a dark room, with a hold near a corner or wall, it can create a subtle mood. Unfortunately, the four animated modes (Bounce, Trim, Switch, and Neon) don’t sync with your music, so the effect is more lava lamp than disco light. If you want a beat-coordinated light show, consider the excellent Tribit Stormbox Mini+ ($40), which has a top-mounted LED ring with this feature.

One thing that surprises me about the LED panel is its location: it’s on the “back” of the speaker. If you can see a light show, it means the grip’s single Racetrack driver is facing away from you. It’s not a huge difference in sound quality, but it’s noticeable, especially in the upper midrange and highs, which lose some of their clarity.