JBL Charge 6

JBL's Charge 6, released in Australia on 6 April 2025, continues the brand's tradition of delivering robust, high-quality portable speakers. With an Australian RRP of approximately AU$345, it offers a blend of durability, advanced features, and impressive sound quality.

The Charge 6 boasts a rugged design, maintaining the familiar cylindrical shape of its predecessors. It measures 228.8 x 98.5 x 94.0 mm and weighs around 0.96 kg without the strap, making it portable yet substantial enough to deliver powerful audio. The speaker is wrapped in a durable fabric and features rubberised control buttons, ensuring resilience against daily wear and tear. Its IP68 rating certifies it as waterproof and dustproof, allowing it to withstand submersion in water and exposure to dust without compromising performance. 

Under the hood, the Charge 6 is equipped with a 53 mm x 93 mm woofer and a 20 mm tweeter, delivering a combined output of 40 W RMS. This setup ensures a rich and balanced sound profile, with clear highs and deep lows. The frequency response ranges from 56 Hz to 20 kHz, capturing a broad spectrum of audio details. JBL's AI Sound Boost technology further enhances the listening experience by optimising audio output in real-time, reducing distortion even at higher volumes. 

Battery life is a standout feature, with the Charge 6 offering up to 24 hours of continuous playback. For those needing extended use, the Playtime Boost feature can extend battery life to approximately 28 hours by adjusting certain audio parameters. Charging is facilitated via a USB-C port, which also supports high-resolution lossless audio playback when connected to compatible devices. Additionally, the speaker includes a built-in power bank function, allowing users to charge their devices on the go. 

Connectivity options have been upgraded, with Bluetooth 5.4 ensuring a stable and efficient wireless connection. The inclusion of Auracast technology allows for seamless multi-speaker pairing, enabling users to create a more immersive audio environment by connecting multiple JBL speakers. 

Environmentally conscious users will appreciate JBL's commitment to sustainability. The Charge 6 incorporates recycled plastic and fabric materials in its construction and is packaged using FSC-certified paper printed with soy ink, reflecting a move towards more eco-friendly manufacturing practices. 

In summary, the JBL Charge 6 offers a compelling package for those seeking a durable, high-performance portable speaker. Its combination of robust design, advanced audio features, extended battery life, and sustainable materials make it a noteworthy option in its category.

This description was last updated May 2025.