Since their first market appearance, Bluetooth speakers stood out in various sizes, shapes, and colors. However, they are quite affordable in terms of prices. The sound quality, though, differs.
Our experts compared JBL Xtreme vs Bose Soundlink 3, two speakers from the same price range. Let’s see the differences between these two and find out which is the best!
JBL Xtreme or Bose Soundlink 3?
- 14 hours of playtime
- Bluetooth streaming
- Thin profile for portability
- Dirt and dust protection
- 15 hours of playtime
- Splashproof device
- Noise and echo cancelling
- Can connect to 3 devices
Features of JBL Xtreme and Bose Soundlink 3
Build and Design
The first JBL Xtreme vs Bose Soundlink 3 match is about design.
When it comes to the JBL Xtreme, it is focused on build, being made mostly for outdoor usage. This Bluetooth speaker is another excellent example of a cylindrical design similar to other models like JBL Flip 4 and Flip 5 that we all are familiar with.
In the opposite corner, Bose [1] surprised our team with an exciting approach to design. Featuring a quite retro look, yet modern, Bose Soundlink 3 has a small box shape, and it looks like a 90s audio cassette.
This speaker is dedicated to indoor use because it does not include waterproof or shock resistance features. You might easily damage it outside.
JBL Xtreme and Bose Soundlink 3 Sound Quality
This Bose Soundlink 3 vs JBL Xtreme analysis is intriguing because both of them are expensive gadgets, so sound quality shouldn’t be a debatable issue. There should be no incident of you having to worry about finding ways to stop your speakers from buzzing or any related concerns.
Yet, there are some differences between the two. Even though both are similarly priced, the Bose’s Soundlink 3 covers a broader range of frequencies than the JBL’s Xtreme, and it also allows an additional subwoofer to get in line. As such, the Soundlink 3 dominates the match of overall sound quality.
Our team of sound experts noticed that JBL Xtreme has powerful low bass, but the middle ranged frequencies lose their smoothness while turning up the volume.
Bose Soundlink 3, on the other hand, managed to keep its sound clear and smooth on the entire frequency spectrum.
If you want a more surround sound, you can check this guide on making a speaker louder.
Wireless Connectivity
How do JBL Xtreme vs Bose Soundlink 3 fair in wireless connectivity? Both speakers are using the 4.1 Bluetooth version like the Harman Kardon Onyx 2 and Onyx 3. They are quite similar, and, despite the fact that JBL Xtreme has its own ecosystem, Bose took advantage by supporting WiFi connection and NFC Bluetooth pairing.
Compatibility with Voice Assistants
At their high prices, some would have all the reasons to expect this kind of feature due to the fact that cheaper competing products have it, but only JBL’s Xtreme features voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. Bose Soundlink 3 is a letdown here.
JBL Xtreme and Bose Soundlink 3 Connections
When it comes to Bose Soundlink 3 vs JBL Xtreme, it seems that both speakers feature AUX input and a 3.5 mm male connector, but JBL Xtreme came with one additional USB port. This is excellent for offering multiple connection options. Versatility is always an advantage.
Weather and Water Resistance
You can’t talk about Bose Soundlink 3 vs JBL Xtreme without taking into consideration their durability. Our team found out that JBL’s Xtreme is made on purpose to fulfill outdoor expectations. It is waterproof, dustproof, and resistant to most of the outdoor situations a Bluetooth speaker can realistically get in. It received a standard IPX rating of IPX7
Unfortunately, Bose Soundlink 3 isn’t equipped to handle this kind of mobility unlike other JBL models like Flip 4 and Charge 3. It is portable due to size and wireless functions. Soundlink 3 is suitable for home use only.
JBL Xtreme and Bose Soundlink 3 Battery Life
Bose Soundlink 3 features wireless charging and a removable battery. Like the Sonos Roam with long battery life, its battery life is up 14 hours, with one hour more than the JBL’s Xtreme, which isn’t spectacular.
Price and Warranty
When testing and researching these products, our experts found out that both of these Bluetooth speakers got launched at the same price, and both of them became cheaper. Most of the stores tend to rate the JBL’s Xtreme as slightly less expensive than Bose Soundlink 3.
Regarding the warranty, both manufacturers offer up to 5 years period with different conditions as end-user location or the type of power supply the speaker needs.
(When looking for budget-friendly speakers for the hearing impaired, here are our best picks of wireless speakers for the hearing impaired)
Overall Winner: JBL Xtreme
Our expert’s decision is unanimous: JBL Xtreme won the match! JBL Xtreme should be the first choice for any music lover that wants to take music anywhere he or she goes.
It is made to stand on trips by design and resist every unpleasant incident like droppings, hits, dust, and water droplets. It is also more affordable.
JBL Xtreme would make a great companion if you are the outgoing type of person, traveler by nature, or just simply want to take music with you everywhere you go.
For seamless pairing, you can also check the following guides:
