Is JBL boombox 2 better than JBL Xtreme 3?

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Is it your goal to take your music with you everywhere you go, whether watching the game with your friends or dancing the night away on the beach? Then you’ve got to decide between JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3.

In this article, we’ll review them in detail and help you make an informed purchase.

So, without any further ado, let’s jump right into it!

Key Differences Between JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3

There aren’t many distinctions between the Xtreme 3 and the Boombox 2. Instead, they’re both created with roughly the same interface and functionality, intended for comparison purposes.

The key differences are as follows:

  • The Xtreme 3 is waterproof to IP67, whereas the Boombox 2 is waterproof to IPX7. This implies that both can withstand 30 minutes in a meter of water, but the Xtreme 3 is also dust-resistant. While this may indicate that it will withstand a harsher setting, such as the beach or a workshop, most people will find that both speakers are more than enough.
  • The Xtreme 3 features USB recharging, which implies that it can be powered using multiple connections or an excellent USB-C auxiliary cell when you’re on the road. For charging, the Boombox 2 comes with its conventional wall socket.
  • The Xtreme 3’s battery capacity is rated at 15 hours, while the Boombox 2 is 24 hours. In both cases, You can use the speaker’s battery to charge your phone, which is likely the source of your music, so it’s an excellent convenience. Many other Bluetooth speakers do not have this capability, which might be helpful for outdoor parties.
  • A 3.5 mm input on the JBL Boombox 2 allows you to connect an older device, such as an iPod, through a small cable. The Xtreme 3 does not have this feature.

JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3 – Design and Build

Is JBL boombox 2 better than JBL Xtreme 3?

First, let’s talk about the design of these speakers. The sheer sizes of the Xtreme 3 and Boombox 2 are the most significant differences between them.

The Boombox 2 and Xtreme 3 are large speakers. However, the Xtreme 3 has a shoulder strap for carrying convenience. The Boombox 2 weighs approximately 1.3 lbs, and the Xtreme 3 weighs 4.3 lbs.

The mobility of the material you choose for your speakers is one of the most significant considerations. For example, JBL has made the Boombox 2 and the Xtreme 3 out of fabric, so they’ll be able to endure bumps and scratches much better.

The good news is that both the Boombox 2 and the Xtreme 3 are water-resistant. So even though they are IPx4, we would avoid using them if we were to get them wet. This means that even though they’re portable, we would still avoid getting them wet just in case.

While you can grip the Xtreme 3 in one hand, the boombox 2 is more like an oversized football. The larger of the two speakers reminds you of those cassette tapes used during the 1980s. So for those looking for a more compact option, the X3 is better than the boombox 2. However, its sleek design and ability to take it anywhere make it an ideal choice.

The Xtreme 3 and the Boombox 2 are rated IP67 and IPX7. While the latter is more rugged, it does also have dust resistance. This means it’s better suited for environments such as the beach or a workshop. On the other hand, the former’s dust resistance might make it better for people who live in areas with more extreme weather.

Winner in Terms of Design and Build – JBL Xtreme 3

JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3 – Sound Quality

Is JBL boombox 2 better than JBL Xtreme 3?

The JBL Xtreme 3 is our top choice for an outdoor party speaker. It can blast loud and clear sounds around a big yard or terrace. Its built-in controls let you adjust the level and produce a lovely sound.

X3’s warmth, clarity, and bass deserve a special mention. It’s a great portable speaker that doesn’t have a ton of audio stage. There’s not much room for a stereo soundstage, but it does have a good balance between its various components.

If you’re looking for a more robust and versatile speaker, the JBL Boombox 2 is a great alternative. While testing, it sounded incredibly good even at its top volumes. Its bass is also deeper and more present than the previous model, which can help it in situations where the bass can get overpowered.

The Boombox 2 isn’t the best option for listening to music in a quiet environment. Instead, you can equip it with less-boosted bass or an EQ system that you can customize. It is also one of the best beach speakers with excellent and most powerful sound.

The Boombox 2 and the Xtreme 3 are rocking dual front-firing woofers and dual front-firing tweeters. These two speakers are also equipped with dual passive radiators to deliver a powerful and balanced sound. Another good thing about these two speakers is that they can be placed in a corner to maximize their bass boost.

Since the exhaust ports of the Boombox 2 and the Xtreme 3 are present at the front, you can’t easily raise them to deliver the same bass performance as other speakers. For example, manufacturers have rated the Boombox 2 at 80 watts RMS and the Xtreme 3 at 50 watts.

The goal of the Xtreme 3 is to deliver a more balanced and powerful sound signature than the Boombox 2. However, when it comes to instrument separation and sound stage, the Boombox 2 is more open.

Winner in Terms of Sound Quality – JBL Xtreme 3

View on Amazon: JBL Xtreme 3

JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3 – Portability

Is JBL boombox 2 better than JBL Xtreme 3?

The Xtreme 3 is a large Bluetooth speaker that is as portable as a folding chair or bag of groceries. You can use it over your shoulder. While you can sling it over your shoulder, you might notice the weight, and it will eventually dig in once you get used to it. They’ve also designed it to add a burden if you’re going on a relaxing trail.

The Xtreme 3’s carrying strap allows you to carry the speaker from one point to another while keeping your hands free for carrying various items, such as beach supplies or beverages. There’s also a bottle opener included.

The Boombox 2 is slightly larger than its Xtreme 3. Therefore, it is still slightly heavier. While it wasn’t unbearably heavy, it would probably be best to carry it around with a straight arm and a shoulder, as it will likely get in your mobility.

One of the main features that the manufacturer wanted to improve was the speaker’s handle. It has a new design inspired by the handlebars found on motorbikes. The manufacturer claims that this new design will give you a lot more grip and prevents it from slipping out of your hand when wet.

If we consider the portability, the smaller size of the Xtreme 3 owes it to be more portable.

Winner in Terms of Portability – JBL Xtreme 3

JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3 – Battery Life

The Boombox has a stated battery life of 24 hours, the same as its predecessor. However, in our tests, it only lasted for 16-17 hours. Also, it takes around 6.5 hours to recharge the device, so if you’re running out of juice, it could take a long time to get it back on track. This battery-powered speaker is impressive.

According to the manufacturer, the Xtreme 3 can provide up to 15 hours of playback on a fully charged battery. It requires an adapter to plug in, and this is a welcome upgrade from the one found on the Xtreme 2. The manufacturer also adds a USB-C port to the device, which allows you to charge your device while listening to music. You can also leave the device plugged in and use another device to power it up. Don’t expect to use this speaker as a power bank.

In our tests, the JBL Xtreme 3 lasted for 19 hours, significantly longer than the manufacturer’s estimate. It’s a great choice if you plan to use it during camping or other parties.

Overall, the battery life of the Xtreme 3 proved to be better.

Winner in Terms of Battery Life – JBL Xtreme 3

JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3 – Connectivity

Is JBL boombox 2 better than JBL Xtreme 3?

The SBC Bluetooth codec is the only one supported by the JBL Xtreme 3’s Bluetooth 5.1 technology. This speaker, unlike many others, features an aux port. As a result, you can bypass some of the quality restrictions of Bluetooth. For a speaker of this size, the phrase “portable” might be misleading. Thus it makes sense to have a second one.

This speaker has Bluetooth multipoint, allowing you to connect up to two devices simultaneously. However, it does not keep a record of them. Instead, you must first connect to one and then the next. To play and stop the media, you’ll need to manually do it one at a time. If you attempt a third, the speaker will only connect to that device and disconnect from the other two.

Manufacturers have hidden connectors for a power supply, USB ports for powering mobile devices, and a 3.5mm auxiliary for corded music inputs behind a covering on the back of the speaker. The power supply provided is somewhat large, but it does come with a cable cinch to keep the excess wire slack under control.

Where is it lacking? It would have been wonderful to have a cable for the aux input. Because there is no accompanying software, there is no way to modify the equalization settings. In addition, there is no speakerphone feature, which, given the size of the speaker, is not surprising at all. However, this lack of functionality is typical of smaller versions.

The Boombox 2 is compatible with Bluetooth 5.1. However, the only Bluetooth codec it supports is SBC. It does not support either AAC or AptX.

Winner in Terms of Connectivity – JBL Boombox 2

View on Amazon: JBL Boombox 2

Is JBL boombox 2 better than JBL Xtreme 3?

Outdoor get-togethers are where we spend the most time with our JBL Boombox 2. Anyone who has attempted to perform music outdoors understands how difficult it can be. The Boombox 2 will overpower any music you attempt to play by the sounds of the people in the room. In addition, wind and automobile noise might sometimes be a problem.

In these situations, you’ll need a speaker who can send out many sounds while maintaining a high level of sound quality. For example, the JBL Boombox 2 delivers on both counts, as previously indicated. I’ve used this speaker on beaches and tailgates with no problems, so I know it works.

However, there is a lot more to this speaker than just its high loudness. That means you won’t have to worry about it malfunctioning in the rain.

In addition, the handle on this model makes it simple to transport when you’re out and about.

The JBL Xtreme 3 is an excellent option if you often organize gatherings inside or outdoors and prepare separate playlists for each event. It’s possible that the new rubberized grips on the bottom of the speaker won’t be to everyone’s liking, but that’s not much of a reason to stay away from it.

The capacity of the speaker to charge other devices is convenient not only for you but also for your visitors. In addition, the IP67 certification will provide you with an extra degree of peace of mind while you are at the beach or by the pool.

JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3 – Additional Features

Xtreme 3

Beyond the Xtreme 3’s 2kg cylindrical-shaped speaker are the usual Bluetooth connection, power, volume control, play/pause controls, and a separate button for connecting with compatible JBL speakers. You may use JBL’s PartyBoost mode to connect two or more speakers for stereo sound. Moreover, you can also connect numerous speakers to create a simple multi-room setup with PartyBoost mode enabled.

You also have two hooks for attaching the shoulder strap to the device. The manufacturers have also included a bottle opener in a built-in bottle strap, so the speaker is always ready to party.

You’ll discover a flat base coated in strips of super-grippy material below to keep the speaker in place.

Boombox 2

JBL had to reduce the original Boombox’s compatibility to use a different Bluetooth transmitter. This model may play the same music concurrently or in stereo as left and right channels when connected to other JBL speakers through the Connect+ button. It’s gone now, and the Boombox 2 is no longer connected to the JBL Connect+ app, placing it in a new connectivity environment.

Because PartyBoost utilizes a different protocol, you couldn’t connect the Boombox 2 with the original Boombox if you owned one and your buddy had the other. Instead, you can only wirelessly pair PartyBoost speakers with other PartyBoost-enabled speakers, unlike the Connect+ speakers.

Frequently Asked Questions About JBL Boombox 2 vs Xtreme 3

Is JBL Boombox louder than Xtreme?

The JBL Boombox is indeed louder than the Xtreme 3.

Does the Xtreme 3 sound louder than Xtreme 2?

Yes, the Xtreme 3 is louder than the Xtreme 2.

Final Words

After all of the above has been said, the following is our analysis. If you are searching for an extremely portable Bluetooth speaker that you can continually carry with you everywhere you go, then the JBL Xtreme 3 is the product that you will want to go with without a doubt. The Xtreme 3 has a respectable battery power in the real world, around 8 to 9 hours.

Because of its very portable nature, it is not only lightweight but also relatively compact. In particular, if you have a more recent smartphone, including a USB C connector that you can use to charge your device is a welcome addition. And we like its sound profile as well. Another alternative to these speakers is the JBL Partybox, which features better bass than these speakers.

But if you want something louder that sounds broader and has more bass while still being something that you can easily carry with you wherever you go. So you may want to go for the Boombox 2 instead.

The Xtreme 3 is a straight winner between these two and has a rather one-sided dominance and advantage over the Boombox 2.

Which is better Boombox 2 or Xtreme 3?

Our Verdict. The JBL Boombox 2 is a better speaker than the JBL Xtreme 3. The Boombox has a more balanced sound profile, and its battery lasts longer.

What is better than the boombox 2?

Side-by-Side Comparison The Ultimate Ears HYPERBOOM is a better speaker than the JBL Boombox 2 overall.

Is JBL Boombox 2 Powerful?

The JBL Boombox 2 is a big, portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers powerful bass depth and high volumes. At $499.95, it's also quite expensive. ... JBL Boombox 2 Specs..

What speaker is comparable to the JBL Boombox 2?

Sony's SRS-XG500 is the most direct competitor to the JBL Boombox 2. They're similarly priced and sized, with both featuring an integrated handle. The Sony is a little larger but weighs slightly less at 12.34 pounds (5.6 kg).