LG XBOOM Go PL5 review | vs LG PL5, PL7, PK5, Anker Soundcore Boost, & JBL Flip 4

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I’d love to know which speaker you preferred the sound of - or if there’s another model I should take a look at - let me know down below! Feel free to skip ahead or back using the chapters in the timeline created from the timestamps below: 0:00 Intro* 0:59 Overview*. Unboxing, size and weight, build quality 1:40 Speaker overview, controls, Sound Boost, dual-mode, multi-mode, lighting buttons 2:45 Charging speaker, status LED 3:24 Initial Bluetooth pairing, pairing second device, 3:58 Pairing a PL5 with a PL7 - multi-mode pairing 4:49 XBOOM Go app, multi-play mode 5:42 Sound quality & performance*. Stereo mid-range drivers, dual passive radiators, general discussion on sound quality 6:29 Sound test introduction 7:02 Sound test - listen to a comparison against LG PL2, PL5, PK5, Anker Soundcore Boost, JBL Flip 4 9:02 Audio sync, battery life, Bluetooth range and reliability 9:35 Integrated microphone test - listen to the quality 9:49 Only AAC support, no aptX, IPX5 splash proof rating 10:17 Conclusions* *Main sections

[@photographer-gf]

Trustworthy and reliable reviews as always (delivered with 11Gw/second = Gidon words per second :-)). Nice work, really appreciate your effort in producing professional video reviews!

[@TheTechnologyMan]

🤣 - thank you! And thanks for the feedback - really appreciate it!

[@lucabertolaso2167]

For me anker soundcore motion is still the best sounding speaker in it's size/price

[@TheTechnologyMan]

@@lucabertolaso2167 It still holds its own!

[@alexman5203]

Great review. Im thinking of buying the PL5 for 40% off or is the cheaper tribit stormbox better for the price?

[@niksa1234]

I like how you not just review the product but these reviews are a complete user guide/manual as well..you deserve much more subscribers..

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you nikhil kumar! Glad you like the format - really appreciate the feedback and support!

[@NguyenDuongVu]

The mic test makes you different from the other reviewers! Thank you for the great reviews!

[@TheTechnologyMan]

That's great - thanks Nguyen Duong Vu for the feedback and support!

[@DrWiki-po1hk]

7:02 Wished you kept sound boost off. It really muddied the audio a bit and audio separation was reduced on the speaker. Same with the PK5. Otherwise, this was a very accurate comparison and definitely helped me decide!

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thanks - the Sound Boost does start off turned off so you can hear how it sounds without?

[@louismartinezjr9617]

I just purchased this speaker. Thank you for this informative video. On my phone would it be better to have it set to mono sound or normal sound?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

You still want stereo output - it has a pair of drivers.

[@louismartinezjr9617]

@@TheTechnologyMan okay thanks

[@TheSaladino176]

Brother if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be able to pair the 2 speakers i have, great video

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Great!

[@Jocguzman]

I own a PK3 thanks to your review of last year, I've no complains and I’m pretty happy with the speaker. Do you think it’s worth it to upgrade from the PK3 to the PL5? Nice review btw.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you Jotase! I don't think so no - not if you're happy with it - the PK3 is a nice little speaker!

[@aboobackarsidheek3742]

Hi there, I loved your review video I just bought the PL5, kindly let me know if I can use '2 A' charger adapter Please help

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thanks! Yes - the speaker will just take what it needs.

[@enjoythesilence303]

I really enjoy your reviews! Very clear and accessible :-) I was wondering, which speaker would you pick if you are looking for: battery longevity, sound quality ( bass is not the most important), quality of call in phone calls if necessary and distance away from the wifi? Thank you soooo much again!

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you lynda benhadj! This is a good option but the call quality is not so good IIRC. The Motion+ is another one to consider - a good all rounder. And you can't go too far wrong with many of the JBL and UE speakers ...

[@3dmagix]

I've just subscribed and I really like how precise and to-the-point you are. You should drop the mic at the end of every video. :)

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you baer and for the support! Great suggestion - will have to give that a go ;)!

[@alichishti579]

Subscribed....fantastic review, very concise and clear, well structured and to the point.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Many thanks Ali Chishti!

[@240zwannabe]

Just picked up a PL7 on prime day, a big upgrade compared to using an Amazon Tap when working in the garage

[@TheTechnologyMan]

There were some good prices on these on Prime Day - glad you got yourself a good deal - always nice!

[@adilmarsouzajr]

Great Review, very technical ! Congrats man

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you Adilmar L. Souza Jr!

[@Ian-bl6sp]

Great review, I'd love to know which of these type of Speakers (LG/Anker?) you think would be the best solution as a pair for TV surround sound via Bluetooth 😀

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you Ian 2118! I'd be more inclined to look at a soundbar rather than two portable speakers like this. I have Creative Labs one that I'll hopefully get to look at soon - a soundbar will also have a central speaker which is important for TV sound IMO.

[@Ian-bl6sp]

@@TheTechnologyMan Thanks for the reply, much appreciated 😀, would you say using the speakers in this way are not a good solution then, as a soundbar is not the best solution in our case.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

No problem. If a soundbar isn't an option then you could certainly use a Bluetooth speaker - both the PL5 and Motion+ would work ok I'm sure - the Motion+ is a bit louder IIRC.

[@Ian-bl6sp]

@@TheTechnologyMan Great, thanks again for the feedback 😀

[@ivancamiloguti]

In sound quality which is the best between LG PL5 vs JBL Flip 4? Thank you

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I feel the PL5 has greater range with a little more bass, but they're pretty close.

[@bigben2493]

I'm debating between the LG PL5 and PL7 any major sound or any other differences?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

The PL7 does have more bass - but both are good. Have you tried listening to the comparison with some decent headphones?

[@WolfpactVI]

Read your review on your website. You mentioned a stand alone review of the PL7. Any idea of when that is coming out? Thanks!

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I haven't had time yet but still hope to review the PL7 separately! I have an upcoming review of another similar sized speaker that I will reviewing against the PL7 probably before then.

[@WolfpactVI]

@@TheTechnologyMan Ok thanks. Will look forward to both reviews!

[@rikshaw2233]

Thank You, a very useful review.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you and I'm glad the video helped you out!

[@cgg1293]

What a great review, thank you! I am seeking for semi-urgent opinion with this comment. You have kind of convinced me to stick with the PL5. I have just bought it online so it hasnt arrive yet and I havent tested. However I been watching several audio comparison videos, and I am so doubting between the JBL Flip 5 or LG xboom PL5. Somehow I feel the flip 5 has a more stereo sound even though quality sound of all sounds are not very clear. For sound quality I definitely think the PL5 is so much neat, it sounds beautiful! The only thing is that I feel the PL5 sounds like a radio, as if the sound is not stereo or so? Im not technologically savvy, so sorry for my dummy description! Maybe the soundboost option compensates this louder-stereo sound I am missing in the PL5. I would like to know your opinion, should I keep the PL5? I got it for 77 euros, which I think is a great price. Also, I want to remark I wont be using it for EDM or hard techno. Ok, maybe some nights with friends a bit of Detroit techno, garage, or more groovy music, but mostly for music with songs of genres such as jazzy and instrumental-loaded hip-hop, neo-soul and reggeaton (sorry not sorry lol), mostly inside my house but occasionally outside . I would very much appreciate your opinion/advice (or from anyone out there. Im flying back in 6 days to the country I live, so I might not be able to return it after that. thank you for your time

[@cgg1293]

Btw, I know it is flip 4 on the review, but I said flip 5 because thats the model that is available now. I am assuming the flip 5 is slightly renovated version of the flip 4, but kind of keeps this jbl line essentials, so thats why I said flip 5. Thanks.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thanks! I've not tried the Flip 5 - but I'm sure you'll be happy with the PL5. JBL speakers do usually sound very bright which people like. I would see you like it for the music you listen to. And also how you like the form factor, features and usability since often that's just as important as the sound quality in my experience. Good luck with the decision making!

[@cgg1293]

@@TheTechnologyMan Thank you for your fast reply. I have just got the speaker and I cannot be more happy. The sound quality is brutal!! And it is loud (not as much as a JBL 3 or 4, but still very loud) and with the sound boost on, I barely notice lose in quality. I have several friends with JBL Charge 4, and even though those are very good too (and loud and good bass), the quality sound of the xboom PL5 is much better. Voice highlighted and clear instrumentals. I absolutely recommend it for anyone looking for the things I described in my initial comment. Technology man, thank you, you review was eloquent and precise!

[@TheTechnologyMan]

That's great to hear - thanks for the feedback!

[@DOSIRL]

Thanks for the video Gideon. Just found your channel. I'll be subscribing

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Great many thanks Dermot O'Sullivan!

[@renanc327]

Nice reviews! Could you help me? I'm searching for a speaker to use with my gaming PC. Bought a Soundcore Boost, really loved the sound, but the latency on BT pissed me off, and because it didn't have a p2 (3.5) plug (mine was the upgraded version) I sold it. I was told that the Soundcore 2 has latency even with the p2 plug too. Could you suggest a speaker like the Soundcore Boost for me to use on my desk, with my PC? Can't have latency tho.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

IIRC this one was pretty good. And JBL are pretty good too. Not sure about zero latency though - that can depend on lots of things including app you're using for playback and the device you're using.

[@renanc327]

@@TheTechnologyMan I see, thanks!

[@helo3851]

I love my little PL2. Its a tiny rocket with a big bang

[@TheTechnologyMan]

The PL2 is a nice little speaker!

[@vinmr1]

Best review hands down, even covers if you can connect / multi connect PL series with PK.... which is pretty big because keeps people in the ecosystem. As always I really dont know what LG is thinking about... Connect and Connect + ensures this in JBL lineup.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you Vinod Venugopal - glad you found the video useful!

[@Lucas-pn4sv]

Does lp5 conects with pk5 séries?

[@blazoboskovic1611]

Greetings and every honor for a professional approach to speaker testing. One small suggestion that the same song sequence be repeated on each speaker, for a better comparison ... I would ask you for your opinion and recommendation for pop and spiritual music which speaker would recommend? Soundcore motion boom 120e Souncore motion + 110e Sony xb33 110e Lg pn5 70e Thank you in advance and hope to test these speakers soon including pn7

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you Blažo Bošković and I will take note of your suggestion. I've not tried the Sony but I probably grab the Motion+ most out of the others. It has good sound and a convenient form factor.

[@blazoboskovic1611]

Thank you very much for the answer, I wish you all the best in your future work, peace and joy ...

[@EnglishwithTsar]

Quite useful... I'm thinking about getting one now.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Let us know what you think of it if you do!

[@EnglishwithTsar]

Well, my wife got the PL5, I got the PL7. Good sound quality so far. However, dual mode only works for PL7, and multi mode has been impossible to try; the speakers simply don't pair.

[@SenSe.444]

If i want a speaker with a Nice power sound for outdoor ( for Beats and rap music), what do You choose?? JBL flip 5 or LG pl5 ?? In mind of a better bass of the rap music

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Slightly better bass on the PL5 - but you may want to step up to the PL7 I'll hopefully be reviewing soon ...

[@kheandrae9894]

Hello i need your opinion. Lg xboom go pl7 or bose revolve? Please give me your suggestions if whats louder. Thankyou

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Sorry I've not tested the Bose Revolve!

[@faruknane]

Is pk5 that worse than pl5? Is there a much difference, it seems like that in the video. Pl5 has basses and sounds clearer. Did you enabled clear voice for pk5?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Yes clear voice was also enabled. They do sound quite different as you can hear.

[@faruknane]

@@TheTechnologyMan hi again, do you think I should sell my pk5 and buy pl5? I can't find enough review of pl5 versus pk5. Could you help me decide? I have already pk5 btw.

[@jasonMB999]

@@faruknane that's what i did. I sold my pk5 for a pl5. Just got the pl5 today which I'll soon review... But already i can tell you the size mskes huge difference.

[@faruknane]

@@jasonMB999 pl5 has really clear mids and highs, the bass is soft and tends to create distortion at high volumes. The sound volume is so high compared to pk5 with longer battery life. I am happy overall. I wish I could buy pl7 instead of pl5 that's what I regret :D

[@timucinpusat2840]

I've bought xboop pl5 from mediamarkt. When I unboxed it the start button didn't work which shows most probably that the battery drained, it was %0. It should be, as far as I know around %40 - %60. This indicates that the battery is elarady dead, or the machine is out of work, broken, or at least the battery is empty and it was on the shelf for so long time. Is this acceptable? I'm going to return it? What do you suggest?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Ideally the unit should arrive with some charge (good practice to store these Li-ion batteries with around 50% charge) but as long as it takes charge and you don't have any problems with battery life it's probably ok. There should be some protection so that even if the battery is completely drained no damage should be done.

[@timucinpusat2840]

@@TheTechnologyMan thank you for your reply. I chose not to take risk so I returned it back.

[@raushanpurbey6791]

Is pk5 vs pl5 vs pn5 ...which one has best sound quality for watching Netflix and listening music please answer me sir...

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I've not tested the PN5 - but the PL5 and PK5 are pretty close but I prefer the compact size of the PL5.

[@asapdiegos]

this or the PK5? nice video

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you Diego Pizarro Espinoza! That's a tough one! I prefer the design and size of the new PL5 - but marginally prefer the sound of the PK5.

[@manjinplay372]

How long does the battery LG PL5 last with the volume at 70% and with sound boost activated? it lasts only 4 hours for me. And with volume 50% and deactivated the sound boost lasts for 13 hours. It is normal ?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

That sounds a little low to me - I'm pretty sure I get almost double that with similar settings but will pay close attention next time I'm using the speaker.

[@EryPlusJustin]

Your reviews are always on point! Thank you, they’re really helpful 😊 My question is: how are you? 😄

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you Leanne B.! I'm good thanks!

[@alexandergolke1325]

I wanted to adjust a cheap bluetooth speaker with an external old-fashioned box to overcome the thin compressed sound , by just connecting the wire cables . But they don't give any information about the resistance in those tiny items .I just assume they still work with 8 Ohm , otherwise I might have bought the stuff (Anker or something like that ) in vain . Can you help me ? Thank you very much !

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Sorry I can't help you with that - maybe there's a KZbin video where they've taken the speaker apart?

[@alexandergolke1325]

@@TheTechnologyMan Thank you for your swift answer . I'll just buy a cheap one and try it ! A big fullrange speaker with high efficiency should always sound better . The industry wants to build as tiny as possible , soon we get ghetto blasters to put into our ears !

[@jozefserf2024]

Great idea normalising volume to -6dB. Good sound but stupid flashing lights though.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

You can turn the lights off :).

[@bagusmuliawan2597]

I have flip 4. Need to upgrade pl5 just for usb c and lighting led effect? 😁

[@TheTechnologyMan]

You can never have too many BT speakers!

[@nbkpatil]

Which would I buy between lg pl5 or flip 5.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I'm sorry I've not compared the LG PL5 to the Flip 5.

[@DstrongJ_videography]

Pl5

[@Umat165]

Helo, are playing shot you down, on pl5 with lastest firmware, sound clipping hapen on volume 24 of 30 klik (80%) Song : Shot you down by wolffe But play another song no problems

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Not sure why it'd have trouble with that song sorry.

[@nguyenvietlamanh5464]

Does the lack of aptx-hd affect the sound quality of the pl5 compare to the pk5

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I really can't notice much, in any of a difference.

[@brianbarton4030]

Can you connect pl5 with Marshall Emberton ?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

No they will only pair with each other.

[@scumbagjay5467]

Is PL7 better than motion+?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

They are both pretty good - not sure I choose between them on sound alone.

[@jasonMB999]

Hello. Is the pk5 better sounding than pl5?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

They sound pretty similar - but the PL5 is smaller and less bulky.

[@newfnshow031]

Can I charge the pl5 with the Google pixel phone charger?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Mine won't charge with a dual-ended USB-C cable if that's what your Pixel uses.

[@nbkpatil]

What about the latency with the lg pl5.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I do discuss latency in the video - it's pretty good even with KZbin on iOS. But there's still a small amount of delay.

[@kingzley]

be good to do a premium bluetooth speaker review say £300-£500 range for best quality

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@DstrongJ_videography]

lg is clean very nice sound

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I agree it does have a clean sound.

[@Janselin23]

i cant make the aux work. pls help!

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Can you check with another cable? Is the cable fully inserted? Otherwise I'd check with LG or your supplier.

[@raffetoffe]

For 53€ I guess it's a bargain?

[@TheTechnologyMan]

That's an great price!

[@xXadambXx]

nice if you have tribit maxsound plus insted flip 4 :)

[@TheTechnologyMan]

All good speakers!

[@youknowme2322]

👌🏾

[@TheTechnologyMan]

👍

[@Umat165]

👍🏽🔥🔥👍🏽

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Thank you herry cahyanto!

[@williammartin2144]

If you want goods sound you shoud buy a big speaker like car size speaker..

[@TheTechnologyMan]

👍

[@vishalrao9189]

can i answer call with this

[@TheTechnologyMan]

Yes you can - although I didn't find the mic had particularly good pick up on my unit at least.

[@ktmlife65]

Lovelgy

[@TheTechnologyMan]

👍

[@lucabertolaso2167]

It have too much peak in 8000-10000 hz

[@TheTechnologyMan]

It's a shame there's no EQ customisation in the accompanying app - but you can use your phone's EQ to tune the sound to your tastes ...

[@DstrongJ_videography]

anker poor

[@TheTechnologyMan]

It is a a but smaller and cheaper though! And has USB charging.

[@Ferarri4444]

It's either the microphones you use are awful and depicting anything close to the actual sounds (everything sounds super tinny no matter what you show and even with high quality earphones. Those are just overpriced POS tinny crap speakers. Sorry, just being real. Comparing Anker to anyone is sad since Anker is, in my opinion, the worst sounding tinny crap make brand speakers on the market. Doesn't seem to matter what Anker speaker used, they all are just really bad with zero resonance. They sound like a subwoofer with a cover, sounding very isolated and tinny. I would never consider any of these gimmicky speakers.

[@TheTechnologyMan]

I use decent Sennheiser binaural mics for the recordings, but nothing will replace listening to these speakers in real life. It's meant more as a way of comparing the speakers relative to each other. But I also spend hours on end listening to these speakers playing all sorts of music - so have a pretty good idea how they sound for the review. Still, speakers are pretty subjective - hopefully you'll find something you like.