Different classes, so treat this as a step-up-or-not question rather than a head-to-head. The JBL Partybox Encore ranks #7 of 105 boombox speakers by sound quality at $230; the Klipsch Gig XL ranks #29 of 50 party speakers by sound quality at $84.99.
The case for the JBL Partybox Encore: A 13.9 lbs (6.3 kg) party speaker with two included wireless microphones, great sound with somewhat boosted bass, and a measured 110dB output. It plays in stereo from a single unit, unlike the Klipsch Gig XL. The catch: Only IPX4 splash resistance.
The Klipsch Gig XL is the lighter option. Commenters on side by side tests found it more balanced than the JBL Partybox Encore Essential, with clearer vocals, and it costs less. At 8.8 lbs (4 kg) it weighs noticeably less than the JBL Partybox Encore at 13.9 lbs (6.3 kg). The catch: The JBL Partybox Encore Essential played louder with more bass, and in another test it sounded weakest next to the Encore Essential and the Harman Kardon Go + Play 3.
One note: the JBL Partybox Encore is discontinued, but it still ranks #7 of 105 boombox speakers by sound quality, ahead of most of what is still sold new, so it is worth considering used. The JBL Partybox Encore’s replacement, the JBL Partybox Encore 2, is rated 4.4/5 at $330.
Buy the JBL Partybox Encore at $230 for a boombox speaker, or the Klipsch Gig XL at $84.99 for a party speaker instead.
Want more options? Browse the full Portable Bluetooth rankings.
A 6.3 kg party speaker with two included wireless microphones, great sound with somewhat boosted bass, and a measured 110dB output.
Walmart $230 eBay
Commenters on side by side tests found it more balanced than the JBL Partybox Encore Essential, with clearer vocals, and it costs less.
Amazon $84.99 eBayPrices on this page were last checked October 19, 2026 at 10:32 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
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Specifications Side By Side
| JBL Partybox Encore | Klipsch Gig XL | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $230 Discontinued | $84.99 |
| Ranked | #7 of 105 in Boombox Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers | #29 of 50 in Party Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers |
| App | Yes (JBL PartyBox app) | No |
| Aux Input | Yes | Yes |
| Aux Latency | 17ms | - |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 38Hz | - |
| Battery Life | 6 hours (Manufacturer specified) | 8 hours (Manufacturer specified) |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC | SBC |
| Built-in Microphone | No | - |
| EQ | Yes (3 band App EQ) | - |
| IP Rating | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Bluetooth Latency | 100ms | - |
| Maximum SPL | 110dB (measured by Alan Ross Reviews) | - |
| Party Mode | Yes (PartyBoost up to 100 speakers) | - |
| Power Bank | Yes (USB-A, 5V/1.5A) | - |
| Power Input | AC Power cord | AC power cable |
| Stereo | Yes | No |
| Omnidirectional | No | - |
| TWS | Yes | Yes |
| USB Playback | Yes | - |
| Weight | 13.9 lbs (6.3 kg) | 8.8 lbs (4.0 kg) |
| Wireless Microphones | Yes 2 Included | - |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 5.0 |
| Amplifier Power | 100W RMS | 30W RMS |
| Dimensions | 10.9” x 12.9” x 11.5” (276 x 327 x 293 mm) | 14”H x 10”W x 9.1”D (355 x 255 x 230 mm) |
| Drivers | 135mm woofer + 2x 20mm tweeters | 1x 6.5” woofer, 1x 2” tweeter |
| Digital Aux Input | No | - |
| Lights | - | Yes (RGB light ring) |
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