When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, JBL has long been a trusted name. Known for their reliable performance, rugged designs, and outstanding sound quality, JBL speakers have found their way into the hearts of music lovers worldwide. The JBL Go 4 is the latest in their popular Go series of ultra-portable speakers, and it promises to deliver the perfect balance of portability and sound performance.
In this review, we’ll explore everything the JBL Go 4 has to offer, from its sound quality and features to its design and overall value.
Key Features of the JBL Go 4
Before we dive into the detailed review, let’s take a quick look at the key features that make the JBL Go 4 a standout portable speaker:
- Compact and Portable Design: Small enough to fit in your hand, pocket, or bag.
- Wireless Bluetooth Streaming: Seamless connectivity with any Bluetooth-enabled device.
- Water-Resistant Design: IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, making it perfect for outdoor use.
- 5 Hours of Playtime: A built-in rechargeable battery provides enough juice for extended listening.
- Clear Sound with Punchy Bass: JBL’s signature sound quality, with good bass response for a speaker of its size.
JBL Go 4 Design and Build Quality
One of the first things you’ll notice about the JBL Go 4 is its minimalist design. Available in a variety of colors, it’s a speaker that can easily blend into any environment, whether you’re at home, by the pool, or on a hiking trail. It features a durable, rubberised exterior, making it resistant to bumps, drops, and scratches.
The IP67 water and dust resistance is another feature that adds to the ruggedness of the Go 4. You can take this speaker to the beach, use it poolside, or even bring it into the shower without worrying about water damage. It can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes, so rain or splashes are no problem.
Weighing in at just under 0.5 pounds and measuring around 4 inches wide, the JBL Go 4 is small enough to fit in your hand but solid enough to feel durable and premium. The design includes a built-in loop for a strap, making it even easier to carry around or hang from a backpack.
Sound Quality of JBL Go 4
The biggest question for any portable speaker is, “How does it sound?” Despite its tiny size, the JBL Go 4 packs a punch when it comes to sound quality. The speaker delivers a clear and well-balanced sound that can fill a room, making it great for both indoor and outdoor settings.
Bass Performance
For such a small speaker, the bass performance is surprisingly strong. While it won’t rattle windows or compete with larger speakers, it offers enough depth to make listening enjoyable across a wide range of genres, from electronic and hip-hop to rock and pop.
Mids and Highs
The midrange is crisp, and the highs are clear without being tinny or harsh, which is a common issue with small speakers. Vocals come through with clarity, and instruments are well-separated, providing a rich listening experience. Overall, the JBL Go 4 excels in delivering balanced sound for its size.
Volume Levels
While the JBL Go 4 is small, it can get surprisingly loud. It’s not going to replace a full-size party speaker, but for small gatherings, picnics, or personal listening, it’s more than adequate. Even at high volumes, the sound remains clear with minimal distortion.
JBL Go 4 Battery Life
The JBL Go 4 comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that provides up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge. While this may not be the longest battery life compared to some larger speakers, it’s reasonable for its size. For casual listening or short trips, it’s more than sufficient, and recharging is quick via its USB-C port.
If you’re using it for an entire day out, you might need to give it a quick top-up at some point, but the compact size and performance make up for the slightly shorter battery life.
Connectivity and Features
The Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity ensures quick and stable pairing with your devices, whether it’s your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. You can stream wirelessly from up to 10 meters away without any drop in connection quality. This is particularly handy when you’re using the speaker outdoors or moving around a room.
Additionally, the built-in microphone allows you to use the JBL Go 4 as a speakerphone. You can easily take calls through the speaker, and the quality is surprisingly good for a device of this size. The sound is clear on both ends, and it’s a nice added feature for those who want an all-in-one portable solution.
Value for Money
At its price point, the JBL Go 4 offers fantastic value for money. You’re getting a high-quality portable speaker with solid sound performance, water resistance, and a durable build—all for an affordable price. While there are other portable speakers on the market, few can match the Go 4’s combination of features, sound quality, and portability in such a compact form.
Pros and Cons of the JBL Go 4
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design, making it ultra-portable.
- Waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating.
- Impressive sound quality and bass for its size.
- Bluetooth 5.1 for stable and seamless wireless connectivity.
- Affordable price point for what it offers.
Cons:
- Limited battery life (5 hours) compared to larger speakers.
- Doesn’t have some advanced features, like multi-speaker pairing or voice assistants.
Here’s a comparison table highlighting the differences between the JBL Clip (latest version, JBL Clip 4) and the JBL Go 4:
| Feature | JBL Clip 4 | JBL Go 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 86.3 x 134.5 x 46 mm | 87.5 x 75 x 41.3 mm |
| Weight | 239g | 209g |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 5 hours |
| Charging Time | 3 hours | 2.5 hours |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP67 (Waterproof & Dustproof) | IP67 (Waterproof & Dustproof) |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Built-in Carabiner | Yes | No |
| Speakerphone | No | Yes |
| Frequency Response | 100Hz – 20kHz | 180Hz – 20kHz |
| Max Output Power | 5W | 4.2W |
| Sound | Richer sound with more bass | Clear sound, moderate bass |
| Portability | Clip-on design, highly portable | Ultra-portable, fits in pocket |
| Price Range | Mid-range (typically higher) | Budget-friendly |
Key Differences:
- Battery Life: The JBL Clip 4 offers double the battery life compared to the JBL Go 4, making it better for longer trips or extended outdoor use.
- Built-in Carabiner: The JBL Clip 4’s integrated carabiner makes it easier to attach to bags, bikes, or belts, enhancing its portability.
- Sound Quality: The JBL Clip 4 has a slightly richer sound with better bass response, though both speakers offer solid performance for their size.
- Speakerphone: The JBL Go 4 includes a speakerphone feature for hands-free calls, while the Clip 4 lacks this capability.
- Price: The JBL Go 4 tends to be more budget-friendly, while the JBL Clip 4 is typically positioned at a slightly higher price point.
The choice between the two depends on whether you prioritise portability and battery life (JBL Clip 4) or a more compact design with speakerphone functionality (JBL Go 4).
Apply for JBL Go 4 Speaker
Final Verdict – Should You Buy the JBL Go 4?
If you’re looking for a compact, affordable, and durable portable speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound quality, the JBL Go 4 is a solid choice. Its small size makes it incredibly easy to take anywhere, and its water resistance ensures it can withstand almost any environment. While it may not have the longest battery life, its other features more than make up for it.
For music lovers who need a portable speaker for travel, outdoor adventures, or casual listening, the JBL Go 4 is hard to beat at its price point. Whether you’re heading to the beach, hiking, or just need a reliable speaker for personal use, this little powerhouse won’t disappoint.