Home » Fashion Wellness Reviews » JBL Charge 4 – Waterproof Portable Review jbl 4 Buying Guide – Oemiu

JBL Charge 4 – Waterproof Portable Review jbl 4 Buying Guide – Oemiu

Oemiu September 3, 2025 Fashion Wellness Reviews

SaveSavedRemoved 0

Deal Score0

0

Deal Score0

Price: $149.97 - $109.95
(as of Sep 02, 2025 18:07:48 UTC – Details)

JBL Charge 4: A Deep Dive into Sound and Durability

The quest for the perfect portable speaker is a never-ending one, fueled by our desire to take our favorite tunes wherever life leads us. In this landscape, the JBL Charge 4 stands as a seasoned veteran, having carved out a significant niche for itself. But does it still hold up in today’s ever-evolving market? This review delves into every aspect of the JBL Charge 4, exploring its sound quality, design, features, and overall value proposition. We’ll examine whether it remains a compelling choice for those seeking a robust and reliable portable audio solution, especially considering the rise of newer competitors. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a comprehensive overview that empowers you to make an informed decision about whether the JBL Charge 4 aligns with your specific needs and listening habits. From poolside gatherings to outdoor adventures, the JBL Charge 4 aims to be your soundtrack companion.

Unboxing and First Impressions: Ruggedness in Hand

The first encounter with the JBL Charge 4 sets the tone for its rugged appeal. The speaker comes packaged in a relatively simple cardboard box, typical of JBL’s minimalist approach. Inside, you’ll find the Charge 4 itself, a USB-C charging cable, and a small collection of documentation, including a quick start guide and warranty information. The immediate impression is one of solidity. The Charge 4 feels substantial in your hand, boasting a weight that speaks to its robust construction. The tightly woven fabric exterior is pleasing to the touch and inspires confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor use. The rubberized end caps further enhance its durability, providing shock absorption and preventing slippage on various surfaces. The buttons, neatly integrated into the top of the speaker, offer a satisfying tactile feedback when pressed, indicating a well-engineered design. Compared to some of its flashier competitors with more elaborate packaging, the JBL Charge 4 prioritizes functionality and durability over aesthetics in its presentation. It’s clear from the outset that this speaker is built to last, and that initial feeling carries considerable weight when considering its long-term value. This initial impression can often set the tone for how the speaker will be experienced over the long haul. The build quality definitely suggests that this is a device you can trust to last.

Design and Build Quality: A Focus on Practicality

The design philosophy behind the JBL Charge 4 is undeniably practical. It favors a cylindrical shape, making it easy to grip and transport. The fabric exterior, available in a variety of colors, not only adds a touch of style but also provides a layer of protection against scratches and abrasions. The IPX7 waterproof rating is a major selling point, allowing the speaker to be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes without damage. This makes it ideal for use near pools, at the beach, or even in the shower without worrying about accidental splashes. The rubberized end caps are not just for aesthetics; they also provide a stable base, preventing the speaker from rolling around on uneven surfaces. The buttons, raised and clearly labeled, are easy to operate even with wet hands. On the back of the speaker, you’ll find a protected compartment housing the USB-C charging port, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and a USB-A port for charging other devices. This last feature is particularly useful, as it allows the Charge 4 to double as a power bank, providing a convenient way to top up your phone or other gadgets while on the go. The overall design is understated yet functional, prioritizing durability and ease of use over flashy aesthetics. While some may prefer a more visually striking design, the Charge 4’s focus on practicality makes it a reliable and versatile companion for any adventure. In essence, the JBL Charge 4 embodies a “form follows function” design principle.

Sound Quality: Balanced and Powerful

The heart of any speaker lies in its sound quality, and the JBL Charge 4 delivers a balanced and powerful audio experience. Its single driver and dual passive radiators work in tandem to produce a rich and immersive soundstage. The bass response is particularly impressive, providing a deep and punchy low-end that adds weight and impact to music across various genres. The midrange is clear and articulate, allowing vocals and instruments to shine through without sounding muddy or muffled. The highs are crisp and well-defined, avoiding harshness or sibilance even at higher volumes. The overall sound signature is relatively neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of musical tastes. Whether you’re listening to bass-heavy electronic music, acoustic ballads, or rock anthems, the Charge 4 handles it all with aplomb. While it may not offer the same level of detail and refinement as some higher-end speakers, the Charge 4’s sound quality is more than adequate for its intended purpose. It provides a satisfying and enjoyable listening experience that is both engaging and immersive. The volume output is also impressive, allowing you to easily fill a room or outdoor space with sound. Even at maximum volume, the distortion is minimal, ensuring that the music remains clear and listenable. In comparison to other portable speakers in its price range, the JBL Charge 4 stands out for its balanced sound signature and powerful bass response. It’s a versatile speaker that can handle a variety of musical genres with ease, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and enjoyable listening experience on the go. Some users have stated that they would have liked a wider sound stage, but overall the sonic performance of the JBL Charge 4 is undeniably good.

Bass Response: Deep and Punchy

One of the standout features of the JBL Charge 4 is its impressive bass response. The speaker’s dual passive radiators work in harmony to deliver a deep and punchy low-end that adds a significant amount of weight and impact to the music. The bass is well-controlled, avoiding muddiness or distortion even at higher volumes. This makes it particularly well-suited for genres like electronic dance music, hip-hop, and rock, where a strong bass presence is essential. The bass doesn’t overshadow the other frequencies, however. It’s well-integrated into the overall sound signature, providing a solid foundation without overpowering the mids and highs. This ensures that the music remains balanced and enjoyable to listen to, even for extended periods. Compared to some other portable speakers that tend to overemphasize the bass, resulting in a muddy and unbalanced sound, the Charge 4 strikes a good balance between power and clarity. The bass is present and impactful, but it doesn’t sacrifice the clarity and detail of the other frequencies. The JBL Charge 4 is a great choice for bass lovers who want a portable speaker that can deliver a satisfying low-end without sacrificing overall sound quality. The deep and punchy bass response really sets the JBL Charge 4 apart.

Clarity and Detail: Crisp Highs and Clear Mids

While the JBL Charge 4 is known for its impressive bass response, it doesn’t neglect the other frequencies. The midrange is clear and articulate, allowing vocals and instruments to shine through without sounding muffled or muddy. The highs are crisp and well-defined, avoiding harshness or sibilance even at higher volumes. This ensures that the music remains clear and enjoyable to listen to, even at maximum volume. The overall sound signature is relatively neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of musical genres. Whether you’re listening to acoustic ballads, pop songs, or rock anthems, the Charge 4 handles it all with aplomb. The clarity and detail of the JBL Charge 4 are particularly noticeable in acoustic recordings, where the nuances of the instruments and vocals are clearly audible. The speaker’s ability to reproduce these subtle details adds to the overall listening experience, making it more immersive and engaging. Compared to some other portable speakers that tend to prioritize bass over clarity, the Charge 4 strikes a good balance between the two. It delivers a satisfying bass response without sacrificing the clarity and detail of the other frequencies. This makes it a versatile speaker that can handle a variety of musical genres with ease. In particular, the clarity in the mid-range frequencies allows voices and instruments to cut through the mix, ensuring an enjoyable listening experience with the JBL Charge 4.

Connectivity and Battery Life: Reliable Performance

The JBL Charge 4 offers a reliable and seamless connectivity experience. It utilizes Bluetooth 4.2 for wireless pairing, providing a stable connection with minimal dropouts. The pairing process is straightforward and intuitive, allowing you to quickly connect your smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The speaker also features JBL Connect+, allowing you to wirelessly connect multiple JBL Connect+-enabled speakers together to create a more immersive and powerful sound system. This feature is particularly useful for larger gatherings or outdoor events where you need more sound coverage. In addition to Bluetooth, the Charge 4 also includes a 3.5mm auxiliary input, allowing you to connect devices that don’t have Bluetooth connectivity. This is a useful feature for older devices or for situations where you want to conserve battery life on your Bluetooth device. The battery life of the JBL Charge 4 is also impressive. It boasts a 7500mAh battery that provides up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. This makes it ideal for long days at the beach, camping trips, or any other situation where you need a reliable and long-lasting speaker. The Charge 4 also features a USB-A port that allows you to charge other devices, such as your smartphone or tablet. This is a convenient feature that can come in handy when you’re on the go and need to top up your device’s battery. The JBL Charge 4 offers a compelling combination of connectivity options and long battery life, making it a reliable and versatile choice for any situation. Many users find the jbl charge 4 specs on battery life to be pretty accurate.

Bluetooth Connectivity and JBL Connect+

The Bluetooth connectivity of the JBL Charge 4 is reliable and straightforward. It uses Bluetooth 4.2, which provides a stable connection with minimal dropouts. The pairing process is intuitive, and the speaker remembers previously paired devices, making it easy to reconnect. The range of the Bluetooth connection is also good, allowing you to move around without losing connection to the speaker. One of the standout features of the JBL Charge 4 is its JBL Connect+ technology. This allows you to wirelessly connect multiple JBL Connect+-enabled speakers together to create a more immersive and powerful sound system. You can connect up to 100 JBL Connect+-enabled speakers, allowing you to create a massive wall of sound. The JBL Connect+ feature is easy to use. Simply press the Connect+ button on each speaker, and they will automatically connect to each other. You can then control the volume and playback from a single speaker. The JBL Connect+ feature is a great way to enhance your listening experience, especially for larger gatherings or outdoor events. The ability to connect multiple speakers together allows you to create a more immersive and powerful sound system that can fill a large space with sound. The stability of the Bluetooth connection, combined with the versatility of JBL Connect+, makes the JBL Charge 4 a solid choice for a portable speaker.

Battery Life and Power Bank Functionality

The battery life of the JBL Charge 4 is one of its strongest selling points. The speaker boasts a 7500mAh battery that provides up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. This makes it ideal for long days at the beach, camping trips, or any other situation where you need a reliable and long-lasting speaker. The actual battery life will vary depending on the volume level and the type of music you’re playing, but even at higher volumes, you can expect to get a solid 15-18 hours of playtime. One of the most convenient features of the JBL Charge 4 is its power bank functionality. The speaker features a USB-A port that allows you to charge other devices, such as your smartphone or tablet. This is a particularly useful feature when you’re on the go and need to top up your device’s battery. The power bank functionality is easy to use. Simply plug your device into the USB-A port on the speaker, and it will begin charging. The charging speed is relatively slow, but it’s still a useful feature to have in a pinch. The long battery life and power bank functionality of the JBL Charge 4 make it a versatile and practical choice for anyone who needs a reliable and portable speaker.

JBL Charge 4 vs. the Competition: Standing Out in a Crowded Market

The portable speaker market is saturated with options, each vying for your attention and hard-earned money. So how does the JBL Charge 4 stack up against its competitors? To truly understand its value proposition, it’s essential to consider some alternatives and compare their key features, strengths, and weaknesses. One of the most prominent competitors is the Ultimate Ears Boom 3. The Boom 3 boasts a similar cylindrical design and waterproof rating but focuses more on 360-degree sound projection. While the Boom 3 offers a wider soundstage, the Charge 4 generally delivers a more powerful and balanced bass response. Another strong contender is the Sony SRS-XB33, which emphasizes extra bass and offers a longer battery life than the Charge 4. However, the Sony’s sound signature may be too bass-heavy for some listeners, and its design is not as rugged as the Charge 4. The Anker Soundcore Motion+ is a budget-friendly option that offers surprisingly good sound quality for its price. However, it lacks the ruggedness and power bank functionality of the Charge 4. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize durability, balanced sound, and power bank functionality, the JBL Charge 4 remains a strong contender. If you value 360-degree sound, extra bass, or a lower price point, other options may be more suitable. Regardless, considering these alternatives can help you make a more informed decision and choose the best portable speaker for your specific needs. Even though there may be a newer version available, many users still search for a good deal on the jbl 4 model.

JBL Charge 4 vs. Ultimate Ears Boom 3

The Ultimate Ears Boom 3 is a popular alternative to the JBL Charge 4, known for its 360-degree sound projection and stylish design. Both speakers are waterproof and offer similar levels of portability, but there are some key differences that set them apart. One of the main differences is the sound signature. The Boom 3 offers a wider soundstage, projecting sound in all directions, making it ideal for gatherings where people are spread out. However, the Charge 4 generally delivers a more powerful and balanced bass response. The Boom 3’s bass can sometimes sound a bit muddy or indistinct, while the Charge 4’s bass is tighter and more impactful. Another difference is the design. The Boom 3 features a sleek and modern design with a variety of vibrant color options. The Charge 4 has a more rugged and utilitarian design, prioritizing durability over aesthetics. The Charge 4 also offers a power bank functionality, allowing you to charge your smartphone or other devices, which is not available on the Boom 3. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize 360-degree sound and a stylish design, the Boom 3 may be a better choice. If you prioritize a more balanced sound, powerful bass, and power bank functionality, the JBL Charge 4 remains a strong contender.

JBL Charge 4 vs. Sony SRS-XB33

The Sony SRS-XB33 is another strong competitor in the portable speaker market, known for its extra bass and long battery life. While both speakers are waterproof and offer similar levels of portability, there are some key differences that set them apart. The most notable difference is the sound signature. The SRS-XB33 emphasizes extra bass, making it ideal for genres like electronic dance music and hip-hop. However, the Sony’s sound signature may be too bass-heavy for some listeners, resulting in a muddy and unbalanced sound. The Charge 4 offers a more balanced sound signature, with a clear midrange and crisp highs. Another difference is the design. The SRS-XB33 features a more conventional rectangular design, while the Charge 4 has a cylindrical design. The Charge 4 also offers a more rugged and durable build quality. The SRS-XB33 boasts a longer battery life than the Charge 4, offering up to 24 hours of playtime. However, the Charge 4 offers a power bank functionality, allowing you to charge your smartphone or other devices, which is not available on the SRS-XB33. The long battery life of the Sony SRS-XB33 may be tempting to some, whereas others may be more focused on the sonic clarity of the JBL Charge 4.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the JBL Charge 4 truly waterproof?

Can I submerge it in saltwater?

The JBL Charge 4 boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in freshwater up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This makes it suitable for use near pools, at the beach, or even in the shower without worrying about accidental splashes. However, it’s important to note that the IPX7 rating applies to freshwater only. Saltwater can be corrosive and may damage the speaker’s internal components over time. While a brief accidental splash of saltwater is unlikely to cause immediate damage, it’s best to avoid prolonged exposure or submersion in saltwater. If the speaker does come into contact with saltwater, rinse it thoroughly with freshwater as soon as possible to prevent corrosion. While the JBL Charge 4 is built to withstand some abuse, it’s always best to exercise caution to ensure its longevity.

What is JBL Connect+ and how does it work?

JBL Connect+ is a technology that allows you to wirelessly connect multiple JBL Connect+-enabled speakers together to create a more immersive and powerful sound system. You can connect up to 100 JBL Connect+-enabled speakers, allowing you to create a massive wall of sound. To use JBL Connect+, simply press the Connect+ button on each speaker, and they will automatically connect to each other. You can then control the volume and playback from a single speaker. This feature is particularly useful for larger gatherings or outdoor events where you need more sound coverage. It allows you to easily expand your sound system without the need for wires or complicated setups. Keep in mind that only speakers with JBL Connect+ are compatible with this feature. Older JBL speakers with the original JBL Connect technology are not compatible. Before purchasing additional speakers, make sure they support JBL Connect+ to ensure compatibility.

How long does it take to fully charge the JBL Charge 4?

The JBL Charge 4 takes approximately 4 hours to fully charge from 0% to 100% using a standard USB-C charger. The actual charging time may vary depending on the power output of the charger and the ambient temperature. Using a higher wattage charger may slightly reduce the charging time, but it’s important to use a charger that is compatible with the speaker to avoid damaging the battery. You can monitor the charging progress by checking the LED indicator lights on the speaker. When the speaker is fully charged, the LED lights will turn off. It’s also worth noting that you can still use the speaker while it’s charging, but this may increase the charging time. To ensure the longest possible battery life, it’s best to avoid completely draining the battery before charging it. Regularly topping up the battery will help to maintain its overall health and longevity.

Can I use the JBL Charge 4 as a power bank to charge my phone?

Yes, the JBL Charge 4 features a USB-A port that allows you to charge other devices, such as your smartphone or tablet. This is a convenient feature that can come in handy when you’re on the go and need to top up your device’s battery. To use the power bank functionality, simply plug your device into the USB-A port on the speaker, and it will begin charging. The charging speed is relatively slow compared to dedicated power banks, but it’s still a useful feature to have in a pinch. Keep in mind that using the power bank functionality will reduce the speaker’s battery life. The more you use the power bank, the less playtime you’ll get from the speaker on a single charge. However, the ability to charge your phone or other devices can be a lifesaver when you’re out and about and don’t have access to a power outlet. Many users really like this aspect of the jbl charge 4.

What is the Bluetooth range of the JBL Charge 4?

The JBL Charge 4 uses Bluetooth 4.2, which typically offers a range of up to 10 meters (33 feet) in ideal conditions. However, the actual range may vary depending on the environment and obstacles in the way. Walls, furniture, and other objects can interfere with the Bluetooth signal and reduce the range. In open spaces with no obstructions, you can expect to get the full 10-meter range. However, in indoor environments with walls and furniture, the range may be reduced to around 5-7 meters (16-23 feet). To ensure the best possible Bluetooth connection, try to keep the speaker and your Bluetooth device within close proximity of each other and avoid placing them behind walls or other obstructions. Also, be aware that interference from other electronic devices can also affect the Bluetooth range.

Is there a microphone on the JBL Charge 4 for phone calls?

No, the JBL Charge 4 does not have a built-in microphone. This means you cannot use it for making or receiving phone calls directly through the speaker. While the lack of a microphone may be a drawback for some users, it’s important to remember that the Charge 4 is primarily designed as a portable speaker for music playback. The absence of a microphone helps to simplify the design and reduce the overall cost of the speaker. If you need a portable speaker with a microphone for phone calls, you may want to consider other options that specifically include this feature. However, if your primary focus is on enjoying high-quality music on the go, the JBL Charge 4 remains an excellent choice.

How do I reset my JBL Charge 4 to factory settings?

Resetting your JBL Charge 4 to factory settings can be useful if you’re experiencing connectivity issues or want to clear the speaker’s memory of previously paired devices. To reset the speaker, follow these steps: First, make sure the speaker is turned on. Then, press and hold both the “Volume +” and “Play/Pause” buttons simultaneously for about 5 seconds. The speaker will then turn off, indicating that it has been reset to factory settings. Once the speaker has been reset, you’ll need to re-pair it with your Bluetooth devices. This process will erase all previous Bluetooth pairings, so you’ll need to go through the pairing process again for each device. Resetting the speaker can also help to resolve other minor issues, such as distorted sound or unresponsive buttons. If you’re still experiencing problems after resetting the speaker, you may need to contact JBL customer support for further assistance. This can be especially useful if you intend to sell your used JBL Charge 4 speaker to others.