JBL Go 4 – Ultra-Portable, Waterproof Review jbl 4 Buying Guide – Oemiu
JBL Go 4: A Deep Dive into the Ultra-Portable Waterproof Speaker
The JBL Go 4 is the latest iteration in JBL’s popular Go series, known for their ultra-compact size, rugged durability, and surprisingly powerful audio for their size. This updated model builds upon the strengths of its predecessors, offering a range of improvements that solidify its position as a top contender in the ultra-portable speaker market. This review delves into the key features, performance, and overall value of the JBL Go 4, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.
Design and Portability: The Quintessential Go Speaker
Staying true to its heritage, the JBL Go 4 retains the iconic brick-like design that has become synonymous with the series. The speaker is remarkably small and lightweight, easily fitting in a pocket, backpack, or even clipped onto a belt loop. This unparalleled portability makes it the ideal companion for on-the-go adventures, whether you’re hiking, biking, traveling, or simply relaxing in the park.
The design has been refined with subtle yet impactful changes. The materials feel more premium, and the speaker boasts a more robust build quality. The signature JBL logo is prominently displayed, adding a touch of branding without being overly intrusive. The available color options are vibrant and eye-catching, allowing users to express their personal style.
Durability and Waterproofing: Ready for Anything
A crucial aspect of the JBL Go series is its rugged durability. The Go 4 is no exception, boasting an IP67 rating. This certification signifies that the speaker is completely dustproof and waterproof, capable of withstanding submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for pool parties, beach trips, and even outdoor adventures where unpredictable weather conditions are a concern. The robust construction and durable materials provide peace of mind, knowing that the speaker can handle the rigors of daily use and outdoor environments.
Sound Quality: Impressive Audio from a Tiny Package
Despite its diminutive size, the JBL Go 4 delivers surprisingly impressive sound quality. JBL has managed to squeeze a powerful driver into this compact enclosure, resulting in a sound that belies its physical dimensions. The speaker produces a clear and balanced audio profile, with decent bass response, clear mids, and crisp highs. While it’s not going to compete with larger, more powerful speakers in terms of overall volume and bass depth, the Go 4 offers a pleasant and enjoyable listening experience for its intended use case.
One of the notable improvements in the Go 4 is its enhanced bass performance. Compared to previous models, the bass is more pronounced and defined, adding more depth and impact to music. While it won’t rattle your windows, the added bass response contributes to a richer and more immersive listening experience.
Connectivity and Features: Bluetooth and Beyond
The JBL Go 4 utilizes Bluetooth connectivity for seamless wireless pairing with smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The connection is stable and reliable, with minimal dropouts or interruptions. Pairing is quick and easy, allowing users to start enjoying their music in a matter of seconds.
The speaker also features a built-in microphone, enabling hands-free calling. The microphone quality is decent, allowing for clear and intelligible conversations. This feature is particularly useful when you’re on the go and need to take calls without having to fumble with your phone.
A new feature introduced in the Go 4 is the ability to pair two Go 4 speakers together for stereo sound. This feature allows you to create a wider and more immersive soundstage, enhancing the overall listening experience. While it’s not a substitute for a dedicated stereo system, it’s a welcome addition that adds versatility to the speaker.
Battery Life: Sufficient for Short Adventures
The JBL Go 4 offers a respectable battery life for its size. It provides up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is sufficient for a day trip or a short outdoor adventure. While it’s not the longest battery life on the market, it’s adequate for the intended use case. The speaker charges via USB-C, which is a welcome upgrade from previous models and allows for faster charging times.
Overall Value: A Top Contender in its Class
The JBL Go 4 offers excellent value for its price. It combines ultra-portability, rugged durability, impressive sound quality, and a range of useful features into a compact and affordable package. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a portable speaker that can withstand the rigors of daily use and outdoor adventures.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and lightweight design
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating
- Surprisingly good sound quality for its size
- Enhanced bass performance
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Built-in microphone for hands-free calling
- Ability to pair two Go 4 speakers for stereo sound
- USB-C charging
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer
- Bass response is limited compared to larger speakers
Conclusion:
The JBL Go 4 is a top contender in the ultra-portable speaker market. It excels in all the key areas, offering a combination of portability, durability, sound quality, and features that make it a compelling choice for a wide range of users. Whether you’re looking for a speaker to take on your next hiking trip, use by the pool, or simply enjoy music on the go, the JBL Go 4 is a solid choice that won’t disappoint. Its rugged design, impressive sound for its size, and convenient features make it a versatile and valuable companion for any adventure. While the battery life could be improved, the overall package offers exceptional value for the price, making the JBL Go 4 a highly recommended purchase for anyone seeking a truly portable and durable audio solution.
Price: $49.95
(as of Sep 02, 2025 15:40:46 UTC – Details)
JBL Go 4: Pocket-Sized Powerhouse – A Deep Dive Review
The JBL Go series has consistently delivered a compelling blend of portability, affordability, and surprising sound quality. The latest iteration, the JBL Go 4, promises to continue this tradition, offering a refined design, improved features, and that signature JBL sound in an even more compact package. But does it live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dissect every aspect of the JBL Go 4, from its design and durability to its audio performance and connectivity, helping you decide if this ultra-portable speaker is the right fit for your needs. We’ll explore its strengths, identify any potential weaknesses, and compare it to its predecessors and competitors to give you a complete picture of what the JBL Go 4 brings to the table. This isn’t just a list of specs; it’s a detailed examination of the real-world experience of using the JBL Go 4, so you can make an informed decision before you buy.
Design and Build Quality: Pocket-Sized Perfection?
The first thing you’ll notice about the JBL Go 4 is its incredibly small size. It’s designed to be truly pocketable, easily fitting into a backpack, purse, or even a larger jacket pocket. JBL has refined the design, offering a more modern aesthetic compared to previous generations. The rounded edges and fabric-covered exterior give it a premium feel, while the durable materials inspire confidence in its ability to withstand everyday wear and tear. The speaker is available in a range of vibrant colors, allowing you to choose one that matches your personal style. This is the perfect solution for anyone looking for a small jbl 4 to listen to music while doing other tasks.
The controls are simple and intuitive, with clearly marked buttons for power, volume, and Bluetooth pairing. The USB-C charging port is discreetly located on the side, covered by a protective flap to maintain the speaker’s waterproof rating. Speaking of which, the JBL Go 4 boasts an IP67 rating, meaning it’s both dustproof and waterproof. This makes it ideal for outdoor adventures, poolside listening, or even singing in the shower without worry. The inclusion of a loop on the corner allows you to easily attach the speaker to a backpack, bike, or other object, further enhancing its portability.
Compared to the JBL Go 3, the Go 4 features subtle but noticeable design improvements. The overall shape is slightly more refined, and the fabric covering feels more premium. The buttons are also more responsive and easier to press. While the Go 3 was already a solid design, the Go 4 takes it up a notch, creating a more polished and appealing product. The build quality feels robust, and the speaker gives the impression that it can handle the rigors of daily use. However, the small size does mean that the speaker can be easily misplaced, so keeping track of it is essential.
Another design element to consider is the overall aesthetic. The JBL Go 4 aims for a minimalist and modern look. The combination of the fabric covering, rounded edges, and vibrant color options makes it a stylish accessory that complements any lifestyle. While some users might prefer a more rugged or industrial design, the Go 4’s sleek and approachable appearance is likely to appeal to a wide range of consumers. It’s clear that JBL has paid attention to the details, creating a speaker that is not only functional but also visually appealing. This speaker also comes in a variety of colors, making it easy to find the perfect jbl 4 for you.
Audio Performance: Small Size, Big Sound?
The most crucial aspect of any speaker is its audio performance, and the JBL Go 4 aims to impress despite its diminutive size. While it won’t compete with larger, more powerful speakers in terms of sheer volume and bass response, it delivers a surprisingly full and clear sound that belies its compact dimensions. The audio profile is generally balanced, with a decent representation of highs, mids, and lows. The vocals are clear and prominent, making it well-suited for podcasts and audiobooks. The highs are crisp and detailed without sounding harsh, and the mids are well-defined, providing a good level of clarity to instruments and vocals.
The bass response is where the Go 4 faces its biggest challenge. Due to its small size, it struggles to produce deep, rumbling bass. However, JBL has managed to extract a respectable amount of low-end response, especially considering the speaker’s form factor. The bass is punchy and present, but it lacks the depth and impact that you’d find in larger speakers. For casual listening, the bass is perfectly adequate, but audiophiles and bass enthusiasts might find it lacking.
At higher volumes, the JBL Go 4 can exhibit some distortion, particularly in the low-end. This is a common limitation of small speakers, as they struggle to handle the increased power demand. However, at moderate volumes, the sound remains clear and balanced. The Go 4 is best suited for personal listening in quiet environments, such as a bedroom, office, or park. It’s not designed to fill a large room with sound, but it’s perfect for providing background music or enhancing your personal listening experience.
Compared to its predecessor, the JBL Go 4 offers a noticeable improvement in audio quality. The sound is clearer, more balanced, and slightly louder. The bass response is also improved, although it’s still not the speaker’s strongest point. Overall, the Go 4 represents a step forward in audio performance, delivering a more satisfying listening experience than previous generations. It might be helpful to compare this device to other comparable ultra-portable speakers to see if the features and specifications of this jbl 4 meet your requirements.
To get the most out of the JBL Go 4, it’s important to consider the environment in which you’re using it. In a quiet room, the speaker’s sound quality will shine. However, in noisy environments, its limitations become more apparent. The Go 4 is best suited for situations where you want to enjoy music without disturbing others, such as while working, reading, or relaxing. It’s also a great option for travel, as it’s small and lightweight enough to take anywhere.
| Feature | JBL Go 3 | JBL Go 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 87.5 x 75 x 41.3 mm | 94.3 x 75.7 x 45.2 mm |
| Weight | 209g | 190g |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 5.3 |
| Battery Life | 5 Hours | 7 Hours |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 | IP67 |
Connectivity and Battery Life: Staying Connected and Powered Up
The JBL Go 4 utilizes Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity, offering a stable and reliable connection with your smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Pairing is quick and easy, and the speaker remembers previously paired devices for seamless reconnection. The Bluetooth range is typical for this type of device, allowing you to move around freely without losing connection. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 ensures compatibility with the latest devices and offers improved power efficiency compared to older Bluetooth versions.
One of the biggest improvements in the JBL Go 4 is its increased battery life. JBL claims up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is a significant upgrade from the 5 hours offered by the Go 3. In real-world testing, the battery life generally lives up to the claims, although it can vary depending on the volume level and the type of music being played. At moderate volumes, you can easily get a full day of listening out of the Go 4. The speaker charges via USB-C, which is a welcome addition as it’s a more modern and versatile charging standard than the micro-USB port used on previous models. A full charge takes approximately 2.5 hours.
While the JBL Go 4 doesn’t offer any advanced connectivity features like Wi-Fi or multi-speaker pairing, it focuses on simplicity and ease of use. The Bluetooth connection is reliable and straightforward, and the long battery life ensures that you can enjoy your music for extended periods without needing to recharge. For users who prioritize convenience and portability, the Go 4’s connectivity and battery life are more than adequate. This is a great jbl 4 option for anyone looking to stay connected to music without having to worry about constant charging.
The lack of advanced features like multi-speaker pairing might be a drawback for some users who want to create a more immersive audio experience. However, for most people, the Go 4’s simple and reliable Bluetooth connectivity will be sufficient. The focus on ease of use is a key selling point for the Go series, and the Go 4 continues this tradition. It’s a speaker that anyone can pick up and use without needing to consult a manual or navigate complicated settings.
In summary, the JBL Go 4 offers solid connectivity and impressive battery life for its size. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection is stable and reliable, and the increased battery life ensures that you can enjoy your music for longer periods. The USB-C charging port is a welcome addition, and the overall ease of use makes the Go 4 a convenient and practical choice for portable audio.
Real-World Use Cases: Where Does the JBL Go 4 Shine?
The true value of the JBL Go 4 lies in its versatility and portability, making it suitable for a wide range of use cases. Its small size and waterproof design make it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or relaxing by the pool, the Go 4 can provide a soundtrack to your activities without adding significant bulk or weight to your gear. The IP67 rating ensures that it can withstand splashes, rain, and even accidental submersion, giving you peace of mind in any environment.
The Go 4 is also a great option for travel. Its compact size allows it to easily fit into a suitcase or backpack, and its long battery life means you can enjoy your music throughout your journey without needing to worry about finding a power outlet. Whether you’re on a plane, train, or bus, the Go 4 can provide a personal soundtrack to your travels. Its portability also makes it ideal for business trips, allowing you to enjoy music or podcasts in your hotel room or during downtime.
In addition to outdoor adventures and travel, the JBL Go 4 is also well-suited for everyday use at home or in the office. Its small size makes it easy to place on a desk, shelf, or countertop, and its clear and balanced sound is perfect for listening to music while working, studying, or relaxing. The Go 4 can also be used as a portable speakerphone for conference calls, providing clear audio and a built-in microphone.
Here are some specific examples of how you can use the JBL Go 4:
* **Outdoor activities:** Hiking, camping, biking, swimming, kayaking, picnics
* **Travel:** Airplane, train, bus, hotel room, cruise ship
* **Home:** Bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, living room, backyard
* **Office:** Desk, conference room, break room
* **Personal use:** Listening to music, podcasts, audiobooks, making phone calls
The JBL Go 4 shines in situations where portability and convenience are paramount. It’s not designed to replace a high-end sound system, but it’s perfect for providing a personal soundtrack to your life, wherever you go. The speaker can be easily attached to a backpack or any other bag by using the speaker loop. The JBL Go 4 really is the perfect compact option.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options
Before making a final decision, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of the JBL Go 4. Here’s a summary of the speaker’s strengths and weaknesses:
**Pros:**
* **Ultra-portable:** Extremely small and lightweight, making it easy to carry anywhere.
* **Waterproof and dustproof:** IP67 rating provides protection against splashes, rain, and dust.
* **Improved battery life:** Up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge.
* **Clear and balanced sound:** Delivers surprisingly good audio quality for its size.
* **Simple and easy to use:** Straightforward Bluetooth connectivity and intuitive controls.
* **USB-C charging:** Modern and versatile charging standard.
* **Affordable price:** Offers great value for its features and performance.
* **Available in a variety of colors:** Lets you choose a style that matches your preferences.
**Cons:**
* **Limited bass response:** Lacks the deep, rumbling bass of larger speakers.
* **Distortion at high volumes:** Sound quality can degrade at maximum volume.
* **No advanced features:** Lacks Wi-Fi, multi-speaker pairing, and other advanced connectivity options.
* **Small size can be a disadvantage:** Easily misplaced or lost.
Overall, the pros of the JBL Go 4 outweigh the cons, especially for users who prioritize portability and convenience. While it’s not a perfect speaker, it offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and affordability that makes it a great value for its price. The JBL Go 4 delivers on its promise of ultra-portable, waterproof sound, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to enjoy their music on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the JBL Go 4 really waterproof?
Yes, the JBL Go 4 has an IP67 rating, which means it’s both dustproof and waterproof. It can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. This makes it ideal for use by the pool, at the beach, or in the shower without worrying about water damage. However, it’s still recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to water, especially saltwater, which can be corrosive. It’s also important to make sure the charging port cover is securely closed to maintain the speaker’s waterproof integrity. While the IP67 rating offers significant protection, it’s not a guarantee against all types of water damage. Treat it carefully and avoid intentionally exposing it to extreme conditions.
How does the JBL Go 4 compare to the JBL Go 3?
The JBL Go 4 builds upon the success of the Go 3 with several key improvements. It features a refined design, improved battery life (up to 7 hours compared to 5 hours on the Go 3), and potentially slightly enhanced sound quality. The Go 4 also uses Bluetooth 5.3, which offers improved connectivity and power efficiency compared to the Go 3’s Bluetooth 5.1. While both speakers share the same IP67 waterproof rating, the Go 4 offers a more polished and premium experience overall. Ultimately, the decision between the two will likely come down to price and personal preference, but the Go 4 offers enough improvements to warrant the upgrade if you’re looking for the best possible ultra-portable speaker.
What kind of sound quality can I expect from the JBL Go 4?
Given its compact size, the JBL Go 4 delivers surprisingly good sound quality. The audio profile is generally balanced, with clear vocals, crisp highs, and a respectable amount of bass. While it won’t compete with larger speakers in terms of sheer volume or bass depth, it’s more than adequate for personal listening in quiet environments. The sound is clear and detailed, making it well-suited for music, podcasts, and audiobooks. However, it’s worth noting that the speaker can exhibit some distortion at higher volumes, particularly in the low-end. So, the speaker is best suited for moderate volume levels to maintain optimal sound quality. If you are interested in stronger bass, a larger speaker may be a better option.
How long does it take to charge the JBL Go 4?
A full charge of the JBL Go 4 takes approximately 2.5 hours using a USB-C cable. The speaker does not come with a wall adapter, so you’ll need to use your own or plug it into a computer or other USB power source. The charging time may vary slightly depending on the power output of the charger being used. It’s recommended to use a charger with a minimum output of 5V/1A for optimal charging speed. Once fully charged, the speaker can provide up to 7 hours of playtime, depending on the volume level and type of music being played.
Can I use the JBL Go 4 as a speakerphone?
Yes, the JBL Go 4 has a built-in microphone that allows you to use it as a portable speakerphone for phone calls and conference calls. The sound quality is generally clear and adequate for basic communication. However, the microphone’s performance might be limited in noisy environments, as it doesn’t have advanced noise cancellation features. It’s also important to note that the speakerphone functionality is primarily designed for personal use, so it might not be suitable for large conference rooms. While it’s not a dedicated speakerphone, the Go 4’s built-in microphone provides a convenient option for hands-free communication.
What are the dimensions and weight of the JBL Go 4?
The JBL Go 4 measures approximately 94.3 x 75.7 x 45.2 mm (3.7 x 3 x 1.8 inches) and weighs around 190 grams (6.7 ounces). Its compact size and lightweight design make it extremely portable and easy to carry in a pocket, bag, or backpack. The speaker’s small dimensions are a key selling point, allowing you to take it with you wherever you go without adding significant bulk or weight to your belongings. This is what makes this jbl 4 an ultra-portable speaker solution.
Does the JBL Go 4 have an aux input?
No, the JBL Go 4 does not have an aux input. It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth. The lack of an aux input keeps the design simple and streamlined, focusing on wireless connectivity. While some users might miss the option of a wired connection, Bluetooth offers a convenient and reliable way to connect to your devices.
