JBL JBLGO4BLKAM-Z Go 4 Portable Review jbl 4 Buying Guide – Oemiu
JBL GO 4: Pocket-Sized Powerhouse or Just Another Tiny Speaker?
Let’s face it, the market is flooded with portable Bluetooth speakers. From budget-friendly options that barely squeak out a tune to premium behemoths that can rattle your windows, finding the right balance of size, sound, and price can feel like navigating a minefield. Enter the JBL GO 4, the latest iteration in JBL’s ultra-portable speaker line. It promises to deliver the renowned JBL sound signature in a package so small, it practically disappears in your pocket. But does it live up to the hype? Is it a worthwhile upgrade from its predecessors, and more importantly, is it the right speaker for you? This in-depth review will dissect every aspect of the JBL GO 4, helping you decide if this little speaker is a go or a no-go. We’ll delve into its design, sound quality, features, battery life, and compare it to its competition, providing you with a comprehensive guide to making an informed purchase. Get ready to explore the world of miniature audio, and discover if the JBL GO 4 is truly the king of the pocket-sized speakers.
Design and Build Quality: Small but Mighty?
The first thing you’ll notice about the JBL GO 4 is its incredibly compact size. It’s roughly the size of a deck of cards, making it effortlessly portable. Slip it into your backpack, your purse, or even your jacket pocket – you’ll hardly notice it’s there. JBL has retained the familiar rectangular shape of previous GO models, but with subtle refinements that give it a more modern and refined look. The speaker is encased in a durable, rubberized material that feels great to the touch and provides a solid grip. This rugged exterior isn’t just for show; the GO 4 boasts an IP67 rating, meaning it’s both waterproof and dustproof. You can confidently take it to the beach, the pool, or even on a muddy hike without worrying about damage. The controls are simple and intuitive, with clearly marked buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, volume adjustment, and play/pause. There’s also a lanyard loop, making it easy to attach to a backpack or clip onto a belt.
However, the small size does come with certain trade-offs. The buttons, while functional, can be a bit fiddly to press, especially if you have larger fingers. And while the rubberized material is durable, it’s also prone to attracting dust and fingerprints. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall design and build quality of the JBL GO 4 are impressive. It feels solid and well-made, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use. The IP67 rating is a major selling point, providing peace of mind for outdoor adventures. The color options are vibrant and stylish, allowing you to choose a speaker that matches your personality. JBL has clearly paid attention to detail, creating a speaker that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Compact and easily pocketable. |
| Material | Durable, rubberized exterior for enhanced grip and protection. |
| Water Resistance | IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. |
| Controls | Simple and intuitive button layout. |
| Portability | Lightweight and includes a lanyard loop for easy attachment. |
Sound Quality: Punching Above Its Weight?
Given its diminutive size, the JBL GO 4 might surprise you with its sound quality. It delivers a decent amount of volume, more than enough for personal listening in a quiet room or for background music at a picnic. The sound signature is typical of JBL, with a focus on bass and clarity in the mid-range. The bass response is surprisingly punchy for such a small speaker, adding depth and richness to the music. The mid-range is well-defined, allowing vocals and instruments to shine through. However, the high frequencies can sometimes sound a bit harsh, especially at higher volumes. This is a common limitation of small speakers, as they struggle to reproduce the full spectrum of sound accurately.
One of the most significant improvements over previous GO models is the enhanced clarity. The GO 4 sounds noticeably clearer and more detailed than its predecessors, making it a more enjoyable listening experience. The speaker also performs reasonably well at different volume levels. It maintains its clarity at low volumes, making it ideal for quiet environments. At higher volumes, the sound can become a bit distorted, especially with bass-heavy tracks. But overall, the GO 4 delivers a respectable sound performance for its size and price range. It’s not going to replace your home stereo system, but it’s a great option for on-the-go listening. Consider this when you are thinking of purchasing a jbl 4. For its size, it truly does pack a punch, and the portability is fantastic.
To get the best sound quality from the JBL GO 4, experiment with placement. Placing it on a solid surface will help to enhance the bass response. Avoid placing it in corners, as this can cause the sound to become boomy and distorted. Also, be mindful of the volume level. Pushing the speaker to its maximum volume will inevitably result in distortion. Overall, the JBL GO 4 offers a surprisingly good sound experience for its size. It’s a testament to JBL’s engineering expertise that they’ve managed to pack so much sound into such a small package.
Connectivity and Features: Keeping It Simple, Stupid?
The JBL GO 4 keeps things simple and straightforward when it comes to connectivity and features. It connects to your devices via Bluetooth 5.1, providing a stable and reliable connection. Bluetooth 5.1 offers improved range and power efficiency compared to older Bluetooth versions, ensuring a seamless listening experience. Pairing the speaker with your smartphone or tablet is quick and easy. Simply turn on the speaker, select it from your device’s Bluetooth settings, and you’re good to go.
The GO 4 also features a built-in microphone, allowing you to use it as a speakerphone for hands-free calls. The microphone quality is decent, but not exceptional. It’s fine for occasional calls, but it’s not ideal for important business meetings. One notable omission is the lack of a 3.5mm auxiliary input. This means you can only connect to the speaker wirelessly via Bluetooth. This might be a deal-breaker for some users who prefer to use a wired connection for older devices or for situations where Bluetooth connectivity is unreliable.
JBL has included their PartyBoost feature, which allows you to connect multiple PartyBoost-compatible speakers together for a louder and more immersive sound experience. This is a great feature for parties or outdoor gatherings. The GO 4 also supports voice assistant integration, allowing you to control your music and other functions using voice commands. However, you’ll need to use your smartphone’s voice assistant, as the speaker doesn’t have its own built-in voice assistant. For those who are considering a small portable speaker like the jbl 4, you will want to consider that a 3.5 mm aux is not included.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.1 for stable and efficient wireless connectivity. |
| Speakerphone | Built-in microphone for hands-free calling. |
| PartyBoost | Connect multiple JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers. |
| Voice Assistant Integration | Compatible with your smartphone’s voice assistant. |
| Wired Connectivity | No 3.5mm auxiliary input. |
Battery Life: Does It Last the Distance?
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a portable Bluetooth speaker. The JBL GO 4 offers a respectable battery life of up to 7 hours on a single charge. This is a decent amount of time for a speaker of its size, but it’s not exceptional compared to some of its competitors. The actual battery life will vary depending on the volume level and the type of music you’re playing. Playing music at higher volumes or with heavy bass will drain the battery faster. Charging the speaker is done via USB-C, which is a welcome addition as it’s a more modern and convenient charging standard. A full charge takes approximately 2.5 hours.
One of the drawbacks of the GO 4 is that it doesn’t have a battery indicator. You can’t see the exact percentage of battery remaining, which can be frustrating. Instead, the speaker will give you a low battery warning when it’s running low on power. This means you need to keep a close eye on the speaker to avoid it running out of battery unexpectedly. While 7 hours of battery may not seem like a lot, consider that it is powering such a small speaker like the jbl 4.
To maximize the battery life of your JBL GO 4, try to keep the volume level at a moderate level. Avoid playing music at maximum volume for extended periods of time. Also, turn off the speaker when you’re not using it to prevent unnecessary battery drain. Overall, the battery life of the JBL GO 4 is decent, but not exceptional. It’s sufficient for most everyday use cases, but you might need to recharge it more frequently if you’re planning on using it for extended periods of time. The JBL GO 4 certainly fits the bill for many looking for convenience.
JBL GO 4: Is It the Right Choice for You? A Buying Guide
Now that we’ve explored all aspects of the JBL GO 4, let’s discuss whether it’s the right choice for you. This little speaker is perfect for those who prioritize portability and convenience. Its ultra-compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to take with you wherever you go. The IP67 rating is a major bonus, providing peace of mind for outdoor adventures. The sound quality is surprisingly good for its size, making it a great option for personal listening. However, the JBL GO 4 may not be the best choice for those who need a speaker for large gatherings or for critical listening. Its small size limits its ability to produce a loud and immersive sound. The lack of a 3.5mm auxiliary input might also be a deal-breaker for some users. Consider your priorities and decide what is most important to you.
Before making a purchase, consider the following factors:
* **Portability:** If you need a speaker that you can easily take with you anywhere, the JBL GO 4 is an excellent choice.
* **Durability:** The IP67 rating ensures that the speaker can withstand water and dust damage, making it ideal for outdoor use.
* **Sound Quality:** The JBL GO 4 delivers decent sound quality for its size, but it’s not a replacement for a larger, more powerful speaker.
* **Battery Life:** The battery life is adequate for most everyday use cases, but you might need to recharge it more frequently if you’re planning on using it for extended periods of time.
* **Features:** The JBL GO 4 offers basic features like Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in microphone, and PartyBoost support.
* **Price:** The JBL GO 4 is priced competitively, making it an affordable option for those on a budget.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the JBL GO 4 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a highly portable and durable speaker with decent sound quality, the GO 4 is definitely worth considering. But if you need a speaker for large gatherings or for critical listening, you might want to consider a larger, more powerful option. It is always advisable to go into a shop and compare the sound of competing products to make a decision based on your personal preferences.
Let’s look at some alternative options. The Anker Soundcore line boasts good budget and mid-range options, particularly their portable options. While the Sony Extra Bass range tends to be a bit pricier, the quality is evident and their portable options are a worthy comparison. Weighing the price of the jbl 4 with the quality of other portable speakers will help ensure you’re happy with your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the range of the JBL GO 4’s Bluetooth connection?
How far can I move away from my device before the connection drops?
The JBL GO 4 utilizes Bluetooth 5.1, which generally provides a range of up to 30-40 feet (approximately 10-12 meters) in open areas. However, the actual range can be affected by various factors, such as walls, obstacles, and interference from other electronic devices. In typical indoor environments, you can expect a reliable connection within a range of around 20-30 feet (6-9 meters). It’s worth noting that Bluetooth performance can also vary depending on the Bluetooth capabilities of your connected device. Devices with older Bluetooth versions might not achieve the same range as devices with Bluetooth 5.1 or later. For the best experience, ensure that both your JBL GO 4 and your connected device are using the latest Bluetooth technology and that there are minimal obstructions between them.
Is the JBL GO 4 compatible with voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant?
The JBL GO 4 does not have a built-in voice assistant, meaning it doesn’t have its own dedicated microphone array and processing power for always-on voice recognition. However, it seamlessly integrates with your smartphone’s voice assistant, whether it’s Siri on iOS devices or Google Assistant on Android devices. To activate your voice assistant, you’ll typically need to press and hold the play/pause button on the JBL GO 4. This will trigger your phone’s voice assistant, allowing you to issue commands, ask questions, and control your music using your voice. The GO 4 essentially acts as a conduit, relaying your voice commands to your phone and playing back the assistant’s responses. This integration allows you to enjoy the convenience of voice control without sacrificing the portability and simplicity of the GO 4.
How do I connect two JBL GO 4 speakers together using PartyBoost?
The PartyBoost feature on the JBL GO 4 allows you to connect multiple PartyBoost-compatible speakers together to create a more immersive and powerful sound experience. To connect two JBL GO 4 speakers using PartyBoost, first ensure that both speakers are powered on and in pairing mode. Then, press the PartyBoost button on both speakers simultaneously. The PartyBoost button is typically located on the top or side of the speaker and is marked with a PartyBoost icon (often a small infinity symbol). Once the speakers are connected, one speaker will act as the primary speaker, and the other will act as the secondary speaker. You can then control the music playback and volume from either speaker. Keep in mind that only PartyBoost-compatible JBL speakers can be connected together using this feature. Older JBL speakers with Connect+ technology are not compatible with PartyBoost.
What is the warranty period for the JBL GO 4?
The standard warranty period for the JBL GO 4 is typically one year from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions that occur during normal use. The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, or unauthorized repairs. To claim warranty service, you’ll typically need to provide proof of purchase, such as a receipt or invoice. It’s always a good idea to keep your proof of purchase in a safe place in case you need to make a warranty claim. The warranty terms and conditions may vary depending on your region, so it’s best to check the warranty information provided with your speaker or on the JBL website for specific details.
Can I use the JBL GO 4 while it’s charging?
Yes, you can use the JBL GO 4 while it’s charging. This allows you to continue enjoying your music even when the battery is low. However, it’s worth noting that charging the speaker while using it may slightly increase the charging time. Also, excessive use while charging can potentially shorten the overall lifespan of the battery. It’s generally recommended to let the speaker charge fully before using it for extended periods of time, especially if you plan on using it at high volumes.
What type of USB cable does the JBL GO 4 use for charging?
The JBL GO 4 uses a USB-C cable for charging. USB-C is a modern and versatile connector that offers faster charging speeds and a more convenient reversible design compared to older USB standards. The USB-C port is located on the side or back of the speaker. A USB-C charging cable is typically included in the box with the JBL GO 4. You can use any standard USB-C charger to charge the speaker, but it’s recommended to use a charger that provides at least 5V/1A of power for optimal charging performance.
How do I reset the JBL GO 4 to its factory settings?
If you’re experiencing issues with your JBL GO 4, such as Bluetooth connectivity problems or sound distortions, you may want to try resetting it to its factory settings. To reset the JBL GO 4, follow these steps: First, ensure that the speaker is powered on. Then, press and hold the Volume + button and the Bluetooth button simultaneously for about 5-10 seconds. The speaker will then turn off and restart, indicating that it has been reset to its factory settings. After the reset, you’ll need to re-pair the speaker with your devices.
Price: $49.95 - $42.95
(as of Sep 09, 2025 05:27:37 UTC – Details)
