JBL Go 4 Review: The Pocket-Sized Powerhouse Returns

Are you on the hunt for a portable Bluetooth speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound or durability, all without breaking the bank? In a world brimming with audio gadgets, the JBL Go 4 emerges as the latest iteration in JBL’s popular ultra-portable Go series, promising to elevate your on-the-go listening experience. This compact wonder aims to deliver impressive audio, robust durability, and innovative features, proving that great things truly do come in small packages.

Join us as we dive deep into the JBL Go 4, exploring its performance, features, and overall value. We’ll help you determine if this pocket-sized powerhouse is the perfect companion for your daily adventures, from casual listening at home to soundtracking your outdoor escapades.

Popular Types of Bluetooth Speakers

Bluetooth speakers have revolutionized how we enjoy audio, offering wireless convenience and portability. Depending on your lifestyle, different types cater to various needs.

Portable Bluetooth Speakers

These are perhaps the most common and versatile. Designed for life on the move, portable Bluetooth speakers like the JBL Go 4 prioritize compactness, lightweight design, and ruggedness. They are perfect for tossing into a bag, attaching to a backpack, or simply carrying in your hand. While their small size inherently limits their sonic output compared to larger units, models like the Go 4 strive to deliver a surprisingly full sound. Key features to look for include an IP rating for water and dust resistance, decent battery life, and modern connectivity options.

Home Bluetooth Speakers

In contrast, home Bluetooth speakers are typically larger, often mains-powered, and designed for stationary use. They generally boast bigger drivers, offering a richer, more expansive soundstage and deeper bass. While they lack the grab-and-go convenience, they excel at filling rooms with high-quality audio, making them ideal for living rooms, offices, or dedicated entertainment spaces where aesthetic integration and premium sound are priorities over mobility.

Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

For adventurers and poolside enthusiasts, waterproof Bluetooth speakers are a must-have. These speakers are specifically engineered to withstand splashes, spills, and even full submersion. The “IP” (Ingress Protection) rating indicates their level of resistance. For instance, the JBL Go 4 features an IP67 rating, meaning it is dust-tight and can endure immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for the beach, pool parties, or a rainy day hike. Beyond the IP rating, look for robust build materials like reinforced silicone and durable fabric that can handle rough treatment.
A JBL Go 4 portable Bluetooth speaker on a sandy beach near water, highlighting its waterproof design.

JBL Go 4 Buying Guide

Choosing the right Bluetooth speaker involves balancing your specific needs with available features and budget. The JBL Go 4, a standout in the ultra-portable category, makes this decision easier by offering a compelling mix.

Identifying Your Usage Needs

Before anything else, consider your primary use case. Will you mainly use the speaker for personal listening at home, as a travel companion, or for outdoor activities? The JBL Go 4, with its compact size and IP67 rating, is engineered for portability and rugged environments. If you’re a hiker, beach-goer, or simply someone who wants music in every room of the house, its grab-and-go design will appeal. For those on a tight budget (around $50 / £40), the Go 4 delivers exceptional value, offering essential features like water resistance, app control, and multi-speaker pairing, making it a smart choice without overspending.

Important Factors to Consider

Several elements contribute to a Bluetooth speaker’s overall performance and user satisfaction.

Sound Quality: For its diminutive size, the JBL Go 4 delivers a remarkably cohesive and engaging sound. You’ll find taut, robust bass tones that anchor the lower end, while midrange textures come through clearly, and higher registers avoid sounding harsh. While it may not offer the expansive soundstage of larger, more expensive speakers, it excels at providing a comprehensive mix of structure and body to your music. The speaker outputs just over 4 watts of power, which is quite respectable for its form factor. However, some listeners might find the bass less “punchy” than claimed, and sound quality can be influenced by the speaker’s orientation; placing it on its back, for example, can optimize sound projection, especially for group listening.

Battery Life: The JBL Go 4 is officially rated for up to 7 hours of playtime. However, real-world testing has shown it can last for nearly 10 hours of continuous music playback at 50% volume. A useful feature called Playtime Boost can extend the battery life by approximately two additional hours, but be aware that activating it can lead to a slight sonic imbalance, impacting the weight and authority of the lower frequencies. Charging the Go 4 takes about three hours.

Connectivity: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, the Go 4 ensures a stable and efficient wireless connection to your devices. It features a modern USB-C port for convenient charging. A significant upgrade is the inclusion of Auracast compatibility, which allows you to effortlessly link multiple compatible JBL speakers, including other Go 4 units, for a larger sound, or even true stereo pairing. This feature can be activated directly via a button on the speaker or through the intuitive JBL Portable app. Bluetooth Multipoint is also supported, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously.

Additional Features: The JBL Go 4 boasts an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, ensuring its resilience against the elements. Its construction incorporates recycled fabric and plastic, and it comes in largely paper-based packaging printed with soy ink, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The JBL Portable app is a crucial component, offering a 5-band custom equalizer to fine-tune your sound, battery level indicators, and control over Auracast and Playtime Boost. A small, fixed fabric and silicone loop allows for easy attachment and carrying, though some users might prefer an integrated carabiner or strap for even greater convenience.
The JBL Go 4 speaker with a USB-C cable, next to a smartphone displaying the JBL Portable app interface.

Comparing Popular Bluetooth Speaker Brands

When considering the JBL Go 4, it’s helpful to understand its position relative to other notable brands and models in the portable speaker market.

• JBL: A titan in the audio world, JBL is renowned for its signature sound, robust build quality, and innovative features. The Go series, along with its Flip, Charge, and Xtreme lines, consistently delivers powerful audio solutions for various budgets and needs. The Go 4, in particular, showcases JBL’s ability to pack advanced features like Auracast into its smallest form factor.
• Sony: Competitors like the Sony XB100 offer compelling alternatives. The XB100, for instance, is praised for its 360-degree sound and a significantly longer battery life of up to 16 hours, coupled with a versatile multiway strap.
• Tribit: Brands like Tribit, with models such as the Stormbox Micro 2, often punch above their weight in terms of sound quality for their price point. The Stormbox Micro 2 is frequently lauded for its impressive audio and a built-in strap, though it typically sits at a slightly higher price than the Go 4.

JBL Go 4 Comparison Table

For a quick overview of how the JBL Go 4 stacks up against some of its closest rivals in the ultra-portable segment, refer to the table below:

Feature	JBL Go 4	Sony XB100	Tribit Stormbox Micro 2
Price (Approx.)	$49.95 / £39.99 / AU$59.95	$49.99 / £44.99 / AU$66	$60 / £60
Dimensions	3.7 x 3.0 x 1.7 inches	~3 x 3.75 inches	4 x 4 x 1.7 inches
Weight	6.7oz / 190g	~10oz / 274g	11oz / 315g
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C	Bluetooth	Bluetooth
Battery Life	Up to 7 hrs (+2 with Playtime Boost)	Up to 16 hrs	Up to 12 hrs
Waterproof Rating	IP67	IP67	IP67
Drivers	45mm driver	Full-range driver, passive radiator	Not specified
Special Features	Auracast, JBL Portable App (EQ)	360-degree sound, multiway strap	Built-in strap, acclaimed sound

Why the JBL Go 4 Excels in the Budget Segment

The JBL Go 4 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker without a hefty price tag. In the competitive budget segment (typically under $50), it delivers a compelling blend of features, performance, and durability that few rivals can match.

• Best Options: For those prioritizing extreme portability, ruggedness, and a surprisingly balanced sound in this price bracket, the Go 4 is a top contender. Its ability to produce clear highs, present mids, and a relatively taut bass for its size sets it apart. The inclusion of Auracast future-proofs your listening setup, allowing for expanded audio experiences.
• Pros: Its IP67 rating ensures it can handle almost any environment. The compact design and lightweight build make it effortlessly portable. Access to the JBL Portable app with customizable EQ means you can tailor the sound to your preferences, a feature often missing in this price range. It offers decent volume levels for personal and small group listening, and its battery life is a notable improvement over its predecessor.
• Cons: While the sound is impressive for its size, it won’t “blow you away” with room-filling bass or expansive detail found in larger speakers. The fixed hanging loop, while robust, may not be as versatile as a full strap or carabiner found on some competitors. However, these minor drawbacks are easily overshadowed by its overall value proposition.

Tips for Using and Maintaining Your JBL Go 4

To get the most out of your JBL Go 4 and ensure its longevity, follow these simple tips for connection, sound optimization, and care.

How to Connect Your JBL Go 4 with Devices

Connecting your JBL Go 4 is straightforward. First, power on the speaker. Then, press the Bluetooth button on the side to put it into pairing mode. On your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, navigate to the Bluetooth settings and select “JBL Go 4” from the list of available devices. The Go 4’s Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity ensures a stable and efficient wireless connection. For multi-speaker experiences, utilize the dedicated Auracast button on the speaker or the JBL Portable app to link with other compatible JBL Auracast-enabled speakers, allowing for amplified sound or true stereo pairing. Keep in mind that while stereo pairing is a fantastic feature, some users have noted occasional sound synchronization delays between units.

How to Optimize Sound Quality

Even with a small speaker, you can enhance your listening experience. The JBL Portable app is your best tool for this, offering a 5-band custom equalizer. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the sliders to find your perfect sound profile, whether you prefer more bass, clearer vocals, or brighter highs. The app also provides preset EQ options like “JBL Signature,” “Chill,” “Energetic,” and “Vocal.” Many reviewers found the “Energetic” preset particularly effective at adding vibrancy and clarity to various music genres. Additionally, experiment with the speaker’s placement and orientation; sometimes, simply laying the Go 4 on its back can help project sound more effectively, especially when listening with others. Be mindful when using the Playtime Boost feature; while it extends battery life, it can create an odd sonic imbalance by de-emphasizing the bass, which might not be ideal for all music.

How to Clean and Maintain Your JBL Go 4

The JBL Go 4’s IP67 rating means it’s built to withstand the elements, making maintenance relatively easy. If it gets dirty from outdoor adventures, you can simply rinse it under tap water. However, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the speaker’s finish. After exposure to water, always ensure the USB-C charging port is completely dry before plugging it in to charge. For general cleaning, a soft, damp cloth is usually sufficient to wipe away dust and grime. When not in use, store your Go 4 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. The expanded silicone protection around its edges provides excellent resistance against drops and scratches, ensuring it remains a durable companion for years to come.

Conclusion

The JBL Go 4 stands as a testament to JBL’s expertise in crafting compelling audio devices that defy their size. As a truly pocket-sized powerhouse, it returns with a refined design, improved durability, and an impressive suite of features that punch well above its weight class. Its engaging sound, robust IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, and the forward-thinking Auracast connectivity make it an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a reliable and high-performing ultra-portable Bluetooth Speaker on a budget.

While it naturally faces inherent sonic limitations due to its compact form, the Go 4 manages to deliver a surprisingly rich and well-organized audio experience, especially with the added flexibility of the JBL Portable app’s custom EQ. It’s more than just a minor update; it’s a worthy successor that solidifies its position as a top contender in its segment. If you’re in search of a speaker that combines extreme portability with strong performance and excellent value, the JBL Go 4 is undeniably a brilliant budget buy.

Ready to experience big sound from a tiny package?

Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp

How long does the JBL Go 4 battery last?

The JBL Go 4 is quoted to provide up to 7 hours of playtime. Real-world tests have shown it can last nearly 10 hours at 50% volume. You can extend this by an additional 2 hours using the Playtime Boost feature, though this will impact sound quality by reducing bass presence.

Is the JBL Go 4 truly waterproof?

Yes, the JBL Go 4 features an IP67 rating, meaning it is both dustproof and waterproof. This allows it to be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, making it an excellent companion for beach trips, poolside relaxation, or even a rainy day.

Can I connect multiple JBL Go 4 speakers together?

Absolutely! The JBL Go 4 is equipped with Auracast compatibility, a new technology that allows you to easily connect multiple compatible JBL speakers, including other Go 4 units, for a larger soundstage or true stereo pairing. This feature can be activated via a dedicated button on the speaker or through the JBL Portable app.

How does the JBL Go 4 compare to the JBL Go 3?

The JBL Go 4 builds upon its predecessor with several improvements, including enhanced durability with more extensive silicone protection, a larger 45mm transducer for better audio, and the significant addition of Auracast connectivity for multi-speaker pairing. While both are ultra-portable, the Go 4 offers a more refined experience.

Can I customize the sound of my JBL Go 4?

Yes, the JBL Portable app provides a 5-band custom equalizer, allowing you to fine-tune the sound profile to your preference. Additionally, there are several preset EQ options like “JBL Signature,” “Chill,” “Energetic,” and “Vocal,” which can dramatically alter the listening experience depending on your content.