JBL Go 4 Review: An In-Depth Look at This Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Go 4 JBL Go 4 – Ultra-Portable, Waterproof and Dustproof Bluetooth Speaker offers incredible sound in a compact package. This review will explore my extensive experience with this little powerhouse.

The market for portable Bluetooth speakers is saturated, yet finding the perfect one remains a challenge. Many seek a speaker that balances portability, sound quality, and durability. The ideal customer is someone who needs a rugged, easily transportable speaker for various settings – picnics, hikes, showers, or even just around the house. However, this type of speaker isn’t for everyone. Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound might be disappointed, as these speakers usually prioritize convenience and resilience over absolute sonic perfection. For them, a larger, higher-end home speaker system may be a better investment.

Before purchasing any portable Bluetooth speaker, consider the following: What is your budget? How important is battery life? What level of water and dust resistance do you need? Do you prioritize bass response, or clarity across the frequency range? How portable does it need to be? Answering these questions will help narrow down your options and ensure you choose a device that fits your specific needs and lifestyle.

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  • Ultra-portable JBL Pro Sound with punchier bass: Don't let its little size fool you. The JBL Go 4 packs a serious musical punch, delivering big JBL Pro Sound with punchy bass. Your friends won't...
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  • Waterproof and dustproof: The JBL Go 4's IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating ensures this portable speaker can handle almost any environment, from a poolside party to a seaside picnic.

Introducing the JBL Go 4: A Detailed Look

The JBL Go 4 is a compact, waterproof (IP67 rating), and dustproof Bluetooth speaker boasting JBL Pro Sound. It promises rich, punchy bass despite its small size. In the box, you’ll find the speaker itself, a USB-C charging cable, and documentation. Compared to its predecessor, the JBL Go 3, the Go 4 boasts improved durability and the addition of Auracast technology for multi-speaker connectivity. While not a direct competitor to larger, more powerful JBL speakers like the Charge 5 or Flip 6, the Go 4 targets a different audience. This is a perfect choice for those who value portability and robustness above all else. It’s not for audiophiles seeking booming bass or crystal-clear highs at high volumes; its strength lies in its compact size and impressive resilience.

Pros:

* Compact and lightweight design
* IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating
* Surprisingly good sound quality for its size
* Long battery life (up to 7 hours, plus 2 with Playtime Boost)
* Auracast technology for multi-speaker connection

Cons:

* Lacks deep bass response compared to larger speakers
* Maximum volume is not exceptionally loud
* The Auracast feature sometimes requires patience to pair and maintain connection

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JBL Go 4 - Ultra-Portable, Waterproof and Dustproof Bluetooth Speaker, 7-Hour Built-in Battery, Made...
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Exploring the Features and Benefits of the JBL Go 4

Unrivaled Portability

The JBL Go 4’s most significant asset is its portability. It’s incredibly small and light, easily fitting into a backpack, purse, or even a large pocket. This makes it perfect for taking on adventures – hikes, camping trips, beach days, and more. The lightweight design doesn’t compromise durability; the robust build can withstand accidental drops and bumps without issue. This aspect alone makes it a stand-out choice for active individuals.

Unbeatable Durability: IP67 Waterproof and Dustproof

The IP67 rating is a game-changer. This speaker isn’t just water-resistant; it’s fully waterproof and dustproof. I’ve personally tested its durability: accidental spills, rain showers, and even submersion in shallow water (briefly, of course!) haven’t affected its performance. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor use, ensuring that your music isn’t held hostage by the elements. The dustproofing is equally impressive; I’ve used it in dusty environments without any degradation in sound quality or functionality. The added peace of mind is invaluable.

JBL Pro Sound: Beyond Expectations

While not a high-fidelity sound system, the JBL Go 4 delivers surprisingly good audio quality for its size. The sound is surprisingly full and clear, with noticeable bass for such a compact speaker. It won’t compete with larger, more powerful speakers for volume or deep bass; however, it delivers exceptional clarity and punchiness for its size. The audio is well-balanced, making it suitable for various music genres. The sound is significantly better than what you’d get from a phone or laptop speaker.

Extended Battery Life: Power Through Your Day

The 7-hour battery life is impressive for a speaker this small. Combined with the Playtime Boost feature, which adds another 2 hours, this speaker can easily power you through a full day of listening. Charging is quick and straightforward using the included USB-C cable. Having this long battery life without sacrificing portability is a significant advantage over many competitors.

Auracast: Connect Multiple Speakers

The Auracast technology allows you to wirelessly connect multiple JBL Auracast-enabled speakers, creating a larger soundscape. Although the sound is not true stereo, this feature is perfect for larger gatherings or creating a more immersive listening experience. While initially there were minor hiccups pairing the speakers, the process does become smoother with practice. The feature offers a good extension of sound, ideal for outdoor scenarios where a single speaker might not suffice. This adds a great value proposition to the experience.

Eco-Conscious Design

JBL has incorporated post-consumer recycled plastic and fabric into the speaker’s construction. The packaging is made from FSC-certified paper printed with soy ink. This commitment to sustainability is commendable and makes the JBL Go 4 a more responsible choice compared to some competitors.

User Experiences: Real People, Real Reviews

Online reviews consistently praise the JBL Go 4’s sound quality, portability, and durability. Many users highlight its surprising bass response and overall balanced audio profile, noting its suitability for various music genres. The waterproof and dustproof features are frequently lauded as invaluable for outdoor activities. The ease of use and long battery life also receive plenty of positive feedback. While some users mention a lack of deep bass at high volumes, this is generally expected given its compact form factor.

The Verdict: Why Choose the JBL Go 4?

The JBL Go 4 JBL Go 4 addresses the need for a durable, portable Bluetooth speaker with surprisingly good sound. Its waterproof and dustproof design makes it ideal for any environment, while the long battery life ensures uninterrupted listening throughout the day. The Auracast feature, although requiring a bit of a learning curve, delivers expanded audio capabilities. If you’re looking for a compact, reliable speaker that can withstand the elements and deliver quality sound, the JBL Go 4 is a fantastic option. Click here to purchase yours today and experience the power of JBL Pro Sound in the palm of your hand!

Last update on 2025-06-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API