JBL Go 4 Review: My Long-Term Experience with this Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Go 4 JBL Go 4 – Ultra-Portable, Waterproof and Dustproof Bluetooth Speaker is a fantastic little device, and I’m excited to share my in-depth review after extensive use.

Life without music is unimaginable for me. I constantly find myself searching for the perfect audio companion – something compact, durable, and with excellent sound quality, especially for outdoor activities. A reliable portable Bluetooth speaker was crucial, as my attempts to use my phone’s speaker for picnics and hikes proved frustratingly inadequate. The sound was often muffled, and the phone itself was vulnerable to damage. A robust, portable solution was clearly needed.

JBL Go 4 - Ultra-Portable, Waterproof and Dustproof Bluetooth Speaker, 7-Hour Built-in Battery, Made...
  • 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...
  • Up to 7 hours of playtime plus 2 hours with Playtime Boost: Don't sweat the small stuff like charging your battery. JBL Go 4 gives you up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge. Simply tap Playtime...
  • 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.

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Portable Bluetooth speakers offer a convenient way to enjoy your music on the go. However, choosing the right one requires careful consideration. The ideal customer is someone who values portability, durability, and decent sound quality without needing booming bass. This isn’t for audiophiles seeking studio-quality sound. For those needing superior audio, larger, more powerful home speakers would be a better fit. Before purchasing, consider your budget, the desired battery life, water and dust resistance (IP rating), connectivity features (e.g., multi-speaker pairing), and the overall sound profile you prefer. Assess how important features like a built-in power bank or voice assistant are to you. Read reviews from other users – that is invaluable.

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Introducing the JBL Go 4: A Compact Powerhouse

The JBL Go 4 is a compact Bluetooth speaker boasting JBL Pro Sound with surprisingly punchy bass for its size. It promises up to 7 hours of playtime, extendable to 9 with Playtime Boost, along with IP67 waterproof and dustproof protection. Compared to previous JBL Go models, the Go 4 offers improved sound quality and battery life. This speaker is perfect for individuals and small groups who want great sound without the bulk. It’s not ideal for large parties or those requiring exceptionally loud volume.

  • Pros: Excellent sound quality for its size, long battery life, IP67 water and dust resistance, compact and portable, stylish design.
  • Cons: Lacks extremely deep bass (due to size), no built-in power bank, relatively basic controls.

Exploring the JBL Go 4’s Features and Benefits

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

The JBL Go 4 arrived in a compact, eco-friendly box, reflecting JBL’s commitment to sustainability. The speaker itself is incredibly small and light, easily fitting in a pocket or bag. The build quality is exceptional; it feels robust and well-made, reassuring for outdoor use. Its vibrant color (I chose Squad) adds a touch of personality.

Sound Quality and Performance

The sound from this little speaker is remarkable. Despite its tiny size, it delivers clear, crisp highs and surprisingly deep bass for its size. It’s not going to match a larger, more powerful speaker, but the sound is rich, balanced, and enjoyable. I’ve used it for various music genres, and it handles them all well. The JBL Pro Sound is noticeable – it’s clear, articulate, and detailed, much better than what one gets from a phone speaker.

Connectivity and Pairing

Bluetooth pairing is seamless and quick. I haven’t experienced any dropouts or connectivity issues. The Auracast technology allows for multi-speaker connection, making it ideal for creating a larger soundscape (though only in mono). I’ve successfully paired two JBL Go 4 speakers for stereo sound, and the difference is remarkable. The stereo pairing is a game changer and significantly enhances the overall listening experience, resulting in a wider and more immersive soundscape.

Durability and Water Resistance

The IP67 rating is a crucial selling point. I’ve accidentally splashed water on it several times, and it’s survived unscathed. I’ve taken it on hikes in dusty conditions without issue. This durability is essential, especially if you plan to use the speaker outdoors. It is truly built to last.

Battery Life

The 7-hour battery life is accurate, sometimes even better if you listen at lower volumes. Playtime Boost extends this further. Charging is quick and efficient via USB-C, convenient and quick.

Ease of Use and Controls

The controls are intuitive and simple. The buttons are tactile and easy to press, even when wet. The JBL Portable app adds extra functionality, including EQ adjustments and stereo pairing management (though it’s not essential for basic operation).

What Other Users Are Saying

Online reviews consistently praise the JBL Go 4’s sound quality, portability, and durability. Many users highlight its surprisingly powerful sound, the long battery life, and the convenience of the IP67 rating. The recurring themes are its value for money and overall exceptional performance for such a small and affordable device. There are many overwhelmingly positive comments about the speaker’s performance, particularly when paired in stereo.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Go 4 solves the problem of poor-quality portable audio. It offers superior sound, impressive durability, and convenient portability. The surprisingly powerful audio and easy stereo pairing set it apart. The speaker’s long battery life and IP67 water and dust resistance make it perfect for outdoor adventures. Click here to check out the JBL Go 4 and experience the difference!

Last update on 2025-07-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API