★★★★★☆☆

JBL Go 4: Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker - Punchy Bass

Category: Best for Travel

Published: March 24, 2025

Key Features

Ultra-portable design with built-in battery life of up to 7 hours
Punchy bass and powerful sound quality
Waterproof and dustproof IP67 rating
Easy-to-use setup with Bluetooth connectivity
Made in part with recycled materials for eco-friendliness
Stereo pairing through Auracast technology
Quick start guide included for easy onboarding

Overview and First Impressions

The JBL Go 4 is a compact yet powerful Bluetooth speaker that offers excellent sound quality despite its small size. The speaker’s design makes it perfect for travel, parties, and outdoor adventures due to its lightweight and portable nature. The inclusion of a built-in battery ensures you can enjoy music without worrying about charging.

Design and Build Quality

The JBL Go 4 features a sleek and durable design that is both stylish and practical. Made from high-quality materials, the speaker has a compact footprint (3.7”D x 1.7”W x 3”H) which makes it easy to store and transport. The speaker also includes a practical carrying strap for added convenience.

Setup and Ease of Use

The JBL Go 4 is incredibly easy to set up. It connects via Bluetooth, making it simple to pair with your smartphone or other compatible devices. The speaker’s intuitive controls are easy to navigate even for first-time users. Additionally, the included quick start guide provides comprehensive instructions for setting up and using the speaker.

Sound Quality

The JBL Go 4 delivers impressive sound quality for a portable speaker. With punchy bass and clear treble, it performs exceptionally well in various environments. The speaker’s powerful output ensures that you can be heard even at parties or outdoor gatherings. However, some users might find the sound a bit harsh compared to larger speakers.

Bluetooth Performance

The Bluetooth connectivity of the JBL Go 4 is excellent. It maintains a strong connection with most devices, allowing for smooth and lag-free audio streaming. The speaker’s range extends up to 33 feet, making it ideal for use in open spaces or around obstacles.

Battery Life

The battery life of the JBL Go 4 is impressive at up to 7 hours on a single charge. Additionally, the Playtime Boost feature can add up to 2 more hours of playback time, providing extended usage without needing to recharge. This makes it an excellent choice for long days of travel or outdoor activities.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The JBL Go 4 is designed to withstand the elements with its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. This means you can use it in almost any environment, from pools to sand. The speaker’s robust build ensures that it can handle rough handling without getting damaged.

Features and Extras

The JBL Go 4 comes with several useful features including multi-speaker connection through Auracast technology for stereo sound. It also includes a Type-C to Type-A charging cable, quick start guide, and warranty card. The speaker’s lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, and its included carrying strap adds an extra layer of convenience.

Performance in Use

I have used the JBL Go 4 extensively for travel, parties, and outdoor adventures. It has performed flawlessly on all occasions, providing excellent sound quality and battery life. The speaker’s waterproof feature has been particularly useful when I needed to use it near water or sand. However, some users might find that the speaker’s size limits its usefulness in certain situations.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:Excellent sound quality, long battery life, waterproof and dustproof design, easy setup, durable build.
Cons:Some users may find the sound harsh, limited speaker size in some situations.

Final Verdict and Recommendation

The JBL Go 4 is an outstanding portable Bluetooth speaker that offers excellent value for money. Its powerful sound quality, long battery life, and durable build make it ideal for travel, parties, and outdoor adventures. If you're looking for a reliable and versatile speaker that can handle almost any environment, the JBL Go 4 is definitely worth considering.