JBL Go 4 Review: A Deep Dive into the Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Go 4 JBL Go 4 – Ultra-Portable, Waterproof and Dustproof Bluetooth Speaker is a fantastic little powerhouse, and this review will explore why.

For years, I struggled with finding a portable speaker that balanced sound quality, portability, and durability. I needed something I could easily take with me on hikes, to the beach, or just around the house without worrying about damage. A subpar speaker would have resulted in frustratingly quiet or distorted audio, spoiling the enjoyment of my music. The ideal solution was clearly a robust, compact, and high-quality portable Bluetooth speaker – something like the JBL Go 4.

JBL Go 4 - Ultra-Portable, Waterproof and Dustproof Bluetooth Speaker, Big Pro Sound with Punchy...
  • 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. Your friends won't believe how much great JBL Pro Sound comes out of...
  • 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. Tap Playtime Boost...
  • 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 Buying a Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Portable Bluetooth speakers are designed to provide convenient audio playback anywhere. This makes them ideal for individuals who love listening to music on the go, whether it’s during outdoor activities, relaxing at home, or traveling. However, before purchasing a portable Bluetooth speaker, several factors need consideration. The ideal customer is someone who prioritizes portability and durability, maybe even someone who appreciates excellent sound from a compact device. Individuals who need incredibly loud volume for large gatherings might consider a larger model. Likewise, users needing extensive battery life should examine options with higher capacity. Before making a purchase, assess your priorities – battery life, water resistance, size, and most importantly, sound quality – and choose a speaker that meets those needs.

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Introducing the JBL Go 4: A Closer Look

The JBL Go 4 JBL Go 4 Bluetooth Speaker is a compact, waterproof, and dustproof Bluetooth speaker that delivers surprisingly punchy JBL Pro Sound. It boasts up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge, plus an additional 2 hours with Playtime Boost. Compared to other ultra-portable speakers, it stands out with its robust design and excellent audio quality relative to its size. The JBL Go 4 is perfect for individuals who want a portable speaker that can withstand the elements and deliver quality sound, unlike its predecessors, this version offers improved sound and battery life while retaining compact size. It’s not ideal for those needing extremely loud output or extended battery life exceeding 9 hours of continuous playback.

  • Pros: Excellent sound quality, compact and portable, waterproof and dustproof (IP67 rating), long battery life (up to 7 hours + 2 hours with Playtime Boost), Made in part with recycled materials.
  • Cons: Relatively low maximum volume compared to larger speakers, lack of a built-in microphone for calls, the companion app could use some improvements.

Exploring the JBL Go 4’s Features and Benefits

Unparalleled Sound Quality

Despite its tiny stature, the JBL Go 4 ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker punches well above its weight class. The JBL Pro Sound delivers a surprisingly rich and full sound, with noticeable bass for its size. Whether you’re listening to pop, rock, or classical music, the audio quality remains consistently clear and enjoyable. This is a significant improvement over previous models I’ve used, where the bass often felt lacking. For personal listening or small gatherings, the sound quality is more than sufficient.

Impressive Portability and Durability

The JBL Go 4’s compact design makes it incredibly portable. It easily fits in a backpack, bag, or even a large pocket. More importantly, the IP67 rating means it’s completely waterproof and dustproof. I’ve taken it to the beach, used it by the pool, and even accidentally dropped it in the sand without any issues. Its resilience is a standout feature for everyday use.

Extended Battery Life

The JBL Go 4’s 7-hour battery life is exceptional for a speaker of this size. With Playtime Boost, you can extend this to 9 hours, easily enough for a full day of listening. This extended playtime is a huge benefit, freeing me from constantly worrying about charging.

Convenient Connectivity

Connecting the JBL Go 4 to my phone or other Bluetooth devices is quick and painless. The pairing process is simple and intuitive. The addition of Auracast multi-speaker connection lets me link multiple compatible JBL speakers for an even more immersive audio experience, transforming a solo listening session into a small party with stereo pairing.

Environmentally Conscious Design

JBL’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the Go 4. The speaker is made in part with recycled materials, showcasing their dedication to reducing their environmental impact. This is a welcome addition, making it a more responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Real User Experiences: What Others Are Saying

Online reviews consistently praise the JBL Go 4 for its surprisingly powerful sound, compact size, and durability. Many users highlight its waterproof and dustproof features as game-changers, particularly for outdoor use. Several reviewers mention the speaker’s perfect size for carrying on bikes or scooters, emphasizing its lightweight nature. A few users noted some minor drawbacks, such as the app’s functionality and the absence of a microphone for phone calls.

Final Verdict: A Winner for Portability and Sound

The JBL Go 4 JBL Go 4 Bluetooth Speaker addresses the need for a portable, durable, and high-quality-sounding speaker perfectly. Its compact size, impressive sound, waterproof design, and extended battery life make it a top choice for anyone seeking a versatile and reliable portable speaker. The speaker’s excellent sound quality is a major advantage. It’s also incredibly durable and convenient to carry around. Click here to buy the JBL Go 4 and experience its incredible audio quality firsthand!

Last update on 2025-08-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API