$33.20
When JBL Clip 4 launched in late 2020 at $79.95, it represented a significant evolution in ultra-portable audio. After extensive testing, we've found it continues to hold its own against newer competitors, offering an impressive blend of durability and sound quality that makes it a compelling choice for active users.
The Clip 4's 5W driver might seem modest on paper, but JBL's engineering shines through in real-world use. The speaker produces remarkably balanced audio across its 100Hz-20kHz frequency range (for context, human hearing typically spans 20Hz-20kHz). In our testing, vocals come through crystal clear, while instruments maintain good separation โ impressive for a speaker that fits in your palm.
The bass response, while not room-shaking, provides enough punch for personal listening. We noticed it handles genres like acoustic, pop, and podcasts particularly well, though bass-heavy electronic music can strain at higher volumes. Compared to its predecessor, the Clip 3, there's noticeably improved clarity in the mid-range frequencies, where most vocals and melodic instruments live.
JBL significantly refined the Clip's design for this fourth generation. The integrated carabiner clip, now made of more robust metal, feels substantially more durable than previous plastic versions. The IP67 rating means it's both dustproof and waterproof (submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) โ we've tested it in shower settings and light rain without issues.
The rubberized housing has proven remarkably resilient in our drop tests, though we'd still recommend avoiding concrete impacts. At just 0.53 pounds, it's light enough to hang from a backpack strap without being noticeable, yet feels premium in hand.
The Clip 4 employs Bluetooth 5.1, a meaningful upgrade from its predecessor's 4.1. This translates to:
The absence of an auxiliary input port might disappoint some users, but this design choice enables better water resistance. Our testing showed reliable connectivity across various devices, though we noted occasional minor delays when using multiple Bluetooth connections.
In our battery tests, the Clip 4 consistently delivered:
These results align with JBL's claims, though your mileage will vary based on volume levels and environmental conditions. The USB-C charging port is a welcome upgrade from previous micro-USB implementations, offering faster charging and better durability.
After months of testing in various scenarios, we've found the Clip 4 excels in:
At $79.95, the Clip 4 sits in the premium ultra-portable segment. The price reflects:
The ultra-portable speaker market has evolved significantly since the Clip 4's release. Key competitors include:
The Clip 4 maintains its position through superior portability and build quality, though newer models offer features like stereo pairing.
The Clip 4 is ideal for:
However, consider alternatives if you:
The JBL Clip 4 represents a thoughtful evolution in portable audio design. While newer competitors have emerged since its 2020 release, few match its combination of durability, sound quality, and true portability. The improved driver technology, robust build quality, and carefully considered feature set make it a compelling choice for personal audio on the go.
Its limitations โ no auxiliary input, mono-only sound, and modest bass response โ are reasonable trade-offs for its ultra-portable form factor. For those seeking a reliable, weather-resistant audio companion that delivers clear, balanced sound in a truly portable package, the Clip 4 remains one of our top recommendations in 2023.
Remember to watch for sales, as the street price often drops below the $79.95 MSRP, making it an even more attractive value proposition. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, frequent traveler, or just someone who appreciates well-designed portable audio, the Clip 4 deserves serious consideration.
Yes, the JBL Clip 4 is worth the $79.95 price for those needing ultra-portable, durable audio. It offers excellent build quality, reliable performance, and good sound for its size, making it particularly valuable for active users and travelers.
The JBL Clip 4 produces enough volume for personal listening and small spaces. With its 5W output, it's ideal for bathroom use, desktop listening, or outdoor personal activities, but isn't designed for large rooms or parties.
While the JBL Clip 4 isn't designed as a home theater speaker, it can serve as a temporary solution for TV audio in small spaces like bedrooms or as personal listening when others are sleeping. However, for dedicated home theater use, a proper soundbar or speaker system would be more appropriate.
Yes, the JBL Clip 4 has an IP67 rating, meaning it's fully waterproof and can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. It's perfectly safe for shower use, pool areas, and rain exposure.
The battery lasts up to 10 hours at moderate volume levels (around 50%). At higher volumes (80%), expect 6-7 hours of playback time. Charging takes approximately 3 hours via USB-C.
No, the JBL Clip 4 doesn't support stereo pairing or connecting multiple speakers together. Each speaker functions independently.
No, the JBL Clip 4 only supports Bluetooth connectivity. Unlike previous models, it doesn't include an auxiliary input port, a design choice that helps maintain its waterproof rating.
The Bluetooth 5.1 connection maintains stable performance up to approximately 30 feet in open spaces. Walls and obstacles may reduce this range.
Yes, the JBL Clip 4 works well for video calls, offering clear voice reproduction. However, it doesn't include a built-in microphone, so you'll need to use your device's microphone.
The JBL Clip 4 offers several improvements over the Clip 3, including better sound quality, upgraded Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C charging, improved build quality with a metal carabiner, and a more modern design. However, it loses the aux input port found on the Clip 3.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: youtube.com - outeraudio.com - jbl.com - rtings.com - youtube.com - jbl.com - harmanaudio.com - youtube.com - ggelectronics.com - greentoe.com - soundstagexperience.com
The JBL Charge 5 ($139.99) represents a significant step up in capabilities, offering 40W of total power output through its dedicated woofer and tweeter configuration. This larger speaker delivers noticeably fuller sound with deeper bass response down to 60Hz, making it more suitable for small gatherings and outdoor events. The addition of PartyBoost functionality for multi-speaker pairing and a built-in power bank feature for charging mobile devices adds genuine utility, while the impressive 20-hour battery life doubles the Clip 4's playback time.
While both speakers share the same IP67 waterproof rating and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, the Charge 5's enhanced audio performance and additional features come at the cost of reduced portability and a higher price point. At nearly a kilogram and triple the cost of the Clip 4, the Charge 5 serves a different use case - it's less about ultra-portable personal audio and more focused on delivering room-filling sound with the versatility to handle everything from backyard parties to beach outings. For those who prioritize sound quality and volume over maximum portability, the Charge 5's premium price is justified by its superior audio performance and expanded feature set.
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๐JBL Charge 5 Portable Waterproof Speaker Details
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The JBL Flip 5 represents a significant step up in audio performance, delivering 20W of power through its racetrack-shaped driver for a fuller, more room-filling sound. While it's larger and heavier at 1.2 pounds, this additional size enables substantially better bass response and overall sound quality that remains clear at higher volumes. At $79.99, it commands a $30 premium over the Clip 4, but justifies this cost through its ability to serve as a primary portable speaker for both indoor and outdoor gatherings. The Flip 5's PartyBoost feature also allows connection with other compatible JBL speakers, expanding its versatility for larger events.
However, the JBL Flip 5 sacrifices the extreme portability that makes the Clip 4 so convenient for active use. Its cylindrical design requires more space in a bag, and while its IPX7 waterproofing provides good protection, it lacks the Clip 4's dust resistance. The Flip 5's Bluetooth 4.2 is also slightly older technology, though this rarely impacts real-world performance. For users who prioritize sound quality over ultimate portability and don't mind the extra size and weight, the Flip 5 offers noticeably better audio performance that can better serve as a primary speaker for both home and outdoor use.
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๐JBL Flip 5 Portable Speaker Details
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The JBL Go 4 represents JBL's latest ultra-portable speaker technology, offering a more pocket-friendly design at just 0.42 pounds and featuring the new Auracast multi-speaker pairing capability. While its 4.2W output is slightly lower than the Clip 4's, it delivers surprisingly robust bass response and excellent voice clarity, making it particularly well-suited for podcast listening and personal audio. The Go 4's smaller footprint and floating design make it ideal for desk use and travel, though its basic fabric loop isn't as versatile as the Clip 4's carabiner.
At $49.95, the Go 4 presents an attractive value proposition with its newer technology and more compact form factor, though it does compromise with a shorter 7-hour battery life (expandable to 9 hours with Playtime Boost). The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 and Auracast support makes it more future-proof, especially for users interested in creating a stereo setup with multiple speakers. However, those seeking longer battery life or secure mounting options might find the Clip 4's design more practical, despite the Go 4's technological advantages and lower price point.
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๐JBL Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The $169 Marshall Emberton II represents a significant step up in audio performance, offering a premium approach to portable sound with its True Stereophonic system and dual 10W drivers. Where the Clip 4 focuses on personal audio, the Emberton II delivers room-filling 360-degree sound that maintains clarity and stereo separation from any listening position. Its standout 30-hour battery life triples the Clip 4's endurance, while the ability to pair multiple speakers and adjust EQ settings through a companion app provides flexibility the Clip 4 can't match. The Marshall's superior bass response, particularly in the 60-150Hz range, delivers a fuller, more engaging listening experience that better suits group settings and home entertainment use.
These premium features come with a $100 price premium over the Clip 4, and at 1.5 pounds, the Marshall Emberton II trades some portability for its enhanced performance. While it maintains the same IP67 water and dust resistance, its design is better suited for stationary use on flat surfaces rather than clipping to equipment or clothing. The Emberton II makes sense for users who prioritize sound quality and battery life over maximum portability, particularly those looking for a speaker that can serve as their primary audio device in multiple settings. Its quick-charge feature, providing 4 hours of playback from a 20-minute charge, helps offset the larger size when traveling.
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๐Marshall Emberton II Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Bose SoundLink Micro stands out with its notably stronger bass response and ability to connect to two devices simultaneously - features that make it particularly appealing for indoor use and desk setups. Its built-in speakerphone with noise cancellation delivers clearer calls than the Clip 4, and Bose's SimpleSync technology allows it to pair with other Bose speakers for a more versatile audio setup. While its silicone strap mounting system isn't as convenient as a carabiner, it provides flexible attachment options for bags, bikes, and other gear.
However, at $99, the Bose SoundLink Micro commands a notable premium over the Clip 4 while offering less battery life (6 hours versus 10) and using an older Micro-USB charging port. Its additional features like multi-device connectivity and superior bass response may justify the higher price for some users, particularly those already invested in the Bose ecosystem or primarily using the speaker indoors. But for most users seeking a durable, portable speaker for outdoor activities, the Clip 4's longer battery life, modern USB-C charging, and lower price point make it the more practical choice.
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๐Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Bose SoundLink Max ($400) takes a dramatically different approach to portable audio, offering significantly more power and fuller sound coverage suitable for group settings and larger spaces. While both speakers feature IP67 water resistance, the SoundLink Max adds premium features like multi-point connectivity for two devices, a USB-C port that doubles as a power bank, and support for high-quality audio codecs including aptX Adaptive. Its 20-hour battery life and room-filling sound make it ideal for extended listening sessions and outdoor gatherings, though at 4.9 pounds, it sacrifices the ultra-portability that makes the Clip 4 so versatile.
For those considering the price difference, the Bose SoundLink Max justifies its premium positioning through noticeably superior audio quality, especially in bass response and clarity at higher volumes. Its ability to serve as a primary speaker for small gatherings or home spaces makes it more of a portable home speaker than a purely personal audio device. While both speakers excel in their intended use cases, they ultimately serve different purposes - the SoundLink Max aims to be your go-to speaker for multiple scenarios, while the Clip 4 focuses on being the perfect companion for personal activities and travel.
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๐Bose SoundLink Max Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The $119.99 Bose SoundLink Flex sets itself apart with superior sound quality and more versatile functionality. Its PositionIQ technology automatically optimizes audio based on speaker orientation, delivering consistently balanced sound whether standing, lying flat, or hanging. The larger size allows for notably better bass response and clearer midrange reproduction, making it more suitable for home listening and small gatherings. Additional features like multi-device pairing, Party Mode for connecting multiple speakers, and voice assistant integration provide more flexibility than the Clip 4's straightforward approach.
While the SoundLink Flex costs more than twice as much as the Clip 4, the price difference is justified for users prioritizing sound quality and additional features over maximum portability. The Bose SoundLink Flex excels in situations where audio performance matters most, like background music for home entertaining or outdoor gatherings. However, it can't match the Clip 4's ultra-portable design with integrated carabiner, making the JBL a better choice for activities where compact size and easy attachment are crucial. Both speakers offer IP67 water resistance and durable construction, but serve different primary use cases.
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๐Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The $119.99 Bose SoundLink Flex offers several notable advantages over the Clip 4, particularly in audio performance and connectivity features. Its PositionIQ technology automatically optimizes sound based on the speaker's orientation, while support for high-quality audio codecs like AAC and aptX delivers noticeably better sound quality. The ability to connect two devices simultaneously makes it more versatile for shared spaces, and the companion app provides useful customization options. The fuller range and deeper bass response make it a more capable speaker for various environments, though it weighs more at 1.3 pounds and lacks a built-in clip system.
While the price difference is substantial, the SoundLink Flex (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D6W8GSL3?th=1&tag=bestprice0a0-20) justifies its premium positioning with superior build quality and more refined features. The slightly longer battery life (12 hours vs 10) and newer Bluetooth 5.3 technology provide better real-world performance, while the ability to pair with other Bose speakers adds expandability. However, users primarily seeking an ultra-portable speaker for active use might find the Clip 4's integrated carabiner and lighter weight more practical, despite its more basic audio capabilities and features.
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๐Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The JBL Clip 5, released in June 2024, represents a significant upgrade over the Clip 4 with its more powerful 7W output and enhanced bass response extending down to 95Hz. The newest model introduces several meaningful improvements, including a more durable design that eliminates the scratch-prone metal band, an improved carabiner system, and smart features like app-based EQ control and Auracast support for multi-speaker connectivity. Battery life gets a boost to 12 hours (extendable to 15 with Playtime Boost), and the implementation of Bluetooth 5.3 provides more stable connections with lower latency.
While the JBL Clip 5 commands a higher price at $79.95, its improvements justify the cost for users who demand better audio performance and modern features. The increased power output is immediately noticeable, delivering louder, clearer sound that maintains its quality at higher volumes where the Clip 4 begins to struggle. The addition of app support brings welcome customization options, and the Auracast feature opens up new possibilities for creating larger sound systems. For those who use their portable speaker frequently or in more demanding situations, the Clip 5's enhanced durability and audio capabilities make it a worthwhile investment despite the price premium.
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๐JBL Clip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The JBL Flip 6 represents a significant step up in audio performance at $99.99, featuring a sophisticated 2-way speaker system with a dedicated tweeter and racetrack-shaped woofer that delivers 30W of total power. This more advanced acoustic design, combined with dual passive radiators, results in noticeably fuller sound with deeper bass response than the Clip 4 can produce. While it's considerably larger at 1.21 pounds, the Flip 6's additional size accommodates features like PartyBoost for multi-speaker pairing and the ability to connect to two devices simultaneously, making it more versatile for group settings and home entertainment.
The JBL Flip 6 excels in scenarios where the Clip 4's compact size becomes a limitation, such as providing room-filling sound for parties or serving as a primary speaker for TV and gaming audio. Its 12-hour battery life slightly edges out the Clip 4, and while both speakers share the same IP67 waterproof rating, the Flip 6's larger size enables it to produce richer, more balanced sound at higher volumes without distortion. The price difference reflects these capabilities, making the Flip 6 a worthwhile upgrade for users who prioritize sound quality and volume over ultimate portability.
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๐JBL Flip 6 Portable Waterproof Speaker Details
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The Beats Pill ($99.99) takes a different approach to portable audio, offering significantly more power with its 12W output and redesigned acoustic architecture. While it sacrifices the ultra-portable design of the Clip 4, it compensates with room-filling sound, notably stronger bass response, and an impressive 24-hour battery life. The addition of stereo pairing capabilities, voice assistant support, and Find My device functionality makes it a more feature-rich option, though at twice the price.
For those prioritizing sound quality over ultimate portability, the Beats Pill delivers a more complete audio experience that better suits small gatherings and home use. Its enhanced bass response and higher maximum volume make it more versatile for different listening scenarios, from outdoor parties to impromptu home theater applications. However, these advantages come with trade-offs - it's significantly larger, heavier, and more expensive than the Clip 4, making it less ideal for activities where minimal size and weight are crucial.
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๐Beats Pill Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Anker Soundcore Mini at $23.99 offers compelling value with features absent from the JBL Clip 4, including FM radio, auxiliary input, and microSD card support. Its passive subwoofer design delivers noticeably stronger bass response, and the 15-hour battery life exceeds the JBL's runtime by 50%. While lacking an integrated clip or waterproofing, its compact cylindrical design and rubber feet make it highly portable and stable during playback. The inclusion of multiple input options provides flexibility that the JBL's Bluetooth-only approach cannot match.
However, the Soundcore Mini's older Bluetooth 4.0 technology results in shorter range and less stable connections compared to the JBL's Bluetooth 5.1. Its audio output, while bass-heavy, lacks the clarity and balance of the JBL, particularly in vocal frequencies. For casual listening and bass-forward music, the Anker Soundcore Mini represents exceptional value, but those needing durability for outdoor use or superior audio clarity should consider spending more on the JBL. The decision ultimately comes down to prioritizing feature richness and value versus premium sound quality and weatherproofing.
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๐Anker Soundcore Mini Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Anker Soundcore 2 ($44.99) takes a different approach to portable audio, focusing on room-filling sound and extended battery life rather than ultimate portability. With its dual 6W drivers delivering 12W of total power, it produces noticeably louder audio with true stereo separation, though it sacrifices the Clip 4's ultra-portable design. The most impressive feature is its 24-hour battery life - more than double the Clip 4's runtime - making it ideal for extended use without recharging. Its BassUp technology and lower frequency response range (70Hz vs 100Hz) also provide fuller low-end sound, though at maximum volume it can exhibit more distortion than the Clip 4.
While the Soundcore 2 lacks the Clip 4's premium build quality and IP67 waterproofing, its IPX5 rating still provides sufficient protection for most everyday situations. The larger, more traditional rectangular design trades portability for stability, making it better suited for home and office use where it can be placed on flat surfaces. At $5 less than the Clip 4, it represents excellent value for users who prioritize sound quality and battery life over ultimate portability, though its older Bluetooth 4.2 technology and lack of USB-C charging show its age compared to the Clip 4's more modern features.
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๐Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The $426.55 Sonos Era 300 operates in an entirely different league, offering premium home audio features like spatial audio with Dolby Atmos support, room correction technology, and integration with whole-home audio systems. Its six-driver setup, including dedicated woofers and precisely positioned tweeters, delivers significantly more robust and nuanced sound than the Clip 4 could ever achieve. The Era 300's ability to join a proper home theater setup as rear surrounds, plus its support for high-resolution streaming services and multi-room audio, makes it a compelling choice for serious audio enthusiasts.
However, these additional capabilities come at nearly nine times the price of the Clip 4, and the Era 300 serves a completely different purpose. While the Era 300 excels in delivering room-filling, high-fidelity sound in fixed indoor locations, it lacks the portability, durability, and convenience that make the Clip 4 such a practical choice for on-the-go use. The Era 300 requires constant power, weighs nearly 10 pounds, and isn't weather-resistant - features that highlight how these speakers are designed for different use cases rather than direct competitors.
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๐Sonos Era 300 Speaker Details
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The Marshall Willen II ($119.99) takes a more premium approach to portable audio, offering double the power output at 10W and incorporating dual passive radiators for noticeably fuller sound. While it commands more than twice the price of the Clip 4, this additional investment brings tangible benefits including significantly longer battery life at 17+ hours and quick-charging capability that provides 5.5 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging. The Willen II's companion app adds valuable features like EQ adjustment and Stack Mode for multi-speaker pairing, while future Auracast support promises enhanced connectivity options down the line.
Despite its larger size and weight, the Marshall Willen II remains highly portable and matches the Clip 4's IP67 water resistance rating. The increased power and enhanced bass response make it noticeably better for music enjoyment, particularly in outdoor settings where additional volume is beneficial. While its rubber strap mounting system isn't quite as secure as the Clip 4's carabiner, it offers more mounting flexibility. For users who prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest in premium features, the Willen II represents a significant step up in audio performance and functionality, though at a considerable price premium.
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๐Marshall Willen II Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Soundcore Boom 2 SE represents a completely different class of portable speaker, prioritizing powerful audio output over ultra-compact design. With its 80W total output (combining a 50W subwoofer and dual 15W tweeters), it delivers room-filling sound that can handle outdoor parties and larger gatherings. While significantly larger than the Clip 4, at $79 it offers remarkable value for its power class, including features like a customizable LED light show, PartyCast 2.0 for connecting multiple speakers, and even the ability to charge other devices through its power bank functionality. The 24-hour battery life at moderate volumes means it can handle extended playing sessions, though this decreases when using premium features.
Where the Clip 4 focuses on personal audio, the Soundcore Boom 2 SE aims to be the life of the party. Its IPX7 waterproofing and floatable design make it equally at home poolside, while the integrated carry handle keeps it portable despite its larger size. The included app allows custom EQ adjustments, and the BassUp feature can boost low-end response for even more powerful sound. While it's not as convenient for everyday carry as the Clip 4, it serves as a more versatile home and outdoor entertainment solution, particularly for users who need enough volume to entertain groups or fill larger spaces with sound. The extra investment brings significantly more capability, making it a strong value for users who need more than personal listening levels.
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๐Soundcore Boom 2 SE Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Sony XB100 distinguishes itself with an impressive 16-hour battery life and a more feature-rich package, including hands-free calling with echo cancellation and stereo pairing capabilities. While it doesn't match the Clip 4's maximum volume, it delivers more balanced audio and supports both AAC and SBC codecs, potentially offering better sound quality for iPhone users. The XB100's Sound Diffusion Processor helps create a wider soundstage, making it particularly effective for desktop use or small indoor gatherings, though its included strap isn't as versatile as JBL's carabiner design.
At a typical price point of $59.99, though often available for as low as $39.99, the Sony XB100 presents an excellent value proposition. Its longer battery life and additional features like built-in microphone functionality make it a more versatile option for everyday use, despite its less rugged construction. While it shares the same IP67 water resistance rating as the Clip 4, its softer plastic exterior and more traditional cylindrical design favor indoor environments. For users who prioritize battery life and communication features over maximum volume and outdoor durability, the XB100 offers a compelling alternative at a potentially lower price point.
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๐Sony XB100 Compact Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Sony XE200 takes a more premium approach to portable audio, offering dual drivers with stereo sound and a wider frequency response range of 20Hz-20kHz for noticeably better bass reproduction and overall audio quality. At $110.99, it justifies its higher price tag with 16 hours of battery life, quick charging capabilities, and advanced features like Party Connect for multi-speaker setups. While larger at 8.19 inches and 28.22 ounces, it maintains the same IP67 water resistance rating while delivering room-filling sound that's significantly more powerful than the Clip 4.
For those seeking better audio performance, the Sony XE200 offers several meaningful advantages, including stereo separation for more immersive listening, compatibility with high-resolution LDAC codec, and the ability to connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. Its superior bass response and overall volume make it better suited for social gatherings or home use, though it sacrifices the ultra-portable convenience of the Clip 4's design. The additional investment brings tangible benefits for music enthusiasts or anyone planning to use their speaker as a primary audio source, rather than just for casual listening.
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๐Sony XE200 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Sony XE300 represents a significant step up in both size and audio capability, featuring innovative Line-Shape Diffuser technology and dual passive radiators that deliver room-filling sound with substantial bass response. While it weighs considerably more at 1.3kg, this extra size enables true party-worthy volume levels and 24 hours of battery life. The $199.99 price point brings additional premium features like LDAC codec support for high-quality streaming, extensive app control through Sony Music Center, and the ability to pair multiple speakers for stereo or party modes. Its robust IP67 waterproof construction matches the Clip 4's durability, but in a package designed for more serious audio applications.
For users seeking a more powerful audio solution, the Sony XE300 offers compelling advantages over the Clip 4, particularly in sound quality and feature set. Its X-Balanced Speaker Unit and advanced audio processing deliver noticeably clearer mids and fuller bass, making it suitable for both outdoor gatherings and temporary home theater use. While it sacrifices the ultra-portability that makes the Clip 4 so versatile, it compensates with superior sound projection, quick charging capability (70 minutes of playback from a 10-minute charge), and the ability to serve as a primary audio system rather than just a portable companion. However, these additional features come at more than twice the price, making it a better fit for users who prioritize sound quality and power over maximum portability.
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๐Sony XE300 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Soundcore BOOM 2 represents the opposite end of the portable speaker spectrum, delivering a powerful 80W output through its 50W subwoofer and dual 15W tweeters. Released in March 2024, it showcases the latest in portable audio technology, including BassUp 2.0 for enhanced low frequencies and PartyCast 2.0 for connecting multiple speakers. While significantly larger at 3.75 pounds, it compensates with impressive 24-hour battery life and the ability to serve as a power bank for other devices. The addition of customizable LED light shows and app-based EQ control makes it a complete entertainment package.
At $129.99, the Soundcore BOOM 2 justifies its higher price tag with substantially more powerful audio output and additional features. Its ability to fill large spaces with rich, bass-heavy sound makes it ideal for outdoor gatherings and parties where the Clip 4 would struggle. While it sacrifices the ultra-portability that makes the Clip 4 so versatile, it offers significantly more value for those needing room-filling sound and extended playback time. The decision between these speakers largely depends on whether mobility or audio power is the primary concern.
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๐soundcore BOOM 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Ultimate Ears MINIROLL distinguishes itself with superior audio muscle, pushing out a maximum volume of 87dB through its 45.6mm driver and passive radiator combination. This newer entrant to the portable speaker market delivers notably stronger bass response than the Clip 4, making it better suited for outdoor gatherings and music-focused listening. Its unique PartyUp feature allows multiple speakers to sync together, creating an expandable audio system that could even serve as a makeshift surround sound setup. The MINIROLL also boasts an impressive 40-meter Bluetooth range - four times that of the Clip 4 - and can remember two paired devices simultaneously.
While the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL carries a higher MSRP of $79, it's frequently available for $49.99, matching the Clip 4's standard price point. Its puck-shaped design and fabric strap offer different mounting options, though they're generally less secure than the Clip 4's carabiner system. The MINIROLL trades the Clip 4's app-based EQ controls for raw audio power, prioritizing volume and bass response over customization. Both speakers feature IP67 water resistance, but the MINIROLL's slightly longer 12-hour battery life and more powerful sound signature make it a better choice for users who prioritize audio performance over ultra-secure mounting options and voice clarity.
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๐Ultimate Ears MINIROLL Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Morel BIGGIE approaches portable audio from a completely different angle, prioritizing premium sound quality and room-filling volume over ultra-portability. Its two-way speaker design with a dedicated tweeter and woofer, backed by 60 watts of power, delivers significantly fuller sound with deep bass down to 40Hz and crisp, detailed highs. While considerably larger at 5.7 pounds, it's still transportable between rooms or to the patio, and its 20-hour battery life with fast charging makes it reliable for extended listening sessions. The ability to pair two units for true stereo sound also makes it more versatile for home entertainment.
At $299, the Morel BIGGIE represents a substantial investment compared to the Clip 4, but delivers accordingly with its high-end audio performance. Its robust construction and premium materials justify the price for those seeking superior sound quality in a still-portable format. While it lacks the Clip 4's waterproofing and ultra-portable design, it excels in scenarios where audio quality matters most - whether that's filling a room during a gathering, providing background music for outdoor dining, or serving as a primary speaker for a home office or bedroom. For listeners who prioritize sound quality over maximum portability and don't need weatherproofing, the BIGGIE offers a compelling premium alternative.
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๐Morel BIGGIE Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Marshall Stockwell II represents a more premium approach to portable audio, offering significantly more power and sophistication than the Clip 4. With its 20W three-driver system (one 10W woofer and two 5W tweeters), it delivers true stereo sound with noticeably better bass response and clarity, especially at higher volumes. The addition of physical EQ controls allows users to fine-tune their sound, while its 20-hour battery life and quick-charging capability provide excellent endurance for extended listening sessions. Though considerably larger at 1.38kg, it's still portable enough for moving around the house or taking to outdoor gatherings.
At $220, the Stockwell II commands a significant premium over the Clip 4, but justifies its price through superior audio performance and versatility. Its multi-host Bluetooth pairing and auxiliary input provide more connection options, while its room-filling sound makes it suitable for small gatherings and parties - scenarios where the Clip 4 would struggle. However, its IPX4 rating and larger size mean it's better suited for controlled environments rather than the adventure-ready durability of the Clip 4. For users prioritizing sound quality over ultimate portability and who don't mind the higher price tag, the Stockwell II offers a more refined listening experience that bridges the gap between portable and home audio.
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๐Marshall Stockwell II Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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Original price was: $5,997.99.$5,797.99Current price is: $5,797.99.
