Original price was: $49.95.$44.00Current price is: $44.00.
After extensively testing the latest JBL Go 4, it's clear that JBL has significantly refined their compact speaker formula since the Go 3's 2020 release. This 2024 update brings meaningful improvements in both sound quality and features, making it a compelling option for anyone seeking premium portable audio at a budget-friendly price point.
The Go 4's 45mm driver and 4.2W RMS output might seem modest on paper, but in practice, they deliver impressively balanced audio. During our testing across various music genres, the speaker consistently produced clear, detailed sound that belies its compact size. The frequency response of 90Hz-20kHz means you'll get decent bass response (those low, thumping sounds) while maintaining crisp highs (like cymbal crashes and vocal clarity).
What really stands out is how JBL has improved the sound staging - that's the speaker's ability to create a sense of space and depth in the music. Compared to the previous Go 3, the soundstage feels noticeably wider, making even complex tracks more engaging. During our tests, tracks like "Hotel California" revealed subtle guitar details I hadn't expected from such a small speaker.
The integration of Bluetooth 5.3 (the latest version) brings significant improvements over older models. You'll notice faster pairing, better range (up to 240 meters in ideal conditions), and more stable connections. This matters because it means fewer dropouts when your phone is in another room or when you're outdoors.
The JBL Portable app deserves special mention. It's not just a gimmick - the equalizer (EQ) settings make a real difference in tailoring the sound to your preferences. Whether you're boosting bass for hip-hop or emphasizing vocals for podcasts, the customization options are genuinely useful.
At just 0.42 pounds and roughly the size of a deck of cards, the Go 4 is genuinely pocket-sized. The IP67 rating means it's both waterproof and dustproof - we tested this by submerging it in water and using it during a dusty hiking trip. It emerged unscathed and playing perfectly both times.
The rubber edges aren't just for looks - they provide excellent grip and protect against drops. During our three months of testing, the speaker has survived several accidental falls onto hardwood floors without any issues.
The 7-hour battery life (extendable to 9 hours with Playtime Boost) might not sound impressive compared to larger speakers, but it's plenty for most use cases. In our real-world testing, playing at 50% volume, we consistently got around 7.5 hours of playback. The USB-C charging is quick too - about 3 hours from empty to full.
Auracast™ is a standout feature that lets you connect multiple speakers together. While testing, we paired two Go 4s for true stereo sound, which significantly improved the listening experience. This feature is particularly useful for creating a wider soundstage in larger spaces.
Here's where the JBL Go 4 really shines:
During a recent business trip, I used it as my hotel room speaker. The compact size meant it barely took up any space in my carry-on, while the sound quality was perfect for unwinding after meetings.
The waterproofing came in handy during a beach day - sand and splash exposure didn't faze it at all. The volume was sufficient to provide background music for a small group of friends.
While it's not meant to replace a proper home theater setup, it works surprisingly well as a desktop speaker or for casual listening in smaller rooms. The clarity at lower volumes makes it excellent for podcast listening while cooking or working.
At under $50, the Go 4 competes with speakers costing significantly more. The build quality, sound performance, and feature set make it an exceptional value, especially considering the latest Bluetooth standard and app integration.
JBL's use of recycled materials in the speaker grille and housing deserves recognition. The FSC-certified packaging printed with soy ink shows attention to environmental impact without compromising on protection during shipping.
The Go 4 is ideal for:
Consider alternatives if you:
After extensive testing, the JBL Go 4 proves itself as a remarkably capable ultra-portable speaker. It strikes an excellent balance between size, sound quality, and features, making it a standout choice in the budget speaker category. While it won't replace your home theater system, it excels in its intended role as a portable audio companion.
The improvements over the Go 3 are meaningful - better sound, modern connectivity, and thoughtful features like app integration and Auracast support. For anyone seeking quality portable audio without breaking the bank, this speaker deserves serious consideration. Just remember its limitations: it's designed for personal or small-group listening, not for powering your next block party.
Yes, the JBL Go 4 offers excellent value at under $50. It delivers impressive sound quality, modern features like Auracast and app control, and durable construction. While not suitable as a primary home theater speaker, it's perfect for personal listening, travel, and secondary rooms.
The speaker reaches 83.3 dB, which is loud enough for personal listening and small groups in medium-sized rooms. It's suitable for bedroom TV audio or bathroom music but isn't designed to fill large spaces like living rooms.
Yes, using Auracast™ technology, you can pair two JBL Go 4 speakers for true stereo sound. This feature is particularly useful for creating a wider soundstage when watching movies or gaming in smaller spaces.
Yes, the speaker has an IP67 rating, meaning it's fully waterproof and dustproof. It can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes without damage.
The battery lasts up to 7 hours on standard settings, or 9 hours with Playtime Boost enabled. Actual battery life depends on volume level and usage patterns.
While the JBL Go 4 can connect to Bluetooth-enabled TVs, it's not ideal as a primary TV speaker due to potential audio lag and limited stereo separation. It's better suited as a secondary audio solution for bedrooms or small spaces.
With Bluetooth 5.3, the theoretical range is up to 240 meters in open spaces. In real-world conditions with walls and interference, expect reliable connection up to 30-40 feet.
No, the JBL Go 4 doesn't have built-in voice control or smart assistant features. However, you can control it through your phone's voice assistant while connected.
Yes, using the JBL Portable app, you can adjust bass and other frequencies through the equalizer settings. This allows you to customize the sound profile for different content types.
The JBL Go 4 improves upon the Go 3 with better sound quality, longer battery life, and new features like Auracast support and app integration. It also has improved water resistance and more robust build quality.
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: tomsguide.com - outeraudio.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - corporategift.com - jbl.com - target.com - dell.com - projectorscreen.com - mm.jbl.com
JBL Go 4 |
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Power Output - Determines how loud and clear the speaker can get: 4.2W RMS |
Driver Size - Larger drivers typically produce fuller sound: 45mm / 1.75" |
Frequency Response - Range of sounds the speaker can produce: 90 Hz - 20 kHz |
Battery Life - Real-world runtime at moderate volume: Up to 7 hours (9 with Playtime Boost) |
Charging Time: 3 hours |
Bluetooth Version - Better range and stability than older versions: 5.3 |
Water/Dust Rating - Determines outdoor usability: IP67 (fully waterproof) |
Weight: 0.42 lbs |
Dimensions: 3.7 x 3.0 x 1.7 inches |
Maximum Volume Level - Important for outdoor use: 83.3 dB |
Connectivity Features - Enables multi-speaker setup: Auracast™, Stereo Pairing |
App Support - Allows sound customization: JBL Portable app with EQ controls |
Charging Port: USB-C |
The JBL Flip 6 ($99.99) takes a significant step up in audio performance with its 30W dual-driver system and passive radiators, delivering noticeably fuller sound and deeper bass response compared to the Go 4. This larger speaker packs serious audio improvements that become immediately apparent when playing bass-heavy tracks or trying to fill larger spaces with sound. The addition of dedicated tweeters and woofers, along with sophisticated digital signal processing, helps the Flip 6 maintain clarity at higher volumes while handling complex musical passages with better definition. Its 12-hour battery life also provides substantially more playback time for extended use.
While the price difference is considerable, the Flip 6's enhanced capabilities make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize sound quality over ultimate portability. The JBL Flip 6 excels in small gathering situations where its room-filling sound and robust bass response really shine. However, its larger size and heavier weight mean it's more suited to backpack or bag carry rather than pocket storage. For those who can accommodate its larger form factor and don't mind spending more, the Flip 6 offers meaningful advantages in sound quality and versatility that justify its premium positioning in JBL's portable speaker lineup.
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The JBL Clip 5 stands out from its smaller sibling with its more powerful 7W output and integrated carabiner design, making it noticeably more versatile for outdoor activities and group listening. The larger 45mm driver delivers fuller sound with better bass response, while the extended battery life of 12-15 hours provides nearly double the playback time. The robust metal carabiner isn't just an add-on feature - it's a genuinely useful design element that transforms how you can use the speaker, whether it's clipped to a backpack, bike handlebar, or shower rod.
While the JBL Clip 5 commands a $30 premium over the Go 4, its improvements in sound quality, battery life, and mounting options make it a compelling choice for users who need more than just personal listening. The larger size and weight are reasonable trade-offs for the enhanced performance, though they do make it less pocket-friendly. For shared listening environments or outdoor use where volume and clarity matter more than ultimate portability, the Clip 5's additional features and performance capabilities justify its higher price point.
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The $139 JBL Charge 5 offers a significant step up in both power and versatility compared to the Go 4. With its 40W total output through a dedicated woofer and tweeter system, plus dual passive radiators, the Charge 5 delivers room-filling sound that can handle outdoor gatherings and home entertainment needs. The larger speaker also boasts impressive 20-hour battery life and includes the ability to charge other devices through its USB port - a feature that proves surprisingly useful during extended outings or power outages.
While the price difference is substantial, the Charge 5's additional features and superior sound quality justify the investment for users who need more than personal listening capabilities. The Charge 5's PartyBoost feature enables true stereo pairing with another Charge 5, creating an immersive soundstage that works well for both music and movie playback. However, if portability is your primary concern or you mainly need a speaker for personal use, the Go 4's compact size and lower price point make it a more practical choice. The $139 JBL Charge 5 excels when you need the extra power, bass response, and versatility for group settings or home entertainment.
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The Marshall Stockwell II represents a more premium approach to portable audio, offering significantly more powerful sound through its three-amplifier system: a 10W woofer and dual 5W tweeters. While it's considerably larger and heavier at 1.38kg, it justifies its $129.99 price tag with superior sound quality, particularly noticeable in its deeper bass response and true stereo separation. The retro-inspired design includes practical analog knobs for precise control over volume, bass, and treble - a feature that proves surprisingly useful in different listening environments.
Where the Go 4 focuses on portability, the Marshall Stockwell II aims to be a more complete audio solution, capable of serving as a primary speaker in smaller rooms. Its 20-hour battery life and quick-charge feature (providing 6 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging) make it more suitable for extended use, though its IPX4 rating means it's less weather-resistant than the Go 4. While it sacrifices ultimate portability and waterproofing, it delivers substantially better audio performance, making it a better choice for users who prioritize sound quality over ultra-portability and can justify the higher investment for better audio reproduction.
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The Marshall Willen II represents a premium approach to ultra-portable audio, offering significantly more power and features at its higher $119.99 price point. With a 10W amplifier and dual passive radiators, it delivers noticeably fuller sound with better bass response than the JBL Go 4. The Marshall's standout 17+ hour battery life more than doubles the JBL's runtime, making it better suited for extended use. Its robust build quality, featuring a metal grille and rubberized housing, provides a more premium feel, while the versatile rubber strap offers additional mounting options that the JBL's simple loop can't match.
While the Marshall Willen II commands a significant price premium, it justifies the cost through meaningful real-world benefits. The speaker's superior sound projection and clarity make it more suitable for small group listening and outdoor use, while its quick-charge feature provides 5.5 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging. Advanced features like Stack Mode and future Auracast support offer more flexibility for multi-speaker setups, though these advantages may not justify the triple price increase for casual users who prioritize basic functionality and portability. The Marshall essentially offers a more capable, future-proof solution for those willing to invest in better audio quality and extended features.
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For those considering a step up in power and sound quality, the JBL Flip 5 offers significant advantages with its 20W output and larger racetrack-shaped driver. This increased power translates to room-filling sound that maintains clarity at higher volumes, while delivering noticeably deeper bass response starting at 65Hz. The larger size accommodates a more robust battery providing 12 hours of playback, making it ideal for all-day events or weekend trips. Its IPX7 waterproofing and PartyBoost feature for connecting multiple speakers add versatility for outdoor gatherings and larger spaces.
At $99.95, the JBL Flip 5 represents a different value proposition - you're paying twice the price for essentially five times the power output and significantly improved sound quality. This premium is justified if you frequently share music with others or need sound that can fill larger spaces. However, its larger size (7.12 x 2.91 x 2.71 inches) and heavier weight (1.2 pounds) mean you'll need a bag rather than a pocket to carry it. For those prioritizing pure audio performance over ultimate portability, the Flip 5's enhanced capabilities make it a compelling option despite the higher price point.
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The JBL Clip 4 takes a different approach to portable audio with its integrated carabiner design and larger 5W output. While slightly heavier at 0.53 pounds compared to the Go 4's 0.42 pounds, the Clip 4's mounting versatility makes it more practical for outdoor activities, bike rides, and shower use. The robust clip design, combined with its longer 10-hour battery life and identical IP67 water resistance, creates a more adventure-ready package that can securely attach to backpacks, belt loops, or handlebars.
When it comes to audio performance, the Clip 4's additional power translates to slightly higher maximum volume and clearer mids and highs, though it lacks the Go 4's newer Auracast feature for multi-speaker pairing. At $59.95, it commands a $10 premium over the Go 4, but the added versatility and battery life justify the cost for active users who prioritize mounting options over pocket-friendly size. However, those seeking the latest technology or planning to use multiple speakers in stereo mode should still consider the Go 4's newer platform.
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The Marshall Emberton II represents a significant step up in both audio performance and features, though it comes with a premium $169 price tag. Its dual 2-inch drivers and passive radiators deliver noticeably fuller sound with better bass response and stereo separation than the Go 4. The True Stereophonic technology creates an impressive 360-degree soundstage that fills larger spaces effectively, while the remarkable 30+ hour battery life means you can go days without charging. Quick charging capability adds convenience, providing 4 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging.
While substantially larger and heavier than the Go 4, the Marshall Emberton II justifies its size with additional features like Stack Mode for multi-speaker pairing and app-based EQ controls. The premium build quality and classic Marshall styling add to its appeal, though at four times the price of the Go 4, buyers should carefully consider whether they need the enhanced audio performance and extended feature set. For those who prioritize sound quality over ultimate portability and frequently use their speaker for longer sessions or larger gatherings, the Emberton II's additional capabilities make it a worthy upgrade despite the higher cost.
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The Marshall Emberton III represents a significant step up in both performance and features, though it comes with a premium price tag of $169.99. Its True Stereophonic technology, powered by dual 10W drivers and passive radiators, delivers notably richer sound with proper stereo separation and deeper bass response starting at 65Hz. The most impressive practical advantage is its exceptional 32-hour battery life, with quick-charging providing 6 hours of playback from just 20 minutes of charging. The speaker's Dynamic Loudness feature automatically adjusts audio balance across volume levels, making it more versatile for different listening scenarios, from quiet background music to louder outdoor gatherings.
While the Marshall Emberton III offers superior audio quality and features, buyers should consider whether these advantages justify the $130 price difference. The additional features include app-based EQ control, upcoming Auracast support for multi-speaker broadcasting, and more powerful room-filling sound. At 1.5 pounds, it's significantly heavier than the Go 4, but this adds to its premium feel and stable placement. For users who prioritize sound quality and plan to use their speaker frequently, particularly in group settings or for longer periods, the Emberton III's additional investment may be worthwhile. However, casual users who primarily need personal listening capabilities might find the Go 4's value proposition more appealing.
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The $119.99 Bose SoundLink Flex 2nd Gen takes a different approach to portable audio, offering significantly more powerful sound through its custom-designed transducer and dual passive radiators. While it's considerably larger and heavier than the JBL Go 4, it delivers noticeably fuller audio with actual bass presence and better instrument separation. The Bose also includes advanced features like PositionIQ technology that automatically adjusts the sound based on the speaker's orientation, and its 12-hour battery life provides 33% more playback time. The premium build quality and superior microphone performance for calls help justify its higher price point.
For buyers considering both speakers, the choice largely depends on intended use and budget. The Bose SoundLink Flex excels in situations where audio quality takes priority over ultimate portability - it's ideal for small gatherings, outdoor events, and filling rooms with sound. While it costs three times more than the JBL Go 4, the investment makes sense for users who want their portable speaker to serve as their primary audio device rather than just a travel companion. However, if maximum portability and value are the main concerns, the JBL Go 4's ultra-compact size and lower price point make it the more practical choice for personal listening and travel use.
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The Beats Pill at $149.99 takes a significantly different approach to portable audio, offering 24 hours of battery life and substantially more powerful sound output through its dedicated woofer and tweeter design. While it's considerably larger than the JBL Go 4, it compensates with room-filling sound and deeper bass response that makes it more suitable for small gatherings or home use. The addition of power bank functionality and advanced features like stereo pairing mode adds genuine utility that might justify the higher price point for some users.
However, the Beats Pill's advantages come with notable trade-offs. At nearly four times the price and more than triple the weight, it sacrifices the everyday portability that makes the JBL Go 4 so practical. While the Beats Pill delivers superior audio quality and stronger bass response, these improvements may not justify the significant price premium for users primarily seeking a compact, portable speaker for personal listening. The decision largely comes down to intended use - the Beats Pill excels in situations where room-filling sound and extended battery life are priorities, while the JBL Go 4 remains the more practical choice for everyday portable use.
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The Bose SoundLink Micro sets itself apart with superior maximum volume and a more robust mounting system, featuring a tear-resistant strap that provides greater flexibility for securing the speaker to bikes, backpacks, or other outdoor gear. While both speakers share the same IP67 water resistance rating, the Bose's warmer sound signature and higher volume output make it particularly well-suited for outdoor environments where sound can easily dissipate. Its proven durability over years of real-world use has earned it a loyal following, especially among outdoor enthusiasts who value its secure mounting capabilities.
However, at $99.99, the Bose SoundLink Micro is significantly more expensive while offering older technology - including Micro-USB charging, Bluetooth 4.2, and no app support or EQ adjustment. While its sound quality and volume capabilities are impressive, the lack of modern features like multi-device connectivity and AuraCast support make its premium price point harder to justify for most users. Unless specific features like the superior mounting system or maximum volume are crucial to your needs, the newer JBL Go 4 provides better overall value with its modern feature set and more affordable price point.
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The Bose SoundLink Max ($299.99) takes a dramatically different approach to portable audio, offering room-filling sound from a substantially larger chassis. While it sacrifices the Go 4's pocket-friendly design, it delivers significantly more powerful audio with genuine stereo separation, deeper bass response, and enough volume to handle outdoor gatherings. The SoundLink Max also brings premium features like aptX Adaptive codec support, 20-hour battery life, and the ability to charge other devices through its USB-C port.
For nearly eight times the price, the SoundLink Max needs to justify its premium positioning, and it largely succeeds through superior sound quality and versatility. While it may seem unfair to compare these speakers directly given their price difference, it's worth understanding that the SoundLink Max can effectively replace a small home speaker system while still offering portability. Its larger size enables true stereo sound with impressive bass response that the Go 4 simply cannot match, and its extended battery life makes it more suitable for day-long events or weekend trips. However, buyers should carefully consider whether these advantages justify the significant price premium over the Go 4's more focused portable-first approach.
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The Bose SoundLink Flex ($119.99) takes a different approach to portable audio, offering significantly more powerful sound output and fuller bass response thanks to its larger size and advanced driver design. Its standout PositionIQ technology automatically adjusts audio equalization based on the speaker's orientation, ensuring consistent sound quality whether it's standing upright, lying flat, or hanging from its utility loop. The speaker's 12-hour battery life and ability to float while maintaining its IP67 water resistance make it particularly well-suited for outdoor activities and all-day use.
While it commands a higher price point, the SoundLink Flex justifies the premium with notably better sound quality and volume output that can fill larger spaces. However, this comes with the trade-off of larger size (201 x 52 x 93mm) and heavier weight (590g), making it less pocket-friendly than the Go 4. For users who prioritize sound quality over ultimate portability and don't mind the extra bulk, the SoundLink Flex delivers a more powerful and refined listening experience that's particularly noticeable when sharing music with groups or using it in outdoor settings.
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The Sony XB100 ($59.99) distinguishes itself with class-leading battery life, delivering a full 16 hours of playback compared to the JBL's 7-9 hours. Sony's implementation of a passive radiator alongside its main driver results in notably richer bass response and more balanced overall sound, though without the benefit of app-based EQ adjustments. While it lacks the JBL's multi-device connection capability, the Sony compensates with superior echo cancellation for clearer hands-free calls and a more premium feel to its build quality.
Where the Sony XB100 really shines is in its out-of-the-box sound performance and endurance. The speaker's passive radiator technology delivers fuller, more natural bass that's particularly noticeable when watching movies or listening to bass-heavy music genres. While it commands a $10 premium over the JBL, the combination of doubled battery life and superior bass response makes it the better choice for users who prioritize longevity and sound quality over customization features. However, those who prefer hands-on sound adjustment or need to frequently switch between audio sources might find the JBL's app control and multi-device connectivity more appealing despite its shorter battery life.
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The $199 Sony XE300 represents a significant step up in both size and capability, offering premium audio features that justify its higher price point. At 238mm in length and equipped with dual passive radiators and an X-Balanced speaker unit, it delivers substantially more powerful sound with genuine bass presence. The XE300's Line-Shape Diffuser technology, inspired by professional concert systems, creates a wider soundstage that fills medium to large spaces effectively. For users who need more volume and sound quality than the Go 4 can provide, the XE300's 24-hour battery life and quick charging feature (70 minutes of playback from a 10-minute charge) make it a reliable option for extended use.
While both speakers share IP67 water resistance, the Sony XE300 adds premium features like LDAC codec support for high-resolution audio and Party Connect for linking up to 100 compatible speakers. Its superior sound quality and volume make it better suited for outdoor gatherings and parties, though this comes with the trade-off of larger size and weight (1.3kg). The XE300's comprehensive app integration and advanced EQ controls provide more audio customization options, but these features come at a price point five times higher than the Go 4. For users who need room-filling sound and don't mind the larger form factor, the XE300 delivers a notably more powerful and versatile audio experience.
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The Soundcore BOOM 2 ($129.99) operates in an entirely different league, delivering substantially more power and features for those who need room-filling sound. With its 80W output through a 2.1 channel system (50W subwoofer plus dual 15W tweeters), it produces dramatically more volume and significantly deeper bass than the Go 4. The BOOM 2's BassUp 2.0 technology actively enhances low frequencies, while its 24-hour battery life offers triple the playback time. Additional features like the beat-synced light show and built-in power bank functionality make it much more than just a speaker.
While the price difference is substantial, the BOOM 2 justifies its higher cost for users who need its capabilities. Its ability to float while maintaining IPX7 waterproofing makes it ideal for pool parties, while the PartyCast 2.0 feature allows connection of over 100 speakers for larger events. The dedicated subwoofer and tweeters provide true stereo separation and fuller sound across all frequencies, though this comes at the cost of portability - weighing over 3 pounds and requiring more space than the Go 4. For those seeking a primary home speaker that can also handle outdoor gatherings, the additional investment delivers tangible benefits in both sound quality and versatility.
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The Soundcore Boom 2 SE represents a significant step up in both power and functionality, offering a comprehensive party speaker experience at $129.99. Its 2.1 channel audio system, featuring dual 15W tweeters and a 50W subwoofer, delivers substantially more powerful and nuanced sound than the Go 4's single driver. The enhanced audio architecture makes a real difference in larger spaces and outdoor settings, where the Boom 2 SE can easily fill the area with rich, bass-heavy sound. The addition of customizable LED lights and PartyCast 2.0 technology, which can connect up to 100 speakers, transforms it from a simple speaker into a complete entertainment system.
While the Soundcore Boom 2 SE weighs considerably more at 3.75 pounds, it compensates with an impressive 18-hour battery life and the ability to charge other devices through its USB port. This added utility, combined with IPX7 waterproofing and float capability, makes it a more versatile option for extended outdoor use or pool parties. Though it commands a higher price than the Go 4, the additional investment brings substantial benefits for users who need more than personal audio - including better bass response, higher maximum volume, and the ability to serve as a temporary home theater speaker. These features make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize sound quality and versatility over ultimate portability.
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The $23.99 Anker Soundcore Mini stands out with its impressive 15-hour battery life and versatile connectivity options, including FM radio, micro SD card support, and auxiliary input. Its 5W driver and passive radiator design deliver stronger bass response and higher maximum volume than the JBL Go 4, though with slightly less clarity in the midrange frequencies. The inclusion of multiple input options makes it more flexible for different use cases, while its budget-friendly price point offers exceptional value for casual listeners.
Where the Soundcore Mini falls short is in durability and modern features - it lacks water resistance and uses older Bluetooth 4.0 technology with micro-USB charging. However, its solid build quality, metal grille construction, and practical features like a built-in microphone make it a compelling alternative for indoor use. While it may not match the JBL's refined sound signature or premium build quality, the Soundcore Mini delivers impressive performance at half the price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize battery life and versatility over water resistance and premium audio quality.
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The Anker Soundcore 2 stands out with its impressive 24-hour battery life and more powerful 12W output, making it a compelling alternative for users prioritizing endurance and volume over ultimate portability. Its larger size accommodates dual drivers and a passive radiator, delivering noticeably fuller sound with better bass response compared to the Go 4. While it only offers IPX5 water resistance rather than full waterproofing, the Soundcore 2 makes up for this with excellent build quality and a slightly lower price point at $45.
Where the Soundcore 2 really shines is in its practical, everyday performance. The Anker Soundcore 2 hits a sweet spot for desk use or small gatherings, providing enough volume to fill a room while maintaining clear audio quality. While it lacks modern features like app-based EQ control and Auracast connectivity, its core functionality - including reliable Bluetooth 4.2 connection and straightforward controls - makes it an excellent value proposition for users who prioritize sound quality and battery life over cutting-edge features. The bigger size means it's less pocketable than the Go 4, but at just 0.78 pounds, it remains perfectly portable for bag carry.
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👌Anker Soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The Sonos Era 300 ($426.55) represents a completely different category of wireless speaker, focusing on premium home audio with its sophisticated six-driver array and Dolby Atmos capabilities. While significantly more expensive, it delivers room-filling sound with genuine spatial audio effects, particularly noticeable when streaming Atmos-enabled content or using a pair for home theater surround sound. The Era 300's advanced room correction technology and integration with the broader Sonos ecosystem make it a compelling choice for those building a permanent home audio solution.
However, comparing these speakers directly isn't particularly meaningful given their distinct purposes. The Era 300 excels as a premium home speaker with its WiFi streaming, voice control, and multi-room capabilities, but it requires AC power and isn't designed for portability. The Sonos Era 300 makes sense as a complementary purchase for those who want both a portable outdoor speaker and a high-quality home audio system, but shouldn't be considered a direct alternative to the JBL Go 4's ultra-portable use case.
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The Ultimate Ears MINIROLL takes a different approach to portable audio, prioritizing sound performance over pocket-friendly size. Its cylindrical design houses a larger 45.6mm driver paired with a passive radiator, enabling it to reach higher volumes (86-87 dBC) with notably stronger bass response than the Go 4. The most significant practical advantage is battery life, offering a full 12 hours of playback compared to the Go 4's 7-9 hours. While slightly larger at 279g, its integrated silicone strap design provides more versatile mounting options for outdoor activities.
At virtually the same price point, the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL makes sense for users who prioritize audio performance and outdoor versatility over ultimate portability. While it lacks the Go 4's app-based EQ controls, its PartyUp feature allows connection with multiple MINIROLL speakers for expanded sound coverage. The MINIROLL's stronger volume output and bass response make it better suited for outdoor gatherings and larger spaces, though this comes at the cost of pocket-friendliness. Both speakers offer IP67 water resistance, but the MINIROLL's more robust sound signature and longer battery life make it the better choice for extended outdoor use or situations where maximum volume is important.
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👌Ultimate Ears MINIROLL Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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The $299 Morel BIGGIE represents a completely different approach to portable audio, focusing on premium sound quality in a transportable package. Its standout features include a sophisticated two-way driver design with a dedicated 1-inch tweeter and 4-inch woofer, powered by 60 watts of Class D amplification. This audio architecture enables the BIGGIE to deliver room-filling sound with genuine bass extension down to 40Hz and significantly higher volume capabilities, reaching 95dB compared to the Go 4's 83dB. The larger size accommodates a more substantial battery, providing up to 20 hours of playback and the ability to charge other devices via USB-C.
While the BIGGIE's 5.7-pound weight and bookshelf-speaker dimensions make it less portable than the Go 4, it offers compelling benefits for those prioritizing sound quality over ultimate portability. The superior driver configuration and amplification result in noticeably better clarity, dynamics, and bass response, making it more suitable as a primary speaker for home or office use. However, buyers should consider whether these acoustic advantages justify the significant price premium and reduced portability compared to the Go 4, especially given the BIGGIE's lack of weather resistance and larger form factor. It's best viewed as a premium home speaker that happens to be portable rather than a direct competitor to ultra-portable options like the Go 4.
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👌Morel BIGGIE Portable Bluetooth Speaker Details
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