Choosing Between JBL's Ultra-Portable Speakers: Go 4 vs Clip 4

When it comes to ultra-portable Bluetooth speakers, JBL has long been a leader in balancing size, sound, and durability. The JBL Go 4 at $49.95 and JBL Clip 4 at $59.95 represent two different approaches to solving the portable audio challenge. Let's dive into what makes each unique and who they're best suited for.

Understanding the Category

Ultra-portable Bluetooth speakers need to excel in three key areas: they must be small enough to carry anywhere, durable enough to survive daily use, and sound good enough to justify carrying them instead of just using your phone's speaker. Unlike larger portable speakers that prioritize volume and bass response, these ultra-portables focus on clarity and usability in intimate settings.

The technology in this category has evolved significantly. Modern speakers use advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) to squeeze better sound from tiny drivers, while more efficient amplifiers help extend battery life. Both speakers here showcase these advances, though in different ways.

Design Philosophy and Evolution

The Go 4, released in 2024, represents JBL's latest thinking in pocket-sized audio. It's noticeably smaller than its predecessor, with a more refined square shape that's easier to slip into a pocket. The use of recycled materials in the housing shows JBL's commitment to sustainability without compromising durability.

The Clip 4, introduced slightly earlier, takes a different approach with its integrated carabiner design. This seemingly simple addition transforms how and where you can use the speaker. While slightly larger than the Go 4, its mounting versatility makes it more practical for many users.

Both speakers feature IP67 water and dust resistance, meaning they can survive submersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This is a significant improvement over earlier models that only offered splash resistance.

Performance Deep-Dive

Audio Quality

The Go 4's 4.2W amplifier paired with its 45mm driver delivers surprisingly full sound for its size. The DSP tuning favors clarity in the midrange, which makes voices in podcasts and vocals in music particularly clear. Bass response is present but naturally limited by physics - you can't move much air with such a small driver.

The Clip 4's 5W system with a similar-sized driver takes a different approach, offering slightly more volume headroom. In testing, it maintains clarity better at maximum volume, though both speakers exhibit some compression when pushed to their limits. The Clip 4's larger housing also allows for better bass response, though the difference is subtle.

Battery Technology

Battery technology shows some interesting differences:

• Go 4: 3.23Wh Li-ion polymer battery (7-9 hours)
• Clip 4: Larger capacity battery delivering 10 hours

The Go 4's "Playtime Boost" feature is particularly interesting - it adjusts the DSP and power management to extend battery life by about 2 hours, though with some impact on maximum volume.

Connectivity and Features

Both speakers use Bluetooth 5.x, offering excellent range and stability. The Go 4 adds Auracast support, allowing multiple speakers to connect for stereo sound - a feature the Clip 4 lacks. Both support the JBL Portable app for EQ adjustment and firmware updates.

Real-World Usage

Having tested both speakers in various scenarios, their strengths become clear:

The Go 4 excels as a personal speaker for desk use or casual listening. Its smaller size makes it perfect for:

• Office desk companion
• Hotel room travel speaker
• Pocket carry for impromptu listening

The Clip 4 proves more versatile for active use:

• Clipping to backpack straps while hiking
• Hanging in the shower
• Attaching to bike handlebars
• Securing to a beach umbrella

Value Consideration

Value extends beyond the $10 price difference. The Go 4's newer technology and smaller size come at the cost of battery life and mounting options. The Clip 4's slightly higher price brings greater versatility and longer runtime.

Consider these factors:

• Daily carry preference (pocket vs bag)
• Typical listening duration
• Need for mounting options
• Importance of latest features like Auracast

How to Decide

Choose the Go 4 if:

• Smallest possible size is crucial
• You'll mostly use it indoors
• You want the latest technology
• You might want to add a second speaker later for stereo

Choose the Clip 4 if:

• You need secure mounting options
• Outdoor use is common
• Longer battery life is essential
• Slightly better sound quality matters more than size

Technical Features Worth Noting

Both speakers include some impressive technology:

• Advanced DSP for optimized sound
• USB-C charging with fast charge support
• Bluetooth multipoint pairing (connect two devices simultaneously)
• Echo and noise-cancelling speakerphone functionality

The Go 4's newer platform adds:

• Auracast support
• Playtime Boost mode
• More efficient power management
• Recycled materials in construction

Final Thoughts

After extensive testing, both speakers prove excellent in their intended roles. The Go 4 represents the ultimate in portability with modern features, while the Clip 4 offers more versatility and longer runtime in a slightly larger package.

For most users, the decision will come down to how they plan to use the speaker. If it's primarily for personal listening at a desk or in a pocket, the Go 4's smaller size wins out. For active users who want to mount their speaker or need longer battery life, the Clip 4's design proves more practical.

Both speakers demonstrate how far ultra-portable audio has come, delivering impressive sound quality that would have been impossible in this size just a few years ago. They represent different approaches to solving the portable audio challenge, each excelling in their intended use cases.

JBL Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices

JBL Clip 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices