When it comes to portable audio in 2024, we're spoiled for choice. Today we're comparing two very different approaches to taking your tunes anywhere: the newly released Soundcore Boom 2 SE ($79) and the proven JBL Clip 4 ($49). While both are technically portable Bluetooth speakers, they serve distinctly different needs - and understanding those differences is key to making the right choice for your lifestyle.
The portable speaker market has come a long way from the early days of tinny, battery-hungry units. Modern speakers pack impressive sound into increasingly durable packages, with features that would have seemed like science fiction just a few years ago.
The JBL Clip 4 represents a refinement of the ultra-portable format JBL has been perfecting since 2014. Each generation has brought improvements in sound quality, battery life, and durability. The current model, released in late 2020, features Bluetooth 5.1 for more stable connections and better range.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE, fresh to market in March 2024, showcases how far party speaker technology has advanced. With its 80W output (that's about 16 times more powerful than the Clip 4), it demonstrates how modern battery and driver technology can deliver serious sound in a relatively compact package.
Let's be clear - these speakers target very different use cases. The Clip 4 literally clips to your backpack or belt loop, weighing just over half a pound. It's about the size of a smartphone, though thicker. You can toss it in a bag and forget it's there.
The Boom 2 SE is more of a "portable" party speaker - think carrying a small bag of groceries. At about 3.75 pounds, it's not heavy, but you'll definitely notice it. The integrated handle makes transport easy, but you won't be clipping this to your belt.
Here's where the differences really shine through. The Soundcore Boom 2 SE packs a 50W subwoofer and dual 15W tweeters (small speakers dedicated to high frequencies). When you activate its "BassUp" feature, it can push the total output to 80W. To put that in perspective, that's enough power to fill a medium-sized room or outdoor patio with clear, thumping sound.
The Clip 4's 5W output might sound tiny in comparison, but it's perfectly suited for personal listening or small group settings. Think picnic blanket range rather than pool party coverage. The sound is surprisingly well-balanced, though physics limits how much bass you can get from such a small enclosure.
Battery technology has come a long way, and both speakers show it. The Boom 2 SE boasts 24 hours of playback, though that drops significantly if you're using features like BassUp and the LED light show. The Clip 4 manages a respectable 10 hours, which is plenty for most day trips or beach outings.
Both charge via USB-C, with the Clip 4 taking about 3 hours for a full charge. The Boom 2 SE takes longer at 4 hours, but interestingly can also act as a power bank to charge your phone - a genuinely useful feature when you're away from outlets.
Both speakers carry impressive IPX7 ratings, meaning they can handle being submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The Boom 2 SE actually floats, which is handy for pool parties. The Clip 4's super-robust design and metal carabiner make it practically indestructible for everyday adventures.
Bluetooth has come a long way, and both speakers showcase this. The Boom 2 SE uses Bluetooth 5.3, while the Clip 4 uses 5.1. In real-world use, both provide stable connections up to about 30 feet indoors, though the Boom 2 SE claims longer range outdoors.
The Boom 2 SE adds some serious party tricks with its PartyCast 2.0 feature, allowing you to connect up to 100 compatible Soundcore speakers. That's probably overkill for most users, but even linking two speakers for true stereo is a nice option.
The Boom 2 SE includes a customizable LED light show that syncs with your music - it's fun at parties but does impact battery life. The accompanying app lets you adjust equalizer settings and customize the lights.
The Clip 4 takes a minimalist approach, focusing on core functionality. Its integrated carabiner is surprisingly useful - I've hung it from tent poles, shower rods, and bike handlebars.
Having tested both speakers in various settings, their strengths become clear. The Soundcore Boom 2 SE excels at outdoor gatherings, providing enough volume to keep a party going while maintaining clarity. The bass response is impressive for its size, though it can get a bit muddy at maximum volume.
The JBL Clip 4 shines in more intimate settings. It's perfect for solo adventures or small group activities where portability matters more than raw power. The sound is clear and balanced, though lacking the depth you'd get from larger speakers.
At $79, the Boom 2 SE offers remarkable value in the party speaker category, where comparable models often cost $150 or more. The feature set and power output make it a strong contender for anyone needing group-friendly volume.
The Clip 4's $49 price point feels right for what you get - premium build quality and reliable performance in an ultra-portable package. It's not trying to be more than it is, and that's refreshing.
Your choice between these speakers should primarily depend on your typical use case:
Choose the Boom 2 SE if:
Choose the Clip 4 if:
Neither speaker is objectively "better" - they're designed for different purposes. The Boom 2 SE offers party-ready sound in a still-portable package, while the Clip 4 delivers impressive personal audio in an ultra-portable format.
Consider your typical listening scenarios and choose accordingly. If you're still unsure, think about where you most often listen to music outside your home. That answer should point you toward the right choice between these two capable but very different portable speakers.
| Soundcore Boom 2 SE | JBL Clip 4 |
|---|---|
| Power Output - Determines volume capability and sound fullness | |
| 80W total (50W sub + 2x15W tweeters) - Party/group capable | 5W - Personal listening range |
| Size & Weight - Impacts portability and placement options | |
| 3.75 lbs with carry handle - Portable but substantial | 0.53 lbs with carabiner - Ultra-portable, clips anywhere |
| Battery Life - Critical for extended use away from power | |
| 24 hours (at 50% volume, less with features on) | 10 hours (standard volume) |
| Water Resistance - Important for outdoor use | |
| IPX7 waterproof + floatable design | IPX7 waterproof |
| Bluetooth Version - Affects connection stability and range | |
| 5.3 (100m range) | 5.1 (30m range) |
| Additional Features - Extra functionality beyond basic audio | |
| LED light show, power bank function, PartyCast 2.0, EQ app control | Built-in carabiner, simplified controls |
| Sound Character - How the audio is tuned | |
| Bass-forward with customizable EQ, room-filling sound | Balanced sound profile, clear mids, limited bass |
| Price & Value - Total cost vs. features | |
| $79 - Excellent value for party speaker capabilities | $49 - Competitive for premium ultra-portable |
| Primary Use Case - Who it's best for | |
| Group settings, outdoor parties, home entertainment | Personal listening, travel, outdoor activities |
| Charging - Power options and timing | |
| USB-C, 4 hours to full, can charge other devices | USB-C, 3 hours to full |
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE ($79) is significantly better for home theater use due to its 80W output and stronger bass response. While neither speaker is designed primarily for home theater, the Boom 2 SE could serve as a temporary solution or for outdoor movie nights. The JBL Clip 4 ($49) lacks the power and range needed for home theater applications.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE offers PartyCast 2.0 technology to connect multiple speakers, but it's not designed for true surround sound. The JBL Clip 4 cannot be paired with other speakers. Neither is recommended as a permanent surround sound solution.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE offers 24 hours of playback at moderate volume, while the JBL Clip 4 provides 10 hours. However, using features like BassUp and LED lights on the Boom 2 SE will reduce battery life significantly.
Yes, both the Soundcore Boom 2 SE and JBL Clip 4 are IPX7 waterproof rated, meaning they can be submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The Boom 2 SE has the additional advantage of being floatable.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE is significantly better for parties with its 80W output, LED light show, and ability to connect multiple speakers. The JBL Clip 4 is designed for personal listening rather than group entertainment.
While both speakers can connect to TVs via Bluetooth (if your TV supports it), the Soundcore Boom 2 SE is the better choice due to its fuller sound and stronger bass. However, neither speaker is ideal for permanent TV audio setup.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE has superior overall sound quality with more power, deeper bass, and customizable EQ. The JBL Clip 4 offers balanced, clear sound but with limited bass and volume due to its size.
The JBL Clip 4 is significantly more portable with its ultra-compact design and carabiner clip. While the Soundcore Boom 2 SE is technically portable with its carry handle, it's much larger and heavier.
Neither speaker is optimized for video calls, though both can function as Bluetooth speakers for this purpose. The JBL Clip 4 might be more practical due to its smaller size and closer proximity to the user.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE offers better Bluetooth range with version 5.3 and claims up to 100m range outdoors. The JBL Clip 4 uses Bluetooth 5.1 with typical range around 30m.
Both speakers offer good value for their intended uses. The Soundcore Boom 2 SE at $79 is excellent value for a party speaker with its features and power. The JBL Clip 4 at $49 is fairly priced for a premium ultra-portable speaker.
For movie watching, the Soundcore Boom 2 SE is clearly superior with its more powerful output and better bass response. The JBL Clip 4 lacks the volume and range needed for an immersive movie experience.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses 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: soundcore.com - gzhls.at - youtube.com - techradar.com - support.soundcore.com - digitaltrends.com - trustedreviews.com - soundguys.com - youtube.com - outeraudio.com - jbl.com - rtings.com - youtube.com - jbl.com - harmanaudio.com - youtube.com - ggelectronics.com - greentoe.com - soundstagexperience.com
