Small Speaker, Big Decision: Ultimate Ears MINIROLL vs JBL Go 4 Comparison

When you're looking for a compact Bluetooth speaker under $50, two standout options are the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL ($49.99) and the JBL Go 4 ($49.95). Both launched in early 2024, bringing fresh features to the ultra-portable speaker category. Let's dive into what makes each unique and who they're best for.

The Evolution of Portable Speakers

Portable Bluetooth speakers have come a long way in the past few years. The latest models pack surprisingly powerful sound into increasingly compact packages, while adding features like waterproofing and extended battery life. Both these speakers reflect those improvements, though they take different approaches to balancing size, sound, and features.

Sound Quality: More Than Just Volume

The MINIROLL stands out with its unique cylindrical design housing a 45.6mm active driver paired with a passive radiator - essentially a specially designed membrane that helps produce deeper bass without requiring additional power. This gives it an edge in maximum volume (86-87 dBC) compared to the Go 4's 83.3 dBC. For context, that's roughly the difference between a busy restaurant and a quieter café.

The JBL Go 4 uses a single 45mm driver but compensates with impressive digital signal processing (DSP) and app-based EQ controls. This means you can fine-tune the sound to your preferences, something the MINIROLL doesn't offer.

In real-world testing, the MINIROLL delivers noticeably more powerful bass and can fill larger spaces more effectively. The Go 4 produces cleaner, more balanced sound at lower volumes - perfect for personal listening or desktop use.

Battery Life and Charging

Here's where we see a significant difference:

• MINIROLL: 12 hours of playback
• Go 4: 7 hours standard, up to 9 with "Playtime Boost" mode

Both charge via USB-C, but the MINIROLL's longer battery life makes it more suitable for extended outdoor use or weekend trips. The Go 4's Playtime Boost feature is interesting - it optimizes power usage at the expense of some sound quality, useful when you need to stretch battery life.

Durability and Design

Both speakers feature IP67 ratings, meaning they're:

• Fully dustproof
• Waterproof up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
• Drop-resistant from reasonable heights

The MINIROLL weighs 279g and features a flexible strap that's great for attaching to backpacks or bike handlebars. The Go 4 is notably lighter at 190g and more pocket-friendly, though its rectangular design is less versatile for mounting.

Connectivity and Smart Features

Both speakers use Bluetooth 5.3, which provides:

• Improved range (40m for MINIROLL, theoretical 240m for Go 4)
• Better battery efficiency
• More stable connections

The MINIROLL's PartyUp feature lets you connect multiple speakers for bigger sound - great for outdoor gatherings. The Go 4 counters with its JBL Portable app, offering EQ adjustment and firmware updates.

Environmental Impact

It's worth noting both companies are making strides in sustainability:

• MINIROLL: 40% post-consumer recycled plastic
• Go 4: 80% recycled plastic, 100% recycled speaker grille fabric

Real-World Performance

After testing both speakers in various settings, here's what stands out:

Indoor Use

The Go 4 excels as a desktop speaker, offering clean sound at close range and easy control through its app. The MINIROLL's stronger bass can actually be a disadvantage in small rooms, where it might sound slightly boomy.

Outdoor Performance

The MINIROLL clearly pulls ahead outdoors, where its extra volume and bass make a real difference. Its cylindrical design also projects sound more evenly in all directions.

Travel Friendly

While both are highly portable, the Go 4's smaller size makes it easier to pack. However, the MINIROLL's longer battery life might be more valuable on longer trips.

Value Proposition

At essentially the same price point, your choice comes down to priorities:

MINIROLL advantages:

• Louder maximum volume
• Stronger bass response
• Longer battery life
• More versatile mounting options

JBL Go 4 advantages:

• More compact size
• App-based EQ control
• Cleaner sound at lower volumes
• Lighter weight

How to Decide

Consider your primary use case:

Choose the MINIROLL if:

• You frequently listen outdoors
• Maximum volume is important
• You want the option to pair multiple speakers
• Battery life is a key concern

Choose the Go 4 if:

• Pocket-sized portability is crucial
• You mostly listen at lower volumes
• You want to fine-tune your sound
• You primarily use it indoors

Looking Forward

Both speakers represent significant improvements over their predecessors, particularly in sound quality and feature sets. The MINIROLL builds on Ultimate Ears' reputation for outdoor-friendly speakers, while the Go 4 continues JBL's focus on compact, everyday-carry design.

Final Thoughts

While both speakers deliver impressive performance for their size and price, the MINIROLL offers slightly better overall value unless pocket-sized portability is your top priority. Its combination of stronger sound output, longer battery life, and outdoor-friendly design makes it more versatile for most users. However, the JBL Go 4 is an excellent choice for those prioritizing ultimate portability and indoor use.

The beauty of both these options is that they prove you don't need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a capable portable speaker. Whether you choose the more powerful MINIROLL or the more compact Go 4, you're getting a well-designed product that represents the latest in portable audio technology.

Ultimate Ears MINIROLL Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices

JBL Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Deals and Prices