As a music lover, I'm always on the lookout for the next great sound experience. I recently got my hands on the JBL Go 4. This little guy promises big sound in a ridiculously portable package so I was eager to put it to the test. After a week of using it everywhere from the kitchen counter to the backyard pool, I'm ready to share my verdict.
First impressions? The Go 4 is undeniably cute. Seriously, it's tiny! It fits comfortably in the palm of my hand, making it the perfect companion for anyone who's constantly on the go. The woven fabric exterior feels durable and adds a touch of style and the rubberized accents on the sides provide a good grip. This isn't some fragile piece of tech you have to baby; it feels like it can handle a bit of rough and tumble (though I didn't give it the full test).
But let's be honest, looks aren't everything. The real question is: how does it sound? I was pleasantly surprised. For such a small speaker, the JBL Go 4 packs a serious punch. The bass is deeper and richer than I expected, and the overall sound is surprisingly clear and well-balanced. It's not going to blow you away with earth-shattering bass, but it's more than capable of filling a small room or providing enjoyable background music outdoors. I listened to everything from my favorite indie tracks to bass-heavy electronic music, and the Go 4 handled it all admirably.
One of the biggest selling points for me is the Go 4's portability. It’s lighter than my phone! I clipped it onto my backpack while hiking, threw it in my beach bag, and even used it in the shower without worrying thanks to its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. Seriously, this thing is built for adventure. I didn’t have to worry about splashes, rain, or even a quick dunk in the water. It just kept on playing.
Beyond its ruggedness, the Go 4 boasts some other nifty features that make it a truly versatile speaker. The Bluetooth connectivity is seamless and reliable. Pairing it with my phone was a breeze and I didn't experience any annoying dropouts or connectivity issues.
Another feature I appreciate is the Playtime Boost. This setting optimizes the sound profile to extend the battery life, which is super useful when you're away from a power source for an extended period. I found I could easily get the advertised seven hours of playtime and even a bit more with the Playtime Boost activated, making it perfect for long hikes or beach days.
Now, let's talk about the downsides. While the sound is impressive for its size, it's not going to replace a dedicated Bluetooth speaker or home stereo system. The Go 4 is designed for portability and convenience, and as such, it has its limitations. Also, while the bass is decent, it can get a little muddy at higher volumes, especially with bass-heavy tracks.
Finally, while the controls are simple and intuitive, I would have loved to see dedicated volume buttons on the speaker itself. You can control the volume through your connected device, but it would be nice to have that option directly on the speaker.
So, who is the JBL Go 4 for?
In my opinion, the JBL Go 4 is perfect for anyone who:
Values portability: If you need a speaker that you can take anywhere without weighing you down, this is it.
Needs a rugged and durable speaker: The waterproof and dustproof design makes it ideal for outdoor adventures.
Wants a decent sound quality in a compact package: While it’s not going to blow you away, the sound is surprisingly good for its size.
Is looking for an affordable Bluetooth speaker: The Go 4 offers excellent value for its price point.
Final Verdict:
Overall, I'm incredibly impressed with the JBL Go 4. It's a tiny speaker that delivers big sound, is built to withstand the elements and is incredibly portable. While it has some minor drawbacks, the pros definitely outweigh the cons. If you're looking for a rugged, portable and affordable Bluetooth speaker, the JBL Go 4 is definitely worth considering. I know I'll be taking mine on many adventures to come! (We MUST have another Buff Road Trip Weekend coming up!)