The JBL Go 3 Eco Portable Bluetooth Speaker is a compact, durable, and eco-friendly speaker designed for those who value portability and sustainability.Ideal for outdoor adventures, casual listening, and travel, this speaker stands out not only for its sound performance but also for its use of recycled materials, making it an environmentally conscious option. In this review, we’ll dive into the details of the JBL Go 3 Eco, covering its design, performance, and overall value.
Quick Highlights:
- Release Date: Oct 15, 2020
- Power Output: 3W
- Battery Life: Up to 5 hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP67 (waterproof and dustproof)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1
- Weight: 0.209 kg (0.46 lbs.)
- Eco-friendly: Made with 90% recycled plastic and 100% recycled fabric
Release Date: JBL Go 3 Eco
The JBL Go 3 was officially released on 10/15/2020. It quickly gained attention due to its improved sound quality and sleek design compared to its predecessors.
JBL Go 3 Eco Unboxing
Upon opening the box, you’ll find:
- JBL Go 3 Eco speaker
- USB-C charging cable
- Quick start guide
- Warranty card
It’s simple, ensuring that users can begin enjoying their music right away.
Quick Specs: JBL Go 3 Eco
Feature |
Specification |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours |
| Charging Time | 2.0 hours |
| Weight | 0.4 lbs. (0.2 kg) |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 rating |
| Dimensions | 9 x 7 x 4 cm |
JBL Go 3 Eco Colors:
This smart speaker comes in a wide range of colors, allowing you to choose one that suits your style. Some popular colors include:
- Black
- Blue
- Camo
- ECO Blue
- ECO Green
- ECO White
- Green
- Grey
- Pink
- Red
- Teal
- White
This variety ensures there’s a color for everyone.
Features: JBL Go 3 Eco Portable Bluetooth Speaker
1. Waterproof and Dustproof
One of the best features of this portable bluetooth speaker is its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. This means the speaker can withstand water immersion up to 1 meter and is completely protected from dust. Whether you’re by the pool, at the beach, or hiking in the rain, the Go 3 can handle it.
2. Sound Quality
Despite its compact size, it delivers impressive sound performance. It boasts a 3W output, producing clear highs and a surprisingly strong base for such a small device. While it’s not as powerful as larger speakers, the sound quality is more than sufficient for personal use, small gatherings, or filling a small room with music.
The speaker handles a range of music genres well, from pop and rock to jazz and classical. However, those seeking deep, thumping bass may find the Go 3 Eco’s performance somewhat limited, which is to be expected from a speaker of its size.
3. Connectivity and Range
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.1, the JBL Go 3 Eco offers a stable and reliable connection with your devices. It has a range of up to 10 meters, allowing you to stream music from your phone or tablet without interruptions, even if you step away for a moment.
Pairing is seamless and quick, and the speaker automatically reconnects to previously paired devices, saving time and effort when setting up your audio.
4. Battery Life and Charging
The JBL Go 3 Eco offers up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is decent for its size but may not satisfy those looking for longer listening sessions. For many users, the battery life will be enough for casual use throughout the day, but for extended outdoor activities, you might need to bring along a charger.
The speaker charges via USB-C, with a full recharge taking around 2.0 hours. The use of USB-C is a welcome feature, offering faster charging and compatibility with most modern charging cables.
Design and Build Quality
1. Eco-Friendly Design
It’s small and stylish and boasts an environmentally friendly build. The body is made from 90% recycled plastic, while the grille is covered with 100% recycled fabric. This eco-conscious construction makes it a standout choice for consumers who care about reducing their environmental footprint.
2. Portability
Weighing just 0.209 kg (0.46 lbs.) and measuring 1.63″D x 2.95″ W x 3.39″H, the Go 3 Eco is extremely compact and lightweight. It features a convenient strap that allows you to easily attach it to a bag or carry it in your pocket, making it perfect for on-the-go use.
3. Durability
With an IP67 rating, this smart speaker is waterproof and dustproof. This means it can handle immersion in water up to one meter for 30 minutes and is resistant to dust, making it ideal for poolside parties, beach outings, and rugged outdoor environments.
User-Friendly Controls
Operating the JBL Go 3 Eco is straightforward, thanks to its simple physical buttons:
- Power button to turn the speaker on/off
- Volume buttons to adjust the sound
- Bluetooth button for pairing with devices
- Play/pause button to control music playback
These buttons are located on the speaker’s side and are designed to be easily accessible, even when you’re on the move. The intuitive layout ensures quick control of your music without fumbling with your phone.
Comparison: JBL Go 3 Eco vs. JBL Go 3
JBL is renowned for producing compact, high-quality portable speakers; the JBL Go series is no exception. The JBL Go 3 and its eco-friendly counterpart, the JBL Go 3 Eco, deliver impressive audio performance in a diminutive package. However, the Eco model introduces a sustainable twist to JBL’s lineup. Let’s compare the two models to highlight their similarities, differences, and overall value, helping you decide which one suits your needs.
Key Specifications Comparison: JBL Go 3 vs. JBL Go Eco 3
| Feature | JBL Go 3 | JBL Go 3 Eco |
| Design | Compact, rugged, and portable | Compact, rugged, eco-friendly |
| Build Material | Standard durable plastic and fabric | 90% recycled plastic and 100% recycled fabric on speaker grille |
| Dimensions | 87.5 x 75 x 41.3 mm | 87.5 x 75 x 41.3 mm |
| Weight | 209 g | 209 g |
| Audio Output Power | 4.2W RMS | 4.2W RMS |
| Frequency Response | 110 Hz – 20 kHz | 110 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours | Up to 5 hours |
| Charging Port | USB-C | USB-C |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 (dustproof and waterproof) | IP67 (dustproof and waterproof) |
| Eco-Friendly Features | None | Made from recycled materials, packaging is FSC-certified and printed with soy ink |
| Price Range | Approximately $49.95 | Approximately $49.95 |
See a comprehensive comparison of JBL Go 3 Eco vs JBL Go 3
Side-by-Side Analysis
- Design and Sustainability:
The JBL Go 3 Eco retains the same compact and rugged design as the original JBL Go 3 but focuses on sustainability. Its build incorporates 90% recycled plastic and 100% recycled fabric for the speaker grille, making it a greener choice without compromising durability or style. Additionally, its packaging is FSC-certified and printed with soy ink, aligning with environmentally conscious practices. - Audio Performance:
Both models offer the same impressive audio output with 4.2W RMS power and a frequency range of 110 Hz to 20 kHz. The sound quality is identical, ensuring that the Eco model doesn’t compromise on performance while adopting sustainable materials. - Battery Life and Portability:
Both speakers provide up to 5 hours of playback on a single charge and are designed for maximum portability. Their identical dimensions (87.5 x 75 x 41.3 mm) and weight (209 g) make them equally convenient for on-the-go use. - Durability:
Both models are IP67-rated, meaning they are dustproof and waterproof. This makes them suitable for outdoor adventures, poolside parties, or even accidental splashes. - Pricing:
Both models are priced similarly, around $39.95, meaning consumers can choose the eco-friendly option without any additional cost.
Who is the Winner?
The JBL Go 3 Eco and JBL Go 3 deliver the same excellent sound quality, portability, and durability. However, the JBL Go 3 Eco takes it a step further by incorporating sustainable materials and eco-friendly packaging, making it the better choice for environmentally conscious buyers. With no compromise in performance or price, the JBL Go 3 Eco is a clear winner for those who want to enjoy great music while supporting sustainability. That said, if recycling initiatives are not a priority for you, the original JBL Go 3 remains a solid option.
See full comparison
Price and Availability: JBL Go 3 Eco
This portable Speaker is priced at around $39, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking an eco-friendly portable speaker. It’s available from a variety of retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and the official JBL website.
Should You Buy the JBL Go 3 Eco?
If you’re in the market for a portable Bluetooth speaker that combines eco-friendliness with solid sound performance, the JBL Go 3 Eco is an excellent choice. Its small size, waterproof design, and recycled materials make it perfect for outdoor adventures, while its affordable price ensures it won’t break the bank.
However, if you need longer battery life or more powerful sound, you might want to consider larger speakers or models with more advanced features. For casual listening and environmentally conscious consumers, the JBL Go 3 Eco delivers a great balance of performance and sustainability.
Conclusion
The JBL Go 3 Eco Portable Bluetooth Speaker is a standout product in the world of portable speakers, offering a compact and durable design that’s also environmentally responsible. Its waterproof and dustproof features, combined with decent sound quality and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, make it an excellent choice for personal use, especially for those who value sustainability. While the battery life and bass may not be its strongest points, the Go 3 Eco delivers on portability, durability, and eco-friendliness.
Does the JBL Go 3 Eco support voice assistants?
No, the JBL Go 3 Eco does not have built-in support for voice assistants like Google Assistant or Siri, but you can control your music via your device’s voice assistant.
Is the JBL Go 3 Eco eco-friendly?
Yes, the JBL Go 3 Eco is eco-friendly, as it is made from recycled materials, reducing its environmental impact while delivering high-quality audio performance.
How much does the JBL Go 3 Eco weigh?
The JBL Go 3 Eco weighs only 209 grams (0.46 lbs.), making it an ultra-portable and lightweight Bluetooth speaker perfect for on-the-go music enjoyment.
