JBL Charge 4 Review: Ultimate Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoor Use

The JBL Charge 4 speaker is a highly popular portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers exceptional sound quality, durability, and versatility. With its rugged design, long battery life, and impressive connectivity features, it’s the perfect choice for music lovers who need a reliable speaker for outdoor adventures or home use. This article provides an in-depth look at the JBL Charge 4, including its design, sound quality, and comparison with previous models.

Quick Highlights

• Release Date: August 28, 2018
• Waterproof and Dustproof: IPX7 rated for submersion in water
• Battery Life: Up to 13 hours of playtime
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2 supports pairing with multiple devices
• Portable: Compact, lightweight design
• Price: Around $89.00

Release Date

The JBL Charge 4 was officially released on August 28, 2018. Since its release, it has become a favorite choice among consumers looking for a portable and durable Bluetooth speaker. Over the years, it has remained one of the top sellers in the market.

JBL Charge 4 Unboxing

When you unbox the JBL Charge 4, you’ll find:

• The speaker itself
• A USB-C to USB-A charging cable
• A user manual

Notably, the box doesn’t include a wall charger, but the USB-C charging cable ensures quick and efficient recharging of the speaker. The setup process is straightforward, and the speaker is ready to use right out of the box.

Quick Specs: JBL Charge 4

Here are the key specifications of the JBL Charge 4:

• Speaker Type: Outdoor, portable Bluetooth speaker
• Dimensions: 22 x 9.5 x 9.3 cm
• Weight: 2.0 lbs (0.9 kg)
• Max Output Power: 30W
• Bluetooth Version: 4.2
• Water Resistance: IPX7-rated (submersible)
• Battery Life: 13.1 hours
• Charging Time: 4 hours via USB-C
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Aux input, USB audio output

See Full Specifications

Design and Display

This smart speaker features a sleek and rugged design, with a fabric mesh covering that enhances its durability. The compact design makes it easy to carry, whether you’re heading to the beach, a camping trip, or just hanging out in your backyard. While it doesn’t feature RGB lighting, the design is simple and practical, with a well-balanced body that delivers a powerful sound experience.

JBL Charge 4 Controls

The controls on Charge 4 are user-friendly and well-placed for easy access. The speaker includes buttons for controlling the volume, skipping tracks, and playing/pausing music. There are also dedicated buttons for Bluetooth pairing and turning the speaker on and off. The physical buttons make it easier to operate, even when you’re outdoors or on the go.

Differences Between Sizes and Variants

While the Charge 4 is available in one size, it’s important to compare it to other models in the JBL Charge series. The Charge 4 offers more power, durability, and better sound quality than its predecessors, such as the JBL Charge 3. However, it’s larger and heavier, which may not appeal to those who prefer a more compact speaker.

Available Colors

It is available in a wide range of colors to suit your style, including:

• Black
• Blue
• Red
• Teal
• Gray
• Pink
• White
• Camouflage

This variety ensures that users can choose a speaker that matches their personal style. Whether you prefer a classic look or something more vibrant, there’s a color for everyone.

Key Features of the JBL Charge 4 Speaker

1. Waterproof and Dustproof

One of the standout features of the Charge 4 is its IPX7 waterproof and dustproof rating. This makes it suitable for use in all weather conditions, including rain and splashes. You can even submerge the speaker in water up to a depth of one meter for up to 30 minutes without worrying about damage.

2. Sound Quality

The JBL Charge 4 delivers exceptional sound quality, thanks to its 30W output power. It produces deep bass, clear mid-range, and crisp treble, ensuring that your music sounds great no matter where you are. The sound is loud enough to fill large spaces yet remains distortion-free even at higher volumes.

3. Connectivity

The Charge 4 offers Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, allowing users to wirelessly stream music from their smartphones, tablets, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. It also supports dual-device pairing, which means you can connect two devices simultaneously. This feature is perfect for parties or situations where multiple people want to play their music.

4. Battery Life

The Charge 4’s impressive 20-hour battery life ensures that you can enjoy your favorite music for a long time without worrying about frequent recharging. Whether you’re having a picnic or hosting a beach party, this long-lasting battery allows you to keep the music going for hours.

5. JBL Charge 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker App

The JBL Portable app allows you to control your Charge 4 remotely. Through the app, you can adjust the volume, customize sound settings, and even connect multiple JBL speakers for a bigger sound. The app also supports Party Mode and Stereo Pairing, allowing you to link multiple JBL speakers for an enhanced listening experience.

Price and Availability

The Charge 4 is priced around $89.00, which makes it an affordable option compared to other high-end portable speakers. It is widely available at major retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, making it easy for customers to purchase.

Comparison Between JBL Charge 4 vs. JBL Charge 3

The Charge 4 offers improved sound, more output power, and better Bluetooth connectivity than the Charge 3. However, the Charge 3 still boasts an impressive battery life.

What’s Good About the JBL Charge 4 Speaker?

The JBL Charge 4 stands out due to its superb sound quality, long-lasting battery, and waterproof design. Whether you’re hosting a party or heading to the beach, this speaker delivers rich audio and durability.

What’s Not So Good About the JBL Charge 4 Speaker?

While the Charge 4 offers great features, it is heavier than many other portable speakers. Additionally, it lacks advanced features like voice assistants, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

Should You Buy It?

If you’re looking for a reliable, portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers excellent sound, durability, and long battery life, the Charge 4 is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for both casual users and outdoor adventurers.

Conclusion

The JBL Charge 4 is a well-rounded portable Bluetooth speaker that offers outstanding performance in sound, design, and battery life. With its waterproof and dustproof features, this speaker is perfect for outdoor use, making it ideal for music lovers who enjoy taking their tunes on the go. While it lacks some modern features like voice assistants, its durability and superior sound make it a top contender in its category. If you’re searching for a high-quality portable speaker at an affordable price, this is certainly worth considering.