The JBL Pulse 4 is a standout product in portable Bluetooth speakers. It delivers superior sound and provides an experience that lights up your world—literally. With its customizable RGB lights, IPX7 water resistance, and robust design, the JBL Pulse 4 combines style, sound, and durability. Whether at a party, lounging by the pool, or out in the wilderness, this speaker is engineered to enhance your audio and visual experience.
Quick Specs
- Speaker Type: Portable Bluetooth speaker with LED light show
- Bluetooth Version: 4.2
- Output Power: 20W
- Frequency Response: 70Hz – 20kHz
- Water Resistance: IPX7 (can be submerged up to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
- Battery Life: 12 hours of playtime
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
- Audio Output Mode: Stereo
- Speaker Dimensions: 8.4 x 3.7 x 3.7 inches
- Weight: 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg)
JBL Pulse 4 Release Date
The JBL Pulse 4 was first released in 2019 and quickly gained popularity due to its unique combination of functionality and design. It followed the success of its predecessors, including the Pulse 3, offering more advanced features, especially in the light and sound departments. The JBL Pulse 4 was designed to focus on portability, durability, and ease of use, making it an attractive option for outdoor enthusiasts and party-goers.
Unboxing the JBL Pulse 4
When you unbox the JBL Pulse 4, you’ll find the following items:
- JBL Pulse 4 Speaker
- USB-C to USB-A Charging Cable
- User Manual
The speaker is neatly packaged and feels premium in hand. It has a solid build and sleek design. The addition of the transparent plastic exterior with RGB lighting immediately draws attention. The setup is simple—just plug it in, turn it on, and connect via Bluetooth to start enjoying high-quality sound with a mesmerizing light show.
Design, Display, and Controls
The JBL Pulse 4 truly shines in its design. It features a transparent cylindrical body with 360-degree RGB lights, which can be customized through the JBL Connect app. Whether hosting a party or relaxing at home, you can adjust the light show to suit your mood. The speaker has a sleek, modern look that’s sure to be a conversation starter.
Key design features include:
- 360-degree RGB lights: A full circle of customizable LED lights that wrap around the speaker.
- IPX7 Water Resistance: Protected from water and submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
- Portable Size: Weighs only 2.6 lbs, making it easy to carry for on-the-go use.
- Simple Controls: Physical buttons for volume control, play/pause, and track skipping. A “PartyBoost” button lets you link multiple JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers.
Differences Between Sizes and Variants
The JBL Pulse 4 is available in two color variants—black and White. Both feature the same impressive functionality and offer the same customizable lighting effects. The only difference is the exterior color, which can be chosen based on your preference. Both variants offer the same level of performance, so your choice of color will depend on which aesthetic you prefer.
Available Colors
- Black: A classic, sleek look that blends seamlessly with any environment.
- White: A brighter, more contemporary appearance that adds a touch of elegance.
Features of the JBL Pulse 4
The JBL Pulse 4 is not your average Bluetooth speaker. It combines stunning audio performance with dynamic visual effects, making it a standout in the portable speaker market. Below are all the features of the JBL Pulse 4, broken down in detail.
360-Degree RGB Light Show
One of the defining features of the JBL Pulse 4 is its 360-degree RGB light show. Unlike typical speakers with a single-directional LED light display, the Pulse 4 wraps its lighting effects around the speaker, creating a completely immersive experience.
- Customizable Lights: The JBL Connect app allows you to fully personalize the lighting patterns and colors. Choose from various light effects, from gentle fades to strobing bursts that match the rhythm of your music.
- Sync with Music: The lights can pulse and change in time with the music, giving you a visual representation of the sound. Whether you’re throwing a party or simply relaxing, the light show will adapt to the beat of your tunes.
- Multiple Light Themes: The app offers preset light themes that allow you to quickly set the mood for any occasion. The vibrant colors can be tailored to complement any atmosphere, whether you’re in a lively setting or looking for a more subdued vibe.
IPX7 Water Resistance
The JBL Pulse 4 has an IPX7 water resistance rating, which means it can be submerged up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) deep in water for 30 minutes without damage. This makes it an excellent choice for poolside parties, beach outings, or rainy-day adventures.
- Waterproof Design: The IPX7 rating ensures that the speaker will continue working even if it is accidentally dropped in a pool or exposed to rain.
- Perfect for Outdoor Use: Whether you’re by the water or just in an environment where spills and splashes are likely, the Pulse 4 offers peace of mind.
Impressive 12-Hour Battery Life
The Pulse 4 features a 12-hour battery life, allowing you to enjoy your music and light show for an extended period without recharging. This is ideal for long outdoor gatherings, beach trips, or backyard parties.
- Extended Playtime: With up to 12 hours of continuous play, you can keep the party going well into the night without worrying about your speaker dying prematurely.
- Battery Indicator: The speaker includes an indicator light that shows the current battery level so you can plan your charging accordingly.
Bluetooth Connectivity
The JBL Pulse 4 uses Bluetooth 4.2, ensuring a stable and reliable wireless connection with your phone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
- Wireless Streaming: Stream your music wirelessly from any Bluetooth-enabled device without cables.
- Range: It provides a typical Bluetooth range of about 30 feet (around 9 meters), allowing you to control your music from a distance without losing connection.
- PartyBoost Compatibility: The Pulse 4 supports JBL’s PartyBoost feature, allowing you to connect multiple compatible JBL speakers wirelessly. This creates a more expansive sound experience when needed.
Stereo Sound Output
The Pulse 4 delivers stereo sound with built-in transducers, ensuring clear and crisp audio output, whether playing music, watching a video, or enjoying a podcast.
- High-Quality Audio: Despite its small size, the Pulse 4 produces rich, balanced sound with good clarity. It may not have deep bass like more prominent speakers, but it compensates with an open soundstage that offers decent mid and high frequencies.
- 360-Degree Sound: The speaker’s cylindrical shape is designed to provide 360-degree sound, meaning the audio is evenly distributed around the speaker, creating a surround-sound effect perfect for group listening.
Transducer: 2.25-inch Driver
The Pulse 4’s 2.25-inch driver produces the speaker’s sound. Though compact, it delivers quality audio that fills a room or outdoor space.
- Balanced Sound Profile: The speaker’s driver ensures that it offers clear highs and mid-tones, though it lacks some of the deep bass that more prominent speakers like the JBL Charge 5 provide.
- Compact Yet Powerful: Despite its relatively small driver size, the Pulse 4 packs a punch and can provide sufficient sound output for smaller to medium-sized spaces.
Easy-to-Use Controls
The JBL Pulse 4 features a set of physical controls on top of the speaker, which are easy to access and use. These include:
- Play/Pause: You can control playback by pressing a button.
- Volume Control: The speaker has dedicated volume up and down buttons for easy sound adjustment.
- Track Control: A single press skips to the next track, though there’s no option for going backward to the previous song.
- PartyBoost Button: This button lets you connect the Pulse 4 with other compatible JBL PartyBoost speakers, creating an immersive sound system that can fill any space.
- Light Control: A specific light button allows you to adjust the RGB light settings, which can be synchronized with the music.
JBL Connect App Integration
The JBL Connect app is an essential feature of the Pulse 4, allowing you to customize the speaker’s settings, particularly the RGB light effects. With this app, you can:
- Adjust Lighting Effects: Choose from multiple preset themes or create custom light shows.
- Firmware Updates: Keep your speaker up-to-date with the latest software features and improvements.
- Multi-Speaker Pairing: Connect multiple JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers to create a more extensive sound system and a synchronized light show.
Compact and Portable Design
Weighing just 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg), the JBL Pulse 4 is highly portable and easy to carry. Its compact cylindrical shape makes it easy to store and transport, and the build quality ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Lightweight: The Pulse 4 is easy to carry in one hand, and its size is perfect for throwing in a bag or taking on a trip.
- Sleek Aesthetics: The speaker’s transparent plastic housing gives it a modern, futuristic look that stands out at any event or gathering.
USB-C Charging Port
The Pulse 4 utilizes a USB-C charging port for faster and more convenient charging. This ensures you can quickly top up the battery, so you’re ready to go in no time.
- Faster Charging: With USB-C, charging is more efficient, meaning less waiting and more time for music and fun.
- Universal Compatibility: USB-C is a widely adopted charging standard, meaning you likely already have a compatible charger.
Price and Availability
The JBL Pulse 4 is available from various online retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and JBL’s official website. The price typically ranges from $250 to $300, depending on the retailer and ongoing promotions. Given its unique combination of high-quality sound, water resistance, and customizable lighting, the Pulse 4 is priced competitively within the portable Bluetooth speaker market.
JBL Pulse 4 Comparison
JBL Pulse 4 vs JBL Pulse 3
The Pulse 4 is a significant upgrade over the Pulse 3, particularly in design and lighting. It boasts a 360-degree RGB light show, offering a more immersive visual experience. The Pulse 3, in comparison, only provides lighting on the top and bottom of the speaker. Additionally, the Pulse 4 offers better sound quality and longer battery life than its predecessor.
JBL Pulse 4 vs JBL Pulse 5
While the Pulse 4 is a great speaker, the Pulse 5, which is the next generation, improves on several key aspects. The Pulse 5 includes a graphic EQ for more precise sound customization, a feature missing in the Pulse 4. It also has a better low-bass response, enhancing performance for those who prefer deeper sounds. However, the Pulse 5 does not feature physical play/pause or volume buttons like the Pulse 4, which some users might miss.
JBL Pulse 4 vs JBL Charge 4
The JBL Charge 4 is another fantastic portable speaker, but it caters more to those seeking superior sound performance. It offers better bass response and a higher maximum output, making it a better choice for larger parties or outdoor events. However, the Charge4 lacks the customizable RGB lights that make the Pulse 4 so unique. It has a more rugged design, with a dustproof and water-resistant IP67 rating.
Is it Worth Buying the JBL Pulse 4?
The Speaker offers excellent value to those who want more than Bluetooth speakers. Its dynamic RGB light show and durable design make it a fantastic choice for parties, outdoor adventures, and relaxing nights at home. While it may not have the deepest bass or the most customizable sound settings, its unique visual appeal and portability make it a top contender in the portable speaker market.
Conclusion
The JBL Pulse 4 is a feature-packed portable Bluetooth speaker that excels in sound and aesthetics. Its 360-degree RGB light show, IPX7 water resistance, and solid battery life make it a perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts, partygoers, and anyone who enjoys immersive sound and visuals. While it may not have the best bass or sound customization features compared to other speakers, the Pulse 4 is a unique, fun, and reliable option for those looking for more than just a speaker.
FAQs: JBL Pulse 4 Review: Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker with Lights
Is the JBL Pulse 4 waterproof?
Yes, the JBL Pulse 4 has an IPX7 water resistance rating, meaning it can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without damage.
How long does the JBL Pulse 4 battery last?
The JBL Pulse 4 offers up to 12 hours of battery life, allowing you to enjoy continuous music and lighting effects for extended periods.
Can I customize the RGB lights on the JBL Pulse 4?
Yes, the RGB lights on the JBL Pulse 4 are fully customizable through the JBL Connect app, allowing you to create unique light shows that sync with your music.
What is the Bluetooth range of the JBL Pulse 4?
The JBL Pulse 4 has a typical Bluetooth range of 30 feet (9 meters), allowing you to control your music from a distance.
Can I connect multiple JBL Pulse 4 speakers together?
Yes, the JBL Pulse 4 supports PartyBoost, which lets you wirelessly pair it with other compatible JBL speakers to create a larger sound system and synchronized light shows.
