TOP 10 best JBL portable speakers according to customer reviews

JBL GO 2

The ranking opens with the most budget-friendly JBL Bluetooth speaker: the price is only 2,200 rubles. IPx7 waterproof - you can safely use it on the beach or near the pool. A powerful 730 mAh battery provides up to 5 hours of battery life, and charges in just two. Speakerphone function. The built-in microphone with noise reduction system allows you to use the speaker as a loudspeaker for phone calls.

Sound worthy of the brand. Speaker power - 3 W. Frequency range - from 180 to 20000 Hz. Connection with playback devices - via bluetooth 4.1 or audio cable.

Pros:

• price;
• materials and build quality;
• compactness. Dimensions - 71x86x32 mm;
• lightness: weight - 184 g;
• 12 colors available;
• good sound;
• moisture protection;
• noise canceling microphone;
• automatic shutdown after several hours of inactivity;
• stable connection.

Minuses:

• no charging progress indicator;
• autonomy - 5 hours, this is not the best indicator;
• no carabiner;
• tight buttons;
• included USB cable - short;
• it is difficult to remove the plug to access the ports;
• few high frequencies;
• it is impossible to pair with other speakers;
• small volume reserve.

The list of cons goes on. Some users want to see an accessory for attaching to a bicycle, a Type C charging connector, and a microSD connector; bluetooth 5.0, etc., but let's remember that this is a portable device costing less than $50 from a well-known brand, and let's not demand the impossible from it. For the money, the JBL GO 2 is great. If you need the most compact portable audio device for little money, this will suit you.

Top 8 JBL speakers

Best boombox

Boombox

The Boombox acoustic system can be used on a trip, outdoor recreation, or in the country. The safety of the system in difficult weather conditions is ensured by a plastic case with protection from moisture. The sound is stereo, coming from two speakers in the frequency range 50-20000 Hz. Its output power is high - 40 W.

The speaker receives power from the mains or batteries. When powered by 20,000 mAh batteries, it is capable of continuous operation for 24 hours. The cost of the speaker, 19,500 rubles, is justified by its powerful, clear sound and high-quality bass. The disadvantages include the rather large weight - 5.3 kg.

Price: RUB 19,390

The best speaker for battery capacity

Xtreme 2

The speaker has compact dimensions, weighs only 2.4 kg, has a strap with two carabiners, so it is easy to carry with you. Thanks to the 10,000 mAh battery, the speaker can operate for 15 hours without recharging. The sound is stereo, reproduced in the frequency range 55-20000 Hz.

The rubberized plastic case protects the device from moisture, dust, and unexpected situations; small legs ensure stability on the surface. The presence of a speakerphone with noise reduction options ensures good sound during phone calls.

With such attractive characteristics, the speaker costs only 11.5 thousand rubles. The disadvantages include insufficient sound quality in a busy street.

Price: ₽ 10,780

The best speaker with color music

Pulse 3

The acoustic system reproduces stereo sound in the frequency range 65-20000 Hz. The cylindrical waterproof case is made of transparent plastic, part of which is covered with fabric from the inside. The speakers are located on it in a circle, so the sound spreads 360 degrees. A 6000 mAh battery charge is enough to keep the speakers active for 12 hours at medium volume without backlighting. It is possible to select the backlight mode and color.

At a cost of 8 thousand rubles, the speaker system has a number of advantages, including:

• compactness (weight only 960 g);
• original lighting;
• presence of a speakerphone with functions for improving sound during telephone conversations;
• control via applications.

Among the disadvantages, users note that the operating time with the backlight is not long enough - about 4 hours.

Price: RUB 7,990

Best portable speaker

Charge 4

The rubberized casing of the speakers is protected from moisture. The device weighs only 0.96 kg, it can be taken to the beach, to the countryside, or to a vehicle, simply by putting it in a bag. The battery charge (7500 mAh) is enough to play sounds for 20 hours. The sound is stereo, its output power is 30 W, which indicates good sound quality at any volume.

The signal is reproduced at frequencies in the range of 60-20000 Hz. The sound is transmitted through a powerful speaker and amplified by a passive radiator. Having quite a lot of attractive qualities, the portable acoustics of this system are estimated at only 8 thousand rubles.

Price: RUB 7,990

Column, the best in terms of quality and price

Charge 3

The speaker has a plastic case covered with a rubberized fabric that protects from dust and moisture. A 6000 mAh battery charge provides sound playback for 20 hours. The built-in microphone with echo and noise reduction ensures good sound during phone calls. The total stereo sound output power of the two speakers is 20 W.

You can simultaneously connect up to three smartphones to the device, listening to them one by one. The sound is reproduced at frequencies of 65-20000 Hz - this value is the same as that of more expensive models. The shortcomings include the lack of a cover. According to users, the quality and range of functions of the speaker system correspond to the price of 7.5 thousand rubles.

Price: ₽ 7,500

Best waterproof speaker

Flip 4

The system is covered with a waterproof shell and can retain its characteristics even after being in water. At a cost of only 5 thousand rubles, the speaker is equipped with a number of interesting functions, including:

• microphone with noise and echo cancellation options to ensure sound quality during telephone conversations;
• passive radiators that improve the quality of bass sounds;
• simultaneous work with two tablets or smartphones;
• voice assistants.

Thanks to the battery capacity (3000 mAh), continuous operation for 12 hours is ensured. The sound is reproduced in the ranges of 70-20000 Hz. The total power of the two speakers is 16 W. The advantages include low weight - only 0.51 kg, the disadvantages are deterioration in sound quality when turned on at maximum volume.

Price: ₽ 5,020

The best speaker with a built-in microphone

CLIP 3

The speaker system with Bluetooth function has a flat shape, light weight (0.22 kg), and is fastened to clothing using a special carabiner. This allows you to listen to music even while walking. The plastic case is covered with a rubberized shell that protects the device from moisture. The battery capacity of 1000 mAh is enough for continuous operation for 10 hours.

Sound is transmitted at frequencies of 120-20000 Hz with an output power of 3.3 W. The built-in microphone with noise-cancelling and echo-cancelling features ensures clear calls when talking on the phone. The price of the speaker (2.5 thousand rubles) corresponds to the set of declared characteristics. The disadvantages include only one audio track (mono sound).

Price: ₽ 2,290

Best budget portable speaker

GO 2

The speaker weighs 0.18 kg and can be carried in your hand. It is protected from moisture and dust by a rubberized casing. The sound is mono, the output power of a single speaker is 3 W in the frequency range during playback - 180-20000 Hz.

The battery capacity of 730 mAh is enough for 5 hours of continuous listening. You can’t expect super loudness and excellent sound quality (especially bass) from a speaker with such characteristics, but the price of the speaker system is only 1.6 thousand rubles.

Price: ₽ 1,600

JBL CLIP 3

The CLIP 3 portable speaker differs from the previous JBL GO 2 rating model:

• dimensions - the model is slightly larger (97x137x46 mm);
• weight - 40 g heavier;
• shape - it is round;
• the presence of a carabiner for easy carrying;
• lower limit of the frequency range - 120 Hz;
• 1,000 mAh battery - up to 10 hours of battery life.

These models are comparable in volume and sound quality. The JBL CLIP 3 has a bit more bass. Price - 2500 rubles.

Pros:

• price;
• compactness;
• ergonomics;
• design, large selection of colors;
• IPX7 moisture protection;
• autonomy;
• good sound;
• noise canceling microphone;
• stable connection.

Minuses:

• it is impossible to pair with other similar devices;
• small volume reserve;
• the carabiner is not very convenient compared to the CLIP 2 model: it is built into the body and cannot be detached;
• no charge indicator;
• not enough bass.

Tourist's choice. Ideal for hiking and excursions. But in everyday life, a carabiner that does not detach can become a problem. In this regard, GO 2 will be more compact and convenient.

Review of the small portable speaker JBL Clip 4

Speakers from are popular not only for their powerful bass and appearance, but also for their unusual capabilities. In this review we will talk about the JBL Clip 4 speaker. We will also talk about what updates it received and how it differs from the previous model - Clip 3.

Content

• Characteristics
• Options
• Appearance
• Control
• Sound
• Autonomy
• Conclusion

CHECK THE PRICE JBL CLIP 4

Characteristics

Options

The column is supplied in plastic packaging made of fragile cardboard. On the front side of the package there is a transparent cover through which you can see the column itself and, accordingly, find out what color it is. Also on the front side there is a brand logo and the name of the device.

On the reverse side are the main technical characteristics. I would like to note that the speaker is packaged in a really colorful and interesting way.

In addition to the portable speaker, inside the package there are:

• USB charging cable - TypeC;
• Instructions (with pictures);
• Warranty card;

Appearance

I want to start with the fact that the column is noticeable from afar. And all this is due to materials and volumetric elements. Seeing it for the first time, the speaker immediately creates the impression of a high-quality device. If you compare this model with the previous one, you can immediately notice that the appearance of the Clip 4 has changed, and it has turned into something like an oval. The JBL Clip 4 is available in one of thirteen color schemes. The main part of the body is covered with a proprietary braid. There is a special carabiner for convenient fastening, with which you can hook the speaker to anything. For example, it can be hung on the handlebars of a bicycle, the loop of a backpack, clothes, and so on.

On the front side there are buttons (they are also on the side) and the brand logo. On the reverse side there are rubber strips that allow the speaker to confidently hold even on a wet, inclined surface.

The JBL lettering is made of dark gray rubber. The plastic buttons are the same color as the brand inscription. The carbine is made of metal. Agree that the inscription is very voluminous and looks very beautiful.

The connector is located on the bottom of the case. By the way, the USB-TypeC connector inside is red.

• Dimensions: 13.5 x 8.6 x 4.6 centimeters (W x H x D);
• Weight: 240 grams;

It is protected from water and sand, but I would not swim with it, since it is made according to the IP67 standard. This model, like the previous one, has a light indicator. White means the speaker is on, red means it’s charging. In general, I have no complaints about the quality and appearance.

Control

The buttons are located not only on the front side, but also on the side. Two buttons: on/off and Bluetooth connection are now on the left side. And in the previous version they were on the right side. Among the main updates, I would like to note the Bluetooth version 5.1 and the fact that there is no longer an AUX connector. Those who constantly used AUX instead of Bluetooth were most likely a little depressed. This is due to the fact that many smartphone manufacturers are abandoning the 3.5 mm mini-jack.

Sound

According to JBL, the reproduced frequency range is from 100 to 20,000 Hz. How true is this? Yes, it can deliver a little bass, but still, an acoustic system of this size is not capable of pumping out good bass. No wonder. You will hear notes, but you shouldn’t expect that very “meat” from it. I am sure that buyers of such speakers will not care about this, and they will not allocate each frequency spectrum.

To be honest, the sound is a little muffled, but during a picnic or some kind of hike it will not irritate you. I don’t recommend listening to music on it at maximum volume, as it starts to crackle slightly with overdrive. But it should also be noted that Clip 4 began to sound more powerful and richer than Clip 3. The difference with the 3rd version is felt immediately after the first listening.

Autonomy

On a full charge, the speaker can work for up to 10 hours. The JBL Clip 4 charges to a “full tank” via USB Type-C in about 3 hours. At average volume, the speaker can work for more than 10 hours. This is very nice, especially when you take it with you on a long walk, where there is not much opportunity to charge it.

Conclusion

I believe that Clip 4 is another evolution (although it is not exactly new) with good sound and excellent appearance. But this cannot be called a revolution, since there could be more changes. But it's still a good speaker for $50. If you are not picky about sound, I can recommend purchasing it. If, on the contrary, you are very demanding and understand frequencies, then most likely this speaker will not suit you. I still advise you to listen to it and see if you like it.

BUY JBL CLIP 4

JBL Soundgear

Portable acoustics with a unique form factor. Positioned as a speaker for watching TV. Made in the shape of a horseshoe, worn around the neck, and has 4 built-in emitters. At low volumes, they can be used as headphones, transmitting high-quality sound to the person wearing them, without disturbing others too much. In this regard, it is very convenient to use it for telephone conversations, however, in noisy places the microphone does not perform its functions very well. It's worth increasing the volume. The power of the device is 6 W, you can listen to music with a group in an average room for up to 6 hours in a row. Price - 4 thousand rubles.

Pros:

• smooth, streamlined shapes;
• soft fabric trim;
• uniqueness;
• stable connection;
• built-in microphone;
• good sound;
• complete immersion in music.

Minuses:

• The form factor is convenient for few. Universal devices of a regular shape are more popular;
• no moisture protection;
• In loud mode, the battery lasts half as long as advertised.

The column is not for everyone. More suitable for use with PC or TV. On the street it surprises passersby, it is convenient as a replacement for headphones. If you need a speaker for “mass” listening to music, it is better to choose a device of a regular shape.

JBL Flip 4

The next model in the rating is the fourth generation of the manufacturer’s legendary portable speaker. It retains the advantages of previous versions - excellent sound quality, autonomy, JBL Connect technology, speakerphone. At the same time, it received IPX7 moisture protection. Power - 16 W. Frequency range - 70–20000 Hz. Price - 4800 rubles.

Pros:

• design and ergonomics (materials and build quality, convenient controls, included in a bicycle bottle cage);
• excellent sound;
• 3000 mAh battery - up to 12 hours of battery life;
• fast charging;
• IPX7 moisture protection;
• JBL Connect supported;
• stable connection;
• Multipoint support (connect to several devices simultaneously).

Minuses:

• at high volume there is a lot of highs, the bass is drowned out;
• no AptX;
• not symmetrical: if placed with the top plane down, it falls;
• at high volume the charge is several times less than stated;
• There is no microSD slot.

A classic of the genre of this brand, one of the most popular models in the manufacturer’s line. A month ago, it had a follower, Flip 5. Whether it will be able to achieve the success of the 4th generation speaker, time will tell, but the fact that this is one of the most notable new products on the market this year is already clear. That's why I decided to include it in the rating.

JBL Pulse 4

Bright acoustic speaker of 2021.

The JBL Pulse 4 is a mid-sized portable speaker with a waterproof design, but you pay more for the LED lighting. JBL Pulse 4 offers even better looks than before, with the same great sound. The downside is that the Pulse 4 lacks the microphone and 3.5mm Aux jack of the previous generation. If you don't want to make calls through the speaker and don't have legacy devices that require an auxiliary jack, the Pulse 4 is an excellent JBL party speaker.

Main characteristics

• Type: mono
• Number of stripes: 1
• Sources and media: Bluetooth v 4.2
• Sensitivity: 80 dB
• Rated power: 20W
• Frequency range: 70 – 20000 Hz
• Features and capabilities: JBL PartyBoost, lighting effects
• Battery capacity: 7260 mAh
• Battery life: 12 hours
• Charging time: 3.5h
• Moisture protection: IPX7
• Dimensions: 207x96x96 mm
• Weight: 1260 g

Equipment

• JBL Pulse 4 wireless speaker
• USB Type-C charging cable
• Instructions

Video review

• Powerful and balanced sound for such a small size.
• Impressive LED lighting.
• Waterproof design.
• Ability to link multiple speakers.

• There is no speakerphone function or auxiliary input.
• No microphone, no 3.5mm auxiliary port.
• Surprisingly heavy.

JBL Flip 5

Compared to the 4th generation, Flip has more power - 20 W, an expanded frequency range - 65-20000 Hz, a battery with increased capacity - 4800 mAh, a Type C charging connector and support for PartyBoost multi-speaker synchronization technology. Works via Bluetooth. Externally, it is practically indistinguishable from the previous version, if you do not take into account the expanded palette - it is offered in 11 colors. Price - 6700 rubles.

Pros:

• design and ergonomics;
• excellent sound;
• autonomy - up to 12 hours;
• fast charging;
• USB Type-C;
• IPX7 moisture protection;
• PartyBoost support;
• stable connection;
• Multipoint support.

Minuses:

• overpriced;
• it is impossible to answer a call through the speaker - there is no microphone;
• does not connect with previous generations of brand speakers without PartyBoost support;
• no AptX;
• There is no microSD slot.

An interesting new product, but I recommend temporarily refraining from purchasing it. Firstly, the starting price will drop by at least 10 percent in a few months, and secondly, you will have time to decide whether you need a speaker that does not connect to others via JBL Connect. For now, Flip 4 remains relevant today, and Flip 5 is interesting as a new product, which is what the manufacturer plays on by setting an inflated price tag.

Comparison table of the best Jbl speakers

Alternative and analogues of Jbl

There is hardly a company that can compare in most parameters with the entire line of portable speaker systems produced by the famous brand.

However, some portable models from other established, emerging companies can compete with JBL in some formats.

So among the portable models we can highlight Jbl's competitors:

• Philips PixelPop is a wireless speaker with good battery life (7-8 hours of operation at maximum volume), a built-in microphone and an anti-clipping option;

• Soni SRS-XB10 – this portable little thing perfectly reproduces low frequencies (Extra Bass series) and can be paired with a second gadget to obtain stereo sound.

Some good alternatives for portable models are:

• Tronsmart Element T6 is a Bluetooth speaker from a developing brand with an interesting design (the speaker looks like a thermos), circular placement of speakers, with a total power of 25 W, continuous operation without recharging for 14 hours at 50% volume;

• Rombica mysound BT-28 is made in a stylish youth design, easy to carry and with a power of 20 W with long battery life and clear sound.

Analogs and powerful Jbl speakers:

• Mac Audio MMC 900 - this wireless speaker system from a German company has a power of 400 W, operates from the network, but differs in sound characteristics, the presence of LED panels, versatility, and value for money;

• Naim Audio Mu-so is a British-made two-channel Bluetooth speaker with a power of 500 W, small dimensions and a weight of 14 kg, and thanks to the subwoofer built into the top panel it produces very clear bass.

JBL Charge 3

The longest-lasting Bluetooth speaker from the manufacturer. Up to 20 hours of battery life from a built-in 6000 mAh battery. Hybrid power supply - can be powered by battery, network, or USB. Never be separated from your favorite music: even if your smartphone is dead, the speaker will transfer part of its energy to it (Power Bank function). A pair of 10-watt speakers with two passive bass radiators is responsible for the sound in the gadget. Even music lovers will appreciate the quality. Price - 7 thousand rubles.

Pros:

• design;
• excellent sound;
• built-in microphone with active noise reduction;
• autonomy;
• 5-level battery charge indicator;
• IPX7 moisture protection;
• Power Bank function;
• stable connection;
• JBL Connect support.

Minuses

• weight - 800 g;
• dimensions - 213x89x87 mm;
• loud intrusive sound when turned on;
• subwoofer diffusers are not protected;
• no protection against accidental clicks;
• no lanyard or other fastening for easy carrying;
• no radio and microSD slot;
• There is no mini jack/mini jack cable included;
• There is no case included.

Some of the shortcomings mentioned by users may seem like nitpicking, because the speaker has excellent sound and a Power Bank function. But for the set price, the manufacturer could expand the equipment. This is the only thing that serves as a stopping factor in the desire to purchase this speaker.

JBL Charge 4

A follower of the Charge 3 model. It features increased power - 30 W. The manufacturer managed to maintain autonomy for up to 20 hours. This was made possible by increasing the capacity of the built-in battery to 7500 mAh and replacing Bluetooth 4.1 with version 4.2. Therefore, the speaker has become slightly larger and heavier by 160 g. Price - 8390 rubles.

Pros:

• design (a large number of colors to choose from);
• good sound;
• large volume reserve;
• autonomy;
• Bluetooth 4.2;
• USB type-c;
• IPX7 moisture protection;
• Power Bank function;
• stable connection;
• JBL Connect support;
• bright button illumination.

Minuses:

• dimensions;
• weight;
• sound detail has become worse than in JBL Charge 3 due to the use of 1 speaker;
• no handle or fastenings for transportation;
• no case or bag included;
• no support for aptx, fast charging;
• no microSD slot;
• no power supply included.

Poor equipment is a manufacturer feature with a minus sign. It also affected the updated version of Charge. But the speaker power and volume reserve are sufficient for a room of 30 m2, autonomy up to 20 hours serve as justification for this model. Sound quality is all subjective. Some users insist that the Charge 3 sounds a little quieter, but much better due to stereo sound. It is advisable to compare the sound of both devices before purchasing and choose the one that will satisfy you more.

JBL Pulse 3

A backlit speaker that can decorate a party or home celebration. The top part is an acrylic capsule that diffuses the light from the LEDs inside. Speaker power - 20 W, surround sound, bass. If the power is not enough, you can connect up to 100 speakers with each other via JBL Connect. Autonomous operation - up to 12 hours. Price - 9600 rubles.

Pros:

• design and lighting;
• convenient location of buttons and connectors;
• good sound;
• IPX7 moisture protection;
• autonomy;
• JBL Connect support.

Minuses:

• price;
• dimensions and weight;
• not enough bass;
• no aptx support;
• there are no carrying devices;
• no cover included;
• the acrylic capsule is fragile and can be scratched and even crack;
• The declared autonomy is relevant when listening to music at medium volume with minimal backlighting. At maximum, the device produces no more than 5 hours;
• there is no forced adjustment of the backlight flashing speed;
• volume adjustment. At the lowest setting it still sounds loud.

Despite the large number of identified shortcomings, the high price, considering that there are no analogues to this model for organizing home parties, I recommend it for purchase. For a complete “breakaway” and get fantastic sound, you can combine several different speakers from the manufacturer via JBL Connect. If you need a universal speaker, the use of which will be appropriate not only at home, then I recommend Charge 3 or Flip 4.

JBL Xtreme 2

Large portable speaker with a power of 40 W (2 speakers of 20 W each). The sound is spacious, with an emphasis on high frequencies, while the bass is not enough for a device of such dimensions. Autonomy - up to 15 hours. There is a built-in noise-canceling microphone. Feature: cannot be charged via USB. But there is a Power Bank function. The package includes a cable and power adapter for charging. A nice bonus, given the weight and dimensions of the device, is a shoulder strap. Price - 12,790 rubles.

Pros:

• design;
• good sound;
• large volume reserve;
• noise canceling microphone;
• stable connection;
• autonomy;
• IPX7 moisture protection;
• Multipoint support, JBL Connect;
• ability to charge other devices via USB;
• connecting the source via audio cable;
• Carrying strap included.

Minuses:

• price;
• weight - almost 2.5 kg;
• not enough bass;
• at maximum volume, autonomy is halved;
• USB charging is not possible;
• no aptx support.

This is a good solution for outdoor picnics, beach parties and noisy events. For everyday use such a large volume reserve is not needed. It’s better to save money and buy Charge 3 or Flip 4 - they are more compact and easy to transport.

The best jbl Bluetooth speakers

The Bluetooth interface has greatly simplified the connection between the player and the speaker. But such communication is always limited by a certain distance. Below are models in which the manufacturer has focused specifically on the Bluetooth wireless communication range.

JBL Xtreme 2

pros

• High quality sound
• Carrying strap included
• Charges quickly
• Can work away from a paired device

Minuses

• Belt mount is scratched
• Perceptible weight

From 10000 ₽

A Bluetooth speaker that works even at a distance of 50 m from the player. This greatly simplifies the use of the device. There are two 20 W speakers that transmit both high and low frequencies. The battery lasts for 15 hours of continuous music playback.

JBL Pulse 3

pros

• Great bass
• Spectacular design
• Customizable backlight
• Moisture protection

Minuses

• Surface is sensitive to damage
• Not very capacious battery

From 10000 ₽

Spectacular JBL stereo speaker. Speaker power 20 W. It is possible to reproduce sounds in the range from 65 to 20,000 Hz. The installed battery does not have a large capacity. It lasts for 12 hours of work. A special feature of the speaker is the volumetric light-music system, which easily turns into a bright show by setting it up through a special application.