JBL Charge 4 vs JBL Charge 5: A Comprehensive Review of Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speakers

5/24/20241 min read

A comprehensive review of JBL charge #4 vs #5 Bluetooth, waterproof and charge station.

The JBL Charge series has long been a staple in the portable Bluetooth speaker market, renowned for its robust performance and durability. Since its inception, the Charge line has consistently delivered high-quality sound, extended battery life, and rugged designs. The JBL Charge 4 and JBL Charge 5 continue this legacy, presenting themselves as formidable contenders in the world of portable audio devices. Both models are designed to cater to outdoor enthusiasts, frequent travelers, and anyone in need of a reliable speaker that can withstand various environmental conditions.

At a glance, the JBL Charge 4 and Charge 5 share several key features. Both speakers boast a waterproof rating of IPX7, ensuring they can handle splashes, rain, and even brief submersion in water. This makes them ideal companions for poolside parties, beach outings, and other outdoor activities. Furthermore, each model offers Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to wirelessly stream music from their devices with ease. The long playtime, another hallmark of the Charge series, ensures that these speakers can keep the music going for hours on end, which is perfect for extended gatherings or adventures where charging options may be limited.

The primary aim of this comparison is to provide an in-depth review of the JBL Charge 4 and JBL Charge 5, examining their features, performance, and any potential drawbacks. By exploring aspects such as sound quality, battery life, durability, and additional functionalities, this review seeks to offer valuable insights to prospective buyers. Whether you are a loyal JBL fan looking to upgrade or a newcomer seeking a reliable portable speaker, this comprehensive analysis will help you understand the strengths and limitations of each model. Ultimately, the goal is to inform rather than to judge, allowing readers to make well-informed decisions based on their specific needs and preferences.

Feature Comparison: JBL Charge 4 vs JBL Charge 5

When comparing the JBL Charge 4 and JBL Charge 5, several key features come into play, each influencing user experience differently. Starting with the design, both models showcase JBL's signature rugged build quality, ensuring durability for outdoor use. However, the Charge 5 is slightly more refined, with a sleeker design, marginally smaller size, and a lighter weight, making it more portable. Both models offer a variety of color options, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.

Sound quality is a crucial factor for any Bluetooth speaker. The JBL Charge 4 delivers robust audio performance, characterized by a well-balanced sound and deep bass response, thanks to its dual passive radiators. In contrast, the Charge 5 elevates the audio experience with an upgraded driver and a separate tweeter, resulting in clearer highs and enhanced bass. This improvement in speaker components gives the Charge 5 a distinct edge in sound clarity and richness.

Battery life is another area where both models impress. The JBL Charge 4 provides up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge, with a charging time of approximately 4 hours. Similarly, the Charge 5 offers the same impressive 20-hour playtime but benefits from USB-C charging, which is more efficient. Both models also include a built-in power bank functionality, allowing users to charge their devices on the go.

Waterproof rating is an essential feature for portable speakers. The JBL Charge 4 comes with an IPX7 rating, making it fully waterproof and submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The Charge 5, however, takes it a step further with an IP67 rating, which not only ensures waterproof capabilities but also adds dust resistance, enhancing its suitability for outdoor environments.

Regarding connectivity, the Charge 4 features Bluetooth 4.2 with a connectivity range of up to 30 feet. The Charge 5, on the other hand, boasts Bluetooth 5.1, providing a more stable connection and extended range. Additionally, the Charge 5 introduces JBL PartyBoost, allowing users to pair multiple JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers for a more immersive audio experience.

Both models have their unique advantages. The Charge 4 offers solid performance with excellent battery life and waterproof capabilities, while the Charge 5 brings improvements in sound quality, design, and connectivity. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Pros and Cons of JBL Charge 4 and JBL Charge 5

The JBL Charge 4 has garnered a reputation for its robust build quality and reliable performance. Users appreciate its durable construction, which makes it ideal for outdoor use. The sound performance is solid, delivering clear and balanced audio with a decent bass response. Additionally, the battery life is commendable, offering up to 20 hours of playback on a single charge. However, one of the main drawbacks of the JBL Charge 4 is its lack of newer features. It does not support the latest Bluetooth version and lacks the PartyBoost feature, which allows multiple JBL speakers to be connected for a more immersive sound experience.

On the other hand, the JBL Charge 5 brings several enhancements to the table. One of its standout features is the improved waterproof rating of IP67, making it even more resistant to dust and water than its predecessor. This makes the Charge 5 an excellent choice for beach outings and poolside parties. The sound quality has also seen an upgrade, with deeper bass and clearer highs. Another advantage is the inclusion of PartyBoost and USB charge out, allowing users to connect multiple speakers and charge their devices simultaneously. Despite these improvements, some users find the higher price point of the JBL Charge 5 to be a potential drawback. Additionally, a few minor design tweaks, such as the repositioning of buttons, may not appeal to everyone.

User experiences and feedback for both models have been generally positive, with many praising their respective strengths. The JBL Charge 4 is often lauded for its reliability and value for money, while the Charge 5 receives accolades for its advanced features and superior audio performance.

In summary, both the JBL Charge 4 and JBL Charge 5 offer unique strengths that cater to different user preferences. The Charge 4 is a solid, dependable choice for those who prioritize battery life and durability, while the Charge 5 is ideal for users who seek enhanced sound quality and additional functionalities.