JBL Go 4 vs. JBL Clip 5: Pros, Cons, and Verdict

Among compact Bluetooth speakers, JBL remains as a company over the years that consistently delivers high-quality portable audio.  Two of its models, the JBL Go 4 and the JBL Clip 5, are gaining popularity among consumers looking for compact yet powerful audio solutions. The JBL Go 4 is the latest in the highly successful Go series, known for its boxy design and great value. The JBL Clip 5, on the other hand, continues the legacy of the Clip series, featuring an integrated carabiner clip for on-the-go use.

Get confused which one should you buy?  In this comparison, we will explore the pros and cons of each model and give a final verdict to simplify your decision which one has a better value for your needs.

Design and Build Quality

JBL Go 4

The JBL Go 4 maintains the classic rectangular design that has become a hallmark of the Go series.  Its small size and simple, trendy style make it convenient to carry in a pocket or purse. The speaker weighs only 6.7 ounces (190 grams) and is quite portable, measuring around 3.7″ (Depth) x 1.7″ (Width) x 3″ (Height) inches. The Go 4 is available in an array of vibrant colors, satisfying a diverse set of preferences.

The JBL Go 4’s build quality is impressive considering its size and price. It has a robust plastic body with a rubberized coating for a strong grip. The speaker also has an IP67 classification, which means it’s dustproof and waterproof, making it ideal for outdoor sports and travel. The minimalist appearance is enhanced by simple buttons on the top for power, volume, and Bluetooth pairing.

JBL Clip 5

The JBL Clip 5, as the name suggests, has a clip that allows you to attach it to a variety of objects such as a backpack, belt loop, or bike handle. For people who are often on the go, this makes it an ideal companion. The speaker’s dimensions are significantly larger than the Go 4, measuring around 3.4″ (Depth) x 1.8″ (Width) x 5.3″ (Height) and weighs 10.22 ounces (290 grams). While it is slightly larger, the carabiner tie offers substantial versatility to the design.

The Clip 5 also features a rugged design with an IP67 rating, which means it can tolerate dust and water. The speaker grille is made of a strong cloth, and the back is rubberized to make it more resistant to shock. The control buttons are similarly located on the front and are easily accessible.

Verdict

In terms of design and construction quality, both speakers are well-crafted and weather-resistant. Your intended use will determine which option is best in this case. If you prefer a more small, pocket-friendly design, the JBL Go 4 is a better choice. If you care more about being able to clip your speaker to your gear, the JBL Clip 5 is the clear winner.

Sound Quality

JBL Go 4

Despite its small size, the JBL Go 4 delivers a surprisingly powerful sound. Its 4.2W speaker generates audio that is crisp and well-balanced. Though it falls short of larger speakers’ depths, the bass performance is respectable for its size. There is a good balance of mids and highs, resulting in singing and instruments sound clear and separate.

The Go 4 is best suited for small to medium-sized rooms or outdoor settings that do not require a high sound output. It works well in a variety of music genres, although it may not satisfy individuals who need deep bass or strong volumes. The speaker also maintains clarity at higher volumes, with minimal distortion, making it a solid choice for casual listening.

JBL Clip 5

The JBL Clip 5, on the other hand, features a slightly larger 5W driver that gives it an edge in terms of sound output. The bass is punchier and more powerful than on the Go 4, and the overall sound profile is richer and fuller. The mids and highs are also well-balanced, making it enjoyable to listen to a lot of different types of music.

One of the Clip 5’s most notable qualities is its capacity to produce loud sound in outdoor conditions. Because of its slightly larger size and improved bass response, it is better suited for outdoor activities where you may require a little more volume and depth in music. The Clip 5 can manage higher volumes making it an excellent alternative for anyone looking for a little more punch from their portable speaker.

Verdict

In terms of sound quality, the JBL Clip 5 takes the lead. Its bigger driver and improved bass response make it the ideal choice for individuals who value sound quality, particularly in outdoor settings. Despite its impressive specs, the Go 4 is ideally suited to relaxed indoor listening sessions.

Battery Life

JBL Go 4

For its size, the JBL Go 4’s 7-hour playback on a single charge is respectable, but it might not be enough for longer excursions. For speakers in this class, the charging time of roughly 2.5 hours is typical. Although the battery life is long enough for short listening sessions or daily journeys, it may need to be charged more often if used for longer periods of time.

JBL Clip 5

The JBL Clip 5 outperforms the Go 4 in terms of battery life, providing up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge. This longer battery life makes it more suited for day-long adventures, camping vacations, or other outdoor activities where charging options are limited. Like the Go 4, the charging process takes about 2.5 hours to complete.

Verdict

When it comes to battery life, the JBL Clip 5 is the clear winner. The Go 4 is better for shorter uses, while the Clip 5’s 12-hour playtime gives you more options and peace of mind for longer trips.

Portability

JBL Go 4

Portability is one of the strong suits of the JBL Go 4. Its compact, rectangular design makes it incredibly easy to slip into a pocket, bag, or even carry by hand. Weighing just under half a pound, it’s lightweight and doesn’t add much bulk to your load. It’s small enough that carrying it without a clip might be restricted, but that is rarely a problem.

JBL Clip 5

Distinct from competing portable speakers, the JBL Clip 5 has an integrated carabiner clip for easy transport. This clip allows you to connect the speaker to almost anything, making it an ideal choice for hikers, bikers, and travelers. Although it’s a little bulkier and heavier than the Go 4, the clip’s additional features more than compensate for that.

Verdict

In terms of portability, the JBL Clip 5 has a minor advantage because of its integrated clip, which expands the ways you can carry it. However, if you value small size and weight, the JBL Go 4 remains a good alternative.

Durability

JBL Go 4

The JBL Go 4 is designed to survive daily wear and tear. It is dustproof and waterproof (IP67 grade), so you can use it in a lot of different places without worrying about damage. Its rubberized texture and sturdy plastic construction make it resistant to knocks and drops.

JBL Clip 5

The JBL Clip 5 is also built to last, with a tough build and an IP67 rating for dust and water protection. The shock-absorbing properties of the durable fabric and rubberized body make it a good choice for outdoor sports. The inbuilt clip is particularly strong, keeping the speaker securely attached to your gear.

Verdict

Outdoor use is no problem for any of these two speaker because of their extraordinary durability. However, the JBL Clip 5’s tough build and integrated clip give it a little edge in terms of overall durability.

Connectivity

JBL Go 4

Standard Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity is built into the JBL Go 4. This gives you a stable link with a range of up to 33 feet (10 meters). It’s quick and easy to pair, and the speaker can remember devices that were joined before, so it’s easy to reconnect. For talks, the Go 4 can be used as a speakerphone because it has a microphone built in.

JBL Clip 5

Similar to the Go 4, the JBL Clip 5 offers comparable connectivity features through Bluetooth 5.1. With a range of up to 33 feet, it offers a stable link and lets you quickly pair with devices. But since the Clip 5 lacks an integrated microphone, hands-free calling is not possible with it.

Verdict

The two speakers are almost similar when it comes to connectivity. However, the JBL Go 4 has a built-in microphone that makes it slightly better for people who want to use their speaker for hands-free calls.

Additional Features

JBL Go 4

The JBL Go 4 is a straightforward speaker with limited additional features, but what it offers is practical and useful. The built-in microphone is a nice touch for hands-free calls, and the speaker can be paired with another JBL Go 4 for stereo sound.  It also lacks advanced features like voice assistant integration or app support.

JBL Clip 5

The JBL Clip 5, while also focused on simplicity, offers the unique feature of its integrated carabiner clip, which is its primary additional feature. It doesn’t include a microphone or advanced features like app support, but the clip adds a level of functionality that many users will find valuable.

Verdict

The built-in clip on the JBL Clip 5 is its best extra feature, while the JBL Go 4’s microphone for hands-free calls and ability to pair gives it an edge in terms of usefulness.

Price and Value

JBL Go 4

The JBL Go 4 is often less expensive than the Clip 5. This makes it an excellent option for people who need a compact, affordable Bluetooth speaker that doesn’t have a lot of extras. Its price-to-performance ratio is excellent, and it’s a solid choice for anyone on a budget who still wants quality sound and durability.

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Read our full review: JBL Go 4 review: A Pocketful of Punchy Sound

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JBL Clip 5

The JBL Clip 5 is often slightly more expensive than the Go 4, but this is justified by its extra features, which include an integrated clip and improved sound quality. But it is a worthwhile investment if you are willing to pay a slight premium for enhanced mobility features and a more robust sound.

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Verdict

Value is based on what you think is most important. The JBL Go 4 is a good budget-friendly alternative because it provides outstanding value for the money. It’s worth the extra money to get the Clip 5 if you want a bigger sound and more ways to move around.

The Bottom Line

To wrap up and make things easier, we provide a summary of our verdict for your easy reference at a glance. 

Overall Verdict

• • Design and Build Quality: JBL Clip 5 edges out the JBL Go 4 with its versatile clip and rugged design.
  • Sound Quality: JBL Clip 5 delivers richer sound and better bass, making it the superior option for those who prioritize audio performance.
  • Battery Life: JBL Clip 5 offers double the battery life, making it the better choice for extended use.
  • Portability: JBL Clip 5 wins due to its integrated clip, although the Go 4 is slightly more compact.
  • Durability: Both speakers are equally durable, but the Clip 5’s design gives it a slight edge.
  • Connectivity: JBL Go 4 takes the lead with its built-in microphone and stereo sound pairing, offering more versatility.
  • Additional Features: Clip 5’s integrated clip is a standout feature, while the Go 4’s microphone adds useful functionality.
  • Price and Value: JBL Go 4 is the better budget option, but the Clip 5 offers more value for those willing to spend a bit more.

Final Recommendation

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, compact speaker that still delivers good sound and durability, the JBL Go 4 is an excellent choice. The JBL Clip 5 is a better buy if you’re ready to shell out a little more cash for superior sound, more battery life, and extra mobility features. What matters most when choosing a speaker is your individual preference and how you plan to use it.