When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, JBL is a household name that resonates with quality and affordability. The JBL GO, in particular, has been a fan favorite for its compact design, ease of use, and wallet-friendly price tag. But the question remains: Is JBL GO worth it?
Unpacking the Features of JBL GO
Before we dive into the pros and cons, let’s take a closer look at what makes the JBL GO tick.
The JBL GO is a pint-sized speaker that weighs a mere 220 grams and measures 82.6 x 30.8 x 27.8 mm in size. Its compact design makes it the perfect companion for outdoor adventures, pool parties, or casual gatherings with friends. The speaker’s housing is constructed from durable plastic, with a sleek and modern design that exudes a premium feel.
Under the hood, the JBL GO boasts a 40mm driver that pumps out a respectable 3W of power. This may not be the loudest speaker on the market, but it’s more than sufficient for small to medium-sized gatherings. The speaker also features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 5 hours of continuous playback on a single charge.
Other notable features of the JBL GO include:
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity with a range of up to 10 meters
- Hands-free speakerphone functionality with built-in microphone
- Micro-USB charging port
- Auxiliary input jack for wired connections
The Pros of JBL GO: Why It’s a Great Value for Money
So, what makes the JBL GO worth considering? Here are some compelling reasons:
Affordable Price Tag
The JBL GO is one of the most affordable Bluetooth speakers on the market, with a price tag that’s often below $50. This makes it an accessible option for those on a tight budget or looking for a secondary speaker for casual use.
Portability and Convenience
The JBL GO’s compact size and lightweight design make it a breeze to take on the go. Whether you’re heading to the beach, a hiking trail, or a backyard BBQ, the JBL GO is the perfect companion.
Surprisingly Good Sound Quality
Despite its small size, the JBL GO produces a respectable sound quality that’s clear, crisp, and well-balanced. The speaker’s bass response is particularly impressive, given its size constraints.
Robust Build and Water Resistance
The JBL GO’s durable construction and IPX7 waterproof rating make it a great option for outdoor enthusiasts. You can confidently take the speaker by the pool, beach, or in wet conditions without worrying about damage.
The Cons of JBL GO: What to Expect
While the JBL GO is an excellent value for money, it’s not without its limitations. Here are some areas where the speaker falls short:
Limited Volume and Bass
The JBL GO’s 3W driver means it’s not going to produce earth-shaking bass or ear-bleeding volumes. If you’re looking for a speaker that can fill a large room or outdoor space, you may want to consider a more powerful option.
Battery Life Could Be Better
While 5 hours of continuous playback is respectable, some users may find the battery life a tad short, especially if they’re planning an all-day outdoor adventure.
No Advanced Features
The JBL GO is a no-frills speaker that lacks advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity, voice assistants, or app support. If you’re looking for a speaker with more bells and whistles, you may want to explore other options.
Alternatives to JBL GO: Worth Considering
If the JBL GO doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, here are some alternative speakers worth considering:
Anker Soundcore Flare 2
The Anker Soundcore Flare 2 is a popular alternative to the JBL GO, offering a similar size and feature set but with improved sound quality and a more affordable price tag.
UE Wonderboom
The UE Wonderboom is another compact Bluetooth speaker that offers improved sound quality and a more rugged design. It’s slightly pricier than the JBL GO but still an excellent value for money.
Conclusion: Is JBL GO Worth It?
So, is the JBL GO worth it? If you’re looking for a compact, affordable, and easy-to-use Bluetooth speaker that can produce respectable sound quality, the answer is a resounding yes. While it may not be the most powerful or feature-rich speaker on the market, the JBL GO’s value for money is hard to beat.
If you’re on a tight budget, want a portable speaker for casual use, or need a waterproof speaker for outdoor adventures, the JBL GO is an excellent choice. Just be aware of its limitations, and you’ll be singing its praises in no time.
In conclusion, the JBL GO is a little speaker that packs a big punch, offering an unbeatable combination of portability, affordability, and sound quality. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your JBL GO and get ready to groove!
Is JBL GO a waterproof Bluetooth speaker?
The JBL GO is not a fully waterproof Bluetooth speaker, but it does have a water-resistant design. It has an IPX7 rating, which means it can withstand splashes and rain, but it’s not designed to be submerged in water for extended periods. While it’s not ideal for pool parties or beach trips, it can handle accidental spills or rainy days.
However, it’s essential to note that the JBL GO’s water-resistant design is not foolproof, and excessive water exposure can still damage the speaker. If you plan to use the speaker near water or in humid environments, make sure to take precautions to minimize its exposure to moisture. Additionally, avoid pressing any buttons or charging the speaker when it’s wet, as this can cause damage to the internal components.
Can I connect multiple devices to the JBL GO at the same time?
The JBL GO allows connection to only one device at a time. This means you can’t connect your phone and laptop simultaneously, for example. However, the speaker does have a feature called “Wireless Streaming” that allows you to connect two JBL GO speakers together for stereo sound.
While this limitation might be a drawback for some users, it’s essential to remember that the JBL GO is a budget-friendly Bluetooth speaker. Its affordable price point means you get a great value for its features, but you might have to make some compromises. If you need to connect multiple devices to your speaker, you might want to consider a more advanced model with this feature.
How long does the JBL GO battery last?
The JBL GO has a battery life of up to 5 hours on a single charge, depending on the volume level and type of content you’re playing. While this might not be the longest battery life among Bluetooth speakers, it’s still a decent amount of time for a small, portable speaker.
It’s also worth noting that the JBL GO has a compact design and weighs only 0.32 pounds, making it easy to carry around. If you’re looking for a speaker that can last all day, you might want to consider a more powerful model with a longer battery life. However, for casual use, the JBL GO’s battery life should be sufficient.
Can I use the JBL GO as a speakerphone?
Yes, the JBL GO has a built-in microphone and can be used as a speakerphone for hands-free calls. The speaker’s microphone is decent and can pick up your voice clearly, making it suitable for casual phone calls.
However, it’s essential to note that the JBL GO’s microphone is not designed for loud or noisy environments. If you plan to use the speaker in a busy office or outdoors, you might experience some issues with voice quality. Additionally, the speaker’s microphone is not noise-cancelling, so you might pick up some background noise during calls.
Is the JBL GO compatible with Android and iOS devices?
Yes, the JBL GO is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. It has Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity, which allows it to pair easily with a wide range of smartphones and tablets.
In fact, the JBL GO is remarkably easy to pair with devices. Simply turn on the speaker, put it in pairing mode, and select it from your device’s Bluetooth menu. The speaker also has a voice prompt that guides you through the pairing process, making it easy to get started.
Can I customize the JBL GO’s sound settings?
The JBL GO has a default sound setting that’s optimized for general use, but it doesn’t offer any customization options. You can’t adjust the treble, bass, or midrange frequencies to tailor the sound to your preferences.
While this might be a limitation for audiophiles, the JBL GO’s sound quality is still impressive for its price point. The speaker produces clear and balanced sound with decent bass, making it suitable for casual listening. If you’re looking for a speaker with advanced sound customization options, you might want to consider a more premium model.
Is the JBL GO a good option for outdoor use?
The JBL GO is a compact and lightweight speaker that’s well-suited for outdoor use, but it’s not ideal for loud or large gatherings. Its small size and 3-watt output mean it’s best suited for small groups of people or personal listening.
If you’re looking for a speaker for outdoor use, the JBL GO is a great option due to its portability and water-resistant design. However, if you need a speaker that can produce loud sound for a larger crowd, you might want to consider a more powerful model.