When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, JBL is a household name that has been synonymous with quality and reliability. The company has been consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation, and its latest offerings, the JBL 4 and JBL 5, are no exception. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of these two popular speakers and explore the question on everyone’s mind: is the JBL 5 better than the 4?
Design and Build Quality
One of the most noticeable differences between the JBL 4 and JBL 5 is their design and build quality. The JBL 4 has a more compact and cylindrical shape, making it easier to carry around. It weighs in at 1.5 pounds and measures 6.9 inches in height and 3.7 inches in diameter. The JBL 5, on the other hand, has a more elongated and rectangular shape, weighing 2.3 pounds and measuring 7.9 inches in height and 3.7 inches in diameter.
In terms of build quality, both speakers are made of durable materials and have a rugged design that can withstand rough handling. However, the JBL 5 has a more premium feel to it, with a metal grille and a more robust construction. The JBL 4, while still well-built, has a more plastic-like feel to it.
Water and Dust Resistance
Both speakers are designed to be waterproof and dustproof, with IPX7 ratings that allow them to withstand being submerged in water up to 3.3 feet for 30 minutes. However, the JBL 5 has a more advanced sealing system that provides better protection against dust and water ingress.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, both speakers deliver impressive performance. However, the JBL 5 has a more detailed and nuanced sound signature, with better bass response and clearer highs. The JBL 4, while still sounding great, has a more balanced sound that may not be as detailed as the JBL 5.
One of the key features that sets the JBL 5 apart from the JBL 4 is its ability to produce deeper bass. The JBL 5 has a more advanced bass radiator system that allows it to produce lower frequencies, making it ideal for bass-heavy music.
Driver Size and Type
The JBL 5 has a larger driver size than the JBL 4, with a 52mm driver compared to the JBL 4’s 40mm driver. This larger driver size allows the JBL 5 to produce more detailed and nuanced sound.
In terms of driver type, both speakers use JBL’s proprietary driver technology, which is designed to provide clear and balanced sound. However, the JBL 5 has a more advanced driver design that allows it to produce better sound quality.
Battery Life and Charging
Both speakers have impressive battery life, with the JBL 4 lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge and the JBL 5 lasting up to 20 hours. However, the JBL 5 has a more advanced battery management system that allows it to provide more consistent power delivery.
In terms of charging, both speakers use USB-C charging, which provides faster and more convenient charging. However, the JBL 5 has a more advanced charging system that allows it to charge faster and more efficiently.
Power Bank Functionality
One of the key features that sets the JBL 5 apart from the JBL 4 is its power bank functionality. The JBL 5 has a built-in power bank that allows it to charge other devices on the go, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both speakers have Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, which provides reliable and stable connections to devices. However, the JBL 5 has a more advanced connectivity system that allows it to connect to multiple devices at once.
In terms of compatibility, both speakers are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. However, the JBL 5 has a more advanced compatibility system that allows it to work seamlessly with more devices.
Wireless Stereo and PartyBoost
One of the key features that sets the JBL 5 apart from the JBL 4 is its wireless stereo and PartyBoost functionality. The JBL 5 allows users to connect multiple speakers together to create a wireless stereo system, making it ideal for parties and outdoor gatherings.
Price and Value
In terms of price, the JBL 4 is generally cheaper than the JBL 5, with a price tag of around $100 compared to the JBL 5’s price tag of around $150. However, the JBL 5 offers more features and better sound quality, making it a better value in the long run.
Warranty and Support
Both speakers come with a 1-year warranty and dedicated customer support. However, the JBL 5 has a more comprehensive warranty program that provides better protection and support.
| Feature | JBL 4 | JBL 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Build Quality | Compact and cylindrical shape, 1.5 pounds, 6.9 inches in height and 3.7 inches in diameter | Elongated and rectangular shape, 2.3 pounds, 7.9 inches in height and 3.7 inches in diameter |
| Sound Quality | Impressive performance, balanced sound | More detailed and nuanced sound signature, better bass response and clearer highs |
| Battery Life and Charging | Up to 12 hours on a single charge, USB-C charging | Up to 20 hours on a single charge, USB-C charging, power bank functionality |
| Connectivity and Compatibility | Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, compatible with a wide range of devices | Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, more advanced connectivity system, compatible with a wide range of devices |
| Price and Value | Around $100 | Around $150 |
In conclusion, while both the JBL 4 and JBL 5 are excellent portable Bluetooth speakers, the JBL 5 offers more features and better sound quality, making it a better value in the long run. With its more advanced design and build quality, better sound quality, longer battery life, and more advanced connectivity system, the JBL 5 is the clear winner in this showdown.
What are the main differences between the JBL 5 and JBL 4?
The main differences between the JBL 5 and JBL 4 lie in their design, sound quality, and features. The JBL 5 has a more compact and lightweight design, making it easier to carry around. It also has improved sound quality with deeper bass and clearer highs. Additionally, the JBL 5 has more features such as waterproofing, Bluetooth 5.0, and a longer battery life.
In contrast, the JBL 4 has a more rugged design and is also waterproof, but it is slightly larger and heavier than the JBL 5. The sound quality of the JBL 4 is still good, but it may not be as clear and detailed as the JBL 5. The JBL 4 also has Bluetooth 4.2 and a shorter battery life compared to the JBL 5.
Is the JBL 5 worth the upgrade from the JBL 4?
Whether or not the JBL 5 is worth the upgrade from the JBL 4 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value improved sound quality, a more compact design, and longer battery life, then the JBL 5 may be worth the upgrade. Additionally, if you want the latest features such as Bluetooth 5.0 and waterproofing, then the JBL 5 is the better choice.
However, if you are on a budget and the JBL 4 meets your needs, then there may be no need to upgrade. The JBL 4 is still a good speaker that offers good sound quality and durability. Ultimately, the decision to upgrade to the JBL 5 depends on your individual circumstances and priorities.
How does the sound quality of the JBL 5 compare to the JBL 4?
The sound quality of the JBL 5 is generally considered to be better than the JBL 4. The JBL 5 has deeper bass and clearer highs, making it sound more detailed and nuanced. The JBL 5 also has a wider soundstage, which means that the sound seems to come from a wider area, creating a more immersive listening experience.
In contrast, the JBL 4 has a more balanced sound, but it may not be as detailed or nuanced as the JBL 5. The bass on the JBL 4 is still good, but it may not be as deep or rumbling as the JBL 5. Overall, the JBL 5 has a more refined and sophisticated sound that is better suited to music lovers who want high-quality sound.
Is the JBL 5 more durable than the JBL 4?
Both the JBL 5 and JBL 4 are durable speakers that are designed to withstand rough handling and harsh environments. However, the JBL 5 has a more compact and lightweight design that makes it less prone to damage. The JBL 5 is also waterproof, which means that it can withstand being submerged in water for short periods of time.
The JBL 4 is also waterproof, but it has a more rugged design that makes it more resistant to drops and bumps. However, the JBL 4 is slightly larger and heavier than the JBL 5, which makes it more prone to damage if dropped. Overall, both speakers are durable, but the JBL 5 may be more resistant to damage due to its compact design.
Can I use the JBL 5 and JBL 4 together?
Yes, you can use the JBL 5 and JBL 4 together to create a stereo pair. This allows you to enjoy true stereo sound with separate left and right channels. To do this, you need to pair both speakers to the same device using Bluetooth, and then use the JBL app to configure them as a stereo pair.
Using the JBL 5 and JBL 4 together can create a more immersive listening experience, especially when watching movies or playing games. The stereo sound can make the audio seem more realistic and engaging, and the separate left and right channels can create a wider soundstage.
Is the JBL 5 compatible with all devices?
The JBL 5 is compatible with most devices that have Bluetooth, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It also supports Bluetooth 5.0, which means that it can connect to devices that support this latest version of Bluetooth. However, some older devices may not be compatible with the JBL 5, especially if they only support Bluetooth 4.2 or earlier.
In general, the JBL 5 is compatible with most modern devices, including Android and iOS devices. However, it’s always a good idea to check the compatibility of your device before purchasing the JBL 5. You can do this by checking the specifications of your device and comparing them to the specifications of the JBL 5.
How long does the battery life of the JBL 5 last?
The battery life of the JBL 5 can last up to 20 hours on a single charge, depending on the volume level and usage. This is longer than the battery life of the JBL 4, which can last up to 12 hours on a single charge. The longer battery life of the JBL 5 makes it more suitable for long trips or outdoor events where access to power may be limited.
It’s worth noting that the battery life of the JBL 5 can vary depending on how you use it. If you play music at high volumes or use the speaker for extended periods of time, the battery life may be shorter. However, if you use the speaker at moderate volumes and turn it off when not in use, the battery life can last longer.