JBL Charge 5 vs Go 4: do you need the bigger speaker?
JBL Charge 5 vs Go 4 on rated battery, water rating and phone charging. Research comparison from JBL's own specs, not a listening test.
Research guide based on published sources, not hands-on testing. Our methodology · How links work
The short answer
Buy the Charge 5 for all-day use: JBL rates it at up to 20 hours, and it can charge your phone through its built-in power bank. Buy the Go 4 if it has to fit in a pocket or a small bag: JBL rates it at up to 7 hours, plus up to 2 more with Playtime Boost. Both are rated IP67.
This comparison uses JBL’s product pages and spec sheet. We have not tested either speaker.
Spec snapshot
| JBL Charge 5 | JBL Go 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Rated battery | Up to 20 h | Up to 7 h, plus up to 2 h with Playtime Boost |
| Water and dust | IP67 | IP67 |
| Charges your phone | Yes, built-in power bank | No |
| Size class | Bottle-sized | Pocket-sized |
Sources: JBL Charge 5, JBL Go 4 spec sheet (PDF).
Which to buy
- Beach days, camping and parties: Charge 5, for the battery and the power bank.
- Commutes, desks and showers: Go 4, for the size.
- Long battery in a small speaker: also compare the Sony XB100 vs Go 4.
Related
Tools for this decision: Used vs new calculator, Buy now or wait for a sale?.
FAQ
Are both JBL speakers waterproof?
JBL rates both at IP67, which means dust-tight and able to survive immersion to 1 metre for 30 minutes in testing. They are made to survive a splash or a short drop in a pool, not to be used underwater.
Can the Go 4 charge my phone?
No. JBL lists a built-in power bank only for the Charge 5.
How much longer does the Charge 5 last?
On JBL's own figures, up to 20 hours against up to 7 hours, or 9 with Playtime Boost. That is roughly two to three times as long. At high volume, both will run for less time.
Product details
Specifications below are manufacturer claims. Availability, regional versions and prices can change; check the exact model before buying.
JBL Charge 5
A portable speaker that can also supply power to your phone.
- Battery
- Up to 20 hours playback
- Protection
- IP67 dust and water resistance
- Phone charging
- Built-in power bank
Charging a phone uses some of the battery available for music. Check the carrying size before choosing it for longer outings.
Manufacturer detailsJBL Go 4
A compact portable speaker for outings where carrying space is limited.
- Battery
- Up to 7 hours playback, with up to 2 additional hours using Playtime Boost
- Protection
- IP67 dust and water resistance
The additional two hours require Playtime Boost. Compare its normal seven-hour rating when weighing battery life against other speakers.
Manufacturer details
