Jbl Charge 4 vs Charge 5: Which Speaker Reigns Supreme?
Ready to upgrade your listening experience? The JBL Charge series has long been a favorite for its powerful sound and portability. But with the release of the Charge 5, the question on everyone’s mind is: Is it worth the upgrade from the classic Charge 4?
We’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you decide. We’ll explore the key differences between the JBL Charge 4 and the JBL Charge 5, covering everything from sound quality and battery life to design and features. Get ready to discover which speaker best fits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just looking for a reliable portable speaker, this comparison will provide you with all the information you need. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each model, ensuring you make an informed decision. Let’s find out which JBL speaker comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | charge 4 | charge 5 jbl |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 5.1 |
| IP Rating | IPX7 | IP67 |
| Total Power Output | 30W | 40W |
| Frequency Response | 60Hz – 20kHz | 65Hz – 20kHz |
| Driver Size | 50mm | 52mm woofer, 20mm tweeter |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 20 hours |
| Charging Time | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| USB Charging | Yes | Yes |
| PartyBoost | No | Yes |
| Weight | 960g | 960g |
| Built-in Microphone | No | No |
| Aux-in | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build Quality
- Charge 4: The Charge 4 features a rugged, cylindrical design with exposed passive radiators on the sides. It’s IPX7 waterproof, meaning it can withstand submersion in water. The design is durable but may feel a bit dated compared to the newer models.
- Charge 5 Jbl: The Charge 5 has a slightly updated design with a more refined aesthetic, featuring a more modern logo and a more robust build. It retains the IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, offering better protection against the elements. The build feels more premium.
- Winner: Charge 5
Sound Quality
- Charge 4: The Charge 4 delivers a balanced sound signature with decent bass and clear highs. It is an overall good sounding speaker for its price range, but doesn’t excel in any particular area.
- Charge 5 Jbl: The Charge 5 improves upon the Charge 4 with a more pronounced and punchier bass response, and clearer sound overall. It has a single racetrack-shaped driver and separate tweeter, which enhances audio quality.
- Winner: Charge 5
Bluetooth Version
- Charge 4: Utilizes Bluetooth 4.2, which is a bit older and can experience some connection issues or range limitations compared to newer standards.
- Charge 5 Jbl: Equipped with Bluetooth 5.1, offering improved connection stability, longer range, and faster pairing compared to the Charge 4.
- Winner: Charge 5
Battery Life
- Charge 4: Offers up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is a good performance for its size. The battery life is consistent, allowing for long listening sessions.
- Charge 5 Jbl: Provides up to 20 hours of playtime, similar to the Charge 4. Battery performance is consistent with the charge 4.
- Winner: Tie
Charging Capability
- Charge 4: Charges via a Micro-USB port, which is an older standard.
- Charge 5 Jbl: Uses USB-C for charging, offering faster charging times and a more modern standard.
- Winner: Charge 5
Portability
- Charge 4: A relatively portable speaker, easy to carry around. Its size and weight make it convenient for travel and outdoor activities.
- Charge 5 Jbl: Similar size and weight to the Charge 4, offering similar portability. Easy to take on the go.
- Winner: Tie
Power Output
- Charge 4: Delivers 30W RMS of power.
- Charge 5 Jbl: Delivers 40W RMS of power, which results in a louder maximum volume.
- Winner: Charge 5
PartyBoost Feature
- Charge 4: Compatible with JBL Connect+, which allows you to pair with other JBL speakers with the same feature.
- Charge 5 Jbl: Features JBL PartyBoost, which is an upgraded version of Connect+. PartyBoost allows you to pair with other JBL speakers with the same feature.
- Winner: Charge 5
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Audio Quality | charge 5 jbl |
| Bluetooth Version | charge 5 jbl |
| Portability | Tie |
| Durability | charge 5 jbl |
| Features | charge 5 jbl |
| Value | charge 4 |
What They Have in Common:
- Battery Life: Both speakers offer a respectable battery life, providing up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge, making them suitable for extended listening sessions. This ensures your music keeps going throughout the day.
- USB Charging: Both models include a USB port for charging other devices, serving as a power bank. This is a convenient feature to keep your phone or tablet charged while on the go.
- Water Resistance: Both the Charge 4 and Charge 5 boast water resistance, allowing you to use them near water without worry. This makes them ideal for pool parties or beach outings.
- Portability: Both speakers are designed to be portable, with a compact design and a weight that makes them easy to carry. This allows you to bring your music anywhere with ease.
- Durable Build: Both speakers are built with durable materials, ensuring they can withstand some wear and tear. This makes them good choices for outdoor activities.
Charge 4 Vs Charge 5 Jbl Buying Guide
Sound Quality
The Charge 5 generally offers a slight edge in sound quality compared to the Charge 4. This is primarily due to its updated driver configuration, including a dedicated tweeter. The Charge 5 provides clearer highs and improved overall clarity, making music sound more detailed. While the Charge 4 still delivers a powerful and enjoyable listening experience with its robust bass, the Charge 5’s enhancements are noticeable, especially when listening at higher volumes. The soundstage is also slightly wider in the Charge 5.
Design and Portability
Both speakers share a similar cylindrical design, making them easily portable. The Charge 5 has a slightly refined design with a more modern aesthetic. The Charge 5 is a tiny bit larger and heavier than the Charge 4. Both speakers are exceptionally rugged and designed to withstand the elements, however. Both are IP67 rated, meaning they are fully waterproof and dustproof, suitable for outdoor adventures or poolside enjoyment.
Battery Life and Charging
Both the Charge 4 and Charge 5 boast impressive battery life, offering around 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. However, the Charge 5 has a slightly faster charging time. This can be a notable advantage if you’re frequently on the move and need a quick top-up. Both speakers can also act as a power bank, allowing you to charge your mobile devices using their built-in USB ports, which is a convenient feature for outdoor activities.
Connectivity and Features
Both speakers offer Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming. The Charge 5 utilizes Bluetooth 5.1, providing a more stable and efficient connection. They both feature JBL’s PartyBoost, enabling you to connect multiple compatible JBL speakers for a synchronized listening experience. The Charge 5 has a more modern port setup, removing the 3.5mm input and including USB-C for charging, which is becoming the standard. The Charge 4 includes a 3.5mm input.
Price and Value
The Charge 4 is often available at a slightly lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Charge 5’s improved features and sound quality might justify the price difference for some. Considering the overall performance and features, both speakers offer excellent value for their price range. The availability of sales can also influence the decision, with price fluctuations being common.
Durability and Water Resistance
Both speakers are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, boasting an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. This means they can be submerged in water without damage. This makes them ideal for pool parties, beach trips, or any environment where they might be exposed to the elements. The robust construction ensures they can handle bumps and drops, making them a reliable companion for adventures. The materials used on both are high quality.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy charge 4 If…
- You are looking for a reliable and well-performing speaker at a potentially lower price.
- You prioritize a simpler design and don’t need the latest features.
- You want a speaker with a good balance of features and performance for everyday use.
- You don’t need the dust resistance offered by the Charge 5.
Buy charge 5 jbl If…
- You want the latest features and improved audio quality.
- You value the added dust resistance for use in more demanding environments.
- You want the updated Bluetooth 5.1 for a more stable connection.
- You prefer the slightly improved sound quality with the tweeter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in sound quality?
The Charge 5 features a dedicated tweeter, leading to improved clarity, especially in the high frequencies. The Charge 4 still provides powerful bass and a balanced sound, but the Charge 5 offers a more detailed and refined listening experience, particularly at higher volumes. The Charge 5 has a more modern driver configuration, which allows for a wider soundstage and better overall clarity.
Which speaker has better battery life?
Both the Charge 4 and Charge 5 offer approximately 20 hours of battery life, making them comparable in this regard. This allows for extended listening sessions without needing to recharge. However, the Charge 5’s charging time is slightly faster, offering a minor advantage for users who require quick top-ups. Both also have power bank functionality.
Is the Charge 5 worth the extra cost?
The Charge 5’s improved sound quality, updated design, and enhanced features might justify the price difference for some users. If sound quality is a priority, or the USB-C charging is preferred, the Charge 5 is the better choice. However, the Charge 4 remains a great value, especially if purchased at a discounted price. Consider your listening preferences.
Are both speakers waterproof?
Yes, both the Charge 4 and Charge 5 are IP67 rated, meaning they are fully waterproof and dustproof. This makes them ideal for use in various environments, including pools, beaches, and outdoor settings. You can submerge them in water without causing any damage, making them very durable and versatile speakers for any adventure.
What is PartyBoost?
PartyBoost is JBL’s feature that allows you to connect multiple compatible JBL speakers wirelessly. This enables you to create a synchronized audio experience, amplifying the sound and creating a more immersive listening environment. You can place the speakers in different locations to spread the sound and enhance the overall experience. This feature is present in both models.
Which speaker is more portable?
Both speakers are relatively portable due to their cylindrical design. The Charge 5 is slightly larger and heavier than the Charge 4, but the difference is minimal. Both are easy to carry and transport, making them suitable for travel and outdoor activities. You will find them both easy to pack into a bag or carry by hand.
Does the Charge 5 have a 3.5mm input?
No, the Charge 5 does not have a 3.5mm input. This is a change from the Charge 4, which does include this input. The Charge 5 relies solely on Bluetooth and USB-C for connectivity. However, this is not a significant drawback as Bluetooth is widely used. If you need a wired connection, you’ll need the Charge 4.
Final Verdict
The JBL Charge 5 offers a step up in sound quality and features compared to the Charge 4, with improvements in clarity and a more modern design. While the Charge 4 remains a solid performer and a great value, the Charge 5’s refinements make it the superior choice for those prioritizing the best possible audio experience and the latest features.
Winner: Charge 5