Getting to Know Portable Audio Leader JBL
With over 75 years at the forefront of audio innovation, JBL stands today as a premier maker of speakers and headphones that enable powerful, vibrant sound. JBL carved a niche early on by applying advanced acoustic engineering to create high-fidelity loudspeakers and studio monitors used by major record labels, radio stations, and concert venues around the world.
The brand was founded back in 1946 by American audio engineer James Bullough Lansing, whose pioneering speaker and enclosure designs earned praise for precise, balanced sound reproduction that brought recordings to life. Over the decades, JBL has continued expanding into consumer audio segments like home theater systems and portable Bluetooth speakers without losing sight of its professional roots.
Today, JBL sits under Harman International, a subsidiary of global tech leader Samsung Electronics. Aligning with respected brands like Harman and Samsung has enabled JBL to further advance its acoustic technology and deliver an unmatched combination of sound quality and features. With access to premium components and innovations coming out of these well-funded technology giants, JBL leverages engineering resources far beyond most audio companies.
The result is a continually evolving catalog of audio gear built to empower people to enjoy music to its fullest anywhere life takes you. When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers with full-bodied sound, long battery life, and enduring builds meant for the outdoors, the JBL Charge series represents the pinnacle.
The newest JBL Charge 5 stands as the company‘s most advanced take on this popular portable speaker line, faced with the tall order of improving on the impressively well-rounded Charge 4. This guide puts these two outstanding Bluetooth speakers side-by-side to see how they stack up and help you choose the better model to elevate music and calls wherever your adventures may lead.
Comparing the Specs: JBL Charge 5 vs. Charge 4
We‘ll begin by looking at the core technical specifications that define wireless speakers like the battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, physical dimensions, and drivers which bring the sound:
| Specifications | JBL Charge 5 | JBL Charge 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Battery Life | 20+ hours | 20+ hours |
| Battery Capacity | 7800mAh Li-ion | 7800mAh Li-ion |
| Recharge Time (0 to Full) | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Wireless Range | Over 100 feet | Over 85 feet |
| Transducers | 1x Woofer 1.57", 1x Tweeter | 1x Woofer 1.3", 1x Tweeter |
| Rated Power | 40W RMS | 30W RMS |
| Frequency Range | 45 Hz–20 kHz | 65 Hz–20 kHz |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 9.1 x 3.8 x 4.5 inches | 8.7 x 3.9 x 3.8 inches |
| Weight | 2.1 lbs | 2.1 lbs |
Analyzing this spec comparison, we see battery performance remains unchanged thanks to equal capacity 7800mAh Li-ion cells. But the Charge 5 pulls ahead in critical areas like wireless technology, audio hardware, and noise production. Let‘s explore what these improvements mean for real world performance and enjoyment.
Sound Quality: More Volume and Bass From Upgraded Drivers
Make no mistake, both the Charge 5 and 4 earn their place among the best sounding Bluetooth speakers out today. Powerful clarity afforded by 30W (Charge 4) to 40W (Charge 5) Class D amplifiers paired with bass radiators project rich, intense audio that‘s rare for their portable form.
But looking closer at the inner audio components reveals the Charge 5‘s secret ingredient for noticeably better sound reproduction:
- The Charge 5 packs a larger 1.57" woofer and optimized tweeter array that handles higher output while keeping distortion low, evidenced by its wider 45 Hz – 20 kHz frequency range.
- Upgraded transducer materials like the stiffer woofer diaphragm also contribute to more accurate, consistent replication of bass and mid tones.
- Dual passive radiators dramatically boost bass response for thundering low end that you feel deep in your chest.
AndRemember that a speaker‘s stated frequency response range impacts what parts of music comes through. The Charge 5‘s ability to reach down to 45 Hz (vs 65 Hz on the Charge 4) allows it to convey deeper bass found in genres like EDM and hip hop.
So while the Charge 4 still impresses with lively, balanced sound, the Charge 5 ratchets audio performance up to the next level. Its refined components translate to about 15% louder max volume with a more complete sonic profile. Listeners will especially notice the richer, harder hitting bass and crisper detail from acoustic instruments and vocals. Simply put, your music shone through with greater nuance and atmosphere.
Battery Life: All Day Playtime for Music on the Go
JBL equipped both the Charge 4 and 5 with a high capacity 7800mAh Li-ion battery powering over 20 hours of continuous audio playback. For context, that tops the 15 hours you‘d get from comparably sized speakers like the UE Boom 3. Only a fraction of competing Bluetooth speakers can match the Charge series‘ exceptional battery stamina.
It means you can rely on either JBL model to soundtrack a full day‘s activities away from AC power. Whether hunkering down for hours of productivity at the cafe, beachcombing along the lakeshore, or keeping energy levels high at an outdoor worksite, few breaks needed for recharging.
Now the Charge 5 does support quick charging to swiftly top off the battery when you do find an outlet. JBL says plugging the Charge 5 into higher wattage USB-PD adapters can deliver four hour‘s worth of playtime from a 20 minute charge. So even if the battery happens to run low right before heading out, you‘ll be back rocking your playlist in no time. But both models otherwise fill back up from 0 to 100% in about four hours from any USB port.
All in all, be confident in all-day endurance when either of these JBL speakers tag along on your daily adventures.
Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1 Brings Extensions
The ability to link up wirelessly with smartphones and tablets to control playback and take calls is essential to a seamless listening experience. This means these speakers absolutely must deliver rock solid Bluetooth connections that play nicely across Android and iOS devices alike.
Once again both Charge models feature excellent wireless performance thanks to memory rich Qualcomm chipsets purpose-built for audio. You can walk over 100 feet away from either speaker before audio dropouts become a nuisance.
However, the updated Bluetooth 5.1 support on the Charge 5 confers notable improvements:
- Faster pairing times when initially connecting devices
- Better stability when connected to multiple devices
- Low latency mode for tighter sync between audio and video playback
- More resistant to interference from nearby wireless networks
While Bluetooth 5.1 represents an incremental update, it brings meaningful enhancements deepening wireless reliability and ease of use. Combined with the slight range extension to over 100 ft for the Charge 5 vs 85 ft on the Charge 4, its next gen wireless connectivity enables some handy perks.
Design: Feature-Packed yet Portable Form
JBL stuck to a familiar cylindrical shape with tapered ends and clear control buttons spanning the Charge series. Though enlarging slightly with its bigger sound drivers, the Charge 5 maintains a comparable footprint measuring at 9.1 x 3.8 x 4.5 inches and weighing about 2.1 lbs. These compact dimensions mean both models slip easily into bags and backpacks.
You can also count on sweatproof and water resistant builds thanks to durable fabrics covering the Charge 4 and a rugged rubber jacket guarding the Charge 5. And both integrate convenient extras like:
- Lanyard loops for hanging or attaching straps
- Rear power bank to charge smartphones via USB-A
- Multi-function button for Bluetooth pairing and stereo mode
Appreciate how a similar, travel-ready design language belies just how mighty an audio punch both these portable solutions pack. Subtle cosmetic facelifts modernize the look of the Charge 5, but that familiar cylindrical shape makes clear its lineage.
Durability: Charge 5 Leads with IP67 Waterproofing
With their outdoorsy positioning as companions for life‘s adventures, both JBL Charge models need to shrug off splashes, dust and the occasional tumble. Rest assured the Charge 4 earns an IPX7 rating designating waterproof construction that handles full immersion depths of three feet for 30 minutes.
But the Charge 5 leaps past to achieve an IP67 rating, meaning complete protection from dust infiltration plus the ability to survive submerged under three feet of water for 30 minutes. This level of waterproofing gives full confidence in the Charge 5‘s ability to keep thumping even if accidentally dropped in a lake or left out in the rain.
And it‘s not just liquids the Charge 5 deflects so well. Upgraded materials like the molded rubber housing and reinforced corners better withstand shocks and scratches too. Outside excursions bring all kinds of environmental threats that the Charge 5 now answers with JBL‘s most heavy duty design yet in a portable speaker.
Unique Features: Outdoor Boost vs. JBL PartyBoost
The Charge series focuses its efforts on nailing down battery life, sound quality and resilience as the core pillars. But JBL did work in some exclusive features to each model:
JBL Charge 5 Unique Features
- Outdoor Boost Mode – One press dynamically enhances loudness and bass just right for outside listening
- Integrated Power bank – Use the rear USB-A and USB-C ports to charge smartphones and other devices
- Schnell Charge Support – Rapidly refills battery via optional 45W USB-PD wall charger
- Auxiliary Input – Hardwire other audio sources into the rear AUX port
JBL Charge 4 Unique Features
- JBL Connect+ – Wirelessly sync playback with over 100 other JBL speakers
- Attachable Shoulder Strap – Carry the speaker comfortably across longer distances
- Rugged Fabric Covering – Provides a stylish, earthy look that fits outdoor environments
The Charge 5‘s specialties all center around improving convenience and amplification for outside use cases. But the Charge 4 hits back with party-friendly JBL Connect+ allowing epic, synchronized audio across an army of compatible JBL speakers – a brilliant feature for events and get-togethers.
Pricing Breakdown: Charge 5 Justifies Its Premiere Status
As a next generation upgrade, the JBL Charge 5 unsurprisingly demands a higher retail cost than its forbearer. Based on MSRP, we‘re looking at:
- JBL Charge 5 – $179.95
- JBL Charge 4 – $149.95
But prices on popular electronics like Bluetooth speakers fluctuate across retailers. We found the Charge 4 discounted down closer to $130 at places like Walmart and Target, while the Charge 5 seems to stick closer to its full MSRP.
Now no doubt that $50 gap gives budget-focused shoppers reason to pause. But remember that the Charge 5 delivers better sound, battery management, wireless performance AND unmatched waterproofing and dust handling.
Those upgrades absolutely justify the Charge 5 commanding a premium price tier as JBL‘s new flagship in rugged, outdoor tailor speakers. And investing $180 means enjoying deeper, clearer audio that can follow your adventures anywhere thanks to IP67 protection.
The Bottom Line: Charge 5 Wins for Sound and Resilience
The recently launched JBL Charge 5 clinches victory as the superior member of this Bluetooth speaker family. Noticeably improved audio components like larger woofers and tweeter array allow the Charge 5 to deliver 15% louder output with richer bass compared to the Charge 4.
Upgraded Bluetooth 5.1 wireless grants faster pairing times and rock solid connections across all your devices. And achieving an IP67 rating for complete dust and water protection frees the Charge 5 to soundtrack camps, worksites, and beach days without fear.
Now the Charge 4 remains a compelling option for shoppers wanting excellent sound and battery endurance for less. It may make sense if you don‘t require next gen features like wireless charging support and amplified clarity tailored for large open spaces via Outdoor Boost mode.
But if your portable speaker needs to pull double duty as a rugged work companion and a concert in your pocket, the Charge 5 warrants its premiere price. With sound this vibrant and durable building literally able to follow you anywhere, the Charge 5 announces itself as JBL‘s new king of full-featured Bluetooth speakers.
I hope this detailed face-off helps set expectations around the experiences and performance you can expect from the JBL Charge 5 versus Charge 4. Let me know if any other questions come up as you evaluate which JBL speaker works best to ignite your music passion to bold new heights!
