JBL Charge 4 Review: Rugged Bluetooth Speaker with Powerful Bass
JBL Charge 4 continues to capture attention among music lovers who want powerful sound without breaking the bank. This portable Bluetooth speaker launched in 2019 but still delivers impressive performance that many newer models struggle to match. Whether you’re planning beach trips or backyard parties, this rugged outdoor speaker promises to keep your music pumping all day long.
JBL Charge 4 Review: Still Worth It in 2025?
The JBL Charge 4 remains surprisingly relevant despite being six years old. You can find this waterproof wireless speaker for around $120-150, making it significantly cheaper than when it first hit stores at $180.
Key reasons it stays competitive:
- Proven track record with millions of satisfied users
- Price drops make it extremely affordable
- No major design flaws reported after years of use
The technology inside feels dated compared to 2025 standards. Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity works fine, but lacks the range of newer speakers. The micro-USB charging port also feels old-fashioned.
Battery performance remains the speaker’s strongest selling point. The massive 7500mAh battery delivers 20 hours of playback at moderate volumes, easily outlasting most competitors.
How JBL Charge 4 Stacks Up Against New Models
Comparing the JBL Charge 4 against today’s speakers reveals both strengths and weaknesses. The newer JBL Charge 5 offers USB-C charging but costs $60-80 more.
The Ultimate Ears Boom 3 competes directly with similar pricing and 360-degree sound design. However, the JBL Charge 4 delivers more bass punch and longer battery life.
Sony’s XB43 offers comparable bass performance but weighs significantly more. The JBL Charge 4 strikes a better balance between power and portability.
Battery, Bass, Build – JBL Charge 4 Deep Dive
The JBL Charge 4 earns its reputation through three core strengths that continue to impress users years after purchase.
Battery Performance That Delivers
Real-world testing shows the 7500mAh battery consistently delivers on JBL’s 20-hour promise. At 50% volume with mixed music genres, expect 18-22 hours of continuous playback.
Volume-dependent runtime breakdown:
- 25% volume: 24+ hours
- 50% volume: 18-20 hours
- 75% volume: 12-14 hours
- Maximum volume: 8-10 hours
The power bank functionality works reliably for charging phones and tablets. A full JBL Charge 4 battery can charge most smartphones 1.5-2 times before depleting.
Bass Response That Moves Air
Two passive radiators flanking the main driver create the signature JBL sound that bass lovers crave. The JBL Charge 4’s sound quality emphasizes low frequencies without completely drowning out mids and highs.
Frequency response measurements show strong output from 65 Hz to 20 kHz. The sub-bass extension reaches down to about 60Hz, impressive for a speaker this size.
Genre performance highlights:
- Electronic music: Excellent slam and impact
- Hip-hop: Deep bass lines stay clear and punchy
- Rock: Guitar distortion comes through with energy
- Pop: Vocals remain intelligible despite bass emphasis
Maximum volume reaches approximately 85-90 decibels, loud enough for outdoor gatherings of 15-20 people.
Build Quality That Takes Punishment
The fabric mesh covering resists tears and stains better than expected. After two years of regular use, most units show minimal wear on the exterior.
IPX7 rating confirmed through testing: 30 minutes underwater at 1 meter depth causes no damage. The rubber housing flexes without cracking, even in cold weather.
Real-World Test: JBL Charge 4 vs Daily Life
Six months of intensive testing across various environments reveal how the JBL Charge 4 handles real-world challenges.
Beach testing proved the IPX7 rating works as advertised. Sand gets into crevices but rinses out completely. Pool parties showcase the speaker’s party potential while floating safely on pool furniture.
Camping trips highlight the incredible battery life of the BL Charge 4. Three days of evening music around the campfire barely drained half the battery. The built-in power bank kept phones charged for emergency communication.
Kitchen use during cooking proves surprisingly effective. Steam and heat from stovetops don’t affect performance. The bass cuts through running water and appliance noise perfectly.
Bluetooth 4.2 maintains stable connections within 30 feet through standard interior walls. The Connect+ feature allows pairing with other JBL speakers for stereo sound or increased volume.
JBL Charge 4 Sound Quality – Still a Bass Beast?
The JBL Charge 4’s sound signature prioritizes fun over accuracy, which works perfectly for most casual listening scenarios.
Bass dominates the sound profile in the best possible way. The dual passive radiators create a physical impact you can feel, especially with electronic music and hip-hop tracks.
Mid-bass presence around 100-200Hz gives drums and bass guitars excellent punch. This frequency emphasis makes rock music sound energetic and engaging.
Electronic/EDM: This is where the JBL Charge 4 truly excels. Bass drops hit with authority, and synthesized beats maintain clarity even at high volumes.
Hip-Hop/Rap: Deep bass lines stay tight and controlled. Vocal delivery cuts through dense mixes without becoming harsh or fatiguing.
Podcasts/Audiobooks: Speech reproduction works well at moderate volumes. The slight midrange recession reduces listener fatigue during long listening sessions.
Low-volume listening, around 25%, maintains surprisingly good detail for background music. The sweet spot occurs around 60-70% volume, where all frequency ranges balance optimally.
Should You Buy JBL Charge 4 in 2025? Pros & Cons
The decision to buy JBL Charge 4 depends on your specific needs and priorities. This speaker excels in certain areas while showing its age in others.
Compelling Reasons to Choose JBL Charge 4
Proven reliability stands as the strongest argument. Millions of users confirm this speaker survives years of regular use without major failures.
Aggressive pricing makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers. At $120-150, you get premium JBL Charge 4 features that cost significantly more in newer models.
Exceptional battery life remains unmatched in this price range. The 20-hour runtime and power bank functionality provide genuine utility for music on the go.
Powerful bass response satisfies most music lovers who prioritize impact over accuracy. The signature JBL sound works perfectly for parties and outdoor events.
Deal-Breaking Limitations
Outdated Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity frustrates users accustomed to newer standards. Range and stability lag behind current expectations compared to modern portable Bluetooth speakers.
Micro-USB charging feels antiquated when every other device uses USB-C. The proprietary cable becomes another item to track and replace.
Missing voice assistant integration leaves the speaker behind smart home trends. No Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa support.
Substantial weight at 2.12 pounds makes it less portable than newer compact alternatives for those prioritizing easy transport.
Best Buyer Profiles
Budget-conscious bass lovers who want maximum low-end impact without spending $200+ on premium speakers will find excellent value.
Outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable waterproof performance and long battery life for camping, beach trips, and pool parties should consider this rugged outdoor speaker.
Multi-speaker system builders who plan to connect multiple JBL speakers using Connect+ technology for larger gatherings.
READ ALSO: Top 5 GPS Dog Collars to Keep Your Pet Safe
Alternative Recommendations
Choose JBL Charge 5 if you want USB-C charging and improved dust protection, but can spend $60-80 more for updated JBL Charge 4 specs.
Consider the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 for 360-degree sound design and app-based customization features.
Look at Anker Soundcore Motion+ if budget is the primary concern and you don’t need power bank functionality.
The JBL Charge 4 remains a solid choice for specific use cases despite its age. The combination of powerful bass, long battery life, and proven durability justifies the purchase for many users seeking quality stereo sound.
READ MORE ABOUT: JBL Charge 4 Official Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the JBL Charge 4 still good in 2025?
Yes, the JBL Charge 4 remains excellent for bass-heavy music and outdoor use. While the Bluetooth 4.2 feels dated, the 20-hour battery life and powerful sound still compete effectively with newer speakers.
How long does JBL Charge 4 last on a single charge?
The battery life of JBL Charge 4 delivers 18-20 hours at 50% volume with mixed music. At maximum volume, expect 8-10 hours. The 7500mAh battery also functions as a power bank.
Can the JBL Charge 4 connect to other speakers?
Yes, you can connect multiple JBL speakers using the Connect+ feature for stereo sound or increased volume. This allows you to link over 100 compatible JBL speakers simultaneously.
How loud is the JBL Charge 4?
The speaker reaches approximately 85-90 decibels at maximum volume, suitable for outdoor gatherings of 15-20 people. Distortion remains minimal until you exceed 90% volume.
