JBL has finally announced upgraded models of its popular Clip 5 and Go 4 portable Bluetooth speakers. Both mini speakers pack improved sound, better Bluetooth technology, new colors, and bigger clips and straps. We’re also getting a powerful JBL Xtreme 4.
The outgoing models first arrived in 2020, and even though we praised the speaker in our JBL Clip 4 review, these upgrades are very welcomed. All three speakers come in June, with the popular JBL Clip 5 debuting for $79.95, while the smaller JBL Go 4 is $49.95. The bigger JBL Xtreme 4 retails for $379.95.
As for upgrades, we’ll start with the two smaller portable speakers. Both the JBL Clip 5 and Go 4 have the same rugged IP67 waterproof design as before, USB-C, and come in six all-new colors. We’re getting improved sound thanks to redesigned drivers, longer battery life, Bluetooth v5.3 with LE audio, JBL Auracast for multi-device pairing, and more.
JBL’s smallest portable, the Go 4, features an updated silhouette with a bigger, wider, and more durable strap. It also uses post-consumer recycled material for 80% of the plastic and 100% of the fabric. The tiny JBL Go 4 boosts battery life up from 5 hours to 7 hours of listening.
My favorite of the bunch, the JBL Clip 5, fixes two common complaints. The redesigned carabiner has a far bigger opening, making it easier to attach to nearly anything and everything. I’m talking about backpack straps, a belt loop, the leg on your camping chairs, and more. It also received a boost in the sound department, featuring an improved driver that delivers crisp sound and consistent bass at any listening level. The new and improved JBL Clip 5 has 12 hours of battery life, with an additional 3 hours using Playtime Boost Mode.
And finally, there’s a new JBL Xtreme 4 for those wanting something bigger, better, and louder. JBL added a large shoulder strap for usability and a bigger replaceable battery to improve serviceability. Yes, those who heavily use their speaker can now replace its battery. You’ll get up to 24 hours of music playback on a single charge, Bluetooth 5.3 LE, Auracast, and a new “AI Sound Boost” feature for a heightened audio experience.
The new JBL Xtreme 4 comes in three colors, works with the JBL Portable app (Android and iPhone), and the internal battery doubles as a portable charger for phones and gadgets. Again, the Xtreme 4 will be available in June 2024 for $379.95.
Source: JBL
