JBL Go 3
Score: 70/100
Bose SoundLink Micro Blue
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Bose SoundLink Micro is an ultra-compact, rugged Bluetooth speaker offering up to 12 hours of playback and IP67 protection. Its modest volume and occasional Bluetooth range hiccups limit it to personal listening scenarios. Ideal for solo travelers and hikers who prioritize portability and durability.
The JBL Go 3 is an ultra-compact speaker offering punchy bass, a built-in noise-cancelling speakerphone, and IP67 waterproof/dustproof protection. Its limited volume, short 5-hour battery and older Bluetooth 4.1 limit its use for longer or louder sessions. Ideal for travelers and casual listeners needing a pocket-sized speaker.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
5 hours | 12 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 209 gbest | 340 g |
40 mmbest | — | |
3 Wbest | — | |
— | 9 mbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | 240 minutes |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 5 hours | 12 hours |
Charging Time (minutes) | 90 minutes | 240 minutes |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 4.1 | 4.2 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 209 g | 340 g |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 86×40×69 mm mm | 98.3×98.3×34.8 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the JBL Go for delivering a surprisingly full-range sound with punchy bass and clear highs despite its miniature size, highlighting its value-for-money feature set that includes a speakerphone and wired input. However, they note its limited maximum volume, short 5-hour battery, and lack of any IP rating as drawbacks compared to newer JBL mini speakers.
Everyday users appreciate the big, punchy audio and the convenience of multiple colors and a strap hook, finding the 5-hour battery adequate for casual use and the speakerphone handy for calls. Common complaints revolve around the limited loudness, faster battery drain at high volumes, no water resistance, and occasional Bluetooth connectivity hiccups.
Professional reviewers commend the SoundLink Micro for its rugged IP67 build, ultra-portable form factor, and low Bluetooth latency, noting it excels as a personal outdoor companion. However, they criticize its limited volume output and lack of a built-in voice assistant, which restrict its usefulness in larger or smart-assistant-driven scenarios.
Everyday users love the speaker's tiny size, strap attachment, and durability, often highlighting its ability to survive drops and water exposure while delivering surprisingly good bass. Common complaints revolve around a shorter-than-advertised battery life at high volume, insufficient loudness for group use, and occasional Bluetooth range hiccups.
Choose the Go 3 if you need water resistance and louder sound; stick with the original Go for ultra-compact portability and lower cost
