JBL Go 3
Score: 70/100
Soundcore Select 4 Go
Score: 72/100Rankings
The Soundcore Select 4 Go is an ultra-portable, IP67-rated shower speaker with 20 hours of playtime and a 30 m Bluetooth range, featuring a 9-band EQ via the app. Its limited 5 W output means it won't fill large spaces, and it lacks a wall charger. Great for solo swimmers, hikers, and on-the-go listening.
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 | 20 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 209 gbest | 264 g |
40 mm | 115.1 mmbest | |
— | 2,400 mAhbest | |
3 W | 5 Wbest | |
— | 30 mbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 90 minutesbest | 270 minutes |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | 5 hours | 20 hours |
Charging Time (minutes) | 90 minutes | 270 minutes |
Audio(2) | ||
Driver Size (mm) | 40 mm | 115.1 mm |
Output Power (W) | 3 W | 5 W |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 4.1 | 5.3 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 209 g | 264 g |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 86×40×69 mm mm | 48×82×120 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 consider the Soundcore Select 4 Go a best-budget portable speaker, praising its punchy, clear sound, strong bass for a 5 W driver, and the flexibility of a 9-band EQ app. The IP67 rating and floatable design earn high marks, as does the seamless Bluetooth 5.3 and TWS pairing. The main criticism from editors is the limited maximum volume, which makes it unsuitable for larger gatherings, and the omission of a wall charger.
Everyday users love the long 20-hour battery, the surprising bass and clarity for such a small device, and the rugged waterproof, floatable build that survives showers and pools. Common praise centers on portability, easy TWS pairing, and the customizable EQ. Recurring complaints focus on low maximum volume, occasional Bluetooth connectivity hiccups, and the missing wall charger.
“Ideal for solo swimming or showers”
“Stereo sound, deep bass via passive radiator, and durable waterproof design”
Choose the Go 3 if you need water resistance and louder sound; stick with the original Go for ultra-compact portability and lower cost
