Welcome to My Bose Soundlink 3 vs JBL Charge 4 review.
In this article, I will help you pick a Bluetooth speaker that will fit your needs. After playing with these two speakers for few days here is my review.
If you looking for consistent, reliable with good sound quality but not to use it in a huge gathering then get Bose Soundlink 3. While if you are looking for durable, longer life battery, waterproof and high sound quality then get JBL Charge 4.
Down below is an in-depth look at these two products, highlighting the features and aspects that set these two wireless speakers apart. You’ll be able to see clearly which speaker is offering what you’re looking for.
|
Specifications |
Bose Soundlink 3 |
JBL Charge 4 |
|---|---|---|
|
Weight |
3.03 lbs |
3.22 lbs |
|
Sound Power |
17 watts |
30 watts |
|
Battery Life |
14 hours |
20 hours |
|
Charging Time |
3 hours |
5.5 hours |
|
Colors |
black/silver |
Black, gray, red, teal, pink and +5 more |
|
Rating |
||
|
Price |
Bose Soundlink 3 vs. JBL Charge 4
Products at a Glance
Before I get into what these products have to offer, here is some insight into the companies that make this technology possible.
Bose was a company founded by Dr. Amar G. Bose in 1964. It was after purchasing a poor-sounding speaker system that inspired him to create his own sound system with the ability to replicate live music. Their audio technology reigns supreme in manufacturing loudspeakers for cars, homes, and even big venues.
JBL stands for James Bullough Lansing, the man who created the company. It was in the early 1900’s when this manufacturing company came into fruition, becoming a part of the sound movement as films transitioned from silent to talkies. Now, this company is at the forefront of mobile speakers that focus on connectivity and power all at the touch of a finger.
Bose Soundlink 3
Bose is a company that focuses on perfecting sound quality more so than anything else. Their Soundlink 3 is a slim and simple design with a wraparound metal grille to project an all-around sound. It’s manufactured to be an easy, grab and go speaker that you can slip into your bag. It has a smart design and powerful sound, but a little lacking in features.
Pros
- Slim and easy portable design making for good mobility
- The silicone button panel discourages dust and dirt buildup
- Pairs easily with Bluetooth with a 30 feet range as well
- Powerful sound performance for a speaker this size
Cons
- More on the expensive side given the features offered
- No tone or bass level adjustment is offered on the speaker
JBL Charge 4
JBL packs a powerful punch with their Charge 4. It comes out in a medium size with many colors and designs to choose from. This product speaks to the modern generation when it comes to its hip design and Bluetooth capabilities. The JBL Charge 4 is built to withstand different environments and cater to small groups of easy listening to larger parties and groups of people.
Pros
- Available in 12 different designs and colors, optimizing personability
- IPX7 waterproof feature providing no worries with accidental water submersion
- Rechargeable battery features up to 20 hours of playtime.
- Durable design, able to withstand rugged environments
Cons
- Doesn’t automatically reconnect when walking in and out of range
- No wall charger provided inbox only the USB charging cable
Features Face to Face
Both Bose and JBL have great products that will cater to different tastes and preferences. What it all comes down to is which features suit your liking and then you can make your decision moving forward. Down below, we’ve put the best features of both these products in a head-to-head comparison.
Battery Life and Charging Time
When it comes to wireless speakers, it matters how long you can keep it playing without being hooked up to a power source. This is especially important in situations dealing with the outdoors or environment without outlets available.
The Bose Soundlink 3 has a battery life that can go up to 14 hours. The charging time takes about 3 hours to fully charge. Given the size of the speaker, it makes sense that the battery life matches up. Still, 14 hours is enough time to play for a few days, easy listening or one big gathering. Yet, compared to the JBL Charge 4, it may not be enough to match up.
The JBL Charge 4 has a 20 hour long battery life alongside a 5.5 hour charging time. The battery life comes in handy with outdoor and outlet free settings where you can’t connect to a power source. Of course, 5.5 hours for a full charge is a lengthier time compared to the Bose Soundlink 3, but at the end of the day you can always charge your speaker overnight.
Verdict: JBL Charge 4
More: Sennheiser Momentum 3 vs Sony WH-1000XM4 And The Winner Is.
Design and Size
Another aspect of wireless speakers is their easy mobility. You want something that will be easy to take around and withstand any accidents through travel. This is where durability and design come into play.
It also helps if the speaker can still match your aesthetic with versatility in colors and prints. If you are going to invest your money into a product that doesn’t work to suit your preference, it says more about the company and the product itself.
The Bose Soundlink 3 incorporates a slim design meant for easy transport and succinct storage in your bag. It has a wraparound metal grille design that works as a surround sound. The button panel is featured atop with a silicone plastic that works against dirt and dust buildup. It’s a simple design and an effective one. The customization options still leave something to be desired especially given the price.
The JBL Charge 4 features a hefty pill shape that incorporates a braided and rugged material around the speaker. The durable fabric it uses houses the speaker inside, protecting it from all types of environments. Plus, it is IPX7 waterproof, even allowing it to be recoverable after being submerged in water. What moves us to pick JBL for this verdict is its many color options. You can choose from 12 different colors or designs, ensuring that you get a speaker that matches your aesthetic in its totality.
Verdict: JBL Charge 4
More: Sennheiser Momentum 3 vs Sony WH-1000XM3: Which One Should You Pick
Sound
The next most important aspect of speakers is, of course, the sound! We are talking about volume, clarity, and the ability to customize your sound output. This means you should be able to not only control the volume level but the bass and treble as well.
A company that allows this customization knows that features need to balance out the investment you’re about to make. Even so, solely caring about the clarity of the playback doesn’t mean you can’t worry about the extra features that come along with the product.
The Bose Soundlink 3 has 4 drivers and 2 passive radiators to provide clear and powerful playback. The bass can also back the music quite well but, as you raise the volume to the max the bass does sound a bit pitching. Regardless, Bose focuses on their sound and is able to achieve that, but you are not able to toggle bass and treble levels, only leaving the volume to be set to your desired amount.
The JBL Charge 4 also encompasses dual bass radiators seen on the sides of the speakers, to provide a clear and loud sound. JBL is known for having powerful playback, and that is certainly the case here. Unlike the Bose Soundlink 3, the JBL Charge 4 offers more variability when it comes to bass levels and volume levels. Given that sound quality seems to be on par with the Bose Soundlink 3, we have to go with the JBL Charge 4 here due to their dedication for extra features.
Verdict: JBL Charge 4
More: JBL Xtreme 2 vs Charge 4: Which One Is the Best?
Stand Out Features
Since the Bose Soundlink 3 keeps it simple when it comes to features, the JBL Charge 4 is able to showcase a few things. These features aren’t embodied by the Soundlink 3, but they definitely help the JBL Charge 4 stand out.
The JBL Charge 4 has IPX7 waterproof capabilities as well as a new feature called JBL Connect+. These two features are unmatched when put against the Bose Soundlink 3. At the end of the day, you will have to decide whether these stand out features motivate you to make that final decision.
More: Sennheiser Momentum 2 vs Momentum 3: Should You Upgrade?
Waterproof Durability
IPX7 waterproof means it can be submerged under 1 meter of water for about 30 minutes.
Now you can bring the speaker around the pool or lake without worry of water becoming a factor of its demise.
JBL Connect+
Can connect through Bluetooth with other JBL speakers, allowing a link chain of playback.
With this, you’ll be able to play the same music and sound throughout the space with more than one JBL device. Showcasing, JBL’s impressive Bluetooth capabilities.
More: JBL Flip 4 vs JBL Charge 4: Which Bluetooth Speaker is the Better Option?
Conclusion
These wireless speakers truly push the bounds when it comes to Bluetooth and speaker technology. Both the Bose Soundlink 3 and the JBL Charge 4 offer powerful playback and easy mobility. Plus, the designs are simple, thoughtful, and effective. At the end of the day, the JBL Charge 4 offers more in features, but the Bose fulfills its promise on quality sound and power.
Use the Bose Soundlink 3 if:
- If you care solely about clear playback.
- Don’t plan on venturing into the outdoors with your speaker.
- Use your speaker for more casual and easy listening.
- Want something consistent and reliable.
Use the JBL Charge 4 if:
- You frequent large gatherings and get-togethers.
- Plan to bring your speaker with you anywhere, no matter the terrain.
- Like having customizing options.
- Having a durable product is more important to you.
