The JBL Go 5 vs Go 4 decision boils down to a simple question: does the newer model’s superior sound justify its price premium when the older Go 4 is now significantly cheaper? After testing both speakers side by side, the answer depends entirely on your priorities. If audio quality matters most, the Go 5 wins. If your budget is tight, the Go 4 remains unbeatable.
Key Takeaways
- The JBL Go 5 delivers clearer mids, more expressive highs, and cleaner bass than the Go 4.
- The Go 5 produces 4.8W of output power, a meaningful upgrade over its predecessor.
- Both speakers use the same 45mm full-range driver, but the Go 5 extracts better performance from it.
- The Go 4 is often available for $39.95, undercutting the Go 5’s typical $49 launch price.
- The Go 4 still offers 7 hours of battery life, matching the Go 5’s endurance.
Sound Quality: Where the Go 5 Pulls Ahead
The JBL Go 5 vs Go 4 comparison reveals a clear winner in audio performance. The Go 5 sounds noticeably more full-sounding and well-rounded, with less compressed audio throughout the frequency range. Where the Go 4 feels flat and constrained, the Go 5 opens up the soundstage with richer detail. The newer model delivers more expressive highs, clearer mids, and cleaner bass—a meaningful step forward for a speaker in this size class. This is not a marginal improvement; it is the difference between a speaker that sounds acceptable and one that actually sounds good.
The 4.8W output power of the Go 5 gives it a tangible advantage in perceived loudness and dynamic range. Despite both speakers retaining a single 45mm full-range driver, the Go 5’s internal tuning and amplification make a real difference in how music translates. The Go 4, while still capable of playing music clearly, lacks the refinement that makes the Go 5 worth the extra investment for audio enthusiasts.
Value for Money: The Go 4’s Surprising Resilience
Here is where the equation gets complicated. The JBL Go 5 vs Go 4 becomes less about which speaker is objectively better and more about which one makes sense for your wallet. The Go 4 is frequently priced around $39.95, down from its original $49.95. The Go 5 typically launches at $49, putting it at parity with the Go 4’s original price—but not its current discounted price. That $10 gap matters when you are buying a budget Bluetooth speaker.
The Go 4 remains JBL’s cheapest speaker, and for shoppers prioritizing portability and affordability over pristine audio, it is still the smarter choice. Both speakers deliver 7 hours of battery life, so you are not sacrificing endurance by choosing the older model. The Go 4 is presented as a strong budget option and a better value if found at a lower price—a position it maintains even with the Go 5 on the market.
Design and Portability: Virtually Identical
Both the JBL Go 5 vs Go 4 share the same ultra-portable form factor that makes these speakers so appealing. They are the kind of speakers you throw in a backpack without thinking twice. Neither speaker demands space or attention. The Go 5 does not reinvent the design; it refines the audio performance within the same compact footprint. For travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who values portability above all else, this similarity is a feature, not a limitation.
The Go 5 is positioned as an upgrade over the Go 4 rather than a radically different product. This means you get the same durability, water resistance, and pocketability that made the Go 4 appealing, plus better sound. That is a genuinely useful upgrade path for existing Go 4 owners considering a refresh.
Should You Buy the JBL Go 5 or Go 4?
The JBL Go 5 vs Go 4 decision hinges on one factor: how much you are willing to spend for better audio. If you can find the Go 4 at $39.95, buy it and pocket the savings. The audio quality difference, while real, may not justify $10 extra for casual listeners. If the Go 4 is not available at a discount and you plan to use this speaker regularly, the Go 5’s superior sound quality—clearer mids, more expressive highs, and cleaner bass—makes it worth the extra investment. The Go 5 is the better speaker overall, especially for sound quality, but the Go 4 is the better bargain if price is the main concern.
Does the JBL Go 5 have better battery life than the Go 4?
No, both speakers deliver the same 7 hours of battery life. The Go 5’s improvements are focused on audio performance and power output, not endurance. If you need longer playback, neither speaker is ideal for extended trips without recharging.
Can you use the JBL Go 5 and Go 4 together as a stereo pair?
The research brief does not specify stereo pairing capability for either speaker. Check the product manual or JBL’s official specifications for multi-speaker pairing options.
Is the JBL Go 5 waterproof?
The research brief confirms both speakers share similar portability features, but exact water resistance ratings are not detailed in the available testing data. Consult JBL’s official product page for IP rating and waterproof specifications.
The JBL Go 5 vs Go 4 is not a case of one speaker being objectively better—it is a case of different priorities. Choose the Go 5 if sound quality is your priority and budget is flexible. Choose the Go 4 if you want the best value for money and do not mind slightly less refined audio. Both speakers excel at what they are designed to do: deliver portable, convenient audio without breaking the bank. The winner is whichever one fits your budget and listening habits.
Where to Buy
Edited by the All Things Geek team.
Source: TechRadar
