In our review today, we’re looking at two of JBL’s small, portable speakers: the Clip 3 and Clip 4. At our sound testing lab, we’ve taken a close look at both to help you understand what’s different and what’s better about each one. We’re focusing on things like how good they sound, any new design features, how long their batteries last, and how easy they are to use. If you love listening to music when you’re outside or if you just want a good speaker that’s easy to carry around, this comparison will be really helpful.
We’ll go through what makes each model special. The Clip 4 has some new features, but the Clip 3 has qualities that are still great. Our aim is to give you all the info you need to decide which of these two JBL speakers is the best choice for you. This article will compare two popular models from this series: the JBL Clip 3 vs JBL Clip 4.
General Overview: Introducing The Jbl Clip 3 Vs Clip 4
This JBL series has gained popularity for its compact size and impressive sound quality.
The JBL Clip 3
Released in 2018, the JBL Clip 3 is a compact Bluetooth speaker that packs a punch. Its sleek design and integrated carabiner make it incredibly portable, allowing you to clip it onto your backpack or belt loop effortlessly. This feature, combined with its IPX7 waterproof rating, makes the model an ideal companion for outdoor adventures and poolside parties.
The JBL Clip 4
Building upon the success of its predecessor, the JBL 4 takes portability and sound quality to the next level. Its sleek, cylindrical design and improved carabiner make it even easier to carry and attach to various objects. The version is also IP67-rated, making it water-resistant and dustproof, ensuring its resilience in different environments.
Table Of Comparison: Key Specifications
Following are the key factors to comprehend the differences between the two JBL models:
| Specification | JBL Clip 3 | JBL Clip 4 |
| Cost | $47.95 | $79.95 |
| Design | A compact, rectangular shape with rounded corners | A sleek, cylindrical design and the redesigned carabiner |
| Build quality | Withstand the rigors of outdoor use | Withstand the rigors of outdoor use |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.1 and Wi-Fi connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi connectivity |
| Sound quality | 120 Hz to 20 kHz | 100 Hz to 25 kHz |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours and more |
| Portability | 13.7 x 9.7 x 4.6 cm and weighs around 222 grams | 8.6 x 4.6 x 13.4 cm and weighs 240 grams |
| Water resistance | IPX7 rating | IP67 rating |
| Durability | High durability | High durability |
Comparing The JBL Clip 3 Vs Clip 4: Key Differences
Let’s explore the key differences between this series’ popular models to understand their outstanding features.
Cost
The third version generally comes at a lower price than its successor, which costs $47.95 on Amazon. The price of the next version is $79.95.
Design
The JBL 3 features a compact, rectangular shape with rounded corners. The next version adopts a sleek, cylindrical design, and the redesigned carabiner of the JBL 4 also enhances its portability and makes it more convenient to carry on the go.
Build quality
Both the two models are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. They feature rugged exteriors and durable materials that provide resistance against minor impacts and water exposure.
Read more: JBL Flip 5 Vs Flip 6 Speaker
Connectivity
Both speakers offer Bluetooth compatibility, allowing you to connect your devices and enjoy your favorite music wirelessly. However, the JBL 4 has an advantage with its Bluetooth 5.1 technology which provides a more stable and efficient connection compared to the Bluetooth 4.1 of the previous version. Therefore, the latest version wins over JBL clip 3 vs clip 4 compared to the connectivity.
Sound quality
The previous version of this speaker type featured 120 Hz to 20 kHz, offering clear vocals and well-defined bass for an immersive listening experience. The JBL 4, with its redesigned driver and larger enclosure, takes the audio quality up a notch, delivering deeper bass, richer mids, and crisper highs with 100 Hz to 25 kHz.
Battery life
The two versions offer up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge, ensuring you can enjoy your music throughout the day. However, the latest version has a power-saving mode that can last longer when playing.
Portability
The JBL 3 measures approximately 13.7 x 9.7 x 4.6 cm and weighs around 222 grams, making it incredibly easy to carry. The next version measures about 8.6 x 4.6 x 13.4 cm and weighs 240 grams, making it slightly smaller and lighter than its predecessor.
Water resistance
The JBL 3 boasts an IPX7 rating, meaning it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes without suffering any damage. The next version offers an upgraded IP67 rating, which means it is water-resistant and dustproof.
Durability
The JBL 3 features a rugged rubberized exterior that provides excellent grip and protects the speaker from minor impacts. The latest version takes durability a step further with its solid fabric grille and durable housing.
Pros and cons
In terms of pros, the two versions offer impressive portability, water resistance, and durability. Regarding cons, the old version’s battery life is not as long as the next version, while the next version’s soundbar plays lower basses and is more expensive.
Read more: JBL Charge 4 Vs Charge 5 Speaker
Which Is Better: JBL Clip 3 Vs Clip 4?
When it comes to battery life, the JBL 4 takes the lead. It boasts an impressive battery capacity for up to 10 hours of continuous playback. Regarding sound quality, both two versions deliver outstanding good quality given their compact size.
However, the previous version offers clear and balanced sound reproduction with higher tones.
Speaking of design, the JBL 3 features a compact and lightweight design, making it effortless to carry around. Similarly, the JBL 4 maintains the compact form factor but introduces a sleeker cylindrical design, enhancing portability. The integrated carabiner provides a secure attachment, making it a great companion for outdoor activities.
Both models have their strengths, but the decision ultimately depends on your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
As we finish our review of the JBL Clip 3 and Clip 4, we’ve really looked into what makes these two small speakers different. We checked out how they sound, how they’re built, and how easy they are to use. We found that the Clip 3 is still a good, trustworthy speaker with decent sound. But the Clip 4 has some updates, like a stronger design and clearer sound. When deciding which one to choose, it depends on what you’re looking for.
If you want a speaker that’s been around and does a good job, go for the Clip 3. But if you like newer features and a bit of an upgrade in design and sound, then the Clip 4 might be the way to go. We hope our review helps you pick the best speaker for your needs, making sure you have a great time listening to your music wherever you are. Speaking of the battle of JBL Clip 3 vs Clip 4, hope you find your answer.
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