Design and build:

JBL Charge 4 and 5 are similar sized speaker with some differences in their build quality.

Similarities:

JBL Charge 4 and 5 are available in around a dozen of color options. These speakers have a cylindrical rubberized body wrapped with tight fabric. The rear side has a small cover that protects the ports from water and dust. While you can choose a ‘funky’ color, these speakers do not have any RGB lights. Build quality of these speakers is quite sturdy.

Differences:

Comparing JBL Charge 5 vs Charge 4, the Charge 4 has an IPX7 rating whereas the Charge 5 is even more durable. It has an IP67 rating which means it is resistant against water and dust.

Performance:

The Charge 5 shows better audio production than the Charge 4.

Similarities:

These indoor/outdoor Bluetooth speakers are great for everyday use specially if you love partying on the go. Sound quality is amazing but there is some variation. Placement is easy, you can place them horizontally or vertically.

Differences:

JBL Charge 5 vs Charge 4, which one has better audio performance? JBL Charge 5 has an additional 0.75” dome tweeter and 2" x 3.5" long excursion woofer. 2.25” Passive radiators are same in both but the tweeter makes the main difference. JBL Charge 4 has 50x90mm transducer that works to deliver full range sound.

JBL 5 and Charge 4 speakers have decent soundstage and bass response. Vocals and instrumental sounds are loud and clear in most cases. Some major differences in Charge 4 JBL vs Charge 5 are, dynamics and EQ settings. The Charge 5 has better dynamics than the 4 and can get loud enough to fill up medium sized rooms. Charge 4 is much better for compact spaces.

As we played music, the Charge 5 filled up the entire backyard with music. Low ends are much better with the Charge 5. If you use the Charge 4 or 5 as a single speaker, you will receive mono sound. To get stereo sound, you need to pair another one. Since the price is cheap, it is reasonable to buy another one. With the Graphic EQ available in the mobile app, you can adjust bass, mid, and treble regions.

Features:

There are few dissimilarities in the features of Charge 4 and 5.

Connectivity:

JBL Charge 4 vs Charge 5 comparison shows differences in terms of connectivity. While the Charge 4 supports both wired and wireless connectivity. The Charge 4 has aux port and Bluetooth. On the other hand, the Charge 5 only supports Bluetooth. While the Charge 5 has updated Bluetooth version, the Charge 4 shows impressive performance with very low latency. Both these speakers can be used as powerbank to charge any smartphone.

Multi-device pairing:

Another difference between the JBL Charge 4 vs Charge 5 is, the Charge 4 uses Connect+ whereas the Charge 5 uses PartyBoost. Simply said, you need Connect+ compatible JBL speakers for the Charge 4 and PartyBoost supported speakers for the 5.

Use case:

JBL Charge 4 and 5 are suitable to use beside pools or beaches. Even if it accidentally falls under water, the speaker will remain in good condition within 1 meter. Comparing JBL Charge 4 vs 5, the Charge 5 is more suitable to be used outdoors since it is resistant against both dust and water. You can use as you go on picnics, parties, hiking, climbing, jogging or driving.

They are great for indoor use as well specially in kitchen and showers where you do not have to worry about water splashes. These speakers have average performance as you play movies. While playing music, the Charge 5 shows impressive performance over the Charge 4.

Ease of use:

These wireless outdoor Bluetooth speakers are quite easy to use.

Battery life:

The Charge 4 and 5 are said to have 20 hours of battery life with a charging time of 4 hours. In real life scenario, none of them lasts that long, but around 12 13 hours. Even if it does not stay for 20 hours, it is more than enough to party all day long.

Control options:

Control options in Charge 4 vs Charge 5 JBL speakers are almost similar with slight differences. It has volume up, down, forward track and Bluetooth button. While the JBL Charge 4 has a Connect + button, the Charge 5 has PartyBoost button. JBL Portable app is available to control both the Charge 4 and 5 speakers.

Portability:

These portable Bluetooth speakers are very lightweight. They are easy to carry in one hand. Simply put it in your back pack and you are ready to go.

Cost:

 JBL Charge 4 and 5 are affordable speakers that are available under $150. The Charge 4 is cheaper than the Charge 5.

FAQ:

Can I connect JBL Charge 4 to Charge 5?

You cannot connect JBL Charge 4 to Charge 5 because they have different pairing technologies. While the JBL Charge 4 uses Connect+, the Charge 5 has PartBoost.

What is the best alternative to JBL Charge 5?

You can check the Sony SRS-RA3000 as an alternative to the JBL Charge 5 speaker. It is a wired home speaker that supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. It has more powerful soundstage compared to the Charge 5.