Why it's a great gift
Ideal gift-exchange territory: modest budget, real delight. The built-in loop hangs off a shower caddy, bike bag or tent line, and dunks don't scare it. One catch — a newer version exists, so buy on discount.
Is this the right gift?
- Great for: stockings and office gift exchanges.
- Great for: teens who soundtrack every shower.
- Great for: travellers who pack light.
- Skip if: they expect big-room volume from something palm-sized.
The verdict
Tiny, tough and best on sale
Give it to a stocking recipient, not an audiophile. Expect an afternoon of battery and close-range sound — with the Go 5 out, only grab it priced clearly lower.
Why it works
- ✓ Truly pocketable, with a built-in loop for clipping anywhere
- ✓ Waterproof, floats, and ships with its USB-C cable
- ✓ App EQ and pairing tricks unusual at this size
Tradeoffs
- × An afternoon of playtime, not a weekend
- × Superseded by the Go 5, so value depends on discount
- × Mono, bass-light, no mic and no aux
As an Amazon Associate, XmasGoat earns from qualifying purchases. Choose Canada or the United States for local pricing.
Before you buy
- Confirm the fourth-generation Go 4 (SKU such as JBLGO4BLKAM) — not the older Go 3 or newer Go 5.
- Compare against the Go 5 at checkout; a small price gap favours the newer model.
- The loop is fabric — add a cheap carabiner if they'll clip it to a pack.
Quick answers
Does it really float?
Yes — reviewers confirm it floats, and it's rated against dust and water. Rinse and dry it after pool or ocean dips.
How long on a charge?
About seven hours claimed; independent testing came in just under. A battery-saver mode stretches it by cutting bass.
Can two of them pair up?
Yes — a matching pair plays true stereo, and Auracast groups it with other current JBL speakers.
As an Amazon Associate, XmasGoat earns from qualifying purchases. Compare the final price with the newer generation before checkout. Choose Canada or the United States for local pricing.
Sources
- JBL Canada: JBL Go 4 — Official Canadian identity, dimensions, weight, output, battery, IP67, connections, features and box contents; checked August 6, 2026.
- JBL Canada: JBL Go 4 specification sheet — Official model, playtime, integrated loop, Auracast, app and outdoor positioning.
- SoundGuys: JBL Go 4 review — Independent size, sound, Playtime Boost, app, durability, calls and connection assessment.
- RTINGS: JBL Go 4 review — Independent battery, output, bass, stereo, app, floatability and Go 5 comparison.