Compact Design, Big Sound

The JBL Go 5 is a tiny powerhouse that packs a big punch in terms of sound quality and durability. At just four inches wide and weighing in at a mere half a pound, this speaker is small enough to toss into a backpack, clip onto a bag, or keep on your desk without taking up much room.

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Its compact size makes it the perfect travel companion for beach days, hikes, or anywhere dust and water are likely to show up. The upgraded IP68 rating ensures that it can withstand the elements, making it a better choice than its predecessor, the JBL Go 4.

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Battery Life and Sound Quality

The JBL Go 5 boasts a modest improvement in battery life, with JBL rating it for up to eight hours of playback. This is a significant increase from its predecessor, which could only manage around six hours of playback. However, with the Playtime Boost feature turned on, you can expect up to 10 hours of playback, making it more than capable of covering a day out.

As for sound quality, the JBL Go 5 delivers reasonably loud sound for its size. However, it’s not built for all-day-and-night listening. It’s better suited to a picnic table, bedroom, or a few people sitting nearby. The front-facing driver also makes placement more important, as the sound is noticeably stronger when you’re sitting in front of the speaker than off to either side.

Despite its compact size, the JBL Go 5 still manages to deliver a decent sound experience. However, it’s not going to blow you away with its sound quality. If you’re looking for a speaker that can cover a large area, you might want to consider something bigger.

Conveniences and Upgrades

The JBL Go 5 adds a few conveniences that make it easier to live with. You can now play audio over USB-C, which is a welcome upgrade. Bluetooth 6.0 brings support for the LC3 codec, which provides better sound quality and lower latency. AirTouch also lets you pair two JBL Go 5 speakers for stereo simply by bringing them together.

JBL’s companion app also gives you more control over the EQ if you want to tweak the sound. This is a great feature for audiophiles who want to fine-tune their sound experience. However, it’s worth noting that the upgrades don’t dramatically change the listening experience compared to the JBL Go 4.

Conclusion

The JBL Go 5 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact speaker with more durability, slightly longer battery life, and a few useful extras. At $45, it’s a great value for the price. If you’re in the market for a new portable speaker, the JBL Go 5 is definitely worth considering.

However, if you’re already happy with your JBL Go 4, you might not need to upgrade. The JBL Go 5’s upgrades are incremental, and the sound quality is similar to its predecessor. But if you’re looking for a new speaker that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the JBL Go 5 is a great choice.