The JBL GO 3 is a compact, portable speaker designed to deliver powerful sound despite its small size. It builds on the success of its predecessors with several improvements, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of portability and performance.

JBL GO 3: Design and Build

    The JBL GO 3 boasts a rugged and stylish design. It features a durable fabric cover and a rubberized chassis that not only enhances its visual appeal but also ensures it can withstand everyday wear and tear. The speaker is available in a range of vibrant colors, catering to different style preferences.

    On top of the speaker, you'll find buttons for volume control and play/pause. Double-pressing the play/pause button skips to the next track, but there's no option to go back to the previous one, which feels like a missed opportunity. Additionally, the lack of speakerphone functionality could be a drawback, though it's more forgivable given the speaker's budget-friendly price. The power button and Bluetooth pairing button are conveniently located on the right side panel.

🔸Dimensions: 87.5 x 75 x 41.3 mm  

🔸Weight: 209 grams

JBL GO 3: Audio Performance

    Despite its compact size, the JBL GO 3 delivers impressive sound quality. It is equipped with a 43.5mm driver that produces clear and balanced audio with a focus on mid-range frequencies. The speaker provides sufficient volume for personal listening and small gatherings, though it’s not intended to replace larger, more powerful speakers for louder settings.

    The JBL GO 3 may not deliver the highest-fidelity sound, but that's not its primary goal. While it may not capture every subtle detail in your music, it performs well enough to be enjoyed on the patio or during casual outdoor activities. The speaker trades off some audio precision for convenience, and in outdoor settings, finer details may be lost due to background noise, distance, or environmental factors. Essentially, you'll experience the general tones rather than the intricate nuances, which is expected for a portable speaker of its desgn.

JBL GO 3: Battery Life

    The JBL GO 3 comes with a built-in 4.2V lithium-ion battery that offers up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge. This makes it ideal for day trips or extended use throughout the day. The charging time is approximately 2.5 hours, and it uses a USB-C port for convenience.

    The speaker offers just five hours of playtime on a single charge, which might not be enough for extended outdoor use. However, actual battery life may differ depending on how you use it. To help conserve power, the speaker automatically powers down after about 20 minutes of inactivity. If you're looking for a portable speaker with longer battery life, consider the Sony SRS-XB01 as an alternative.

JBL GO 3: Connectivity

    The JBL GO 3 features Bluetooth 5.1, ensuring a stable and reliable connection with various devices. It supports a range of up to 10 meters, allowing users to enjoy wireless music playback without the hassle of cords.

JBL GO 3: Additional Features

    The JBL GO 3 features an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning it's well-protected against dust and can withstand being submerged in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. While it's quite durable and can handle getting wet continuing to deliver sound even when its cloth covering is damp it’s not suited for use as a pool speaker. The speaker doesn’t float, so if it falls into the pool, it will sink and take your music with it.

🔸Speakerphone: The JBL GO 3 does not feature a built-in microphone for hands-free calling.

🔸Controls: Simple and intuitive controls for power, Bluetooth pairing, and volume adjustment are located on the top of the speaker.

🔸Accessories: Includes a detachable strap for easy carrying.

JBL GO 3: Price and Availability

    The JBL GO 3 is competitively priced, typically found in the range of $30 to $40 USD, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. It offers excellent value for its price point, especially considering its durability and sound quality.

Is The JBL GO 3 Worth Buying in 2024? 

    If you're looking for an affordable speaker that performs reliably across various settings and devices, the JBL GO 3 is worth considering. Priced at $39.99 USD, it offers a compact yet powerful Bluetooth speaker ideal for both backyard gatherings and outdoor adventures. It's user-friendly and represents a significant upgrade over the JBL GO 2 for outdoor use. However, it does come with a few minor drawbacks.

    The JBL GO 3 is a fantastic option for those in need of a portable, waterproof speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. Its rugged build, impressive audio performance, and compact size make it a versatile choice for various uses, from beach outings to daily commutes. For anyone seeking an affordable yet reliable portable speaker, the JBL GO 3 is certainly worth considering.