JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker Review
Big Sound in a Tiny Package
- Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Verdict
- Colors
- Comparisons
- Design
- Sound
- Battery
- Durability
- Conclusion

The JBL Go 3 is a tiny powerhouse that packs a punch in the portable Bluetooth speaker market. This ultra-compact device builds on the success of its predecessors, offering surprisingly robust audio performance in a package small enough to fit in your pocket. With its updated design featuring a stylish fabric covering and bold color options, the Go 3 is as much a fashion accessory as it is a functional speaker. JBL has made significant improvements in durability, upgrading the Go 3 to an IP67 rating for enhanced water and dust resistance. This makes it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures, from beach trips to hiking excursions. While the speaker maintains its signature portability, it now delivers a more powerful audio experience with JBL's Original Pro Sound. However, the compact size does come with some trade-offs, including a modest 5-hour battery life and the absence of speakerphone capabilities found in some competitors.
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker: Verdict
Pros
- Impressive sound quality for its size
- Rugged, waterproof design
- Ultra-portable and lightweight
- Stylish fabric-covered exterior
- Good value for money
Cons
- Limited battery life
- No speakerphone functionality

The JBL Go 3 proves to be a mighty mini speaker that punches well above its weight class. This ultra-compact Bluetooth speaker delivers surprisingly robust audio performance, with a sound profile that balances clarity and bass better than one might expect from such a diminutive device.
Its rugged, waterproof design is a standout feature, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures or poolside relaxation. The updated fabric-covered exterior not only enhances durability but also adds a touch of style, available in a variety of eye-catching colors to suit personal preferences.
While the Go 3 impresses in many areas, it’s not without its limitations. The 5-hour battery life, while adequate for most casual listening sessions, falls short compared to some competitors. Additionally, the lack of speakerphone functionality may disappoint those looking for a more versatile device.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the JBL Go 3 offers excellent value for money. Its combination of portability, durability, and sound quality makes it a top choice for users seeking a reliable, pocket-sized speaker for on-the-go audio enjoyment. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, outdoor enthusiast, or simply in need of a compact speaker for everyday use, the JBL Go 3 is a solid option that delivers big sound in a small package.
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Color | Model Number | |
Black | JBLGO3BLKAM | |
Red | JBLGO3REDAM | |
ECO Blue | JBLGO3ECOBLUAM | |
Blue | JBLGO3BLUAM | |
Camo | JBLGO3BLKAM | |
Green | JBLGO3GRNAM | |
Grey | JBLGO3GRYAM | |
Pink | JBLGO3PINKAM | |
Teal | JBLGO3TEALAM | |
White | JBLGO3WHTAM | |
ECO Green | JBLGO3ECOGRNAM | |
ECO White | JBLGO3ECOWHTAM |
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker: Differences Between Colors
Pros
- Wide range of color options
- Vibrant and stylish designs
- Color-coordinated fabric and details
Cons
- Limited availability of some colors
The JBL Go 3 offers a diverse palette of color options to suit various personal styles and preferences. Available in classic shades like Black, Blue, and White, as well as more vibrant options such as Red, Pink, and Teal, the speaker allows users to express their individuality. The Go 3 Eco version introduces environmentally-friendly choices in Blue, Green, and White, made from recycled materials. Each color variant features color-coordinated fabric and expressive details, enhancing the speaker’s visual appeal. While the wide range of options is a significant advantage, some colors may have limited availability depending on the region or stock levels.
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker: Compared To Other Portable Speakers
Pros
- Impressive audio quality for its compact size
- Rugged and waterproof design
- Stylish fabric-covered exterior
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Limited battery life compared to some competitors
- Lacks advanced features like voice assistant integration
The JBL Go 3 stands out in the crowded portable speaker market with its impressive audio performance in a compact package. When compared to other speakers in its size and price range, the Go 3 delivers surprisingly big sound and punchy bass, often outperforming larger competitors. Its ultra-portable design and durable construction, including IP67 waterproofing, make it a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike.
While the Go 3 excels in audio quality and durability, it does have some limitations compared to other portable speakers. Its 5-hour battery life is shorter than some competitors that offer 10 hours or more of playtime. Additionally, the Go 3 lacks advanced features found in pricier models, such as voice assistant integration or multi-speaker pairing. However, for those prioritizing sound quality and portability at an affordable price point, the JBL Go 3 remains a top contender in its class.
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker: Design and Build Quality
Pros
- Ultra-compact and lightweight design
- Durable IP67 waterproof and dustproof construction
- Stylish fabric-covered exterior with vibrant color options
- Integrated loop for easy carrying
Cons
- Limited physical controls
- No built-in microphone for speakerphone functionality
The JBL Go 3 impresses with its ultra-compact design, measuring just 3.4 x 2.7 x 1.6 inches and weighing a mere 7.4 ounces. This pocket-sized speaker is perfect for on-the-go listening, easily fitting into small bags or even a jacket pocket. The updated design features a stylish fabric covering and bold color options, giving it a modern and eye-catching appearance that stands out from its predecessors.
Durability is a key strength of the Go 3, boasting an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. This rugged construction allows the speaker to withstand submersion in up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes, making it ideal for poolside use, beach trips, or even shower listening. The fabric exterior not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the speaker’s resilience against everyday wear and tear.
The Go 3’s design incorporates an integrated loop, enhancing its portability and allowing users to easily attach it to bags or hang it from various surfaces. While the compact size necessitates limited physical controls, JBL has managed to include essential buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, playback, and volume adjustment. However, the minimalist design means there’s no built-in microphone, which may disappoint users looking for speakerphone functionality.
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker: Sound Performance
Pros
- Surprisingly big audio for its compact size
- Punchy bass response enhances overall sound
- Clear and balanced audio across most frequencies
- Good volume output for its size
Cons
- Limited low-end presence in bass-heavy tracks
- Some distortion at maximum volume levels
The JBL Go 3 delivers impressive audio performance that belies its compact size. This portable speaker produces a surprisingly big sound with a punchy bass response that adds depth to various music genres. The audio signature is relatively balanced, with clear mids and crisp highs that complement the low-end presence.
While the Go 3 excels in overall clarity and volume output for its size, it does have some limitations. Bass-heavy tracks may lack the deep rumble found in larger speakers, and pushing the volume to maximum levels can result in slight distortion. However, at moderate volumes, the speaker maintains its composure and provides an enjoyable listening experience.
The Go 3’s sound profile is particularly well-suited for podcasts and acoustic tracks, where vocal clarity and instrumental definition shine through. Its ability to project sound in outdoor settings is noteworthy, making it a versatile companion for various environments. Despite its small stature, the JBL Go 3 manages to fill rooms with rich, full-bodied audio that surpasses expectations for a speaker of its class.
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker: Battery Life and Connectivity
Pros
- Up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge
- Bluetooth 5.1 for stable wireless connection
- USB-C charging port for convenience
Cons
- Battery life shorter than some competitors
- No speakerphone functionality
The JBL Go 3 offers a respectable battery life for its compact size, providing up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge. This duration is suitable for casual listening sessions or short outdoor adventures. However, it’s worth noting that actual battery performance may vary depending on volume levels and usage conditions, with some users reporting longer playtimes at moderate volumes.
Connectivity is a strong suit for the Go 3, featuring Bluetooth 5.1 for quick and stable wireless connections. The speaker pairs easily with smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices, allowing for seamless music streaming. The upgraded USB-C charging port adds convenience, aligning with modern device standards and potentially reducing charging times compared to its predecessors.
While the 5-hour battery life is adequate for many scenarios, it falls short compared to some competitors in the portable speaker market that offer 10 hours or more. Additionally, the Go 3 lacks speakerphone functionality, which may disappoint users who prefer multi-functional devices. Despite these limitations, the Go 3’s compact size and robust connectivity make it a solid choice for those prioritizing portability over extended playtime.
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker: Durability and Water Resistance
Pros
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating
- Rugged construction for outdoor use
- Withstands submersion in water
- Fabric exterior enhances durability
Cons
- Rubber feet may collect dirt over time
- No floating capability for pool use
The JBL Go 3 boasts impressive durability features that make it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures. Its IP67 rating ensures both water and dust resistance, allowing users to confidently take the speaker to the beach, pool, or even use it in the shower. This level of protection means the Go 3 can withstand submersion in up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes, providing peace of mind in various environments.
The speaker’s rugged construction is complemented by its fabric-covered exterior, which not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its overall resilience. This design choice helps protect against everyday wear and tear, making the Go 3 suitable for rough handling during outdoor activities. Users have reported that the speaker holds up well to drops, bumps, and exposure to various elements without showing significant signs of damage.
While the JBL Go 3 excels in durability, it’s worth noting that the rubber feet on the bottom may collect dirt over time, especially with frequent outdoor use. Additionally, unlike some waterproof speakers, the Go 3 doesn’t float, which could be a concern for pool use. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall build quality and protective features of the JBL Go 3 make it a reliable choice for users seeking a durable, portable speaker for various environments.
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker: Conclusion
The JBL Go 3 proves to be a mighty mini speaker that punches well above its weight class. This ultra-compact Bluetooth speaker delivers surprisingly robust audio performance, with a sound profile that balances clarity and bass better than one might expect from such a diminutive device. Its rugged, waterproof design is a standout feature, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures or poolside relaxation. The updated fabric-covered exterior not only enhances durability but also adds a touch of style, available in a variety of eye-catching colors to suit personal preferences.
While the Go 3 impresses in many areas, it’s not without its limitations. The 5-hour battery life, while adequate for most casual listening sessions, falls short compared to some competitors. Additionally, the lack of speakerphone functionality may disappoint those looking for a more versatile device. Despite these minor drawbacks, the JBL Go 3 offers excellent value for money. Its combination of portability, durability, and sound quality makes it a top choice for users seeking a reliable, pocket-sized speaker for on-the-go audio enjoyment.