The JBL Go 2 vs Go 3
In this article, we will compare the two Bluetooth speakers the JBL Go 2 vs Go 3, and look at their main differences and key features. And at the end of it, we will determine the winner in this battle of two portable speakers.
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
So, here is a quick comparison of the two speakers the JBL Go 2 and JBL Go 3.
If you place both devices side by side and alternatively play the same songs, you’ll see that the differences are clear. The JBL Go 3 has stronger bass, and deeper sound; also its maximum volume is noticeably higher.
Basically, the JBL Go 3 is the best choice at the moment. Its price is quite similar to its predecessor, it also sounds louder, and has better power output, which makes it produce deep bass tones slightly better.
However, if you look for some other features like a mini-jack input and a hands-free mode, then the JBL Go 2 is your choice.
To get more details and performance comparisons of these two speakers, keep reading the information below.
View on Amazon: JBL GO2 Bluetooth Speaker
View on Amazon: JBL GO3 Bluetooth Speaker
The JBL Go 2 and Go 3: Comparison Chart
Name | JBL Go 2 | JBL Go 3 |
SOUND QUALITY | ||
Frequency response range | 180 Hz – 20 kHz | 110 Hz – 20 kHz |
Output Power | 3.1 W | 4.2 W |
Maximum playing time (hrs) | 5 | 5 |
BUILD QUALITY | ||
Waterproof & Dustproof | IPx7 | IPx67 |
BATTERY | ||
Battery Life | Up to 5 hrs | Up to 5 hrs |
Charge Time | 2.5 hrs | 2.5 hrs |
Power Saving | ||
Charging Port | ||
Battery Type | Li-ion polymer | Li-ion polymer 2.7Wh |
VOICE ASSISTANT | ||
Alexa | ||
Google Assistant | ||
Siri | ||
Voice Activation | ||
APP | ||
App Name | JBL Portable | JBL Portable |
iOS | ||
Android | ||
JBL PartyBoost | ||
EQ | ||
Stereo Pair Mode | ||
Party Mode | ||
BLUETOOTH | ||
Bluetooth Version | 4.1 | 5.1 |
Bluetooth Profiles | A2DP 1.2, AVRCP 1.5 HFP V1.5, HSP V1.2 | A2DP 1.3, AVRCP 1.6 |
Bluetooth Frequency | 2.402 – 2.480 GHz | 2.4 – 2.435 GHz |
Bluetooth Transmitted modulation | GFSK, DQPSK, 8DPSK | GFSK, π/4 DQPSK, 8DPSK |
Bluetooth Transmitting Power | 0-4 dBm | <8 dBm |
PORTABILITY | ||
Dimensions (cm) | 8.6 x 7.1 x 3.2 (cm) | 8.6 x 6.9 x 4.0 (cm) |
Dimensions (in) | 3.4 x 2.8 x 1.3 (in) | 3.4 x 2.7 x 1.6 (in) |
Weight (kgs) | 0.18 (kgs) | 0.209 (kgs) |
Weight (lbs) | 0.39 (lbs) | 0.46 (lbs) |
Price | ||
Sound Quality
These two JBL speakers were produced to meet basic “grab N go” users’ needs, rather than a true audiophile’s. In general, they have good sound quality, which correlates with an outstanding JBL feature. Two devices possess many similarities:
- both are ultra-compact;
- deliver surprisingly good audio;
- high-frequency and mid-frequency tunes are pretty clear and thin in sounding;
- low-frequency notes aren’t that crispy and well-defined; however, they are coherent;
- great bass output for their dimensions;
- have a passive radiator (a type of drivers which doesn’t have a magnet and a voice coil), which output power and sound vibrations are determined by the size of the speaker.
So, what are their main differences? Let’s take a closer look:
- the Go 3 has better audio quality and richer sound;
- it also gets a wider frequency response range meaning it has a stronger and deeper bass response;
- the Go 3’s lowest frequency reaches 180 Hz compared to the Go 2’s 110 Hz. Yes, the difference seems to be big, and we can hear that while listening to music, however, the Go 2 device brings well-adjusted audio quality;
- they both have an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, yet it’s greater for the newer version.
View on Amazon: JBL GO2 Bluetooth Speaker
View on Amazon: JBL GO3 Bluetooth Speaker
Design and Build
Nevertheless, these speakers have a small size, they have decent overall quality. The JBL Go 2 seems a bit smaller than its big brother, but they both give a strong sense of portability while carrying in a hand. The rope loop facing the side of the speaker allows it to attach to a carabiner, though it doesn’t have an integrated carabiner.
The two devices are durable and firm in their build and are made of high-quality plastic and colorful fabric. What’s more, the IP rating allows to locate them next to the water source as they repel water splashes.
Despite these common features, they differ as well. So:
View on Amazon: JBL GO 2 Speaker
View on Amazon: JBL GO 3 Speaker
Battery Life
Both speakers have slightly different types of lithium-ion batteries, but still, it doesn’t make an apparent difference between these devices. They both have the same maximum playback time of up to 5 hours on a single charge, which varies depending on the volume level. Eventually, the lower level of sounding gives you longer battery life. You’ll also spend 2.5 hours fully charging these gadgets.
Connectivity
Two devices are equipped with 3.5 mm aux input for your headphones. The JBL speaker also has a USB type C type for charging or connecting with another gadget in case the Bluetooth function is not working. However, they don’t have a mic and speakerphone capability.
If you look at Bluetooth capabilities, the Go 2 has a 4.1 version, whereas the Go 3 has an improved 5.1 version which gives better Bluetooth range and greater stability in the affinity. Though, we cannot say that 4.1 messes up the connectivity.
While the JBL Go 3 accepts voice commands, its predecessor cannot brag about it.
Final Decision
The clash of the JBL Go 2 vs Go 3 showed that the last model is slightly better than its predecessor. The Go 3 has greater sound quality due to better frequency response and more bass, which makes audio more powerful. This Bluetooth speaker definitely wins for better connectivity and an upgraded Bluetooth version. Furthermore, it has an extended color variation of speakers, bringing more contemporaneity to the design. They do not differ in price that much to make it a decision-maker for a purchase.
Check Price: JBL GO 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Check Price: JBL GO 3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
You can also check for the JBL Clip 3 and Clip 4 models which surpass these speakers in some features and sound really great.
