If you own a JBL Charge 3 or JBL Charge 4 speaker, you know how powerful and versatile these audio devices are. Both models offer exceptional sound quality and are built to withstand outdoor elements. However, a common question many users have is whether they can connect both devices together for an enhanced audio experience. In this detailed article, we will explore the features of JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4, their compatibility, and how to successfully pair them. We’ll also delve into their specifications, advantages, and any limitations you should be aware of.
Understanding JBL Charge Series Speakers
Before diving into connectivity, it’s essential to understand the basics of JBL’s Charge series speakers. JBL has been a leader in the portable speaker market for years, and the Charge series is particularly well-regarded for its powerful sound and durability.
Overview of JBL Charge 3
The JBL Charge 3 was released in 2016 and quickly gained popularity for its robust design, long battery life, and exceptional sound quality. Here are some of its key features:
- Sound Quality: The Charge 3 offers a strong bass response and clear treble, making it great for a variety of music genres.
- Battery Life: With a 6000mAh battery, it provides up to 20 hours of playtime, ensuring you can enjoy your music throughout the day.
- Waterproof Rating: It has an IPX7 waterproof rating, allowing it to withstand immersion in water.
- JBL Connect: This feature enables users to link multiple JBL speakers for a more immersive audio experience.
Overview of JBL Charge 4
Released in 2019, the JBL Charge 4 brought several upgrades from its predecessor, making it a worthy choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Some highlights include:
- Improved Sound Quality: The Charge 4 features a larger driver and improved bass, offering a richer sound profile.
- Longer Battery Life: With a 7500mAh battery, it provides up to 20 hours of playtime and can also charge your devices via USB-C.
- Durability: Like its predecessor, it has an IPX7 waterproof rating, allowing it to be used in various environments.
- JBL Connect+: This feature allows you to connect over 100 JBL Connect+ enabled speakers for a dynamic listening experience.
Can You Connect JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4?
The primary question many users have regarding these two speakers is whether they can connect together. Unfortunately, the answer is no; you cannot connect JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 using the JBL Connect+ feature. They are designed with different connectivity protocols.
Understanding JBL Connect vs. JBL Connect+
To understand why you cannot connect the two models, it’s important to note the differences between the JBL Connect and JBL Connect+ technologies.
- JBL Connect: This feature, available on the Charge 3, allows users to connect multiple JBL speakers that also support JBL Connect.
- JBL Connect+: This newer feature, found in the Charge 4, enables users to join over 100 compatible speakers.
Since JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 each utilize different protocols, they simply cannot be paired together.
How to Connect JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4 with Other JBL Speakers
While connecting the Charge 3 and Charge 4 together isn’t possible, you can still connect each one to other compatible JBL speakers. Let’s take a closer look at how to do this.
Pairing JBL Charge 3 with Other Speakers
If you want to enhance your listening experience using multiple Charge 3 speakers or other JBL models that support the JBL Connect feature, follow these steps:
- Turn on your first Charge 3 speaker.
- Enable Bluetooth on your mobile device and search for the Charge 3 to establish a connection.
- Once connected, press the JBL Connect button on the first speaker.
- Turn on the second JBL speaker that supports JBL Connect.
- Press the JBL Connect button on the second speaker. You should hear a confirmation sound when they connect successfully.
Pairing JBL Charge 4 with Other Speakers
To connect your JBL Charge 4 to other JBL Connect+ compatible speakers, follow these steps:
- Turn on your Charge 4 speaker.
- Activate Bluetooth on your mobile device and connect it to the Charge 4.
- Once connected, press the JBL Connect+ button on the Charge 4.
- Turn on other compatible JBL speakers and press their JBL Connect+ buttons.
- Listen for the sound alert to confirm successful connections.
Exploring Other Features of JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4
Even if you cannot connect the Charge 3 and Charge 4 together, both speakers have many features that make them worthwhile investments for music lovers.
Sound Quality and Performance
Both JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 provide impressive sound quality with notable bass and clear highs. It’s essential to know how to optimize your listening experience:
- Equalizer Settings: Use music apps that allow you to adjust equalizer settings to suit your preferences.
- Optimal Placement: Position your speaker in a room or area where it can reflect sound off walls for a fuller experience.
Portability and Design
Both speakers are designed for portability. Their rugged, rubberized exterior makes them durable, and the built-in carrying strap makes it easy to transport them. The waterproof and dustproof features also enhance their usability in outdoor settings.
Battery Life and Power Features
Long battery life is a standout feature of both models, allowing for extended music listening during trips or gatherings. Furthermore, both speakers can act as power banks to charge your mobile devices, keeping your gadgets handy and operational.
Key Differences Between JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4
While both speakers share many similarities, they also have critical differences that may influence your purchasing decision. Here’s a concise comparison:
| Feature | JBL Charge 3 | JBL Charge 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Release | 2016 | 2019 |
| Battery Capacity | 6000mAh | 7500mAh |
| Connectivity | JBL Connect | JBL Connect+ |
| USB Port | USB-A | USB-C |
| Physical Dimensions | 213 x 87 x 88.5 mm | 229 x 93 x 116 mm |
Conclusion
In summary, while it’s not possible to connect JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 speakers together, each model stands out in its own right. Both deliver excellent sound quality, lengthy battery life, and robust construction, suited for any environment.
If you’re looking to expand your audio system, consider purchasing another JBL speaker that is compatible with the one you already own. This will enhance your listening experience without any connectivity issues.
Take advantage of the rich sound and innovative features offered by JBL, and enjoy your music the way it was meant to be heard!
What is the difference between JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4?
The JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 are both portable Bluetooth speakers that offer exceptional sound quality and durability, but there are notable differences between them. One of the primary differences is the sound performance; the Charge 4 features an upgraded driver that provides richer bass and a more balanced audio profile, making it more suitable for various music genres. Additionally, the Charge 4 offers better battery life—up to 20 hours—compared to the Charge 3’s 15 hours, allowing for longer playtime without the need for frequent charging.
Another difference lies in the design and connectivity. The Charge 4 has a more robust and streamlined build, featuring a slightly larger passive radiator for enhanced bass response. It also utilizes Bluetooth 4.2, which allows for improved connectivity and range. Charge 3 operates on Bluetooth 4.1. While both speakers are waterproof and can handle outdoor use, the Charge 4 has a higher IPX7 rating, making it more resistant to water exposure.
How do I pair my JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4 with my device?
To pair your JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4 with your device, start by ensuring that your speaker is turned on. Once powered, press the Bluetooth button located on the top of the speaker; this will put it in pairing mode. The Bluetooth LED indicator will begin to blink, signaling that your device is ready to connect. On your smartphone, tablet, or computer, go to the Bluetooth settings and search for available devices.
Once you see ‘JBL Charge 3’ or ‘JBL Charge 4’ in the list of available devices, select it to initiate pairing. You may hear a confirmation sound from your speaker indicating a successful connection. If you encounter any issues, make sure your device’s Bluetooth is enabled and that it is within the recommended range—usually within 30 feet. Also, ensure that no other devices are currently connected to the speaker, as this could prevent a successful pairing.
Can I connect multiple JBL Charge speakers together?
Yes, you can connect multiple JBL Charge speakers together using the JBL Connect+ feature available in both Charge 3 and Charge 4 models. This allows you to link up to 100 compatible JBL speakers for a synchronized audio experience. To use this feature, simply make sure that all the speakers are powered on and in Bluetooth pairing mode. Then, press the JBL Connect+ button on each speaker to establish the connection between them.
Once connected, you can enjoy a more immersive sound experience by distributing the audio output across multiple speakers. However, keep in mind that the JBL Connect+ feature only works with compatible models. This means you cannot connect a Charge 3 with a Charge 4, as the Charge 4 might not support the same linking features. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for compatibility before trying to connect multiple speakers.
How do I charge my JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4?
Charging your JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4 is straightforward and convenient. Both models feature a built-in rechargeable battery, which can be easily charged using the provided USB charging cable. To initiate the charging process, simply connect one end of the USB cable to the speaker’s charging port and the other end to a power source, such as a wall adapter, computer USB port, or a power bank. The LED indicator will illuminate, letting you know that the battery is receiving power.
It’s important to allow the speakers to charge fully for optimal performance. While both models can take several hours to reach a full charge, the LED indicator will change from red to white once charging is complete. Remember to use a power source that meets the required voltage specifications to prevent any potential damage to the battery. Regularly charging the battery and following proper care guidelines can prolong the lifespan of your JBL speaker.
Can I use my JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4 while it’s charging?
Yes, you can use your JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4 while it is charging. These speakers are designed to allow for continuous operation even while plugged in, which means you can enjoy your favorite music or podcasts without interruption. Simply connect the charging cable to a power source, and as long as the Bluetooth connection is properly established, you can continue to play audio without any issues.
However, keep in mind that using the speaker while it is charging may produce slightly more heat than normal operation, which is generally safe but worth noting. If you notice the speaker becoming excessively hot, it may be a good idea to give it a break and allow it to cool down or remove the charging cable during active use, especially if you’re using demanding audio apps or playing at high volume levels.
How do I reset my JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4?
Resetting your JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4 is a simple process that can resolve various performance issues, such as connectivity problems or audio distortion. To perform a hard reset, start by ensuring your speaker is powered on. Then, press and hold the Volume Up and Bluetooth buttons simultaneously for about 5-10 seconds. You should see the LED indicators flash, and the speaker will turn off, signifying that the reset was successful.
After the reset, you’ll need to reconnect your speaker to any devices you previously had it paired with, as resetting clears all current Bluetooth connections. This procedure is a useful troubleshooting step if you experience any issues, and it can help restore optimal functionality. Be sure to consult your user manual for any additional specific instructions tailored to your speaker model, as features can vary.