Is the JBL Charge 3 still a contender or well past it’s prime?
At just over three years old, we ask the question… is the JBL Charge 3 still a contender or well past it’s prime?
The previous Charge 2 was splash proof but JBL took it a step further with the Charge 3. This model is IPX7 waterproof, meaning that you can submerge it completely in water. The shape of the speaker is similar to plenty of the other speakers in the JBL line-up. It’s cylindrical and also has exposed bass radiators on either end which definitely helps push out some sound.
JBL have become one of the most trusted names in the Bluetooth speaker market. Consumers know to expect a well-designed and relatively affordable product, usually accompanied by a good sound. Well, the JBL Charge 3 ticks all those boxes and more. Not only has it been upgraded to fully waterproof, it has a huge battery that can also be used to recharge your phone if it dies.
This thing is currently $115 at retail which actually surprised me, and is extremely reasonable for this speaker. If you know me I always try to find the lowest price possible so if you stay to the end of the article I will have a link for the lowest price guaranteed.
But, there is a lot more to discover other than price. Let’s get to it!
Design & Build
A couple of changes have been made to the design of the JBL Charge 3. The cylindrical shape is no longer a hard-shell design. A tough woven fabric mesh is now the main material, lending the speaker a more contemporary look. The traditional exposed bass radiators at each end add a muscular element to the mix and are a lot of fun to watch when they come alive
The Charge 3 isn’t the smallest Bluetooth speaker in the world and is certainly larger than some of its rivals. Measuring 21 x 8.7 x 8.8 cm and weighing 1.8 lbs, it certainly qualifies as portable. Although it will add some weight to your backpack if you have to walk any distance. A range of colors, including red, blue, teal, grey, and black, can be chosen from.
Battery Life
Now, The Charge 3 gets 20 hours of playback time on one charge which blew my mind! Most people including myself have gone a full two weeks with moderate playback time without having to charge this baby. I have really valued the battery life and many other people do as well.
When you do need to charge it, all you have to do is plug it in with its standard USB cable. Also, no need to worry when your phone is about to die. The speaker has a built in portable charger that can be used to charge your phone and other accessories. That is especially handy for those of you who enjoy traveling.
Features
The Charge 3 is also waterproof down to one meter for thirty minutes! And unlike many new speakers this guy floats which is another extremely strong move. You have the option to play music from Bluetooth or an auxiliary cord. The Bluetooth has a range of 30 to 40 feet which is slightly better than the standard Bluetooth. From my experience I have had no disruption from doors or walls or going up stairs or down stairs or people, so extremely strong and stable Bluetooth connection.
You also have the option to connect 3 Bluetooth devices at the same time which is more helpful than you’d think.
Waterproof
JBL have upgraded the Charge 3 to full IPX7 waterproofing. This means you can fully submerge the speaker to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes. My 5-year-olds paddling pool provided a good testing ground, and we can report that the Charge 3 survived a ten-minute dunking with flying colors. The garden hose was also used unsparingly in a full-on assault with no problems to report.
Does the JBL Charge 3 sound good?
Even though it has a 3.5mm input, I did all of my testing wirelessly using mobile phones since I figure that’s how most people are going to be using this speaker anyway. The Charge 3 makes good use of it its size with a strong low end. It’s definitely a little more powerful than some audiophiles will like, but I found it was perfect for bringing it outside. The Charge 3 was basically made for being poolside considering how loud it gets.
Is the JBL Charge 3 worth buying in 2021?
Despite the release of its successors, the Charge 3 is still a great value for its money. While it may not offer modern features like USB-C charging, the Charge 3 still delivers the same IPX7 build and comparable sound quality to the Charge 4. Plus, you’ll often find the Charge 3 available for a lower price.
Though the Charge 3 and its successors are still relatively portable, the Flip 4 or the Flip 5 are hands-down better options if you want to take it with you everywhere. If you want the biggest sound possible then you’re better off with the JBL Xtreme. But if you want the perfect mix of both, I have no problem recommending the Charge 3. It’s big enough to have a full sound, but it’s not so big that it’s a burden. Even when compared to the newer Charge 4, it’s still a great option if you can get a good enough discount.
Any of our winning options are quality Bluetooth speaker that will serve you well, but selecting the perfect one is about your preferences and ideal price point.Want more recommendations for the best Bluetooth speaker? Check out our guides to the DinDinModern.
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