JBL Charge 4 vs. UE Blast

Get the party started with a smart speaker!

Being able to simply pair up your smartphone via a WiFi or Bluetooth connection in order to play your favorite songs, is a quick and efficient way to access your playlist and share it with your friends in no time.

What’s more, both models that we’re going to talk about today are near-indestructible with their waterproof design, while also remaining resistant to those accidental bumps and falls.

Making these smart speakers an ideal accompaniment to your next outdoor pool party!

One of the devices also includes an in-built Alexa, which allows you to have hands-free control over your smart speaker as well as other connected appliances, so you can set the mood to match any song you’re currently listening to.

So, let’s get right to it, and see which model suits you best!

Feel free to use our navigation system to skip down to any part you prefer.

JBL Charge 4 vs. UE Blast — Differences

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  • Difference #1: Battery – It can be pretty annoying when the battery of your smart speaker runs out of juice just when you’re really getting into the groove.

    Luckily, JBL Charge 4 offers up to 20 hours of listening time which should be more than enough to keep the party going in full swing.

    However, UE Blast does redeem itself with its quick charging time of up to 2.5 hours compared to JBL’s 5.5 hours.

    So you won’t have to wait too long for your speaker to charge up again.

  • Difference #2: Button Control – Both JBL 4 and UE Blast include on-device controls that allow you to simply turn your speaker on and off, as well as adjust the volume without needing to reach for your smartphone every time.

    Yet you can do more with UE Blast as it also comes with something called a “Magic” button.
    This too allows you to skip or pause tracks, and even jump into your favorite preset playlist when long pressed for seamless access to your music.

  • Difference #3: Audio Quality – In terms of audio quality, you can expect a good performance from either model as they have been designed for music lovers in mind.

    However, since JBL Charge 4 has a wider range of sound frequency, ranging from 60Hz to 20kHz, as well as a lesser audio output no greater than >80dBA so that you can expect a much deeper and richer bass tone that will really emphasize the lower notes of your favorite song.

    While UE Blast is able to produce an impressive 360° wall of sound, that can reach even the furthest corners of the room, making it an ideal accompaniment to an outdoor party.

  • Difference #4: In-Built Alexa – Enjoy having hands-free control over your UE Blast! Since it comes with Alexa already built-in so you can take advantage of all the features of an Alexa enabled device (minus the announcements, drop in calls, and messaging features) without the need for an Echo Show or Dot!

    Having Alexa provides you with the ability to operate your lights, cameras, doorbell, thermostat and more, without needing to lift a finger!

    So now you have the freedom to set the perfect atmosphere to your chill out mix without having to leave the couch.

    JBL Charge 4 doesn’t offer any voice control features.

  • Difference #5: WiFi – Additionally, UE Blast also uses both a WiFi connection, as well as Bluetooth.

    So this allows you to take advantage of even more features such as remote control, quick and simple set up process, and even more streaming platforms like Spotify, Deezer, iHeartRadio, and more that can be accessed via Alexa voice commands.

  • Difference #6: 3.5mm Input – With JBL Charge 4 you are not just limited to Bluetooth pairing, as it also comes with a 3.5mm input which you can use it to connect with your radio, TV, and other old-school devices, so you are free to enjoy your favorite audiobooks, podcasts, and movies without interruption.

  • Difference #7: Charge Your Smartphone – Another handy thing about JBL is the fact it also includes a USB port to charge your smart device! So you can be jamming to your favorite tracks, while also ensuring that your connected smart device doesn’t run out of battery!

  • Difference #8: App Control – While both smart speakers include an app, they are quite different in their capabilities.

    For example, the JBL Connect app can be used for pairing up two speakers for stereo sound, upgrading software, and setting up your new device.

    While with UE Blast you can do a whole lot more, such as enabling Amazon Alexa, the power to customize the EQ, connect up to eight Blast or Megablast speakers for an intense listening experience, and of course, being able to turn or turn off your device remotely whenever you want.

  • Difference #9: Design – In terms of design, UE Blast certainly has an advantage with its sleek cylindrical shape that’s easy to fit into most cup holders or your backpack pockets.

    It also comes in various attractive color tones of Blizzard, Blue Steel, Graphite, Graphite Black, and Merlot, for a truly aesthetic touch.

    While JBL also comes in many color options to choose from such as Black, Blue, Camouflage, Gery, Green, Pink, Red, Sand, Teal, White, and Yellow, it’s simply not as chic looking with it’s bulkier dimensions of 8.66” x 3.74” x 3.66” and one tone color options.

Sale JBL Charge 4 - Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Black

JBL Charge 4 vs. UE Blast — Comparison Chart

JBL Charge 4 UE Blast
Battery Run Time Up to 20 Hours Up to 12 Hours
Charge Time 5.5 Hours Up to 2.5 Hours
Waterproof IPX7 IP67
Magic Button N/A Yes
Micro USB Charging Port Yes Yes
360° Sound No Yes
Shock Proof Yes Yes
Bluetooth Yes Yes
WiFi No Yes, dual-band Wi-Fi
supports 802.11 a/b/g/n
(2.4 and 5 GHz) networks
Built-in Alexa No Yes
Pairing Range Up to 30ft Wi-Fi 330ft /
Bluetooth 150ft
Bungee Clip No Yes
Can be Paired with another speaker Yes Yes
App Support Yes, Limited Yes
Charging Dock Power Bank Yes
3.5mm Input Yes N/A
Can Charge Smartphone Yes No
Maximum Sound Level >80dBA 90dBA
Frequency Range 60Hz – 20kHz 90Hz – 20kHz
Drivers One large single Driver,
Two Passive Radiators
Two 1.4” Active Drivers
and two 3.2” x 1.5”
Passive Radiators
Dimensions 8.66” x 3.74” x 3.66” 5.6” x 10.1” x 5.5”
Finish Black, Blue, Camouflage,
Gery, Green, Pink, Red,
Sand, Teal, White,
and Yellow
Blizzard, Blue Steel,
Graphite, Graphite Black,
and Merlot

JBL Charge 4 vs. UE Blast — Things in Common

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  • Waterproof – Have your smart speaker out by the pool, or even in the shower! As both models are water, dust and even shockproof for the adventurers and pool party lovers out there.

    With UE Blast being more so, with a rating of IP67 it can withstand being fully submerged in water for up to 30 minutes!

  • Charging Dock – You can also choose to include a portable charging dock for your UE Blast speaker as a way to ensure the device doesn’t run out of juice when your party is in full swing!

    While JBL 4 doesn’t include a wireless charging dock, you can opt for a power bank to charge it while on the go.

    Otherwise, both smart speakers include a micro USB charging port for when at home.


JBL Charge 4 vs. UE Blast — Accessories

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In terms of accessories, there are a couple of things out there for both devices.

You can take a look at the LTGEM Case for Ultimate Ears Blast, which is both shock and dustproof and will aid in protecting your device from getting scratched or dropped.

And it also includes a specifically designed mesh pocket perfectly for cable and other small accessories.

Similarly, you can also opt for a Lifestyle Carry Case for JBL Charge 4, that will allow you to easily carry your speaker when cycling, stow it in your backpack, and more.


JBL Charge 4 vs. UE Blast — Our Thoughts

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At the end, when it comes to choosing between JBL Charge 4 vs. UE Blast, it really comes down to the decision if you want a speaker with built-in Alexa, which is also compatible with your home WiFi network, similarly to Sonos series.

If so, UE Blast is a good option to go for with its impressive 360° sound capabilities, great app features, and stylish design, while also being a tad bit cheaper than Charge 4.

While for those of you who already have an Alexa-enabled device at home, and are happy with the Bluetooth pairing option only, then JBL Charge 4 with it’s stronger bass audio output might be the one for you.

Sale JBL Charge 4 - Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Black

Last update on 2024-03-29 at 06:56 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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