After putting it through its paces again, I found that for its size and price point, it remains a surprisingly capable piece of hardware.

Specs at a Glance

Performance and Build Quality

The JBL Go isn't going to win awards for high-end audio fidelity, but that’s not why I kept it. It is incredibly compact and, most importantly, durable. The metal mesh front has held up perfectly, and the controls on top - power, Bluetooth pairing, and volume - are straightforward and tactile.

In my testing, the connection process was seamless. Holding the Bluetooth button for a few seconds put it straight into pairing mode, and my phone recognized it instantly.

When it comes to volume, I was genuinely impressed. I cranked it up during my test, and for a 3-watt speaker, it easily fills a room. It’s loud, the sound is clear, and it handles outdoor environments - like my yard - without breaking a sweat.

Pros and Cons

My Experience

I’ve used this speaker in backpacks, outdoors, and around the house for years. It’s the kind of device you don't have to worry about; it just works. While I wouldn't go dunking it in a pool, the build quality suggests it can handle the occasional bump or bit of humidity without issues.

Since this is the first generation, it’s missing a few modern conveniences like USB-C charging. However, if you can find one of these secondhand, it’s still a reliable, punchy little companion.

I haven't had the chance to test the newer iterations of the JBL Go series yet. I want to know how the sound profile and battery tech have evolved. If you have a favorite newer model, drop a comment below- I’m looking for the next one to review.

Watch my full hands-on testing and sound comparison here: