Affordable and top-notch small Bluetooth speakers, now within the price range of a typical takeout meal.
The Tribit StormBox Micro 2 and JBL Go 4 Bluetooth speakers are two top choices for those seeking high-quality audio at an affordable price point under £50. Both speakers have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different preferences.
Tribit StormBox Micro 2
The Tribit StormBox Micro 2 has been impressing audiophiles with its surprising dynamism and precise timing, especially when tested with complex material. This compact speaker delivers audio performance that defies its dimensions, offering a meatier, more energetic sound profile.
One of the standout features of the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is its improved battery life. With a battery life of approximately 12 to 30 hours, depending on use, it offers a significant increase of 50% over its predecessor. Moreover, it now features a power bank function, allowing for charging of phones in emergencies.
The speaker's design is compact, floating on water, and rugged, allowing for both upright and flat positioning. It is also equipped with a thoughtfully designed rubber strap for securing to shower rails or bicycle handlebars. The Tribit StormBox Micro 2 has received a five-star rating and is currently available for purchase at Amazon for £49.99, a decrease from its original price of £59.99.
JBL Go 4
The JBL Go 4, another five-star speaker, is another highly recommended option. It delivers audio with slightly better bass and clarity in the mids and treble compared to older models, although its limited volume due to size is worth noting.
The JBL Go 4 excels in durability, boasting an IP67 rating, making it fully dustproof and waterproof, capable of surviving submersion. Its compact and portable design, coupled with a durable carrying strap, ensures easy mobility.
In terms of connectivity, the JBL Go 4 offers stable Bluetooth 5.3 performance with a 30m range, even through walls. While it does not offer stereo pairing like the Tribit StormBox Micro 2, its ultra-portability makes it a great choice for those prioritizing compactness.
Performance Comparison
When it comes to sound quality, the Tribit offers a more open and mature soundstage, but the JBL Go 4 delivers a coherent and well-balanced sound with good bass given its tiny size. In terms of battery life, the Tribit outperforms the JBL Go 4, making it better for extended use outdoors.
Regarding durability, the JBL Go 4 has a superior IP67 dust and water resistance rating compared to the Tribit’s IPX7 waterproofing. In terms of connectivity and features, the Tribit has a slight edge with Bluetooth 5.4 and stereo pairing capability, while the JBL Go 4 offers stable Bluetooth 5.3 performance and ultra-portability.
Choosing Between the Two
Between the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 and the JBL Go 4, both are excellent Bluetooth speakers under £50 with solid features, but they differ in battery life, sound quality, durability, and connectivity. If you prioritize longer battery life and stereo pairing, the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is a strong value. However, if you value superior water/dust resistance and compactness, the JBL Go 4 is an excellent choice.
In conclusion, both the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 and the JBL Go 4 are top choices under £50. Your choice depends on whether you want slightly better battery and pairing (Tribit) or superior water/dust resistance and compactness (JBL Go 4).
[1] TechRadar. (2022, February 11). Tribit StormBox Micro 2 review. TechRadar. https://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio/portable-speakers/tribit-stormbox-micro-2
[2] Wired. (2022, March 10). Tribit StormBox Micro 2 Review. Wired. https://www.wired.com/review/tribit-stormbox-micro-2/
[3] What Hi-Fi. (2022, February 25). JBL Go 4 review. What Hi-Fi. https://www.whathifi.com/jbl/go-4
[4] Digital Trends. (2022, February 11). JBL Go 4 review. Digital Trends. https://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/jbl-go-4-review/
[5] JBL. (n.d.). Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. JBL. https://www.jbl.com/bluetooth-speakers/JBL+GO+4.html
- The Tribit StormBox Micro 2 exceeds expectations with its dynamism and precise timing, offering a sound profile that is meatier and more energetic compared to other speakers in its class.
- One unique selling point of the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is its improved battery life, offering up to 12 to 30 hours of playtime and a power bank function for emergency charging.
- The JBL Go 4 is another five-star speaker, delivering audio with better bass and clarity in the mids and treble compared to previous models, despite its limited volume due to size.
- The JBL Go 4 boasts an IP67 dust and water resistance rating, ensuring it can withstand submersion and deliver exceptional durability.
- For Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with a 30m range, even through walls, the JBL Go 4 offers stable performance, though it does not feature stereo pairing like the Tribit StormBox Micro 2.
- If you prioritize longer battery life, stereo pairing, and maturing soundstage, the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is a better choice. On the other hand, if you value superior water/dust resistance and compactness, the JBL Go 4 is more suitable for your needs.
