The JBL Go 3 (JBLGO3BLUP) is the latest iteration in JBL’s popular Go series of portable Bluetooth speakers. Promising powerful sound in a compact, water-resistant package, I’ve spent the last few weeks putting this little speaker through its paces to see if it lives up to the hype. Let’s dive in.

The JBL Go 3 boasts a sleek, minimalist design. The Blue Pink color is vibrant and eye-catching, and the matte finish feels surprisingly premium for a speaker in this price range. Its compact size makes it incredibly portable, easily fitting in a bag or pocket. Key features include Bluetooth connectivity, IPX7 water and dust resistance, and a claimed 5-hour battery life. The inclusion of a USB-C charging port is a welcome addition, aligning with modern standards.

The sound quality from the JBL Go 3 is surprisingly good for its size. The bass is definitely present, though not overwhelmingly so – it manages to stay clear even at higher volumes. I tested it with a variety of genres, from pop to classical, and it handled everything relatively well. While it won’t replace a larger, more powerful speaker system, the Go 3 excels in its ability to deliver clear, enjoyable sound in its small form factor. The battery life lived up to its claim during moderate listening sessions, consistently delivering about 5 hours of playback on a single charge. I also tested the waterproof capabilities by accidentally splashing water on it several times (I swear it was an accident!). No issues at all. It was also pleasingly quick to connect via Bluetooth each time.

However, there are limitations. At maximum volume, there’s a slight distortion, and the sound can become somewhat tinny, lacking depth at times. This is expected, however, given its size and price point.

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality for its size
• Compact and portable design
• IPX7 water and dust resistance
• 5-hour battery life
• USB-C charging
• Stylish design

Cons:

• Slight distortion at maximum volume
• Lacks depth at higher volumes
• No aux input, which is something I found inconvenient.

Overall, the JBL Go 3 (JBLGO3BLUP) is an excellent portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers impressive sound and features for its price. While it has a few minor limitations, they’re easily outweighed by its portability, durability, and excellent audio quality for everyday listening. If you’re looking for a compact, water-resistant speaker that punches above its weight, the JBL Go 3 is a great option. I highly recommend it.