JBL Boombox 3 vs 4: How These Portable Speakers Compare
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JBL Boombox 3 vs 4: How These Portable Speakers Compare

Let's be real: You don't mess with a classic unless you can make it absolutely better. The JBL Boombox 3 set the standard for powerful, portable sound, delivering the ultimate party starter from backyard BBQs to epic beach days across Australia. It was the sound that followed you anywhere. But now, JBL has pushed the limits again. We’ve dropped the Boombox 4, the ultimate evolution of our iconic portable speaker.

The big question is this: Can JBL really top the reigning champion? The answer lies in massive engineering upgrades — we’re talking new drivers, smarter tech, and marathon battery life. This isn't just a new coat of paint; it's a total sonic overhaul. Read on as we break down exactly how the Boombox 4 crushes the competition, even its own legendary predecessor.

JBL Boombox 3
Portable speaker
$699.95

Turning Up the Power

The Boombox 4 builds fearlessly on the powerful foundation of the Boombox 3, but the sound engine is completely redesigned. We didn't just tweak the components; we dropped in two bigger woofers, two tweeters, and three passive radiators. The result is pure, unfiltered sound: every track hits harder and sounds cleaner than ever before. This is amplified further by our new proprietary tech, AI Sound Boost, which intelligently optimises acoustics and prevents distortion. Even when you push the volume to the max, the sound stays clean and full — no crackle, no compromise.

JBL Boombox 4
Most powerful JBL portable waterproof speaker with massive JBL Pro Sound
$699.95

Still Goes the Distance — and Then Some

When the party is pumping, you need battery life that won't quit. This is where the Boombox 3 vs 4 comparison gets serious.

The Boombox 3 gave you an awesome 24 hours of playtime, but the Boombox 4 pushes the limit even further, offering up to 28 hours of juice. Need a true marathon session? Hit the JBL Playtime Boost feature to squeeze out an extra 6 hours when you need it most.

But here’s the game-changer: The Boombox 4 features a replaceable rechargeable battery. When the old one finally gives out years down the track, you don't buy a new speaker — you swap the battery and get right back to 100% juice.

Still All the Proofs

You take your sound everywhere, and we built the Boombox to handle anything. Just like its predecessor, the Boombox 4 is completely dustproof and waterproof. We’re talking a rugged IP68 rating. Rain, sand, or an accidental pool dunk — it doesn’t matter. Your sound is protected, always.

Louder, Larger, and Lighter

The iconic silhouette remains, but the engineering is smarter. The Boombox 4 is a huge 810g lighter than the Boombox 3. This means you get bigger, bolder sound for every adventure, in a package that’s significantly easier to carry from the car to the outdoors. We kept the classic shape you love but engineered the comfort and usability, making it truly the best portable party speaker in Australia.

 Louder, Larger, and Lighter

Even More About That Bass

We know bass isn't one-size-fits-all — it's gotta match the mood! The Boombox 4 gives you the pure power to dial in your low-end exactly how you want it. Hit Deep Bass Mode (look for the orange light!) for that chest-thumping, ground-vibrating bass that absolutely dominates any open space. Need something tighter for an indoor dance-off? Switch to Punchy Bass Mode (white light) for a defined, clean low-end that still hits hard. It's your bass, tailor-made for maximum impact.

Connection Just Got Colossal

Audio freedom just got a serious, no-limits upgrade! The Boombox 4 completely crushes the old pairing limits of PartyBoost and jumps into the future with Auracast™, next-gen Bluetooth tech. Why should you care? It means easier pairing, wider range, and rock-solid stability when linking many Auracast™-enabled portable speakers. Suddenly, blasting massive sound at outdoor parties, camping trips, or epic tailgates in Australia is absolutely seamless. Share the sound with everyone around you and let the vibe explode!

Pure Sound for the Audio Fanatic

We care about the flawless details, too. For those who demand studio-grade quality, the Boombox 4 features USB-C lossless audio playback. Plug directly into your laptop and enjoy pristine, uncompromised sound fidelity — hear every single note exactly as the artist intended. Plus, the JBL Portable app puts the power right in your hands, letting you fine-tune those detailed EQ settings until the audio is precisely perfect for you.

The Final Blast: Why the Boombox 4 Wins

The Boombox 4 is not a replacement; it’s an absolute sonic evolution and this comparison confirms it. The Boombox 4 retains everything you loved about the Boombox 3 — the unstoppable sound, the epic durability, and the bold design — while injecting game-changing upgrades in bass control, battery flexibility, and connectivity. If you demand one of the Bluetooth speakers on the market, the choice is clear. It’s time to push play and make some noise!

If you’re ready to level up your sound, JBL Boombox 4 is waiting at the JBL Australia Official Store.

All product details verified on JBL.com.au as of November 2025.

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