Introduction
JBL is one of the most popular audio speakers brand out there in the market. Talking about their Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Charge 3 is one of their popular portable medium size speakers. Along with Clip 2, Flip 3 and, and Extreme, JBL Charge 3 fits right in terms of rich sound quality bass and treble that sounds better than the Flip 3 and Clip 2 for sure. From the old model of Charge 2, the Charge 3 is a deal-breaker if you like to bring your speaker next to a pool or a bathtub, this speaker will survive if dropping it into the water. This speaker is also durable and with IPX7 waterproof, seriously can go underwater. The hull itself covered with fabric that is easy to grip. Can the Charge3 be the best speaker for the money and size?
Design
Charge 3 didn’t change much from the previous model, and the shape itself looks very similar like a cylinder. Although it seems more significant and more rugged. I will say the design itself proves to improve more and also knowing people would like accidentally to drop this device to prevent cracks with the soft rubber edges. Buttons are more practical and with the power button and JBL Connect that aren’t raised compared to other buttons. The designs for other buttons like Bluetooth, decreasing and increasing sound and the play/pause button are a little fragile. If something goes underneath them, you will pry it out and will lose them. The fabric all around the speaker is excellent because of the better grip and also not to cause scratches. The small rubber latch gives you access to AUX port, USB micro port for charging, and full-size USB port for charging other devices like a phone. Designwise, this speaker is perfect and very simplistic. Getting used to this and next time you don’t even have to look for the buttons anymore.
Performance & Sound Quality
Charge 3 performance is a bit near excellent but lack in the rich sound quality of bass, mid and treble. If you listen to a variety of music, you will start to hear the weakness of sound reproduction. I even listen to it starts to crack on some of the bass reproduction after two years owning this. I don’t recommend to put this speaker in high-level volume because it would damage the drivers but limiting it down to an estimated 85-90% level would save it from harm.
Build Quality
Speaker itself is very durable and spot-on in knowing for splash-proof, waterproof, and even small shocks on dropping. The only minor detail I don’t like the speakers are the four buttons that are fragile and be loosen off. The materials used for the speakers are excellent quality and so far owning this for over two years nothing ripped or torn apart. I will say the quality is excellent and would last for a long time.
Conclusion
JBL Charge 3 is an excellent speaker to have whenever traveling. As everyone knows JBL makes good speakers, you cannot be wrong on their products. The medium size and want to have good music quality on the go, then this speaker is great to own for your use. To give a rating out of 5 stars, I would give a 4 out of 5.