When it comes to portable Bluetooth speakers, JBL has carved a niche for itself with its impressive sound quality, durability, and user-friendly features. The JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4, in particular, are two popular models that offer powerful performances for music lovers on the go. A common question arises among users: Can I connect my JBL Charge 3 to a Charge 4? In this article, we will delve into their compatibility, connection methods, and sound performance, as well as other critical factors to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding JBL Charge Series
Before diving into connectivity options, let’s look at what makes the JBL Charge 3 and 4 unique.
Features of JBL Charge 3
The JBL Charge 3, released in early 2016, quickly became a favorite for its robust design and commendable audio quality. Here are some of its key features:
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours of playtime, making it perfect for long outings.
- Water Resistance: Rated IPX7, allowing it to withstand immersion in water.
- Power Bank Function: Can charge other devices via USB, adding to its versatility.
- Sound Quality: Dual external passive radiators enhance bass performance.
Features of JBL Charge 4
On the other hand, JBL Charge 4, launched in 2018, builds upon the legacy of its predecessor with several upgrades:
- Improved Sound: Features a larger driver and more powerful bass output.
- Enhanced Battery Life: Up to 20 hours of continuous playtime, with faster charging capabilities.
- Water Resistance: Also rated IPX7 for water resistance, like Charge 3.
- USB-C Charging: Modernized port for quicker charging and easy integration.
Can You Connect JBL Charge 3 with Charge 4?
Now that you are familiar with both speakers, let’s address the primary question: can they be connected together?
Bluetooth and JBL Connect Feature
The JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 utilize Bluetooth technology for wireless streaming. However, the connectivity capabilities are somewhat limited regarding linking different models together. Here’s what you should know:
- JBL Connect vs. JBL Connect+:
- The Charge 3 employs the JBL Connect technology that allows you to pair it with other JBL speakers that also use this feature.
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The Charge 4 upgraded to JBL Connect+, which is backward compatible with the Charge 3 but not in the way most users hope.
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Direct Connection: Unfortunately, users cannot connect a Charge 3 to a Charge 4 to create a stereo sound system. This is primarily due to their differing Bluetooth technologies. While both speakers can connect to a Bluetooth-enabled device independently, linking them for a combined sound output is not supported.
What Are My Options? Connecting Separately
While a direct connection isn’t possible between the two models, you can still enjoy both speakers individually and create an immersive audio environment.
Connecting Each Speaker to a Device
You can easily connect both speakers to your smartphone, tablet, or computer one at a time. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Turn On the Charge 3/Charge 4: Press the power button to turn on the speaker.
- Enable Bluetooth on Your Device: Go to your device’s Bluetooth settings and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
- Pairing:
- For Charge 3, hold the Bluetooth button until you hear a sound indicating it’s in pairing mode. Select it from your device’s Bluetooth list.
- Repeat the same for Charge 4.
Once you have both speakers connected, you can switch between them by disconnecting and reconnecting from your devices. However, this does mean you won’t have a synchronized sound experience.
Alternative Options for Stereo Sound
If you’re keen on creating a stereo sound setup, consider the following options:
Upgrade to Charge 4
If you are a music enthusiast who values audio quality and reliable performance, upgrading to JBL Charge 4 would be a smart move. The Charge 4 features significant sound improvements with bass and enhanced battery life. Plus, if you acquire a second Charge 4, you can easily pair them together for stereo sound using JBL Connect+.
Explore Other JBL Models
It’s also worthwhile to explore other JBL models equipped with JBL Connect+ or PartyBoost, which offers better compatibility for pairing than the Charge 3. Models like the JBL Flip 5 and JBL Xtreme 3 utilize PartyBoost, allowing seamless pairing between multiple speakers.
Sound Performance Comparison
When it comes to sound performance, both JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 hold their ground, but there are notable differences worth highlighting.
Audio Quality
The JBL Charge 3 has impressive audio capabilities, but the Charge 4 pushes the envelope even further. Here’s a brief comparison:
| Aspect | JBL Charge 3 | JBL Charge 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Size | Default Size | Enlarged Driver |
| Bass Performance | Good Bass Response | Improved Bass Response |
| Sound Clarity | Clear | More Detailed Clarity |
| Volume Levels | Max Volume is Satisfactory | Higher Max Volume with Clarity |
The JBL Charge 4 excels in overall sound performance with its upgraded driver, providing richer bass tones and enhanced clarity across various music genres.
User Experience and Feedback
Customer feedback highlights the experience users have with both devices. Many love the portability and sound quality of both Charge 3 and Charge 4. However, common pain points include:
- Connection Limits: The inability to connect different models together can be a disappointment for users hoping for a stereo experience.
- Upgrade Necessity: Several users mention the urge to upgrade to Charge 4 due to its enhanced audio performance and modernized features.
Conclusion
In summary, while you cannot connect a JBL Charge 3 to a Charge 4 for a combined audio experience, you still have several options for enjoying both speakers individually. Consider upgrading to an additional Charge 4 or exploring other JBL speakers featuring the same connectivity technology.
For music lovers seeking powerful sound and a durable design, both the Charge 3 and Charge 4 remain solid choices, each with its own strengths. Weighing the features against your needs will help you make a decision that enhances your music experience, whether on a bustling beach or lounging at home.
Can I connect JBL Charge 3 to JBL Charge 4?
Yes, you can connect a JBL Charge 3 to a JBL Charge 4 using a standard Bluetooth connection. Both devices support Bluetooth and are designed to pair with any compatible device. However, you should note that while they can connect wirelessly, there may be functional limitations when they are used together.
When connecting the Charge 3 and Charge 4, keep in mind that they may not support all features of the newer Charge 4, such as the PartyBoost feature. This limitation means that while audio can be played from one speaker to the other, you may not be able to expand the sound system using both models simultaneously in the same way as two Charge 4s would work together.
Will I get stereo sound when connecting Charge 3 to Charge 4?
Unfortunately, connecting a JBL Charge 3 and a JBL Charge 4 will not provide you with stereo sound. Since the speakers operate on different versions of JBL’s connection technology, you cannot create a true stereo pair between them. The Charge 3 utilizes the older Connect feature, while the Charge 4 uses PartyBoost, which is incompatible with the previous versions.
If you want to achieve stereo sound, you would need to pair two of the same model speakers. For instance, pairing two Charge 4s together will deliver a better stereo effect, allowing for a clearer separation between the left and right channels while providing a more immersive listening experience.
Do I need to update the firmware for compatibility?
You do not need to update the firmware on your JBL Charge 3 or Charge 4 for them to connect via Bluetooth. Both speakers come with built-in Bluetooth functionality that allows them to pair with any Bluetooth-enabled device, including another JBL speaker. The connection process is straightforward and can be done without requiring any updates.
However, it is always a good idea to keep your speakers’ firmware updated to ensure they perform optimally. While you may not need an update for a simple Bluetooth connection, new updates may enhance performance, fix bugs, and improve overall functionality.
What if the devices won’t connect?
If your JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 are not connecting, the first step is to ensure that both devices are in pairing mode. To do this, turn on both speakers and press the Bluetooth button on each device. The LED indicator should begin to blink, signifying that they are in pairing mode and ready for connection.
If they still do not connect, try forgetting the devices from your Bluetooth settings on your source device (like your phone or laptop), then attempt to pair them again. If problems persist, consider resetting each speaker back to factory settings to eliminate any software glitches. Consult the user manuals for the specific reset instructions for each model.
Can I charge my Charge 3 using the Charge 4’s power bank feature?
Yes, you can use the JBL Charge 4 as a power bank to charge your JBL Charge 3. Both speakers are equipped with USB ports that allow them to share battery power with other devices. Simply connect the Charge 3 to the Charge 4 using a compatible USB cable, and the Charge 4 will begin providing power to the Charge 3.
However, keep in mind that using the Charge 4 as a power bank will drain its battery. If the Charge 4 has a low battery level, the charging process may be slower or may not work effectively. For optimal results, it’s best to use the Charge 4 when it is fully charged to ensure that you can adequately charge the Charge 3.
Can I use JBL Connect to link Charge 3 and Charge 4?
No, you cannot use JBL Connect to link a JBL Charge 3 with a JBL Charge 4. The Charge 3 utilizes the JBL Connect feature, while the Charge 4 employs PartyBoost. These two features are incompatible with one another, meaning they cannot be used to connect or expand audio between different speaker models.
If you want to connect multiple speakers, you will need to use speakers from the same series. For example, you can connect multiple Charge 4s together for a synchronized sound experience, but you cannot mix and match with the Charge 3 for the same functionality.
What are the main differences between JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4?
The primary differences between the JBL Charge 3 and Charge 4 lie in their design, audio technology, and battery life. The Charge 4 features a more robust design with improved sound output due to enhanced drivers and a passive radiator system. This results in crisper highs and deeper bass compared to the Charge 3.
Additionally, the Charge 4 boasts a longer battery life, allowing for up to 20 hours of continuous playback, while the Charge 3 typically lasts around 15 hours. The Charge 4 is also equipped with the USB-C charging port, which offers faster charging speeds than the micro USB port found on the Charge 3. These enhancements contribute to a more powerful audio experience and greater convenience for users.