JBL Pulse 4 vs Pulse 5 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

JBL Pulse 5 & JBL Pulse 4 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the JBL Pulse 5 rather than the JBL Pulse 4. 

Table Of Contents hide
1 Why Do I Recommend The JBL Pulse 5?
2 Side By Side Comparison
3 What Common Both Can Do?
4 Common Features

Why Do I Recommend The JBL Pulse 5? 

  • The JBL Pulse 5 features a dedicated tweeter for clearer high-frequency detail and improved vocal clarity, whereas the JBL Pulse 4 uses a single full-range driver without a separate tweeter.
  • JBL Pulse 5 includes a larger passive radiator for deeper bass extension and stronger low-end presence, while the JBL Pulse 4 has a smaller passive radiator.
  • It supports graphic EQ within the JBL Portable app for precise sound customization to personal preferences, whereas the JBL Pulse 4 lacks any built-in EQ control in the app.
  • The JBL Pulse 5 supports Bluetooth 5.3 for a more stable connection and lower latency when streaming from modern devices, whereas the JBL Pulse 4 uses Bluetooth 5.1.
  • JBL Pulse 5 comes with an integrated carrying strap for easier portability and hanging during outdoor events, while the JBL Pulse 4 lacks any built-in strap or loop.
  • It features additional ground-effect LEDs for a more immersive 360-degree light show that projects onto surrounding surfaces, whereas the JBL Pulse 4 has only the main cylindrical LED display without bottom projection.
  • The JBL Pulse 5 delivers higher maximum volume and better dynamic range for larger gatherings and open-air spaces, while the JBL Pulse 4 produces lower overall loudness and dynamic impact.
  • JBL Pulse 5 comes with an IP67 rating for complete dust protection and water immersion up to one meter for safer outdoor use, while the JBL Pulse 4 has an IPX7 rating with no dust protection.

Maybe the JBL Pulse 4 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the JBL Pulse 5. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureJBL Pulse 5JBL Pulse 4
TweeterHas dedicated tweeterNone
Dust protectionDust-proofNo dust rating
Bluetooth versionBluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.1
Physical media controls (play/pause, volume, skip)RemovedPresent
Passive radiatorLarger passive radiator + LEDs around bottomSmaller / no bottom LED effect
Dimensions (size)Larger body (taller / deeper)Smaller body
Volume / loudness at maxHigher max SPLLower max SPL
Low-frequency extensionBetter low-bass extensionLess bass extension
App-based sound control / EQHas graphic EQ in appNo graphic EQ in app
Ambient noise / sound blending settingsPresentAbsent
Light / LED themes / stylesMore themes, more complex / dynamic lighting optionsFewer themes / simpler lighting
Carrying strap / loopIncludes elastic loop / strapNo loop/strap
Bluetooth rangeLonger rangeShorter range
Water ratingIP67IPX7
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What Common Both Can Do?

  • 360-Degree LED Light Show: Both speakers feature a wraparound transparent housing with LEDs that project a full 360-degree light display, creating an immersive visual effect that complements music from any angle.
  • Portable Bluetooth Speaker: Each model is designed as a carry-friendly, battery-powered Bluetooth speaker, letting users take music and lighting effects anywhere without dependence on power outlets.
  • RGB Customizable Lighting via JBL Portable App: Both units connect to the JBL Portable app, allowing users to choose colors, patterns, and dynamic effects to match a mood or event.
  • Wireless Bluetooth Streaming: Both support wireless music playback from smartphones, tablets, or computers, eliminating the need for wired connections and keeping setups clean and mobile.
  • PartyBoost Pairing for Multiple Speakers: Each speaker supports JBL’s PartyBoost technology so users can link two or more compatible JBL speakers for synchronized audio across a larger space.
  • Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery: Both use built-in rechargeable lithium-ion packs that provide roughly 12 hours of playtime under typical conditions, ensuring long sessions without recharging.
  • USB-C Charging Port: Each speaker charges via the modern USB-C standard, enabling faster, more reliable charging and compatibility with current cables and chargers.
  • IPX7-level Water Resistance (minimum): Both meet at least IPX7 standards, meaning they can survive submersion in up to a meter of water for 30 minutes, making them safe for poolside or rainy use.
  • Speakerphone/Microphone Support: Neither model includes a microphone for voice calls, so they focus purely on music and light performance without doubling as a speakerphone.
  • JBL Signature Sound Tuning: Both are engineered with JBL’s characteristic balanced sound signature, delivering clear mids, detailed highs, and punchy bass that suits a variety of music genres.
  • Frequency Response Range: Each covers a similar audible spectrum of roughly 70 Hz to 20 kHz, giving full-range sound appropriate for most casual listening situations.
  • Built-in Passive Radiator for Bass: Both use a passive radiator design to enhance low-end output without larger drivers, helping achieve deeper bass from a compact enclosure.
  • LED Battery Level Indicator: Each features LED indicators to display remaining battery life, letting users quickly check charge status at a glance.
  • App-Based Light Show Customization: Both allow fine control of light animations, brightness, and patterns through the JBL app, enabling tailored visual experiences to match music or ambiance.
  • Indoor/Outdoor Versatility: Both speakers are compact and rugged enough to move seamlessly between indoor gatherings and outdoor events, maintaining strong performance in a variety of settings.

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Common Features

FeatureJBL Pulse 5JBL Pulse 4
360-Degree LED Light ShowYesYes
Portable Bluetooth SpeakerYesYes
RGB Customizable Lighting via JBL Portable AppYesYes
Wireless Bluetooth StreamingYesYes
PartyBoost Pairing for Multiple SpeakersYesYes
Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery12 hrs12 hrs
USB-C Charging PortYesYes
IPX7-level Water Resistance (minimum)YesYes
Speakerphone/Microphone SupportNoNo
JBL Signature Sound TuningYesYes
Frequency Response Range70 Hz–20 kHz70 Hz–20 kHz
Built-in Passive Radiator for BassYesYes
LED Battery Level IndicatorYesYes
App-Based Light Show CustomizationYesYes
Indoor/Outdoor VersatilityYesYes
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FAQ

What is the battery life of the JBL Pulse 5 and Pulse 4?
Both the JBL Pulse 5 and JBL Pulse 4 provide up to 12 hours of continuous playback at moderate volume with the light show enabled, allowing all-day or all-night use without frequent recharging.

Do the JBL Pulse 5 and Pulse 4 support wireless Bluetooth streaming?
Yes, both models connect wirelessly via Bluetooth, so you can stream music directly from smartphones, tablets, or laptops without needing an auxiliary cable.

Can the JBL Pulse 5 and Pulse 4 be used near water?
Yes, each speaker is at least IPX7 water resistant, meaning they can be submerged in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes, making them suitable for pool parties and rainy conditions.

Do both speakers feature a 360-degree LED light show?
Yes, both offer a full wraparound LED light display that provides vibrant 360-degree effects synchronized to your music for immersive visual impact.

Are the JBL Pulse 5 and Pulse 4 compatible with the JBL Portable app?
Yes, both pair with the JBL Portable app, which allows users to customize lighting patterns, adjust brightness, and control PartyBoost features directly from a phone.

Do the JBL Pulse 5 and Pulse 4 have built-in microphones for calls?
No, neither speaker includes a built-in microphone, so they are not intended for use as speakerphones.

Can you pair multiple JBL speakers together with these models?
Yes, both models support JBL PartyBoost, letting you wirelessly connect multiple compatible JBL speakers for a larger, synchronized sound field.

How do you charge the JBL Pulse 5 and Pulse 4?
Both charge via a USB-C port, which supports modern fast-charging cables and ensures convenient recharging from a variety of power sources.

What is the frequency response range for both speakers?
Each speaker delivers sound across an approximate frequency range of 70 Hz to 20 kHz, covering the important lows, mids, and highs for balanced music playback.

Do both speakers have passive radiators for enhanced bass?
Yes, each model uses a built-in passive radiator to reinforce low-frequency output, producing richer bass without increasing size.

Are the speakers portable and suitable for outdoor events?
Yes, their rechargeable batteries, compact size, and rugged water-resistant design make both models ideal for outdoor gatherings, picnics, and beach parties.

Do the lights on the JBL Pulse 5 and Pulse 4 react to music?
Yes, the LED light shows on both models can pulse, change colors, and move in rhythm with the music, creating a dynamic visual performance.

Can you control playback directly on the speakers?
Yes, both speakers include essential playback and volume controls on the device itself, allowing easy management of music without needing your phone.

Is there any difference in Bluetooth version between the two?
While the Pulse 4 uses Bluetooth 5.1 and the Pulse 5 uses Bluetooth 5.3, both maintain strong, stable wireless connections and similar range for everyday use.

Are the light effects customizable on both speakers?
Yes, the JBL Portable app enables you to select different colors, patterns, and brightness levels for the LED light shows on both the Pulse 5 and Pulse 4, so you can create the atmosphere you prefer.

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