JBL vs LG Audio Systems

JBL and LG both focus on portable Bluetooth speakers, but at very different price points. JBL's options here include the GO 4 Ultra-Portable Pro Sound speaker at £39.99, the CHARGE 6 waterproof, drop-proof speaker at £169 in white or red, and the Partybox Club 120 at £329. LG's XBOOM range starts with the XG1 XBOOM GO at £19.99, followed by the XO2TBE XBOOM 360 at £79.99, the xboom Grab at £79 and the X-BOOM Stage 301 at £299.

The main differences are waterproofing, sound pattern and party features. The CHARGE 6 is built to be waterproof and drop-proof, and the Partybox Club 120 is a large party speaker with powerful sound and light shows. JBL speakers can often be linked using Auracast for bigger sound. The XO2TBE spreads audio in all directions for a 360-degree effect, which suits a group sitting around it, and the Grab offers a compact, stylish design. LG's models do not offer WiFi multi-room streaming.

JBL suits travellers, garden and beach users, and party hosts who want loud sound and lights from a Partybox. The CHARGE 6 is a sensible all-round choice for outdoor use. LG suits buyers on a tight budget who want a stylish portable speaker for a bedroom, kitchen or garden. The XG1 is a very affordable pocket-sized starter, while the XO2TBE is the better pick for groups. Buyers wanting room-filling bass should look at larger speakers from either brand, as the smaller LG models lack deep bass.

Bottom line: choose JBL if you want rugged, bass-rich portable sound or a party speaker, starting from £39.99; choose LG if an affordable, stylish Bluetooth speaker is the priority, with the XO2TBE XBOOM 360 at £79.99 the strongest option for group listening.