The JBL Boombox 3 and PartyBox 110 are some of the larger speakers from JBL – the Boombox 3 is currently the latest Boombox while the PartyBox 110 is the entry-level PartyBox. In terms of sound performance and power output they are actually relatively similar, but they do have some notable differences in terms of functionality – the Boombox 3 is designed more like a portable speaker while the PartyBox 110 is designed to be a mini portable PA speaker.
The Boombox 3 is all about portability and long battery life, providing up to 24 hours of playtime with a rugged, waterproof design, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. It delivers deep bass and well-balanced sound in a more compact form. On the other hand, the PartyBox 110 is built for bigger, bass-heavy sound with vibrant LED light shows, making it ideal for parties and gatherings. It’s larger, packs more power, and includes features like mic and guitar inputs for karaoke or live music sessions.
Essentially, if you want a speaker that’s easy to carry and lasts all day, the Boombox 3 is your go-to. But if you’re looking to light up a party with booming sound and visual effects, the PartyBox 110 is the better pick.
Comparing the Specs
The Boombox 3, weighing approximately 6.7 kg, is designed for portability and durability, featuring an IP67 rating that ensures resistance to both dust and water. Its battery life extends up to 24 hours making it suitable for extended outdoor use. The Boombox 3 delivers a power output of 136 W and operates within a frequency range of 40 Hz to 20 kHz, providing a balanced sound profile.
In contrast, the PartyBox 110 is designed primarily as a portable PA speaker, providing a higher power output of 160W and a frequency response from 45 Hz to 20 kHz, which contributes to its robust bass performance. It includes dynamic LED light shows that sync with the music, enhancing the party atmosphere. However, it is heavier at approximately 10.84 kg and has a lower IPX4 water resistance rating, which means it can handle light splashes but isn’t fully waterproof. The PartyBox 110 provides around 12 hours of playtime on a full charge.
Additionally, the PartyBox 110 features microphone and guitar inputs, making it versatile for live performances or karaoke sessions, a feature not available in the Boombox 3.
If portability, extended battery life, and ruggedness is what you are going for, the Boombox 3 is a better choice. Conversely, if higher power output, enhanced bass, and party-centric features like light shows and instrument inputs are more important, the PartyBox 110 would be the better option.
Specs Table Comparison
Specification | JBL Boombox 3 | JBL PartyBox 110 |
Power Output | AC mode: 1x 80W RMS (subwoofer) + 2x 40W RMS (midrange) + 2x 10W RMS (tweeters) Battery mode: 1x 60W RMS (subwoofer) + 2x 30W RMS (midrange) + 2x 8W RMS (tweeters) | 160W RMS |
Frequency Response | 40 Hz – 20 kHz | 45 Hz – 20 kHz |
Battery Life | Up to 24 hours | Up to 12 hours |
Charging Time | Approximately 6.5 hours | Approximately 3.5 hours |
Water Resistance | IP67 (dustproof and waterproof) | IPX4 (splashproof) |
Weight | 6.7 kg (14.7 lbs) | 10.84 kg (23.9 lbs) |
Dimensions (W x H x D) | 482.4 mm x 256.9 mm x 199.7 mm (19.0 in x 10.1 in x 7.9 in) | 295 mm x 568 mm x 300 mm (11.6 in x 22.4 in x 11.8 in) |
Additional Features | – Bluetooth 5.3- Powerbank function- JBL Portable app compatibility- Eco-friendly materials | – Dynamic LED light show- Mic and guitar inputs- Bluetooth 5.1- PartyBox app compatibility |
Note: The power output specifications for the JBL Boombox 3 vary between AC and battery modes.
Sound Performance
I tested the JBL Boombox 3 first with “Billie Jean” (Michael Jackson) and I noticed how the bassline hit me right away with crystal clear vocals. Its 180 W rating (in AC mode) along with its subwoofer and two midrange drivers helped it stay powerful at higher volumes. I found the low frequencies extended down to around 40 Hz which suited the punchy nature of pop and dance tracks. The separation felt clear when I focused on the vocals though it still leaned toward a heavier bass presentation. It filled my living room without sounding muffled or boomy.
When I moved on to the Partybox 110 I tried “Nothing Else Matters” (Metallica) to get a sense of its midrange and bass response. The Partybox 110 puts out about 160 W and uses two woofers and two tweeters which also kick out a decent low end. The guitar work came through with a clear presence but I noticed the bass felt slightly deeper in certain sections. The Partybox also has built-in light effects which made it feel more suited for a party setting. Its midrange was not quite as smooth as the Boombox 3 though I liked the way it handled rock tracks. In terms of loudness, the PartyBox 110 is almost similar to the JBL Boombox 3 when plugged into AC power.
When I compared them side by side with “Levitating” (Dua Lipa) I heard the Boombox 3 delivering a more refined balance in vocals while the Partybox 110 leaned into a club-like atmosphere. Both speakers got plenty loud and shook the room with their bass though the Boombox 3 had a tighter low end while the Partybox 110 sounded a bit fuller in the sub-bass region. I enjoyed how both tackled modern pop though I felt the Boombox 3 had an edge in overall clarity and the Partybox 110 added a bit more shake and visual flair. Neither one disappointed me in the bass department but I would pick the Boombox 3 if I wanted a cleaner sound while the Partybox 110 felt more geared toward a full-on party vibe.
Design Comparison
The Boombox 3, weighing approximately 6.7 kg (14.7 lbs), features a boombox-style design with a built-in carrying handle, making it relatively portable for its size. Its IP67 rating means that it’s both dustproof and waterproof making it suitable for outdoor or poolside use. The PartyBox 110, on the other hand, is larger and heavier, weighing about 10.84 kg (23.9 lbs). It incorporates dynamic LED light rings around its drivers, adding a visual flair to its robust sound output. However, with an IPX4 rating, it’s only splash-resistant, making it less rugged compared to the Boombox 3.
Comparing these speakers to others in a similar price range, the Sony XP500 is worth mentioning. The XP500 weighs approximately 11.2 kg (24.7 lbs), making it comparable in weight to the PartyBox 110. It also features a built-in handle for transport but lacks the robust water and dust resistance of the Boombox 3, with an IPX4 rating. The XP500 offers up to 20 hours of battery life, positioning it between the Boombox 3 and PartyBox 110 in terms of playback time.
If portability is a primary concern, the JBL Boombox 3’s lighter weight, ergonomic handle, and superior water resistance make it a more portable option for outdoor activities. The PartyBox 110, while providing powerful sound and light features, is heavier and lacks wheels, making it less convenient to transport (especially since it lacks wheels, you’ll need a portable casing just to house and transport the JBL PartyBox 110).
The Verdict?
If I had to choose between the JBL Boombox 3 and the JBL PartyBox 110, I would still go for the JBL Boombox 3 because the sound output is comparable (or even better than) the PartyBox 110. The Boombox 3 delivers an incredible 180W of power output in AC mode which is even slightly higher than the JBL PartyBox 110’s 160W RMS output. Furthermore, the JBL Boombox 3 is IP67 waterproof and can even float on water, making it suitable for outdoor poolside parties. The JBL PartyBox 110 lacks wheels which quite frankly makes it difficult to carry around, unlike the other JBL PartyBox speakers that come with built-in wheels. The PartyBox 110 does come with built-in lighting effects but this could be less of a consideration if you weigh the portability of both speakers. Ultimately, the JBL Boombox 3 just offers slightly more power, portability, ruggedness and durability to make it more worthwhile getting than the JBL PartyBox 110.