Ion Pathfinder are speakers which are perfect for those who are on a budget. It is a speaker which you could definitely use in parties. Unlike other party speakers that would cost you about $1000, you will be able to get the Ion Pathfinder at a much lower cost.

Ion Pathfinder as mentioned earlier is considered as a party speaker as no matter what you choose, whether Pathfinder 3, Pathfinder 4 or Pathfinder 280, you will still experience high level of volume and power together with party lights and other more features. These features for sure would provide you a great party mode.

Just like other technology, the Ion Pathfinder speakers’ batteries could wore down as well and keep in mind that Ion offers 90 days warranty only. Though there are some downsides with these speakers, you would definitely be impressed with its output, solid sound quality, power bank and built-in lights features.

In this article, we shall feature three of the best Pathfinder speakers – Pathfinder 3, Pathfinder 4 and Pathfinder 20. We shall also compare them as well for us to be able to determine their similarities and differences for you to be able to decide easier.

Pathfinder 3 vs 4 vs 280 Quick Comparision

Summarized version:

• The only speaker that has a mic input is Ion Pathfinder 3. It has a microphone included and it is perfect to be used for Karaoke.
• Pathfinder 4, on the other hand, is an updated version of Pathfinder 3. It has app compatibility and it comes with party lights. The downside is that it does not have mic input and mic itself. If you wish to have a mic, you would have to downgrade to Pathfinder 3.
• Pathfinder 280 on the other hand, comes with improved lighting and app compatibility which Pathfinder 4 has. In addition to that, it has side speakers which has the ability to create 280 degree sound. Moreover, it has water resistant compartment where you could keep your wallet and keys.

Design

The three devices are quite similar to each other. They are powerful party speaker which weighs about 26 pounds which makes it very portable. It is rated IPX5 which means you would not need to worry about your speaker getting damaged due to water. Keep in mind however that though it is water resistant, your speaker should not be totally immersed in water or be left out in the rain.

Ion speakers come with power bank feature which means you will be able to charge your cellphone or any device through your speaker battery. It also comes with Qi wireless charging as well. Moreover, the Ion speakers has a built-in bottle opener and it has lights which dances to the tune of the music.

Earlier versions, as mentioned, have features that makes them into karaoke speakers. The Pathfinder 3 latest version also has a mic input and a wired microphone. It is also possible to use bluetooth microphone or adapter for your Pathfinder 4 and Pathfinder 280 which would allow you to convert them into a karaoke speaker. Though it is possible it is not recommended. Hence, if you would want a speaker with a microphone, we highly recommend for you to get Pathfinder 3.

What is more amazing about Pathfinder 3,4 and 280 is that all versions come with bluetooth enabled feature. Though this is the case, they still provide their customers with a 3.5 mm aux input. Having this type of wired connection could be advantageous. It allows you to connect multiple devices such as your phone, etc. You could also use your speaker with your home theater system.

Pathfinder 3 and 4 are similar to each other. The Pathfinder 4 on the other hand comes with upgraded lighting. It has lighting surrounding for the entire face while the Pathfinder 3 has two simple bars.

Pathfinder 4 is compatible with Ion Sound XP app and the Pathfinder 3 does not have app enabled feature.

Pathfinder 280 comes with upgraded lighting. It is also an app compatible and it has side speakers which ensures that you would experience good audio. It has a water resistant storage compartment which would allow you to store your keys, wallet and other small items.

The Pathfinder series is very sturdy and is considered as heavy party speakers. Battery life runs up to 100 hours.

Sound

As mentioned earlier, the Pathfinder is considered very powerful with it being 120 watt speaker with 8 inch woofer. Keep in mind that the Pathfinder speakers are not hi-fi speakers However, they come with high volume and power output. They are very much like other party speakers which creates booming bass heavy sounds. This means, that this speakers is not for those who would want to experience clear mid range sounds.

Durability

Ion Pathfinder 3,4 and 280 are very sturdy and heavy duty. They are rated IPX5 which could withstand spray from water jets. Keep in mind, however, that they could not be submerged in water.

Their parts could be replaceable which makes it easier to maintain. This means, you could replace its batteries in case it dies down . Ion Pathfinder offers only 90 days for warranty which is below the standard industry of one year.

Battery

As mentioned earlier, these speakers claim that they could work up to 100 hours. This is possible with moderate to high volumes. Though no one has proved that this claim is true, what is amazing is that even if this is not possible, their batteries are replaceable which is a great feature.

The Ion Pathfinder 3,4 and 280 have powerbank feature which makes it possible for you to charge your phone or other devices.

Software

Pathfinder 4 and 280 are app enabled which provides more functions. However, Pathfinder 3 does not have app enabled features as it does not require an app. It is a plug and play type of device. While Pathfinder 4 and 280 use bluetooth connection. They also require location access for it to work.

The speakers come with power bank which allows USB and Qi wireless charging. They have lighting features and they have true wireless stereo pairing.

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