The PerfectRec Earbuds or Headphones team Learn more
Updated January 10, 2024·
If you prioritize brand reputation and ecosystem integration, particularly with other Apple devices, the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) may be the right choice, offering seamless connectivity and a compact design, though at a higher price. However, if you're looking for value and versatility in professional settings with features like a boom microphone for clearer calls and long battery life, then the JLab Go Work Wireless is a more budget-friendly alternative that won't disappoint. Keep in mind, AirPods offer a generally superior sound experience, but the JLab may excel in an office environment. Give Feedback
this description is based on the product variant with some specs and product variant with some specs. At the time of writing, the variant with some specs cost some dollars and the variant with some specs cost some dollars.
Advantages of the Apple Airpods (2nd generation)
Very good for podcasts and audiobooks
Advantages of the JLab Go Work Wireless
Very good for air travel
Key differences
Phone Calls
6.9/10
6.3/10
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) and JLab Go Work Wireless are both only fair for phone calls, though the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is somewhat better.
Podcasts and Audiobooks
8.1/10
6.6/10
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) is very good for podcasts and audiobooks, while the JLab Go Work Wireless is only fair.
Noise Reduction
2.5/10
4.6/10
The JLab Go Work Wireless and Apple Airpods (2nd generation) are both poor for noise reduction, though the JLab Go Work Wireless is somewhat better.
Battery
4.0 Hours
47.0 Hours
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has 4 hours of battery life. The JLab Go Work Wireless has 47 hours of battery life.
Cost
$89
$50
$0
$50
$100
$150
$200
The Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has a price of $89 and the JLab Go Work Wireless costs $50.
Build Quality
7.6/10
9.0/10
The JLab Go Work Wireless has excellent build quality, while the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) has good build quality.
"If you are going to criticise the JLab Go Work, it would be for the cables, which are to some extent too short for their intended use, and for its rather harsh treble reproduction above moderate volume levels in music mode. However, the call quality during telephone calls and video conferences in voice mode via wireless and via cable is impeccable. This handy Bluetooth headset also scores points with its excellent battery life and support for multipoint connections."
Get a great deal on the Apple Airpods (2nd generation) or the JLab Go Work Wireless
About Apple
Apple Inc. is an American technology company, founded in 1976, known for its wide range of premium products, including smartphones, computers, and audio solutions. Apple offers the very popular personal audio line AirPods, highly regarded for their wireless, smart capabilities and their seamless integration with the iPhone, iPad and Mac devices. They provide a high-quality sound, comfort and lifestyle features perfect for all users invested in their ecosystem.
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This information was produced and vetted by the PerfectRec earbuds & headphones team. We are a product research and recommendation organization that meticulously reviews and evaluates the latest earbuds or headphones information and makes it digestible for you.
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About the Earbuds or Headphones team
Joe Golden, Ph.D
CEO and Earbuds and Headphones Editor
Joe is an entrepreneur and lifelong electronics enthusiast with a Ph.D in Economics from the University of Michigan.
Jason Lew
Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Jason is a staff expert and software engineer that has been making laptop recommendations for 7 years and moderates one of the largest laptop subreddits.
Chandradeep Chowdhury
Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Chandradeep is a staff expert and software engineer and expert in televisions and monitors. He’s been making monitor recommendations for ten years.
Luis Torres
Earbuds and Headphones Expert
Luis is a Mexico-based headphones expert. He’s been making headphone recommendations for five years and has close to 100 pairs in his personal collection.