The PerfectRec Earbuds or Headphones team Learn more
Updated January 10, 2024·
The Apple AirPods (3rd generation) are a good fit if you're using Apple devices, offering seamless integration and features like ear detection, but they may have lower noise isolation quality. The JLab Go Work Wireless, on the other hand, have a more comfortable over-ear design, superior microphone quality, and are suitable for extended calls and meetings. They also offer the versatility of being both wireless and wired. If you often have long listening sessions or need a reliable mic for communication, consider the JLab. If you prioritize portability and have an Apple ecosystem, the AirPods might be more convenient despite the higher cost. 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 (3rd generation)
Good for music
Good for phone calls
Good for exercise
Very good for podcasts and audiobooks
Advantages of the JLab Go Work Wireless
The JLab Go Work Wireless has no clear advantages over the Apple Airpods (3rd generation).
Key differences
Music
7.1/10
5.8/10
The Apple Airpods (3rd generation) is good for music, while the JLab Go Work Wireless is poor.
Phone Calls
7.6/10
6.3/10
The Apple Airpods (3rd generation) is good for phone calls, while the JLab Go Work Wireless is only fair.
Podcasts and Audiobooks
8.6/10
6.6/10
The Apple Airpods (3rd 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 (3rd generation) are both poor for noise reduction, though the JLab Go Work Wireless is somewhat better.
Battery
6.0 Hours
47.0 Hours
The Apple Airpods (3rd generation) has 6 hours of battery life. The JLab Go Work Wireless has 47 hours of battery life.
Cost
$179
$50
$0
$50
$100
$150
$200
$250
The Apple Airpods (3rd generation) has a price of $179 and the JLab Go Work Wireless costs $50.
"The Apple AirPods improves upon the 2019 model with its more ergonomic, yet unsealed, fit, water-resistant build, MagSafe charging case, and advanced software features. You can enjoy a wholly immersive movie experience with the new AirPods' spatial audio with head tracking, and enjoy HD audio during FaceTime calls. Of course, most of these features are limited to Apple hardware."
"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 (3rd 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.
Give feedback
We're constantly perfecting our model
Earbuds or Headphones guides you might be interested in
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.
By the numbers
108
Earbuds and headphones evaluated
11,340
Earbuds and headphones stats compiled
15
Proprietary Earbuds and headphones ratings developed
123,500
Recommendations made
18,525
Consumer hours saved
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.