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Updated January 10, 2024·
If you prefer headphones that can connect with a cable for potentially better sound quality and no latency, go for the Beats EP, but they don't have a built-in microphone or wireless connectivity. In contrast, the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless earbuds offer the convenience of wireless listening and have a good microphone for calls, plus they are sweatproof and dustproof, making them suitable for exercise. However, the Beats EP may provide a slightly better overall music experience, assuming you're okay with their on-ear form factor, which isn't as portable as the JBL's compact, true wireless design. Choose the Beats if sound and cable connection matter most, or the JBL if you need versatility and wireless features at a lower price point. 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 Beats EP
Very good for music
Good for TV and video
Advantages of the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless
Good for phone calls
Good for gaming
Very good for air travel
Good for podcasts and audiobooks
Key differences
Music
8.1/10
6.6/10
The Beats EP is very good for music, while the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is only fair.
Gaming
6.3/10
7.3/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is good for gaming, while the Beats EP is only fair.
Phone Calls
4.2/10
7.8/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is good for phone calls, while the Beats EP is poor.
Podcasts and Audiobooks
6.8/10
7.3/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is good for podcasts and audiobooks, while the Beats EP is only fair.
TV and Video
7.6/10
6.9/10
The Beats EP is good for TV and video, while the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is only fair.
Noise Reduction
5.3/10
6.5/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is only fair for noise reduction, while the Beats EP is poor.
Battery
N/A
8.3 Hours
The Beats EP does not have a battery. The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless has 8.3 hours of battery life.
Cost
$100
$50
$0
$50
$100
$150
$200
The Beats EP has a price of $100 and the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless costs $50.
"With the EP model, Beats delivers a stylish headphone with cable connection and hands-free functionality that should please consumers seeking a balanced sound for playback on mobile devices."
"The Vibe Beam earbuds may not be a sleek as other earbuds in the price range, such as the equally priced Vibe Buds, but they sound great, have a long battery life, and come with an equalizer. And if you just need a solid pair if earbuds to get you through your commute, these will do the trick. I have no complaints here."
Get a great deal on the Beats EP or the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless
About Beats
Beats is an American, consumer-focused, audio products manufacturer. Founded originally by American rapper and producer Dr Dre, the company is now a subsidiary of Apple. Beats sells a wide range of audio products, including several models of headphones, earbuds and speakers as well as full car audio systems.
About JBL
JBL is an American audio equipment manufacturer. Owned by Harman International which is, itself, owned by Samsung Electronics. JBL markets a wide array of monitoring speakers, professional headphones and consumer market headphones and earbuds. It was founded in 1946 by James Bullough Lansing (whose initials give the company its name) and has become one of the most prolific audio companies ever. Their products were responsible for audio during the 1969 Woodstock Festival.
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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
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Joe is an entrepreneur and lifelong electronics enthusiast with a Ph.D in Economics from the University of Michigan.
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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.