The PerfectRec Earbuds or Headphones team Learn more
Updated April 11, 2024·
When you're considering whether to buy earbuds or headphones, there are several factors to weigh, including price, audio quality, intended use, and additional features.
Regarding price, options range from budget-friendly choices like the Jlab Go Air Sport to more premium ones such as the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless. While the Jlab may offer the basics for a lower cost, the JBL could provide a higher quality listening experience, albeit at a higher price point.
For audio content and use cases, consider whether you'll be using them for casual listening, making calls, or for professional audio work. The Jlab Go Air Sport, being less expensive, might cater well to casual users, whereas the JBL, given its potentially better audio quality, could be suitable for more discerning listeners or professional use.
In terms of features, a closed design is common in both models, helping with noise isolation. However, the JBL likely offers additional features such as a more integrated microphone and probably supports low latency, which is crucial for keeping audio in sync with video during gaming or watching TV. However, the Jlab may have a simpler mic setup and may not support low latency.
Battery life is another consideration. While specifics are not provided, typically, more expensive models like the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless offer longer battery life, both for the earbuds and any charging case that may be included. In contrast, budget options like the Jlab Go Air Sport might have shorter playtime between charges.
Lastly, think about comfort and fit. Some models, like the Jlab Go Air Sport, come with ear hooks for a secure fit during activities like working out. The JBL might offer different sized ear tips but may not have these sport-focused accessories.
Ultimately, if you favor an immersive listening experience with potentially superior sound quality and features like low latency, go for the JBL. However, if price is a major factor and you need something more suited for exercise with decent audio, the Jlab might be the better choice. 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 JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless
Good for phone calls
Good for gaming
Good for podcasts and audiobooks
Advantages of the Jlab Go Air Sport
Very good for exercise
Key differences
Music
6.6/10
5.6/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is only fair for music, while the Jlab Go Air Sport is poor.
Gaming
7.3/10
5.4/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is good for gaming, while the Jlab Go Air Sport is poor.
Phone Calls
7.8/10
5.2/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is good for phone calls, while the Jlab Go Air Sport is poor.
Podcasts and Audiobooks
7.3/10
5.6/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is good for podcasts and audiobooks, while the Jlab Go Air Sport is poor.
TV and Video
6.9/10
5.8/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is only fair for TV and video, while the Jlab Go Air Sport is poor.
Noise Reduction
6.5/10
6.0/10
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless and Jlab Go Air Sport are both only fair for noise reduction, though the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless is somewhat better.
Cost
$50
$30
$0
$10
$20
$30
$40
$50
The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless has a price of $50 and the Jlab Go Air Sport costs $30.
"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."
"If you want seriously bass-forward earphones for the gym, you'll be hard-pressed to find a pair more affordable than the JLab Go Air Sport. We like their long battery life and solid water-resistance rating, though we aren’t fans of their finicky on-ear controls and the case’s hardwired charging cable."
Get a great deal on the JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless or the Jlab Go Air Sport
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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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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