In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for high-quality audio devices is ever-increasing. Music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike are always on the lookout for the best listening experience that can be had on-the-go. The JLab Audio JBuds Air has emerged as a popular choice in the competitive market of true wireless earbuds. In this article, we will delve into an in-depth review of these headphones, evaluating their design, sound quality, comfort, battery life, and connectivity to determine if they live up to the hype.
Over the past few years, JLab Audio has made a name for itself by offering affordable, high-quality audio products. The JBuds Air is no exception, as it aims to provide a satisfying listening experience without breaking the bank. Our review will cover all aspects of these headphones, from the unboxing experience to real-life usage scenarios, in order to give potential buyers a comprehensive understanding of what they can expect from the product.
As you read through this article, we invite you to consider how the JLab Audio JBuds Air might fit into your personal lifestyle and preferences. Are you looking for a reliable workout companion, or do you need something with exceptional sound quality for your daily commute? No matter what your requirements, our review will help you make an informed decision about whether the JBuds Air are the right choice for you.
Table of Contents
JLab Audio JBuds Air product information:
History of JLab Audio JBuds Air
The history of the JLab Audio JBuds Air can be traced back to the early days of JLab Audio, a company founded in 2005 by Win Cramer in Oceanside, California. JLab Audio began its journey with the vision of producing high-quality audio products at an affordable price point. The company’s ethos is centered around the idea that great sound should be accessible to everyone, without compromising on quality or design.
Over the years, JLab Audio has built a strong reputation for developing a range of audio products, including wired and wireless headphones, earbuds, and speakers. As the market started to shift towards wireless audio devices, JLab Audio recognized the potential in true wireless earbuds and set out to create their own offering.
In 2018, JLab Audio unveiled the JBuds Air, their first true wireless earbuds. The development process of the JBuds Air was focused on addressing common pain points faced by consumers, such as connectivity issues, poor battery life, and subpar audio quality. JLab Audio’s engineers worked tirelessly to create a product that could deliver a seamless audio experience, while still maintaining an affordable price point.
The JBuds Air was designed with the user experience in mind, from the ergonomic fit and intuitive touch controls to the reliable Bluetooth connectivity. Drawing from years of expertise in audio technology, JLab Audio equipped the JBuds Air with custom EQ3 sound settings, providing users with the ability to personalize their listening experience.
Upon its release, the JLab Audio JBuds Air garnered significant attention and praise for its performance, affordability, and ease of use. The earbuds quickly became a popular choice among consumers seeking a budget-friendly alternative to higher-priced competitors. Over the years, JLab Audio has continued to refine and improve the JBuds Air through firmware updates and new product iterations, ensuring that their true wireless earbuds remain a strong contender in the ever-evolving audio market.
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2018 |
| Company | JLab Audio |
| Official Website | https://www.jlabaudio.com/ |
| Fit Type | In-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | 1.8 x 3.0 x 1.6 inches (L x W x H) |
| Item Weight | 0.13 ounces (5 grams) per earbud |
| Special Features | Custom EQ3 sound settings, IP55 water resistance, built-in microphone |
| Driver Size | 8mm |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | 16 ohms |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
| ANC Modes | N/A |
| Audio Codec | SBC, AAC |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours per charge, 18 hours with charging case |
| Charging Time | 1.5 hours for earbuds, 2 hours for charging case |
| Quick Charging | 15 minutes of charging for 1 hour of playback |
| Controls | Touch controls for playback, calls, and EQ settings |
| Price | $49.99 (price may vary depending on retailer and region) |
What is included in the delivery set?
The JLab Audio JBuds Air delivery set typically includes the following items:
- JLab Audio JBuds Air True Wireless Earbuds: The main product, featuring two individual earbuds that connect wirelessly to your device.
- Charging Case: A compact case that not only stores the earbuds but also charges them when not in use, extending the overall battery life.
- USB Charging Cable: A cable for charging the case, typically a micro-USB or USB-C cable, depending on the product version.
- Ear Tips: Multiple sets of silicone ear tips in different sizes (small, medium, and large) to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for various ear shapes and sizes.
- Cush Fins: These are optional ear fins in various sizes that can be attached to the earbuds to provide additional support and stability, especially during physical activities.
- Quick Start Guide: A printed guide that provides essential information on how to set up and use the JBuds Air, including instructions on pairing, controls, and troubleshooting.
- Warranty and Safety Information: Documentation detailing warranty terms, safety precautions, and regulatory compliance information.
Please note that the contents of the delivery set may vary slightly depending on the specific product version or regional packaging differences. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website or product packaging for the most accurate and up-to-date information on what is included with your purchase.
What about design, materials, assembly?
Design:
The JLab Audio JBuds Air sports a sleek and modern design that is both stylish and functional. The earbuds have a compact, low-profile form factor that fits comfortably and securely in the ears. The ergonomic shape is designed to ensure a snug fit for a wide range of ear sizes and shapes. The touch controls are conveniently placed on the outer surface of the earbuds, making it easy to access and use the various functions.
Materials:
The JBuds Air is primarily constructed from high-quality, durable plastic materials that are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The ear tips and optional Cush Fins are made of soft silicone, which provides a comfortable and secure fit while also ensuring proper noise isolation.
The charging case is also made of sturdy plastic material, designed to protect the earbuds and keep them safe when not in use. The case has a smooth, matte finish that is both visually appealing and easy to grip.
Assembly:
The JLab Audio JBuds Air earbuds and charging case are expertly assembled to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The earbuds feature precisely fitted components that contribute to their overall durability and sound quality. The charging case is designed with a secure, magnetic closure mechanism that keeps the earbuds in place during charging and transport.
Overall, the design, materials, and assembly of the JLab Audio JBuds Air are geared towards providing a comfortable, reliable, and high-quality listening experience. The earbuds are not only visually appealing but also engineered to withstand daily wear and tear, making them a suitable choice for a wide range of users.
What about ergonomics and usability JLab Audio JBuds Air?
Ergonomics:
The JLab Audio JBuds Air earbuds have been designed with user comfort and ergonomics in mind. The earbuds feature a compact, lightweight design that fits comfortably in the ears for extended periods. The included silicone ear tips come in multiple sizes (small, medium, and large) to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for various ear shapes and sizes.
The optional Cush Fins, available in different sizes, provide additional support and stability, particularly during physical activities or workouts. The earbuds’ shape and design help achieve proper noise isolation, enhancing the overall listening experience.
Usability:
The JBuds Air earbuds are user-friendly and easy to operate. They feature intuitive touch controls on the outer surface, allowing users to manage playback, adjust volume, answer phone calls, and switch between EQ settings without needing to access their devices.
The earbuds offer seamless Bluetooth connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable connection and quick pairing with compatible devices. The auto-on and auto-pairing feature further simplifies the process, as the earbuds automatically turn on and connect to the last paired device when removed from the charging case.
The charging case itself is compact and portable, making it convenient for users to carry the earbuds and charge them on-the-go. The magnetic closure mechanism ensures the earbuds are securely stored and charged while inside the case.
In summary, the JLab Audio JBuds Air earbuds are designed with ergonomics and usability in mind, providing a comfortable and user-friendly experience. The combination of their ergonomic design, intuitive touch controls, and seamless connectivity makes them a convenient choice for a wide range of users, from casual listeners to fitness enthusiasts.
What about connection, control and software?
Connection:
The JLab Audio JBuds Air features Bluetooth 5.0 technology, which ensures a stable, reliable, and energy-efficient connection with compatible devices. With a Bluetooth range of up to 33 feet (10 meters), users can enjoy a seamless listening experience without being tethered to their devices. The earbuds also support auto-on and auto-pairing, which means they automatically turn on and connect to the last paired device when removed from the charging case.
Control:
The JBuds Air earbuds are equipped with intuitive touch controls on the outer surface of each earbud, allowing users to manage playback, adjust volume, answer phone calls, and switch between EQ settings without needing to access their devices. The touch controls are responsive and user-friendly, simplifying the overall listening experience.
Software:
While the JLab Audio JBuds Air does not come with a dedicated companion app, the earbuds offer built-in EQ3 sound settings that can be adjusted using the touch controls. Users can switch between three different EQ presets – JLab Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost – to personalize their listening experience according to their preferences.
Additionally, the JBuds Air earbuds are compatible with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, allowing users to access their devices’ voice-controlled features with ease.
In conclusion, the JLab Audio JBuds Air provides a reliable connection, user-friendly control system, and customizable sound settings without the need for additional software. The combination of these features makes the JBuds Air a convenient and straightforward choice for users seeking a hassle-free, true wireless listening experience.
How’s the sound quality?
The JLab Audio JBuds Air delivers impressive sound quality, particularly considering its affordable price point. The earbuds are equipped with 8mm drivers that provide a well-balanced sound signature across various music genres.
The built-in EQ3 sound settings allow users to customize their listening experience by choosing between three presets: JLab Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost. The JLab Signature setting emphasizes bass and vocals, making it suitable for those who prefer a more energetic sound. The Balanced setting provides a more neutral sound profile, which is ideal for those who appreciate the accurate representation of different instruments and vocals. The Bass Boost setting, as the name suggests, enhances the low frequencies, catering to those who enjoy a bass-heavy listening experience.
The noise isolation provided by the ear tips helps enhance the overall sound quality by minimizing external distractions, allowing users to focus on their music or phone calls. While the JLab Audio JBuds Air does not feature active noise cancellation (ANC), the passive noise isolation is quite effective in blocking out a fair amount of ambient noise.
It’s important to note that the sound quality of the JBuds Air may not be on par with higher-end true wireless earbuds, but it is impressive for its price category. The earbuds deliver a satisfying listening experience for casual listeners and music enthusiasts alike, offering a customizable sound signature that caters to a range of preferences.
What about the energy efficiency and battery life?
The JLab Audio JBuds Air boasts energy-efficient technology, thanks to the implementation of Bluetooth 5.0, which provides a stable connection while consuming less power compared to older Bluetooth versions.
Battery life is an important aspect of any wireless audio device, and the JBuds Air performs well in this regard. The earbuds offer up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge, which is quite impressive for their price range. Additionally, the included charging case provides an extra 18 hours of battery life, bringing the total listening time to 24 hours before needing to recharge the case itself.
The charging case can be charged using the provided USB cable, with a full charge taking approximately 2 hours. The earbuds require around 1.5 hours to fully charge within the case. As a convenient feature, the JBuds Air also supports quick charging – a 15-minute charge in the case provides approximately 1 hour of playback time, which can be useful for users who need a quick top-up before heading out.
Overall, the energy efficiency and battery life of the JLab Audio JBuds Air are commendable, offering users a reliable listening experience without the need for frequent charging. The combination of Bluetooth 5.0 technology, decent battery life, and quick charging capabilities makes the JBuds Air a practical choice for users seeking a true wireless audio solution with good battery performance.
Comparison & Review:
What are similar headphones in features and cost?
Two similar true wireless earbuds in terms of features and cost are the Anker Soundcore Life P2 and the TOZO T6.
The Anker Soundcore Life P2 earbuds are an affordable alternative that offers a combination of good sound quality, comfort, and battery life. They feature graphene drivers that deliver a well-balanced sound profile with clear vocals and satisfying bass. The Life P2 earbuds come with IPX7 water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use.
These earbuds boast a battery life of up to 7 hours on a single charge, with the charging case providing an additional 33 hours, for a total of 40 hours of listening time. The Anker Soundcore Life P2 also supports quick charging, with a 10-minute charge providing 1 hour of playback.
The TOZO T6 true wireless earbuds are another budget-friendly option with a sleek design and solid performance. They offer a well-rounded sound profile with deep bass and clear mids and highs. The T6 earbuds feature touch controls for managing playback, calls, and voice assistant access.
With IPX8 waterproof rating, the TOZO T6 is suitable for use during workouts, sports, or other outdoor activities. The earbuds have a battery life of up to 6 hours, while the charging case provides an additional 24 hours, totaling 30 hours of playback time.
Both the Anker Soundcore Life P2 and the TOZO T6 are competitively priced, offering similar features and performance to the JLab Audio JBuds Air. They provide users with affordable options for true wireless earbuds that deliver satisfying sound quality, comfort, and battery life.
Compare with similar items
| Specification | JLab Audio JBuds Air | Anker Soundcore Life P2 | TOZO T6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2018 | 2019 | 2019 |
| Company | JLab Audio | Anker | TOZO |
| Official Website | www.jlabaudio.com | www.soundcore.com | www.tozostore.com |
| Fit Type | In-Ear | In-Ear | In-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | 1.8 x 3.0 x 1.6 in | 3.15 x 2.05 x 1.18 in | 0.59 x 0.79 x 1.18 in |
| Item Weight | 0.13 oz (5 g) per earbud | 0.19 oz (5.5 g) per earbud | 0.18 oz (5 g) per earbud |
| Special Features | Custom EQ3 sound settings, IP55 water resistance, built-in microphone | Graphene drivers, IPX7 water resistance, built-in microphone with noise reduction | Touch controls, IPX8 waterproof rating, built-in microphone |
| Driver Size | 8mm | 6mm | 6mm |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 20kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | 16 ohms | 16 ohms | N/A |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | 33 ft (10 m) | 33 ft (10 m) | 33 ft (10 m) |
| ANC Modes | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Audio Codec | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC, aptX | SBC, AAC |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hrs per charge, 18 hrs with charging case | Up to 7 hrs per charge, 33 hrs with charging case | Up to 6 hrs per charge, 24 hrs with charging case |
| Charging Time | 1.5 hrs for earbuds, 2 hrs for charging case | 1.5 hrs for earbuds, 2 hrs for charging case | 1.5 hrs for earbuds, 2 hrs for charging case |
| Quick Charging | 15 min for 1 hr playback | 10 min for 1 hr playback | N/A |
| Controls | Touch controls | Physical button controls | Touch controls |
| Price | $49.99 (may vary) | $49.99 (may vary) | $39.99 (may vary) |
How do JLab Audio JBuds Air users describe their experience with these headphones?
JLab Audio JBuds Air users generally have positive experiences with these headphones, highlighting several aspects that contribute to their satisfaction. However, it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary. Here are some of the key points often mentioned by users:
- Sound Quality: Many users appreciate the sound quality of the JBuds Air, considering its affordable price point. They find the audio well-balanced across various music genres and appreciate the customizable EQ settings.
- Comfort and Fit: Users frequently mention the comfortable fit and secure in-ear placement of the JBuds Air, even during workouts or other physical activities. The multiple sizes of ear tips and Cush Fins help accommodate different ear shapes and sizes.
- Battery Life: The battery life of the JBuds Air is generally praised by users, who find the 6-hour playback on a single charge and 18 additional hours provided by the charging case to be sufficient for their daily use.
- Ease of Use: The touch controls and seamless Bluetooth connectivity are appreciated by many users, who find the earbuds easy to pair and control during their listening sessions.
- Build Quality: Users often comment on the build quality of the JBuds Air, noting that the earbuds and charging case feel durable and well-constructed despite their affordable price.
However, some users also report a few drawbacks:
- Touch Controls: While the touch controls are convenient for many users, some find them to be too sensitive or difficult to operate, leading to accidental touches or challenges adjusting to the control scheme.
- Call Quality: A few users mention that the call quality could be improved, with some experiencing issues such as muffled audio or difficulty hearing the person on the other end of the call.
Overall, JLab Audio JBuds Air users generally have a positive experience with these headphones, enjoying their sound quality, comfort, battery life, and ease of use. As with any product, individual experiences may vary, and some users may encounter minor issues or drawbacks.
Pros and cons of headphones JLab Audio JBuds Air
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| Affordable price | Touch controls can be too sensitive |
| Good sound quality with EQ settings | Call quality could be improved |
| Comfortable and secure fit | No dedicated companion app |
| Multiple ear tip and Cush Fin sizes | No active noise cancellation (ANC) |
| IP55 water resistance | Limited codec support (SBC, AAC) |
| Bluetooth 5.0 for stable connectivity | |
| Auto-on and auto-pairing features | |
| Satisfactory battery life | |
| Quick charging support | |
| Intuitive touch controls | |
| Compatible with voice assistants | |
| Compact and portable charging case |
Conclusions
In conclusion, the JLab Audio JBuds Air offers an affordable true wireless headphone option that delivers an impressive balance of performance, comfort, and features. With good sound quality, customizable EQ settings, and a comfortable fit, these earbuds cater to a wide range of users. The IP55 water resistance, Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, and intuitive touch controls further enhance the listening experience.
While there are a few drawbacks, such as sensitive touch controls and room for improvement in call quality, the overall value of the JBuds Air is undeniable. Despite the lack of a dedicated companion app and active noise cancellation, the earbuds still deliver a satisfying user experience that holds its own in the competitive true wireless headphones market. For those seeking a budget-friendly, feature-packed option, the JLab Audio JBuds Air is a strong contender worth considering.
Our Review
JLab Audio JBuds Air Basic questions, basic answers:
-
How do I pair my JLab air earbuds?
To pair your JLab Audio JBuds Air earbuds, follow these simple steps:
1. Remove both earbuds from the charging case. This will automatically power them on.
2. The earbuds will enter Bluetooth pairing mode when they are powered on for the first time. You should hear the voice prompt, “JLab, ready to connect,” in one or both earbuds, and the LED indicator on the earbuds should start flashing white and blue.
3. If the earbuds do not automatically enter pairing mode, press and hold the touch control on either earbud for 3 seconds to manually activate pairing mode. The LED indicator will flash white and blue.
4. On your Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, or computer), go to the Bluetooth settings menu.
5. In the list of available devices, locate and select “JLab JBuds Air” to initiate the connection. Once connected, you should hear the voice prompt, “Connected,” in both earbuds.
6. Your JLab Audio JBuds Air earbuds are now successfully paired with your device. The next time you remove them from the charging case, they should automatically reconnect to the last paired device, provided that the device’s Bluetooth is enabled and within range.Please note that if you want to use only one earbud (Mono mode), you can follow the same steps to pair either the left or right earbud individually.
Last Updated on September 14, 2023
English 
German 
Russian 
Latvian 
Lithuanian 
Polish 
Portuguese 
Spanish 
Indonesian 
Turkish 
Ukrainian