ANC is one of the strongest recurring positives, with several reviewers calling it impressive for the price, though one reviewer finds it only decent and another says it is not great.
Across reviews, ANC is consistently described as best-in-class for earbuds, often quieting commutes and flights to near over-ear levels. Performance depends on achieving a good seal, and a few users report rare pressure/flight-related artifacts. Multiple listening modes (ANC, transparency, adaptive blends) make it easy to adjust noise control for different situations, and mode switching is generally smooth. Customization is still more preset-driven than fully user-tunable.
One review reports easy Android pairing, with no Android-specific problems mentioned.
Android support is consistently described as basic Bluetooth audio with many features missing, including deeper settings and firmware updates. Reviewers regularly frame these as iPhone-first earbuds.
The JBL app is repeatedly described as useful for this price, adding audio modes, EQ changes, controls, and extra features.
There is no standalone AirPods app in the traditional sense; most controls live in Apple’s Settings on iOS. This works well for Apple users but offers little for Android users beyond pairing.
H2-based processing is referenced as enabling Apple’s adaptive features, call processing, and ecosystem behaviors, keeping the overall experience cohesive for iOS users.
Reviewers explicitly note that aptX is not supported, which limits Android-focused low-latency and hi-quality codec options.
Multiple reviews say video mode or newer tuning helps lip-sync and reduces audio lag when watching video.
The sound is generally bass-forward, but reactions split: some reviewers like the punch and weight, while others think the bass is weak or could go further.
Bass is commonly described as deeper, more impactful, and cleaner than prior generations, helping energy in modern tracks. A minority find it overemphasized or fatiguing over long sessions.
Battery life is a clear standout across the reviews, with repeated praise for 40-hour total endurance and strong single-charge runtime.
Single-charge battery life is widely reported around eight hours with ANC, with some tests pushing higher at moderate volume. The common caveat is reduced total runtime with the case compared with the prior generation.
Bluetooth performance is consistently positive, with stable connections, Bluetooth 5.3 mentions, and smooth pairing to watches and other devices.
Apple-device pairing and switching are generally smooth, but there are scattered reports of connection quirks such as occasional manual reconnects or odd channel behavior. Non-Apple pairing is possible but less seamless.
Build quality is viewed as solid for the money, with reviewers saying the buds do not feel flimsy even if they are not ultra-premium.
Overall build is considered solid, helped by an IP57 rating for buds and case, but long-term serviceability is criticized. Some sources point out poor repairability and battery service constraints typical of true wireless earbuds.
Stem squeeze and swipe controls are broadly viewed as intuitive, enabling volume and mode changes without reaching for the phone. A few reviewers still mention occasional uncertainty with tap-based case controls or gesture reliability.
The case is easy to dock buds into and pocket-friendly, but one reviewer finds removing the buds a little awkward.
The case remains compact and pocketable but is often described as glossy and scratch-prone, with slight size changes versus Pro 2. Pairing controls moving to a touch area can feel less tactile than a physical button.
USB-C charging and fast top-ups are positives, but one reviewer notes the lack of wireless charging.
Charging is flexible with USB-C, MagSafe/Qi wireless, and Apple Watch charger support, plus quick top-ups in the case. Some reviewers wish the fast-charge rate improved and note the missing cable in the box.
Codec support is typically summarized as SBC and AAC only, with frequent disappointment about no hi-res or wireless lossless playback. This is a recurring reason reviewers cite for looking at competitors.
Several reviewers say the earbuds stay comfortable over longer sessions and do not create much fatigue.
Comfort is divisive: several reviewers find the new shape better for multi-hour sessions, while others feel pressure, digging, or faster ear fatigue. Tip sizing down (or mixing sizes per ear) often improves comfort.
The design is a familiar stem style, and reviewers generally like the clean, simple look.
Fit is secure for several reviewers, including during movement, but one reviewer says their ear shape still caused fit problems.
The box includes multiple ear tip sizes, giving users some room to improve fit.
Five included tip sizes (XXS through L) plus the hybrid foam-infused design are frequently called out as a meaningful upgrade. Reviewers emphasize trying different sizes and using Apple’s seal/fit tests.
The app supports both preset EQ choices and user-made custom EQ profiles, which reviewers see as a meaningful feature.
Lack of a proper user EQ is one of the most repeated complaints, especially from listeners who dislike the default tuning. Workarounds exist via iOS settings, but they do not replace a full EQ experience.
The app includes a Find My Buds feature that can make a misplaced earbud beep.
Find My support is repeatedly highlighted as a practical strength, with newer UWB in the case improving precision finding range and speed. Case speakers further help locate misplaced earbuds.
Frequency response and tonal balance are seen as less strictly neutral than Pro 2, with some reviewers noting a more V-shaped or bass-forward tilt. Fit and listening volume can noticeably change perceived balance.
At least one review confirms the package includes a USB-C charging cable and multiple ear tip sizes.
In-box extras focus on multiple ear-tip sizes, but several reviews mention the lack of a bundled USB-C cable. Accessory value is therefore seen as mixed despite the improved tips.
One review says the earbuds do not offer the nuanced separation you would get from a higher-end model.
Instrument separation and imaging are generally considered improved or at least highly competitive, helping layered mixes sound less congested. Spatial processing can further enhance placement cues for some listeners.
A four-microphone setup is repeatedly called out as a key hardware feature, even though call-performance opinions still vary.
LDAC support is repeatedly called out as absent, keeping Bluetooth streaming firmly in AAC/SBC territory.
Clarity at higher volumes is usually described as good with limited distortion, though tonal shifts and preference sensitivity still apply. Most sources do not report major breakup at typical listening levels.
One review specifically says wind and background noise make the mics sound worse on calls.
Noise reduction and Voice Isolation are generally effective at reducing chatter and traffic, but wind and very loud noise can introduce artifacts or leave some noise audible. Results vary by environment and settings.
Call quality is the main tradeoff area: some reviewers say the mic setup sounds clear enough, while another says voices get muddy and distant in noise.
Call quality is commonly rated excellent, with voices sounding clear and natural in both quiet and moderately noisy places. Some sources even suggest the mics are usable for lightweight content capture.
Midrange is generally described as decent to clear, without major praise or major complaints.
Midrange and vocal clarity are often praised as smooth and full, staying intelligible even with stronger low-end presence. Speech-heavy content and podcasts are generally easy to follow.
One reviewer says the earbuds paired easily across multiple device types, suggesting broad everyday compatibility.
They can connect to non-Apple devices (Android, PCs, some consoles), but functionality is limited compared with using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Expect a working audio connection, not the full feature set.
One review explicitly says multipoint lets you switch between devices instantly.
Isolation is usable but mixed: one review says you do get some isolation, while another says outside sound still gets in.
Foam-infused silicone tips and the deeper fit improve passive sealing for many users, helping low-frequency rumble and chatter before ANC kicks in. It still does not behave like full memory-foam isolation for everyone.
One reviewer says the case slides into a pocket easily, supporting good day-to-day portability.
Preset EQ options are useful rather than gimmicky, with reviewers saying presets can improve the sound to better match preferences.
Apple’s adaptive tuning features (such as Adaptive EQ and personalized behaviors) are generally credited with keeping sound consistent and enjoyable for most listeners. Some reviewers still prefer more direct user control.
Sensors and smart features are a headline theme: heart-rate tracking is often reported as close to smartwatch readings, and hearing/translation tools add utility beyond audio. Wear-detection and fit-dependent sensing can also affect performance if the seal is inconsistent.
Voice Aware exists, but one reviewer says it is hard to notice working in practice.
Setup is described as straightforward, with quick pairing and little friction across the reviews that mention it.
Setup is repeatedly described as effortless inside the Apple ecosystem with quick pairing and easy mode toggles. A few reviewers still call out certain controls as buried or unintuitive in iOS, especially for advanced audio routing.
One reviewer explicitly reports noticeable sound leakage.
Overall sound quality ranges from decent to very good depending on taste, with stronger reactions from reviewers who like a consumer-friendly tuning.
Overall sound quality is widely rated strong and detailed with a punchier presentation than Pro 2 for many listeners. The main split is preference: some love the added weight, while others miss the older model’s neutrality.
Many reviews describe a bigger, wider presentation, especially when spatial features are enabled, making movies and big mixes feel more expansive. Perceived width still varies by content and settings.
The spatial sound feature is present, but one review says it does not create a truly immersive result.
Spatial audio is frequently praised for movies and immersive content, with head tracking adding convincing placement. Spatial music remains more polarizing, with some preferring it turned off.
Two reviews say the buds stay put well during movement, including casual activity and running.
Fit security is improved for many thanks to the new angle and deeper insertion, making the buds feel more locked in for daily wear. Some reviewers still note slip-outs during intense workouts or when sweat/oil builds up.
Sustainability notes are mixed: there is recycled material content and trade-in/recycling programs, but repairability and battery longevity limits remain concerns. Some reviewers explicitly call out low repair scores.
Touch controls are described as easy to use and feature-rich enough for playback, ANC, and other basic actions.
Control responsiveness is mostly good, but some reviewers call gestures stubborn or less responsive than expected. Overall reliability improves with familiarity, but it is not universally perfect.
Transparency and ambient modes work, but the detailed reviews call them basic, digital-sounding, or less natural than pricier alternatives.
Transparency is repeatedly praised for sounding natural and clear, with speech coming through realistically and less processed than many rivals. This also supports hearing and safety use cases outdoors.
Treble gets mixed feedback, from washed out in one review to crisp and clear in others.
Treble is typically described as crisp and detailed, though some sources mention occasional sharpness depending on volume, fit, or personal taste. The result is lively detail that may not suit everyone.
Multiple reviews confirm USB-C charging support on the case or in-box cable.
USB-C charging on the case is now standard and repeatedly highlighted as a modern convenience, especially alongside MagSafe/Qi options.
Value is one of the clearest strengths, with repeated praise for how much battery, ANC, and features JBL fits into the price.
Hold controls can trigger the phone's voice assistant, with one review specifically noting Android and iOS behavior.
One review says the earbuds get pretty loud.
Several reviewers note strong loudness headroom, making it easier to overcome noisy environments without maxing out volume. Loudness is often paired with strong ANC for commuting and travel.
The earbuds are consistently described as IP54-rated or sweat/splash resistant, making them suitable for workouts and light rain.
IP57 is repeatedly cited as a meaningful durability upgrade for both buds and case, improving confidence for sweat, rain, and dust exposure. Reviewers still caution against treating them like dedicated swim gear.
Reviewers call them lightweight and easy to keep in the ear for long stretches.