JBL Live Buds 3 vs JBL Live Pro 2: From Simple to Sophisticated
By Elisabeth Christ
Updated July 2024
In the ever-evolving world of audio technology, JBL consistently pushes the boundaries, offering products that combine innovation with style. The JBL Live Buds 3 and JBL Live Pro 2, both set to hit the market soon, are prime examples of this ethos. These two models, while sharing some common features, bring unique strengths to the table, catering to different user needs and preferences. In this comparison, we’ll delve into their design, functionality, and performance to help you decide which pair of earbuds is your perfect match.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaway The JBL Live Buds 3, priced at $200, feature a 1.45-inch LED touch display on the charging case, 10mm dynamic drivers, Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio support, and 10 hours of playtime with ANC off. They boast six beamforming mics and four noise-sensing mics for adaptive noise cancelling, IP55-rated waterproofing, and high-res audio with LDAC. Meanwhile, the JBL Live Pro 2, at $149.95, offers an 11mm dynamic driver, minimal stems design, Bluetooth 5.2, and 10 hours of playtime with ANC off. They support True Adaptive Noise Cancelling, aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC codecs, and include a unique VoiceAware feature in the companion app.
JBL Live Buds 3
Stronger in Display Technology
✓ IP55-rated water resistance
✓ 10mm dynamic drivers
✓ Wide range customization
✓ 1.45-inch LED touch display
JBL Live Pro 2
Stronger in Noise Cancelling
✓ IPX5-rated water resistance
✓ Minimal stems earbuds design and mirrored finish
✓ Advanced noise cancellation technology
✓ Up to 40 hours of battery life
#1 Price & Design
JBL Live Pro 2
When it comes to price and design, the JBL Live Buds 3 and JBL Live Pro 2 cater to different preferences and budgets. The Live Buds 3, priced at $200, come in elegant black and silver options, reflecting a sleek and modern aesthetic. These earbuds feature a 1.45-inch LED touch display on the charging case, offering a futuristic interface for volume adjustments, ANC toggling, and notifications. The ergonomic fit and noise-isolating design ensure a comfortable and immersive listening experience, while the IP55-rated waterproof and dustproof construction guarantees durability in various environments. Equipped with a loop for a lanyard, the Live Buds 3 emphasize portability and convenience.
In contrast, the JBL Live Pro 2, available for $149.95, offers a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Available in dark blue, silver, rose (pink), and black, these earbuds feature a minimal stems design with a mirrored finish, combining style with functionality. The matte plastic body with a shine finish on the externally-facing side of the stem adds a touch of sophistication. The Live Pro 2 also includes Check My Best Fit for ensuring a perfect fit, along with three sizes of Oval Tubes™ tips for a snug and secure feel. With an IPX5 rating for water and dust resistance, the Live Pro 2 is designed for everyday use, providing both aesthetics and practicality.
#2 Touchscreeen Display on the Charging Case
JBL Live Buds 3
Stepping up the game, the JBL Live Buds 3 bring a touch of magic with their 1.45-inch LED touch display on the case. This nifty feature turns the case into a jack-of-all-trades tool, letting you tweak volume, switch ANC, catch up on socials, handle calls, and peek at texts. The user-friendly setup amps up convenience, putting all your must-haves just a tap away without reaching for your phone. JBL's fusion of tech wizardry and user-focused design shines through in this charging case innovation.
On the flip side, the JBL Live Pro 2 may skip the touchscreen dazzle, but it packs a punch with its own clever twists. With USB-C and wireless charging at your fingertips, this case takes practicality to a whole new level. The sleek buds with their chic finish offer a dash of modern flair, while the power-saving mode keeps things going longer by conserving juice during downtime.
#3 Noise Cancellation
JBL Live Pro 2
The JBL Live Buds 3 and JBL Live Pro 2 both feature active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, but they differ in their implementation and effectiveness. The JBL Live Buds 3 offers excellent noise reduction, making it suitable for environments where background noise can be distracting. The Live Buds 3 feature Adaptive Noise Cancelling, utilizing four noise-sensing microphones to effectively reduce ambient noise and provide a more immersive audio experience. This ANC technology is particularly useful for commuters and travelers who need to focus on their music or calls. The earbuds also have a noise reduction score of 8.4 out of 10, indicating a high level of noise isolation.
The JBL Live Pro 2, on the other hand, boasts True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with a noise reduction score of 9.1 out of 10. This superior ANC technology is ideal for users who require the highest level of noise isolation, such as those working in noisy offices or using public transportation. The Live Pro 2's adaptive noise cancellation adjusts to the user's environment, providing a more personalized and effective noise reduction experience. Additionally, the Live Pro 2 supports virtual surround sound, which enhances the overall audio experience by creating a more immersive soundstage. The impressive noise-canceling performance can be further tailored using the JBL headphones app, allowing users to fine-tune the ANC to their preferences. The VoiceAware slider feature in the app lets users control how much of their voice they hear during calls, adding another layer of customization to the noise-canceling experience.
#4 Sound Quality
JBL Live Buds 3
When it comes to sound, the JBL Live Buds 3 and JBL Live Pro 2 each bring their own unique flavor to the table. The Live Buds 3 boast a well-balanced sound profile that covers frequencies ranging from 20 Hz all the way up to 40,000 Hz, ensuring that every note is crisp and detailed no matter what you're listening to. This versatile audio setup caters to a wide range of music genres, from the soothing melodies of classical music to the upbeat rhythms of pop tunes, making it a favorite among detail-oriented audiophiles who appreciate clarity. Additionally, the Live Buds 3 come equipped with LDAC support, elevating the overall sound quality and immersing you in a captivating listening experience.
On the flip side, the JBL Live Pro 2 delivers a more focused and dynamic sound profile, covering the same frequency spectrum of 20 Hz to 40,000 Hz as its counterpart. This design emphasizes the richness of bass tones and the vibrancy of midrange frequencies, making it a perfect match for music genres like hip-hop and electronic music that thrive on powerful beats. Like the Live Buds 3, the Live Pro 2 also supports the LDAC codec, ensuring that even with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned on, you can enjoy crystal-clear and detailed sound. The Live Pro 2's sound profile leans towards providing a robust and lively listening experience, appealing to individuals who savor a dynamic and impactful sound journey. In essence, your decision between these two earbuds boils down to your personal preferences and the musical or audio content that resonates with your soul.
#5 Mics and Calls
JBL Live Pro 2
Staying connected is a breeze with the JBL Live Buds 3 and Live Pro 2, designed to deliver top-notch call quality. The Live Buds 3 pack in six beamforming mics strategically placed to capture your voice crisply while dialing down the background noise. This means your calls come through loud and clear, even in bustling settings. Not just boosting call quality, this smart mic setup also kicks in for stellar noise cancellation, setting the stage for uninterrupted conversations.
On the other end, the JBL Live Pro 2 doesn't skimp on call clarity either, rocking six beamforming mics for sharp voice reception and noise reduction. Thanks to the VoiceAware feature in the app, you get to fine-tune how much of your own voice you hear during calls, ensuring natural chats every time. Pairing top-notch microphones with customizable options, the Live Pro 2 is your go-to for everything from work meetings to casual catch-ups, guaranteeing crystal-clear voice delivery.
#6 Battery Life and Connectivity
JBL Live Buds 3
When it comes to daily use, having reliable battery life and seamless connectivity is key for wireless earbuds like the JBL Live Buds 3 and Live Pro 2. Both models offer impressive endurance, with the Live Buds 3 providing up to 10 hours of playtime (8 hours with ANC on) and an extra 30 hours from the case. Quick charging means a short 10-minute top-up can get you 4 hours of playback, with a full recharge taking just 2 hours, minimizing downtime. On the flip side, the Live Pro 2 matches this battery performance with 10 hours of playtime (and another 30 from the case), along with rapid charging that nets you 4 hours from a quick 10-minute charge. The power-saving mode stretches out battery life by conserving energy when the earbuds are idle, ensuring uninterrupted music and calls throughout your day.
JBL Live Pro 2
Both models feature robust connectivity options like Bluetooth 5.3 on the Live Buds 3 and Bluetooth 5.2 on the Live Pro 2, ensuring a stable wireless link. Multipoint connectivity allows for easy switching between devices, while practical features like Google Audio Switch and find my buds add extra convenience. With USB-C and wireless charging capabilities, staying powered up in any situation is a breeze.
JBL Live Buds 3 vs JBL Live Pro 2
Final Thoughts
JBL Live Buds 3 vs JBL Live Pro 2
Both the JBL Live Buds 3 and Live Pro 2 offer exceptional performance and advanced features, making them standout choices in the wireless earbuds market. The Live Buds 3, with their ergonomic fit, high-res audio, and cutting-edge touch display, are perfect for tech enthusiasts who seek a blend of style and functionality. On the other hand, the Live Pro 2, with their powerful sound, extensive codec support, and sleek design, are ideal for audiophiles who value high-quality sound and comfort. Whether you prioritize innovative technology or superior audio performance, JBL has a pair of earbuds tailored to meet your needs.
If you like to read more about Wireless Earbuds, check out our other relevant guides here:
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Best Wireless Earbuds 2024
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