Introduction
When it comes to premium true wireless earbuds, Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 and JBL LIVE BEAM 3 True Wireless Noise Cancelling Closed-Stick Earbuds are two top contenders. Both promise excellent sound quality, active noise cancellation, and seamless connectivity. However, which one is better? In this comparison, we’ll analyze their features, price, noise cancellation, battery life, and overall performance to help you make an informed decision.
Price Comparison
Price is a significant factor when choosing wireless earbuds. Let’s compare the costs of these two premium models:
The JBL LIVE BEAM 3 is more budget-friendly than the AirPods Pro 2. Therefore, it’s a compelling choice for those looking for premium features at a lower price point.
Design & Comfort
AirPods Pro 2 Design
Apple maintains its signature minimalistic design with a compact, stem-based earbud look. The silicone ear tips provide a secure and comfortable fit. Moreover, the force sensor on the stems allows easy control over playback and calls.
JBL LIVE BEAM 3 Design
JBL takes a slightly different approach with a closed-stick design, offering a modern and ergonomic look. Additionally, these earbuds come with multiple ear tips for a customizable fit, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions.
Winner: Tied (Both offer comfortable designs with unique aesthetics)
Sound Quality
AirPods Pro 2 Audio Performance
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 deliver a balanced and immersive sound profile. The new Adaptive Audio technology enhances real-time sound adjustments based on the user’s surroundings. Furthermore, with a powerful H2 chip, they provide richer bass, clearer mids, and crisp highs.
JBL LIVE BEAM 3 Audio Performance
JBL is known for its audio excellence, and the LIVE BEAM 3 is no exception. Featuring JBL Signature Sound and 6mm dynamic drivers, these earbuds offer deep bass and well-defined treble. Additionally, the Personi-Fi 2.0 feature customizes the sound profile based on individual hearing preferences.
Winner: JBL LIVE BEAM 3 (Slight edge in bass and sound customization)
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
AirPods Pro 2 Noise Cancellation
Apple’s Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is industry-leading, blocking out external noise efficiently. Furthermore, the Adaptive Transparency mode automatically reduces loud environmental sounds while allowing ambient noise in for safety.
JBL LIVE BEAM 3 Noise Cancellation
JBL’s Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient provides an effective noise-blocking experience. Additionally, it allows users to adjust noise control levels using the JBL Headphones app, offering more customization than Apple’s fixed ANC modes.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2 (Apple’s ANC is slightly more refined and adaptive)
Battery Life & Charging
AirPods Pro 2 Battery Life
- Listening time: Up to 6 hours with ANC on
- With case: Up to 30 hours
- Charging: MagSafe, Lightning, or USB-C
JBL LIVE BEAM 3 Battery Life
- Listening time: Up to 10 hours with ANC off, 8 hours with ANC on
- With case: Up to 48 hours
- Charging: USB-C and wireless charging support
Winner: JBL LIVE BEAM 3 (Longer battery life and faster charging options)
Connectivity & Compatibility
AirPods Pro 2 Connectivity
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 feature Bluetooth 5.3 and seamless integration with Apple devices. Additionally, features like Automatic Device Switching, Audio Sharing, and Find My make them ideal for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users.
JBL LIVE BEAM 3 Connectivity
JBL offers Bluetooth 5.3 with multi-point connectivity, allowing users to pair with multiple devices simultaneously. Moreover, the earbuds support Google Fast Pair and Voice Assistant integration (Alexa & Google Assistant).
Winner: AirPods Pro 2 (Better Apple ecosystem integration)
Call Quality & Microphone Performance
AirPods Pro 2 Microphone
With six microphones and advanced beamforming technology, AirPods Pro 2 deliver crystal-clear call quality, even in noisy environments.
JBL LIVE BEAM 3 Microphone
JBL’s 6-microphone system ensures high-quality calls with effective noise suppression. Furthermore, the VoiceAware feature allows users to adjust how much of their voice they hear during calls.
Winner: AirPods Pro 2 (Better voice clarity and noise suppression)
Special Features
| Feature | AirPods Pro 2 | JBL LIVE BEAM 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Spatial Audio | Yes, with dynamic head tracking | No |
| Custom EQ | Limited (via Apple settings) | Yes (via JBL app) |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IP54 (Better dust and water resistance) |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Google Assistant & Alexa |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
Winner: JBL LIVE BEAM 3 (More features and better water resistance)
Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?
- Choose AirPods Pro 2 if: You’re an Apple user looking for top-tier ANC, seamless Apple ecosystem integration, and premium call quality.
- Choose JBL LIVE BEAM 3 if: You want better battery life, more sound customization, enhanced durability, and a lower price.
Both earbuds offer exceptional features. However, the JBL LIVE BEAM 3 provides better value for the price, making it a strong competitor against Apple’s premium AirPods Pro 2.
FAQs
Q: Which earbuds have better ANC? A: AirPods Pro 2 have slightly better ANC than JBL LIVE BEAM 3.
Q: Are JBL LIVE BEAM 3 good for workouts? A: Yes, they have IP54 water resistance, making them more durable for workouts compared to AirPods Pro 2.
Q: Can I use AirPods Pro 2 with Android? A: Yes, but you won’t get full functionality like spatial audio and automatic switching.
Q: Do JBL LIVE BEAM 3 work with iPhones? A: Yes, they work with iPhones but lack Apple-specific features like spatial audio and Find My support.
In the end, the choice between AirPods Pro 2 vs JBL LIVE BEAM 3 depends on your budget, brand preference, and key priorities in a pair of wireless earbuds.
