JLab JBuds Air review: A decent pair of cheap true wireless earbuds?

More and more flagship phones are ditching their headphone jacks, compelling many of us to join the ranks of true wireless listeners. While truly wireless earbuds tend to be more expensive than their traditional wireless counterparts, the JLab JBuds Air make a case for cheap true wireless earbuds. Sure, its sound quality doesn’t knock my socks off, but for just $49 these IP55 earbuds are hard to pass up.

Full review available at our sister site, SoundGuys.com

What is the JLab JBuds Air like?

JLab JBuds Air true wireless: The earbuds in the case which is open and angled away (slightly) from the lens.

The JLab JBuds Air truly wireless earbuds lack aptX and AAC support but stay connected within a three-meter range.

What starts with a “P” and ends in “-lastic”? Oh, right, plastic, which is what the JLab JBuds Air is made of, from the charging case to the earbuds. It may be unsightly to some, but it keeps the earbuds durable. Something that’s more difficult for me to overlook is the sheer size of the earbuds. Despite the bulbous housings, though, the ‘buds remain firmly in place when worn with the included Cush Fins.

While the JBuds Air excels in nearly every category for its price range, the omnidirectional microphone falls short of expectations.

The earbuds are IP55-certified and can withstand sweat or a spill — just don’t submerge them. These aren’t just ideal for the gym, though; outdoor running is a pleasure since the earbud shape mitigates wind noise. And while the 3.07-hour standalone battery life isn’t anything to write home about, it’s more than sufficient for most of our workout regimens. 

How do the earbuds sound?

Editor's Pick

Bass notes are emphasized, which is appropriate given the exercise-oriented nature of the earbuds. Although the exaggerated bass degrades clarity, I don’t mind it as I’m not deconstructing Vivaldi’s Four Seasons; rather, I’m working out with these earbuds. To get a detailed rundown of the frequency response, read the in-depth review at SoundGuys.

Should you buy the JLab JBuds Air?

JLab JBuds Air true wireless: A close-up of the earbuds showing the JLab logo on the ear tips.

Silicone ear tips keep things comfortable, while the Cush-Fins effectively keep the ‘buds in place.

Yes, worthwhile cheap true wireless earbuds are currently few and far between, but those included with the JLab JBuds Air are unique. While the earbuds don’t provide any innovative or groundbreaking features, they function well and reliably which is what most of us want when buying cheap earbuds or headphones. Yes, the lack of aptX or AAC support is frustrating, but it makes sense at this price point. If you’ve been wanting to give true wireless a shot, but couldn’t bear the hit to your wallet, the JLab JBuds Air is an affordable, low-risk option that deserves a fair chance.

Read the full review

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