JBL Vibe Beam Review: Deep Bass On-The-Go
In today’s crowded market of true wireless earbuds, finding a pair that balances sound quality, comfort, and practicality can be a challenge. But fear not music lovers, as we dive deep into a review of the JBL Vibe Beam. These earbuds promise to deliver JBL’s signature deep bass sound in a comfortable, durable, and long-lasting package. Let’s see if they live up to the hype!
Detailed Review
The JBL Vibe Beam earbuds are designed for daily use, and that’s immediately apparent in their feature set. The “JBL Deep Bass Sound,” delivered by 8mm drivers, is definitely a standout. The bass is punchy and present without overwhelming the mids and highs, making for an enjoyable listening experience across various music genres. While audiophiles might crave a more nuanced sound profile, the Vibe Beam caters perfectly to those who enjoy a bass-heavy listening experience.
Comfort is paramount for earbuds intended for all-day wear, and the Vibe Beam doesn’t disappoint. The ergonomic, “stick-closed” design sits snugly in the ear, providing a secure fit that minimizes sound leakage and enhances bass response. I found myself wearing them for hours without discomfort. The “stick-closed” design does a decent job of passively blocking out ambient noise, allowing for better immersion in your music or podcasts.
Battery life is a crucial factor for any wireless earbuds. JBL claims up to 32 hours of total playtime (8 hours in the earbuds and 24 hours from the charging case), and my testing largely confirmed these claims. Even with moderate use, I easily got through a full workday on a single charge. The speed charging feature is a lifesaver, providing an extra two hours of playtime with just a 10-minute charge. This is incredibly convenient when you’re in a rush.
The hands-free calling with VoiceAware is a welcome addition. The VoiceAware feature allows you to adjust how much of your own voice you hear during calls, preventing the awkwardness of shouting without realizing it. Call quality was clear and understandable in most environments.
Finally, the water and dust resistance (IP54 for the earbuds and IPX2 for the case) provides peace of mind. While not fully waterproof, they can withstand splashes, sweat, and dust, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities. I wouldn’t recommend swimming with them, but they’re perfectly fine for a run in light rain.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| JBL Deep Bass Sound | Bass-heavy sound may not appeal to all listeners |
| Comfortable and secure fit | IPX2 rating for the case is minimal |
| Up to 32 hours of battery life | No active noise cancellation (ANC) |
| Hands-free calls with VoiceAware | |
| Water and dust resistant |
Excellent Alternatives
- JBL Tune 230NC – A great alternative from JBL with Active Noise Cancellation.
- Soundcore Life P3 – Affordable earbuds with impressive sound and features.
- Google Pixel Buds A-Series – Excellent integration with Google Assistant and a comfortable fit.
Final Verdict
The JBL Vibe Beam earbuds are a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and enjoyable listening experience on the go. With their deep bass sound, comfortable fit, long battery life, and water resistance, they’re well-suited for daily use. While the lack of active noise cancellation might be a deal-breaker for some, the Vibe Beam offers a compelling package at an attractive price point. They are a great value for money.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5
