Wireless earbuds have come a long way since the first AirPods revolutionized the category in 2016. Today's options offer impressive features that seemed like science fiction just a few years ago - things like spatial audio (which creates a 3D sound experience), adaptive noise cancellation, and battery life that can last multiple days.
The Apple AirPods 3rd Generation ($170) and JBL Live Beam 3 ($180) represent two different approaches to modern wireless earbuds. Let's explore how these competitors stack up for different types of users.
The AirPods 3 focus on delivering balanced, natural sound with excellent spatial awareness. Their open design lets in some outside noise intentionally, which many users prefer for safety when walking or running. The standout feature is spatial audio, which uses head tracking to create a theater-like experience - particularly impressive when watching movies on an iPad or Apple TV.
The JBL Live Beam 3 takes a more traditional sealed approach, with silicon tips that block outside noise. They feature larger 10mm drivers (the tiny speakers inside each earbud) that deliver notably stronger bass response. The active noise cancellation (ANC) uses microphones to detect and cancel out background noise, making them excellent for noisy environments.
Battery life sees a clear winner: the JBL Live Beam 3 offers 12 hours of playback per charge, with an additional 36 hours in the case. That's double the AirPods 3's 6 hours of playback and 24 hours from the case. Both support wireless charging and quick charging features, but JBL's longer runtime makes them more suitable for long flights or extended use.
Here's where things get interesting. The AirPods 3 are deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. They automatically switch between your iPhone, iPad, and Mac, share audio settings across devices, and offer hands-free "Hey Siri" support. The setup process is literally just opening the case near your iPhone.
The JBL Live Beam 3 works with any Bluetooth device and offers multi-point connection (connecting to two devices simultaneously). While they lack Apple's seamless integration, they're more flexible for users who mix devices from different manufacturers.
For home theater, the AirPods 3 shine when paired with Apple TV, offering impressive spatial audio that creates a convincing surround sound effect. The open design means you can still hear if someone calls your name, which some users prefer when watching at home.
The JBL Live Beam 3's noise cancellation and stronger bass make them excellent for immersive movie watching, though they lack the same spatial audio capabilities. They're particularly good at delivering impactful explosions and clear dialogue, even at lower volumes.
The AirPods 3 feature IPX4 water resistance (protected against splashes) and a secure-enough fit for light exercise. Their open design helps you stay aware of your surroundings while running outdoors.
The JBL Live Beam 3 offer superior IP55 protection (resistant to dust and water jets), making them more durable for intense workouts. The sealed design provides better stability during movement, though some users find this style less comfortable for long periods.
Since their 2021 release, the AirPods 3 have received several firmware updates improving connection stability and spatial audio performance. They represent a significant upgrade over the 2nd generation, with better sound quality and battery life.
The JBL Live Beam 3, released in 2024, incorporate the latest Bluetooth 5.3 standard for better connectivity and power efficiency. They also feature a smart charging case with a built-in display - a unique addition in this price range.
At $170 and $180 respectively, both products compete in the premium mid-range category. The AirPods 3 justify their price through exceptional Apple integration and spatial audio technology. The JBL Live Beam 3 offer more features (ANC, longer battery, better water resistance) at a similar price point.
Consider your primary use case:
For Apple users who:
For users who:
Both products excel in their intended use cases. The AirPods 3 are the clear choice for Apple ecosystem users who value convenience and spatial audio. The JBL Live Beam 3 offer more traditional features and better value for users who prioritize sound isolation and battery life.
Remember, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider how you'll primarily use them and which features matter most to you. Both options represent solid choices in today's wireless earbud market, each with their own strengths and specific user benefits.
| Apple AirPods 3rd Generation - $170 | JBL Live Beam 3 - $180 |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation - Critical for noisy environments and travel | |
| None, open design lets in ambient sound | Yes, with adaptive technology |
| Battery Life - Important for long listening sessions and travel | |
| 6 hours buds + 24 hours case | 12 hours buds + 36 hours case |
| Water/Dust Resistance - Crucial for exercise and outdoor use | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant) | IP55 (water/dust resistant) |
| Ecosystem Integration - Affects ease of use across devices | |
| Seamless Apple integration, instant pairing | Universal compatibility, multi-point connection |
| Sound Technology - Impacts listening experience | |
| Spatial Audio with head tracking, Adaptive EQ | Hi-Res Audio, LDAC codec support, 10mm drivers |
| Charging Options - Affects convenience | |
| MagSafe, Qi wireless, Lightning | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Case Features - Additional functionality | |
| Basic charging case | Smart case with 1.45" touchscreen display |
| Fit Style - Affects comfort and isolation | |
| Open design, no tips required | In-ear with multiple tip sizes |
| Driver Size - Impacts sound quality and bass response | |
| Custom Apple driver (size unspecified) | 10mm dynamic driver |
| Special Features - Extra capabilities | |
| "Hey Siri", auto device switching, Find My support | On-screen controls, customizable EQ, Voice Assistant support |
The Apple AirPods 3 offer superior spatial audio with head tracking, making them better for movies when using Apple devices. However, the JBL Live Beam 3 provide stronger bass and noise cancellation, which some viewers prefer for immersive movie watching.
The JBL Live Beam 3 significantly outperforms with 12 hours per charge plus 36 hours from the case. The AirPods 3 provide 6 hours per charge with 24 hours from the case.
The JBL Live Beam 3 offers more flexible multi-device support, working with any Bluetooth device. The AirPods 3 excel within the Apple ecosystem but are less convenient with non-Apple devices.
The JBL Live Beam 3 are better for late-night TV due to their noise cancellation and sealed design. The AirPods 3 have an open design that may disturb others nearby.
The JBL Live Beam 3 deliver stronger bass and clearer overall sound due to their 10mm drivers and sealed design. The AirPods 3 excel at spatial audio but lack the same level of bass response.
Both work for gaming, but the AirPods 3 have lower latency with Apple devices. The JBL Live Beam 3 perform similarly across all platforms but may have slightly higher latency.
The AirPods 3 are generally more comfortable for extended use due to their open design. The JBL Live Beam 3 can cause fatigue for some users due to their in-ear seal.
The AirPods 3 offer virtual surround through spatial audio with supported content. The JBL Live Beam 3 provide good stereo but lack advanced spatial audio features.
At $180, the JBL Live Beam 3 offer more features including noise cancellation and longer battery life. The AirPods 3 at $170 provide better value for Apple users due to ecosystem integration.
Both work with Bluetooth-enabled TVs, but the JBL Live Beam 3 may be more reliable due to newer Bluetooth 5.3. The AirPods 3 work best with Apple TV.
The JBL Live Beam 3 offer more control options through their smart case display. The AirPods 3 have simpler but more limited stem controls.
Both work well for home theater, but serve different needs. The AirPods 3 excel with Apple TV and spatial audio, while the JBL Live Beam 3 provide better isolation and bass response for immersive viewing.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: recordingnow.com - apple.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - support.apple.com - apple.com - portableone.com - apple.com - bhphotovideo.com - apple.com - apple.com - audio46.com - target.com - walmart.com - crutchfield.com - whathifi.com - in.jbl.com - rcwilley.com - youtube.com - jbl.com - soundguys.com - jbl.com - store.utah.edu
