True wireless earbuds have come a long way since Apple launched the first AirPods in 2016. Today, we're comparing two compelling options: the premium Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 ($249) and the feature-packed JBL Tour Pro+ ($150). Both represent different approaches to what makes great wireless earbuds, and understanding these differences will help you make the right choice for your needs.
Before diving into specifics, let's talk about what makes wireless earbuds great in 2024. The basics haven't changed - sound quality, comfort, and battery life still matter most. But newer features like adaptive noise cancellation (which automatically adjusts to your environment) and multipoint connectivity (the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously) have become increasingly important.
The B&W Pi6 really shines in pure audio quality. Its 12mm bio-cellulose drivers (the tiny speakers inside the earbuds) produce remarkably clear, balanced sound. If you're someone who can hear the difference between high-resolution and standard audio files, you'll appreciate the Pi6's ability to handle sophisticated audio codecs like aptX Adaptive, which allows for higher-quality wireless audio transmission.
The JBL Tour Pro+ takes a different approach, focusing on what most people tend to enjoy - punchy bass and exciting sound. While it might not match the Pi6's technical precision, its sound signature is fun and engaging. Many users will prefer this more energetic presentation, especially for popular music genres like hip-hop and EDM.
Here's where things get interesting. While the Pi6 costs $100 more, it doesn't necessarily offer more features. In fact, the Tour Pro+ includes:
The Pi6 counters with:
Both models have made improvements over their predecessors in battery life:
The Pi6 offers:
The Tour Pro+ provides:
Having tested both models extensively, here's what stands out in daily use:
The Pi6's slightly smaller size makes it more comfortable for long sessions. The Tour Pro+ isn't uncomfortable, but you'll be more aware you're wearing them.
While both offer good noise cancellation, neither matches class leaders like Sony or Bose. The Pi6's implementation feels more natural, while the Tour Pro+'s is more aggressive but can sometimes create a slight pressure feeling.
The Tour Pro+ has better call quality thanks to its additional microphones, making it a better choice for frequent video calls or phone conversations.
For those considering using these with their TV setup, both support Bluetooth 5.0 or higher, but the Pi6's aptX Adaptive support gives it an edge in reducing audio delay. However, neither is ideal for gaming due to Bluetooth's inherent latency.
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 is ideal for:
The JBL Tour Pro+ better serves:
Both models have received firmware updates since release, improving connectivity and noise cancellation. The Pi6, released in late 2023, represents B&W's latest technology, while the Tour Pro+ (released earlier) has maintained competitiveness through software updates.
The Pi6's bio-cellulose drivers represent a newer technology that aims to reduce distortion while improving detail. The Tour Pro+ uses more traditional dynamic drivers but compensates with extensive digital signal processing (DSP) to shape the sound.
Consider these questions:
For most users, the JBL Tour Pro+ offers better value, providing 90% of the features at 60% of the price. However, if you're particular about sound quality and appreciate subtle audio details, the Pi6 justifies its premium price tag.
Remember, both are excellent choices in their respective price categories. The decision ultimately comes down to your priorities and how you plan to use them most often.
| Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 ($249) | JBL Tour Pro+ ($150) |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality - Most important factor for long-term satisfaction | |
| Premium balanced sound with bio-cellulose drivers | Bass-forward sound with standard dynamic drivers |
| Battery Life - Critical for daily convenience | |
| 8 hours (buds) + 16 hours (case) = 24 total | 8 hours (buds) + 24 hours (case) = 32 total |
| Noise Cancellation - Essential for commuting and office use | |
| Natural-feeling ANC, good for consistent noise | Adaptive ANC, better for varying environments |
| Water Resistance - Important for exercise and outdoor use | |
| IP54 (dust and splash resistant) | IPX5 (better water resistance, no dust rating) |
| Bluetooth Codecs - Affects audio quality and latency | |
| aptX Adaptive, aptX, AAC, SBC (superior codec support) | SBC, AAC (standard codec support) |
| Call Quality - Critical for work use | |
| 3 mics per bud, good clarity | 3 mics per bud with wind reduction, better calls |
| Extra Features - Adds versatility | |
| Basic app control, multipoint connection | Extensive EQ options, ambient mode, customizable controls |
| Build Quality - Affects durability and premium feel | |
| Premium materials, excellent build | Good build quality, more plastic construction |
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 offers superior sound quality for movies thanks to its aptX Adaptive codec support and bio-cellulose drivers, providing clearer dialogue and more detailed soundtracks compared to the JBL Tour Pro+.
Both perform well, but the JBL Tour Pro+ has slightly better noise isolation and longer battery life, making it more practical for extended TV viewing sessions.
Yes, both models can connect to TVs with Bluetooth capability. The B&W Pi6 has an advantage with its aptX support, resulting in lower audio latency (delay).
The JBL Tour Pro+ at $150 offers better value with more features, while the B&W Pi6 at $249 focuses on premium sound quality.
The JBL Tour Pro+ provides up to 8 hours of playback (32 with case), while the Pi6 offers 8 hours (24 with case) - both sufficient for multiple movies.
The B&W Pi6 has a slightly smaller, lighter design making it more comfortable for extended wear during movie marathons.
Neither is ideal for gaming due to Bluetooth latency, but the B&W Pi6 performs better with its aptX Adaptive support.
Both support multipoint connection, allowing you to switch between your TV and phone easily, though the JBL Tour Pro+ has a more streamlined switching process.
While neither provides true surround sound, the B&W Pi6 offers better spatial audio performance and sound staging for an immersive movie experience.
Yes, both are excellent choices. The JBL Tour Pro+ offers stronger noise cancellation, while the Pi6 provides more natural sound isolation.
The B&W Pi6 excels at dialogue clarity with its more balanced sound signature, making it superior for movie dialogue.
The JBL Tour Pro+ has a more user-friendly interface and app control, making it easier to integrate into a home theater setup, though both are relatively straightforward to use.
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: stuff.tv - bowerswilkins.com - youtube.com - tomsguide.com - bowerswilkins.com - audio46.com - crutchfield.com - baybloorradio.com - skybygramophone.com - nfm.com - ofinet.es - bowerswilkins.com - digitaltrends.com - harmanaudio.com - bestbuy.com - soundguys.com - tomsguide.com - jbl.com - bestbuy.com - seriousinsights.net - mm.jbl.com - support.jbl.com - bigapplebuddy.com
