Which headphones are better than JBL or Sony - comparison of popular models

Features of JBL headphones

Music playback products under the American JBL brand have been produced since 1946. The range includes both affordable devices and premium models. They differ in dimensions, functions, and technical characteristics.

The main advantages of JBL products: + Affordable price . The simplest wired options will cost only a few hundred rubles. + Versatility of devices . Headphones can work with phones, computers, and players without any problems. + Design . Detailed elaboration of the appearance of the equipment at a high level. Even the cheapest headsets look stylish.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the assortment. There are both wired and wireless headphones. They also differ in size; there are compact Bluetooth headphones that are barely noticeable in the ear, and there are full-size options, some even with a folding design. Among wireless devices, battery life is an important parameter; it can range from 4 to 16 hours of continuous operation. Moreover, this figure is higher for full-size models that have more powerful batteries.

But the main thing is the sound. JBL manufacturers pay attention to ensuring that the sound is spacious and as clear as possible. A distinctive feature is the predominance of bass, for which some music lovers praise the company, while others criticize it, wanting a more balanced sound.

Alternative to Beats Solo Pro - Bose QC35 II

Promotional materials Beats and Bose
Solo Pro is the most advanced on-ear headphone model in the Beats line. You can find out more about it in Lifehacker's review. We liked the design of the headphones, but the sound - not so much. For example, Solo Pro is not suitable for listening to heavy music. Noise cancellation blocks out about half of street noise. The gadget costs 15,000 rubles.

As an alternative, we can recommend the Bose QC35 II. These headphones will cost several thousand more, but the overpayment is worth it. They are larger in size and completely cover the ears, while sitting lighter and more comfortably on the head compared to the Solo Pro, note the Bose QuietComfort 35 II review on Cnet. In the What Hi‑Fi review they add Bose QuietComfort 35 II review that the Bose QC35 II do an excellent job with all musical genres. You will get high-quality sound detail and well-developed high frequencies. But the active noise reduction system is especially praised.

Bose also has a proprietary augmented reality platform. It changes the sound of the music depending on your movement in space to create the effect of being at a concert. This is, of course, a toy, but some may find it interesting.

Bose headphones come with a wired cable. Solo Pro can also be connected via wire, but a proprietary cord is not included.

Buy

Features of Sony headphones

Sony is a well-known Japanese company whose products cover almost all electronics: TVs, game consoles, smartphones, acoustics and other equipment. Headphones of different designs and purposes are no exception.

The main advantages of Sony headphones: + High quality . The Japanese are sensitive to their reputation, so their products are always distinguished by high quality build and sound. + Use of modern technologies. Sony is increasingly introducing Bluetooth devices with interesting solutions. + Design . Restrained colors without bright accents give the product a solid appearance.

Although headphones are not the company’s main product, the range in this category is impressive. There are wireless models, including even special running ones with additional moisture protection. Wired devices are also widely available: from compact options for phones to full-size ones for PCs.

In addition, Sony also has special models for the PlayStation game console. They are additionally equipped with microphones. Professional music devices are also produced under the Sony brand, but the average user is unlikely to find them interesting due to the very high price.

What do these headphones have in common?

They are well-known companies that can be bought in Russia without any problems . But in terms of quality, unfortunately, the Internet is full of reviews that the headphones stop working after a few weeks or months. This often happens due to improper use. Typical causes of malfunctions:

1. No absolute waterproofness . Many people don't realize that even sweat can cause damage.
2. Consecutive bursts of power . It doesn’t matter what decibels the sound reception is designed for, several volume “bumps” in a row can damage the product of any manufacturer.
3. Cable bending . Regardless of the strength of the cable's appearance, the sharper the bend angle, the greater the chance that it will break. This is especially likely when wrapped around the phone, when the wire bends in the shape of the letter “V”.

Other well-known companies have many times fewer negative reviews regarding technical reliability.

Comparison of wireless headphones

Which wireless headphones are better to choose, JBL or Sony, everyone will decide for themselves, taking into account their needs. To make your decision easier, you should familiarize yourself with the best options from each category, study their technical characteristics and prices.

Compact

Wireless devices with a small charging case included are a current option for owners of smartphones, laptops and players with Bluetooth connectivity. JBL's most popular device of this type is the Tune 120, and Sony's is the WF-XB700. They represent different price categories, but each model has something to surprise.​

In terms of characteristics, Sony is significantly ahead of its competitor; they last longer, are equipped with a modern version of Bluetooth, and are even a little lighter. Judging by the reviews, the sound quality of the WF-XB700 is also higher, but the price is also higher, almost 2 times. Sony should be chosen by those who listen to music for a long time and in any conditions, because they even have protection from sweat or moisture. For those who need to listen to music on the way to and from work, Tune 120 is quite enough.

Both models are good, but they also have disadvantages. With the JBL Tune 120, owners complain about mediocre sound quality and an outdated Micro-USB input, while the Sony's microphone is a little weak.

With control unit

Headphones of this type also connect via Bluetooth, but they have a special shape and are connected to each other, so they stay well in the ear and do not get lost. In this category, determining which sports headphones are better - JBL or Sony is no longer so easy, because they cost almost the same. The comparison is made between the JBL T205BT and Sony WI-C200 models.

Characteristics are divided. One thing that speaks in favor of JBL is that it charges a little easier and faster. This will be a good option for those who like bright colors too, as the T205BT is available in 7 color options, while Sony only offers black and white versions.

Sony WI-C200 is definitely better in terms of autonomy; they can work 2.5 times longer. Once again, the Japanese win in terms of Bluetooth, and connection speed is very important. In terms of cost, both models are absolutely identical.

As for the minuses, JBL is criticized for its build quality and mediocre sound insulation. Sony has problems with inconvenient, overly long cables and a less than comfortable fit. Well, the downside of both models is the lack of moisture protection; sweat getting on the control unit can be critical.

Full size

Due to its size, an on-ear headset will not be as convenient as the two previous options, but it has its advantages - sound quality and autonomy. JBL devices of this type cost from 2 to 15 thousand rubles, and Sony from 2 to 30. For comparison, basic models are suitable: Sony WH-CH510 headphones or JBL Tune 500BT.

JBL's features will appeal to those who regularly use headphones. They charge very quickly, a full charge will take 2 hours, and after putting the device on charge for 5 minutes, then the owner will be able to enjoy music for a whole hour. Another plus in favor of the Americans is that the membrane diameter is 2 mm larger.

Sony's main advantage is a more capacious battery (even though the headphones weigh less). They can work for almost a day and a half. Perfect for long trips. Traditionally, the Japanese have a better situation with Bluetooth, here it is standard 5.0.

On the downside, the JBL Tune 500BT has background noise in standby mode and is not comfortable for people with large heads. The Sony WH-CH510 can sometimes have interruptions in the sound supply (jerking), and the microphone is too sensitive.

Beats Powerbeats 2 Wireless

Who are they for: For active and sporty people who want to buy wireless, compact and powerful headphones.

Powerbeats 2 are designed for sports and outdoor activities. Lightweight, powerful, moisture and sweat resistant.

Comfortable and light. The headphones are compact and very light. It’s comfortable to play sports in them, they don’t interfere, and after a while you completely forget that you’re wearing headphones. Thanks to the earhook, they don't come off even during intense training. The connecting cable has a RemoteTalk remote control, with which you can control music, answer calls and call Siri.

With protection from moisture and sweat. The headphones are protected from moisture and sweat (IPX-4), you can run in them, ride a bike, work out in the gym, and then just rinse them under the tap and they will be like new again.

Powerful motivation. Powerful two-way acoustics do not allow you to relax and stimulate you during hard workouts with a powerful beat. However, you can listen to them in everyday life. In my opinion, one of the best alternatives to the upcoming AirPods.

They work all the way. The headphones last six hours, which is quite good. For example, this is enough to practically travel by train from Voronezh to Moscow. There will be another half hour to give your ears a rest.

Buy for RUB 15,990.

Comparison of wired headphones

It’s also not easy to answer which headphones are better than JBL or Sony when considering wired options. The Japanese have better quality devices in their assortment, but they are expensive, and if you compare options in the same price category, each brand will have its own advantages.

Compact earbuds

Still the most popular type of headphones. They are not as easy to use as wireless ones, but the lack of recharging is a significant advantage. For comparison, you can take the popular JBL T110 and Sony MDR-EX155.

In comparison between JBL and Sony, the former win in terms of price ; they are almost 1.5 times cheaper. But at the same time they provide good sound with the main feature of the brand – bass. The cord is thick enough and there is no friction from it. Sony are almost identical in characteristics, differing only in slightly greater sensitivity, a 10 cm longer cable and 4 ear pads included. Oddly enough, Sony also wins in terms of color palette; 8 options for the MDR-EX155 model are available versus 4 for JBL. But the main advantage is weight; they are practically weightless.

There are no serious complaints about the performance of both models. JBL has complaints about the build quality, and Sony has complaints about the wire being too flimsy.

Full size

Comparing JBL or Sony headphones cannot do without wired over-ear options. Such devices are especially interesting for video game fans, because they provide complete immersion in the sound of the virtual world.

JBL has high sensitivity and produces good bass. This model also benefits from the fact that it costs 1.5 times less than the Sony MDR-ZX660AP. There is also a plus in the design: the rotating mechanism allows you to transport the headphones compactly. Sony has more advantages. They have high sound quality, the membrane diameter is 40 mm, and they weigh only 193 g. The headphones are also interesting in design; in addition to the main gray color, the combination also contains bright light green elements.

The main disadvantage of JBLs is that they put too much pressure on the head, which can cause discomfort during prolonged use. The main disadvantage of Sony is the lack of a folding design.

Beats EP

Who are they for: For those looking to buy affordable headphones with a cool design and signature Beats bass.

The new Beats EPs have a cool minimalist design, good sound and are three times cheaper than the Solo3.

Stylish and durable. The Beats EP are new wired headphones with a striking design and durable construction. The main material is matte plastic, only the fastenings of the cups to the headband are metal. Thanks to this, the headphones have a durable design, a tight fit and excellent appearance.

Wires are not a hindrance. Headphones are wired, and this has both pros and cons. On the one hand, it’s time to get rid of the wire, and you can’t listen to them with the iPhone 7. On the other hand, you don’t have to charge another gadget. You can listen to headphones at any time without having to carry a bunch of chargers with you.

Classic bass. The Beats EP are budget headphones, so their sound isn't the best. Lots of bass, weak highs and mids. Fans of Beats products and hip-hop music will appreciate them. But they sound good for the money.

Buy for 7,990 rub.

Alternative to Powerbeats Pro - JBL Reflect Flow

Promotional materials Beats and JBL
Powerbeats Pro are completely wireless headphones that are positioned as sports headphones. A unique alternative to AirPods: two “plugs” not connected by wires and a charging case. Lifehacker discussed this model in detail in his review. In short, they fit tightly in the ear, have good autonomy and balanced, but not outstanding sound. Powerbeats Pro cost from 12,500 rubles.

If you are not ready to pay that much for headphones, take a closer look at the JBL Reflect Flow for 5,000 rubles. They have a similar form factor - autonomous “drops” plus a charging case - and even have some advantages over the Beats model. For example, they have better protection against water - according to the IPX7 standard. This means that the gadget will definitely withstand a dive of one meter for 30 minutes. You can safely run in the rain or even dive into the pool (but this is at your own peril and risk).

Wylsa.com tested this model and were very pleased with the JBL Reflect Flow headphones review: its volume and high-quality bass. The author of Mobile Review also spoke well about the product Review of the Flip 5 speaker and Reflect Flow headphones from JBL, praising the excellent battery life and “close to reference” sound. In his opinion, Reflect Flow is superior to Powerbeats Pro in terms of sound transparency.

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