The JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds aim to deliver an exceptional audio experience with cutting-edge features and a sleek design. However, while these earbuds have much to offer, they face stiff competition both within JBL’s lineup and from other premium options on the market. In this detailed review, we’ll dive deep into every aspect of the Tour Pro 3 earbuds to help you determine if they’re the right choice for you.
Features and Functionality
The JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds are brimming with innovative features, making them a strong contender in the high-end audio market. They are equipped with True Adaptive Noise Cancellation 2.0, which adjusts in real-time to optimize sound isolation based on your environment. This ensures an immersive listening experience, whether you’re on a noisy subway or relaxing at home. Complementing this is the advanced spatial audio feature, which offers a 3D-like surround sound effect, adding depth and dimension to your favorite tracks. Customizable sound profiles via JBL’s Personi-Fi 3.0 software allow users to personalize their audio experience further, tailoring it to their unique hearing preferences.
Another standout feature is the versatility of the charging case. Unlike standard cases, the Tour Pro 3’s case doubles as a transmitter. Using the included 3.5mm-to-USB-C cable, you can connect it to external audio sources, such as in-flight entertainment systems, and wirelessly stream audio directly to the earbuds. This is especially useful for frequent travelers. Additionally, the case supports Auracast technology, enabling other compatible devices to join your audio stream. With optional password protection, users can share their listening experience securely.
These earbuds also support multiple high-quality audio codecs, including SBC, AAC, and LDAC, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and high-resolution audio formats. Whether you’re streaming on a smartphone, laptop, or dedicated audio device, the Tour Pro 3 ensures a reliable and seamless connection.
Design and Comfort
The design of the JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds is both stylish and functional, with finishes available in classic black and an elegant new “latte” caramel. The earbuds themselves feature a modern aesthetic that complements the compact case, which includes a 30% larger touchscreen compared to its predecessor, the Tour Pro 2. This screen provides quick access to essential controls, such as playback, noise cancellation settings, and battery status. However, despite the case’s advanced functionality, its bulkier size makes it less pocket-friendly compared to competitors like the Apple AirPods Pro or Samsung Galaxy Buds.
When it comes to comfort, the Tour Pro 3 faces some challenges. Although JBL provides both foam and silicone ear tips to cater to different preferences, the larger housing of the earbuds can make achieving a snug fit difficult for users with smaller ears. This not only impacts long-term comfort but also compromises passive noise isolation, which is crucial for optimal performance. Extended listening sessions may become uncomfortable, particularly if the earbuds do not sit securely in your ears.
Despite these challenges, the build quality is commendable. The earbuds are lightweight yet durable, with an IPX5 water resistance rating that protects them from sweat and light rain. For many users, this level of durability ensures they can confidently use the earbuds during workouts or commutes.
Sound Quality
The audio performance of the JBL Tour Pro 3 is one of its strongest attributes. Featuring a hybrid driver system—10.2mm dynamic drivers and 5.1mm x 2.8mm balanced armature drivers—the earbuds deliver a rich and detailed sound profile. The bass is punchy without being overpowering, mids are clear and well-defined, and the highs sparkle with clarity. This balance makes them versatile for a wide range of music genres, from bass-heavy EDM to vocal-driven acoustic tracks.
The inclusion of spatial audio with head-tracking is a standout feature. By adjusting the audio dynamically based on your head movements, the earbuds create an immersive listening experience reminiscent of a live concert or cinema. However, while this technology is impressive, it may not be as refined as the spatial audio offerings from Apple or Sony. Some users may notice slight delays or inconsistencies during complex musical passages.
Noise cancellation is another area where the Tour Pro 3 performs well but doesn’t quite reach the top tier. While the True Adaptive Noise Cancellation 2.0 effectively reduces background noise, it doesn’t achieve the complete silence offered by competitors like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds or Sony WF-1000XM5. Fit issues can further impact the efficacy of the noise cancellation, highlighting the importance of finding the right ear tip for your ears.
Battery Life
The JBL Tour Pro 3 excels in battery performance, making it a reliable choice for long listening sessions or travel. The earbuds themselves provide up to 11 hours of playback on a single charge, with 8 hours when noise cancellation is active. This is complemented by an additional 33 hours of power from the charging case, giving users a total of 44 hours of battery life. For those in a hurry, a quick 10-minute charge offers up to three hours of listening time, ensuring you’re never without your music for long.
This impressive battery performance sets the Tour Pro 3 apart from many competitors, particularly in the premium segment. Whether you’re on a long-haul flight or simply don’t want to charge your earbuds every day, the extended battery life is a significant advantage.
Price and Value
At $299.95 / £279.99, the JBL Tour Pro 3 positions itself as a premium product in an already crowded market. While it delivers on many fronts, its value is called into question by JBL’s own Live Beam 3 earbuds, which are priced more affordably and share several features, such as the touchscreen case and Personi-Fi sound customization. For users who prioritize head-tracked spatial audio or the unique case transmitter feature, the Tour Pro 3 might justify its higher price tag. However, for many others, the overlap in features with the Live Beam 3 makes the additional cost harder to justify.
In comparison to competitors from brands like Sony, Bose, and Apple, the Tour Pro 3 holds its own in terms of innovation and audio quality but lacks the refinement and polish of some rivals. For budget-conscious buyers, alternative options in the same price range may offer better overall value.
Verdict
The JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds are an excellent choice for audiophiles and tech enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge features and high-quality sound. With advanced spatial audio, a versatile charging case, and robust battery life, they stand out as a compelling option for those who value innovation. However, their bulky design, fit challenges, and premium price may deter some potential buyers.
For users who prioritize functionality and are willing to invest in a premium product, the Tour Pro 3 offers plenty to explore. However, for those seeking a more affordable option with similar features, the JBL Live Beam 3 or other alternatives may provide a better balance of price and performance. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your priorities and how much value you place on the Tour Pro 3’s unique features.