Sound beyond boundaries: Jabra Elite 3 vs JBL Tune 230NC TWS
TBS delves into the sound experience provided by these two earbuds, drawing from personal experiences to help you make an informed decision that perfectly suits your preferences
In the ever-evolving realm of audio technology, choosing the perfect True Wireless (TWS) Earbuds can be daunting. Among the multitude of options available, the Jabra Elite 3 and the JBL Tune 230NC TWS have emerged as prominent contenders within the mid-range segment.
Both promise outstanding audio experiences without putting a strain on your budget.
TBS delved into the sound experience provided by these two earbuds, drawing from personal experiences to help you make an informed decision that perfectly suits your preferences.
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Design and build quality
Let's kick things off with the design — the first thing you notice when you hold these earbuds. The Jabra Elite 3 embraces a sleek, modern design that elegantly fits the contours of your earlobe.
Weighing just 4.6g per earbud, they aim for a snug and almost unnoticeable fit, even during prolonged usage. What's more, they come with an IP55 rating, providing essential protection against dust and water. That's a practical touch for folks on the move.
On the other side of the ring, the JBL Tune 230NC TWS opts for a more traditional appearance with a stem. It might not strive for the same flush fit as the Elite 3, but it strikes a balance between aesthetics and functionality. With an IPX4 rating, it's ready to handle daily life, safeguarding against water splashes.
Don't underestimate the power of colour choices. The Jabra Elite 3 offers a diverse range of colours, including Lilac, Dark Grey, Light Beige, and Navy. It's a palette that lets you pick a shade that resonates with your personal style. In contrast, the JBL Tune 230NC TWS goes for a more classic selection of Black, White, and Blue, catering to those who prefer a timeless look.
Control mechanisms are another point of differentiation. The Jabra Elite 3 employs tactile button controls, delivering a satisfying click with every interaction. This approach is a favourite among users who appreciate a physical response while navigating through their audio experience. On the flip side, the JBL Tune 230NC TWS embraces touch controls, adding a modern and intuitive element to the user experience.
Audio specifications
When it comes to audio quality, both contenders offer unique propositions. The Jabra Elite 3 is equipped with 6mm dynamic drivers that promise a balanced and vibrant sound. With a frequency response spanning from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, it covers a substantial range of auditory experiences.
But its lack of noise cancellation technology gives it a bad taste for true audiophiles. The Transparency (Hear Through) feature adds an extra layer of awareness to your audio journey, allowing you to stay connected with your surroundings.
On the other hand, the JBL Tune 230NC TWS, having the same frequency response, has a 6mm dynamic driver but takes a different approach by focusing on Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. This feature creates an immersive audio environment by significantly reducing external disturbances.
Plus, the 230NC TWS boasts JBL's signature Pure Bass, delivering a powerful audio experience that caters to bass enthusiasts. Both earbuds offer equaliser settings, but the Elite 3 takes it a step further, allowing for more customisation to suit your unique preferences by using their Jabra Sound+ app, enabling users to tailor the audio to their preferences.
Fit and comfort
Comfort is pivotal, and I can attest to the importance of a comfortable fit. The Jabra Elite 3 excels in this regard by offering ear gels and wings that ensure a snug and secure fit. This design element is especially valuable for active individuals who need stable earbuds during workouts or commutes. The Auto Play/Pause feature enhances convenience by automatically adjusting playback when an earbud is removed.
The JBL Tune 230NC TWS offers single-ear usage even when one of the earbuds has no charge left. However it lacks the Auto Play/Pause functionality, which is a significant convenience. The design of the buds also gives the wearer the confidence of a perfect fit. Ensuring zero fall of the earbuds while moving.
Both earbuds offer sleek cases that are small, snug and fashionably appealing to audiophiles. Taking up very little space and easily being a pocket-stored device.
Connectivity and additional features
Seamless connectivity is a hallmark of a satisfactory earbud experience, and both the Jabra Elite 3 and the JBL Tune 230NC TWS operate on Bluetooth 5.2. This ensures stable connections and efficient data transfer.
What sets the Elite 3 apart is the capability for simultaneous connection to two devices, catering to individuals who need to switch between devices effortlessly. Additionally, an ear sensor aids in the detection of the earbud's presence, enhancing the overall user experience.
Both earbuds also boast compatibility with voice assistants, including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, enabling hands-free interactions and streamlined control.
Battery life
Battery life is a critical consideration for those who rely heavily on their earbuds throughout the day. The Jabra Elite 3 offers a respectable seven hours of music playback, which can be further extended to a total of 20 hours with the assistance of its charging case. What is particularly impressive is the fast charging feature — a quick 10-minute charge can provide you with an additional 3.5 hours of playback time, making it ideal for those on the move.
The JBL Tune 230NC TWS, however, stands out with its 10 hours of music playback and a charging case that amplifies the total playback time to a substantial 24 hours. Fast charging ensures that you spend more time enjoying your music and less time waiting for your earbuds to recharge.
Final verdict
In the diverse landscape of audio technology, both earbuds bring their strengths to the fore, promising captivating soundscapes and immersive auditory journeys for audiophiles. Ultimately, the choice between the Jabra Elite 3 and the JBL 230NC TWS hinges on individual priorities and preferences.
If you're the type who values the ability to fine-tune their audio experience to perfection, with its customisable equaliser settings and sleek design options, the Jabra Elite 3 is a fantastic choice for style-conscious audiophiles who appreciate both form and function. The comfort factor is a highlight, making it an ideal companion for active users who demand a secure fit during workouts or commutes. Also presents itself as an appealing choice for those seeking a holistic audio experience.
On the flip side, if you crave an immersive audio journey with Active Noise Cancellation and a bass that packs a punch, the JBL Tune 230NC TWS is your go-to. Its extended battery life ensures you can groove to your favourite tunes throughout the day, and the classic design adds a touch of timeless elegance. Moreover, if you are an aficionado of voice assistants, the Tune 230NC TWS seamlessly integrates with them, offering hands-free control.
