JBL Vibe Beam 2 Review: Is It Worth The Hype?

Are you searching for affordable wireless earbuds that don’t compromise on sound quality? The JBL Vibe Beam 2 might just be your perfect match.

These compact earbuds promise powerful bass, active noise cancellation, and an impressive 40-hour battery life, all wrapped up in a price tag that won’t break the bank. But do they really deliver on these promises?

In this detailed review, we’ll dive deep into every aspect of the JBL Vibe Beam 2 to help you decide if these earbuds deserve a spot in your pocket.

Key Takeaways

• Exceptional Battery Life: These earbuds deliver up to 40 hours of total playback time (10 hours from the earbuds plus 30 hours from the charging case). Even with Active Noise Cancelling turned on, you still get around 32 hours total, which beats most competitors in this price range.
• Active Noise Cancelling on a Budget: At just $39.95, the Vibe Beam 2 offers genuine ANC technology that’s usually found in earbuds costing twice as much. The Smart Ambient mode lets you choose exactly how much outside sound you want to hear.
• Signature JBL Pure Bass Sound: If you love deep, punchy bass, you’ll appreciate JBL’s audio tuning. The sound profile emphasizes low-end frequencies without completely drowning out mids and highs, making them perfect for hip-hop, EDM, and pop music.
• IP54 Rating for Durability: These earbuds are both water and dust resistant, making them suitable for workouts, outdoor activities, and everyday wear. You won’t need to worry about sweat or light rain damaging your investment.
• Multi-Device Connectivity: Connect to two devices simultaneously and switch between them seamlessly. This feature is perfect for people who use both a work laptop and personal phone throughout the day.

JBL Vibe Beam 2

The JBL Vibe Beam 2 represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor. Released in early 2025, these true wireless earbuds pack premium features into an affordable package. JBL designed these earbuds for everyday users who want quality sound without spending hundreds of dollars.

The stick-style design fits comfortably in most ears, while the compact charging case easily slips into your pocket or bag. At this price point, you’re getting technology that was considered high-end just a few years ago.

The combination of active noise cancelling, extended battery life, and JBL’s signature sound profile makes these earbuds stand out in the crowded budget segment. Let’s explore what makes them special.

What Makes the JBL Vibe Beam 2 Stand Out

The budget earbud market is flooded with options, but the Vibe Beam 2 brings something different to the table. First, you get real Active Noise Cancelling technology, not just passive isolation.

Many earbuds in this price range skip ANC entirely or offer weak performance. JBL includes four microphones that work together to detect and cancel ambient noise effectively. Second, the battery life truly impresses.

While competitors offer 20-25 hours total, JBL delivers a full 40 hours with the case. This means you can go an entire week without charging if you use them moderately. Third, the JBL Headphones app provides customization options usually reserved for premium models.

You can adjust EQ settings, customize touch controls, and even update firmware. These features combined create exceptional value that’s hard to match in the sub-$50 category.

Unboxing Experience and What’s in the Box

Opening the JBL Vibe Beam 2 package reveals a minimalist but complete setup. Inside the compact box, you’ll find the earbuds already nestled in their charging case. JBL includes three different sizes of ear tips to ensure a proper fit for various ear shapes.

A USB-C charging cable comes included, though you’ll need to use your own wall adapter. The quick start guide is straightforward and easy to follow, even for first-time wireless earbud users.

The packaging uses mostly recyclable materials, showing JBL’s commitment to sustainability. Everything feels well-organized and protected during shipping. The case itself has a matte finish that resists fingerprints and scratches better than glossy alternatives.

Overall, the unboxing experience feels premium despite the budget-friendly price point. You get everything you need to start listening within minutes of opening the box.

Design and Build Quality

The JBL Vibe Beam 2 features a stick-style design that’s become popular among wireless earbuds. The earbuds themselves are lightweight at just 8.6 grams each, making them comfortable for extended wear.

The stems extend down from your ears, housing the touch controls and additional microphones. The build quality feels solid with no creaking or loose parts. JBL uses a combination of matte and glossy plastics that look more expensive than they are.

The IP54 rating means these earbuds can handle dust, sweat, and light rain without problems. The charging case is compact and rounded, fitting easily in your palm or pocket. It opens with a satisfying click and holds the earbuds securely with magnetic connections.

The LED indicator on the front shows battery status at a glance. Available in multiple colors including black, white, and pink, there’s a style to match your preference. The overall design balances aesthetics with functionality successfully.

Comfort and Fit for Different Ear Shapes

Comfort is crucial for earbuds you’ll wear for hours, and the Vibe Beam 2 delivers well in this department. The stick-style design distributes weight evenly, reducing pressure on your ear canal. The included three sizes of silicone ear tips help you find the perfect seal.

A good seal is essential for both comfort and sound quality, especially when using active noise cancelling. Most users report these earbuds stay secure during moderate exercise like jogging or gym workouts.

However, they might not be ideal for intense activities like sprinting or high-intensity interval training. The lightweight construction means you can wear them for several hours without ear fatigue. The earbuds don’t protrude much from your ears, making them suitable for wearing while lying down.

Some users with very small or very large ears might need to experiment with different ear tip sizes. Overall, the comfort level rates above average for budget earbuds. You’ll likely forget you’re wearing them after the first few minutes.

Top 3 Alternatives for JBL Vibe Beam 2

Sound Quality and Audio Performance

Sound quality is where the JBL Vibe Beam 2 truly shines for its price point. These earbuds deliver the signature JBL Pure Bass Sound that the brand is famous for. The bass response is punchy and energetic without becoming muddy or overwhelming.

You’ll feel the thump in hip-hop tracks and the depth in electronic music. The midrange frequencies handle vocals and instruments reasonably well, though they sometimes take a backseat to the bass emphasis.

Highs are present but not particularly sparkly or detailed. For casual listening, the sound profile works wonderfully. Audiophiles might notice the lack of refinement compared to premium models, but that’s expected at this price.

The JBL Headphones app lets you adjust the EQ to your preference, which helps compensate for any sonic shortcomings. Overall soundstage is decent for closed-back earbuds, giving some sense of space to your music.

These earbuds excel with modern genres like pop, hip-hop, and EDM. They handle acoustic and classical music acceptably but don’t reveal every nuance.

Active Noise Cancelling Performance

The Active Noise Cancelling on the Vibe Beam 2 performs surprisingly well for budget earbuds. It effectively reduces low-frequency rumble like airplane engines, bus noise, and air conditioning hum.

You’ll notice a significant difference when you toggle ANC on in noisy environments. However, it’s not as powerful as premium ANC from Sony or Apple. Mid and high-frequency sounds like conversations and keyboard typing still come through somewhat.

The ANC works best for consistent background noise rather than sudden sharp sounds. The four microphones work together to detect ambient sound and generate counter-waves. Battery life decreases from 10 hours to 8 hours per charge when using ANC, which is reasonable.

The transition between ANC modes is smooth without annoying pressure changes. For commuting and focused work sessions, the noise cancelling proves quite effective. You can concentrate better and enjoy your music without cranking up the volume to dangerous levels.

Smart Ambient Mode and Awareness

The Smart Ambient mode is a useful feature that lets outside sound in when you need it. This transparency mode is perfect for staying aware of your surroundings while walking in traffic or waiting for announcements at the airport.

You can activate it through touch controls or the JBL app. The ambient sound quality is natural without excessive amplification or distortion. You can have brief conversations without removing your earbuds, which is convenient.

The mode works well for quick interactions with cashiers or coworkers. However, it’s not as sophisticated as premium implementations that can automatically adjust based on your environment. You’ll need to manually toggle between ANC, Ambient, and Off modes.

The touch controls make this process quick and easy once you learn the gestures. Having this flexibility to control how much outside noise reaches your ears adds significant value. It makes these earbuds more versatile for different situations throughout your day.

Battery Life and Charging Capabilities

Battery performance is one of the strongest features of the JBL Vibe Beam 2. The earbuds provide 10 hours of continuous playback on a single charge with ANC off, which is impressive. With ANC enabled, you still get a solid 8 hours.

The charging case adds an additional 30 hours (24 hours with ANC), bringing the total to an exceptional 40 hours. This means most users can go nearly a week between charges. The speed charging feature is incredibly handy.

Just 10 minutes in the case gives you approximately 2 hours of playback. This quick top-up capability saves you when you forget to charge overnight. The case charges via USB-C, which is convenient since it’s becoming the universal standard.

Full charging takes about 2 hours for both the earbuds and case. Some competitors offer wireless charging cases, but that feature would significantly increase the price. The LED indicator shows remaining battery clearly through different light patterns. Overall, the battery performance exceeds expectations and removes charging anxiety from daily use.

Call Quality and Microphone Performance

The JBL Vibe Beam 2 uses four microphones to capture your voice during phone calls. The call quality is good for the price range but not exceptional. In quiet indoor environments, your voice comes through clearly and naturally.

People on the other end report you sound present and easy to understand. The microphones do a decent job isolating your voice from background noise. However, in very loud environments like busy streets or windy outdoor areas, the performance degrades somewhat.

The Environmental Noise Cancellation technology helps but doesn’t completely eliminate all background sounds. Your voice might sound slightly processed or compressed during calls, which is common for budget earbuds. Video calls for work meetings are perfectly acceptable with these earbuds.

The microphone placement in the stem helps capture voice clearly without being too close to your mouth. Overall, you can confidently use these for phone calls and virtual meetings. They won’t replace a dedicated headset for professional podcast recording, but they handle everyday communication needs effectively.

Bluetooth Connectivity and Range

The JBL Vibe Beam 2 uses Bluetooth 5.3 technology, which provides stable and efficient connections. Pairing is straightforward and fast. Simply open the case near your phone, and they appear in your Bluetooth menu.

The connection remains stable during normal use with minimal dropouts. The Bluetooth range extends to approximately 10 meters (about 33 feet) in open spaces. Walls and obstacles reduce this range, as expected with all Bluetooth devices.

The connection stays strong when your phone is in your pocket or bag. One standout feature is multi-device connectivity. You can connect to two devices simultaneously and switch between them seamlessly. This is perfect for using your laptop for work calls while staying connected to your phone for personal calls.

The audio codec support includes AAC, which provides good quality for most users. Audiophiles might miss support for higher-quality codecs like aptX or LDAC. However, for streaming from Spotify or YouTube, the quality is perfectly adequate. Connection stability impresses overall, with very few unexpected disconnections during testing.

Touch Controls and Customization

The touch-sensitive controls on the Vibe Beam 2 are located on the outer surface of each earbud stem. You can tap, double-tap, or triple-tap to control various functions. Single taps play or pause music and answer or end calls.

Double taps on the right earbud skip to the next track, while double taps on the left go to the previous track. Triple taps activate your voice assistant like Siri or Google Assistant. You can also touch and hold to switch between ANC modes.

The controls are responsive and register taps accurately most of the time. Occasionally, you might accidentally trigger a command when adjusting the fit, but this is rare. The JBL Headphones app lets you customize these controls to your preference. You can reassign functions to different gestures or disable controls you don’t use.

This customization level is impressive for budget earbuds. The app also provides EQ adjustments with presets and a custom equalizer. You can update firmware directly through the app to access new features and improvements. Overall, the touch controls feel intuitive after a short learning period.

JBL Headphones App Features

The JBL Headphones app significantly enhances the Vibe Beam 2 experience. Available for both iOS and Android, the app provides several useful features. The home screen shows battery levels for each earbud and the case individually.

You can toggle between ANC, Ambient, and Off modes directly from the app. The EQ section offers multiple preset options like Bass Boost, Vocal, and Treble Boost. You can also create a custom EQ curve by adjusting individual frequency bands.

The touch control customization menu lets you assign different functions to various gestures. A firmware update section ensures your earbuds always run the latest software. The app also includes a Find My Earbuds feature that makes the earbuds play a sound to help locate them.

The interface is clean and intuitive, making navigation easy even for first-time users. The app doesn’t require account creation, which respects your privacy. Overall, having app support at this price point adds considerable value and flexibility to the user experience.

Water and Dust Resistance Rating

The IP54 rating provides solid protection for everyday use. The “5” in IP54 means the earbuds are dust-protected, preventing particles from interfering with internal components. The “4” indicates protection against water splashes from any direction.

This means you can safely use these earbuds during workouts without worrying about sweat damage. Light rain won’t harm them either, though you shouldn’t deliberately submerge them in water. The rating applies only to the earbuds themselves, not the charging case.

You’ll want to keep the case dry and clean. For gym sessions, outdoor runs, and commuting, the IP54 rating offers adequate protection. You won’t need to baby these earbuds or stress about a little moisture. However, they’re not suitable for swimming or intense water sports.

The protection gives you peace of mind during daily activities. Compared to competitors, IP54 is standard for this price range. Some premium models offer higher ratings like IPX7 or IP67, but that’s not necessary for most users. The protection level matches the earbuds’ intended use perfectly.

Comparing the Vibe Beam 2 to the Original Vibe Beam

If you’re familiar with the original JBL Vibe Beam, you’ll notice several improvements in this second generation. The most significant addition is Active Noise Cancelling, which the original lacked entirely. This feature alone justifies the upgrade for many users.

Battery life improved from 32 hours total to 40 hours total, giving you an extra day between charges. The new model uses Bluetooth 5.3 instead of 5.2, providing slightly better efficiency and stability.

The four-microphone system is enhanced for better call quality compared to the original’s setup. Both models share the same basic design language and JBL Pure Bass sound signature. The app functionality is similar, though the new model has additional features for controlling ANC modes.

The price difference is minimal, with the Vibe Beam 2 costing just a few dollars more. If you already own the original Vibe Beam and it’s working well, the upgrade might not be essential. However, if you’re buying new, the Vibe Beam 2 clearly offers better value with its extra features.

For those seeking noise cancelling on a budget, the second generation is absolutely worth the small premium.

Price and Value for Money

At $39.95, the JBL Vibe Beam 2 delivers exceptional value. This price point positions them firmly in the budget category, yet they compete with earbuds costing $70-100. The combination of active noise cancelling, 40-hour battery life, and decent sound quality is rare at this price.

You’re getting features that were reserved for premium models just a couple of years ago. The build quality and comfort level match or exceed competitors in the same price range. When you factor in the JBL Headphones app and customization options, the value proposition becomes even stronger.

Compared to Apple AirPods Pro 2 at $179, you’re paying less than one-fourth the price while still getting ANC. The trade-offs are primarily in audio refinement, ANC strength, and premium features. For most casual users, these compromises are perfectly acceptable.

The Vibe Beam 2 proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune for satisfying wireless earbuds. They’re perfect for students, budget-conscious shoppers, or anyone wanting a backup pair. Sales and promotions sometimes drop the price even lower, making them an absolute steal.

Who Should Buy the JBL Vibe Beam 2

These earbuds are ideal for several types of users. Budget-conscious shoppers who want quality features without the premium price will love these. Students needing earbuds for classes, studying, and entertainment will appreciate the long battery life.

Commuters who use public transportation benefit from the active noise cancelling and extended playback time. Gym-goers who need sweat-resistant earbuds for workouts find the IP54 rating sufficient.

People who frequently switch between devices will appreciate the dual-device connectivity. Bass lovers who enjoy hip-hop, EDM, and pop music will enjoy the JBL Pure Bass sound signature. Anyone seeking a backup pair to their primary earbuds gets exceptional value here.

First-time wireless earbud buyers can start with these without risking much money. Casual listeners who stream music from Spotify or YouTube won’t notice the limitations compared to premium models. If you prioritize practical features like battery life and ANC over audiophile-grade sound, these are perfect.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

While the Vibe Beam 2 offers great value, they’re not perfect for everyone. Audiophiles seeking the highest sound quality should invest in premium models with better drivers and audio processing. Serious athletes doing high-intensity workouts might need earbuds with more secure fits and higher waterproof ratings.

Professionals who spend hours daily on video calls should consider earbuds with superior microphone systems. Apple ecosystem users might prefer AirPods for seamless integration with their devices. People who need the absolute best ANC for frequent flying should look at Sony or Bose premium options.

Those wanting wireless charging for their case need to choose different models. Users who listen primarily to classical, jazz, or acoustic music might prefer earbuds with more balanced sound signatures.

If you’re willing to spend $100-200 more, you’ll get noticeably better performance across all categories. However, remember that diminishing returns apply, and the improvements might not justify the cost difference for many users.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros: The battery life is exceptional, providing up to 40 hours total with the charging case. The Active Noise Cancelling works surprisingly well for budget earbuds. The JBL Pure Bass sound signature delivers satisfying low-end punch.

The price is incredibly competitive at just $39.95. The IP54 rating provides adequate water and dust resistance. The JBL Headphones app offers useful customization options. Dual-device connectivity is convenient for multi-device users.

The comfort level is above average for extended wearing. The speed charging feature gives you 2 hours of playback in just 10 minutes. The design looks modern and doesn’t scream “budget.”

Cons: The ANC isn’t as strong as premium alternatives. Call quality degrades in very noisy environments. The sound lacks refinement in mids and highs.

The fit might not be secure enough for intense workouts. No wireless charging support for the case. The ambient mode could be more natural and sophisticated. Touch controls occasionally register accidental inputs.

The Bluetooth codec selection is limited to AAC. The case and earbuds are plastic, not premium materials. Some users report occasional connection hiccups.

Final Verdict

The JBL Vibe Beam 2 successfully delivers premium features at a budget-friendly price. These earbuds prove that you don’t need to spend $200 to enjoy active noise cancelling and excellent battery life.

The JBL Pure Bass sound signature will satisfy most listeners, especially those who enjoy bass-heavy music. The 40-hour total battery life eliminates charging anxiety and makes these perfect for travel. The IP54 rating and comfortable fit handle daily use and workouts effectively.

While audiophiles might notice limitations in sound refinement, casual listeners will find the audio quality more than adequate. The included app and customization options add value beyond the base features.

For $39.95, you’re getting one of the best value propositions in the wireless earbud market. The trade-offs compared to premium models are reasonable and expected at this price point.

If you’re shopping for budget earbuds with meaningful features, the Vibe Beam 2 should absolutely be on your shortlist. They punch well above their weight class and deliver satisfaction that belies their affordable price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the JBL Vibe Beam 2 good for working out?

Yes, the JBL Vibe Beam 2 are suitable for workouts thanks to their IP54 water and dust resistance rating. They can handle sweat and moisture during gym sessions and outdoor runs. The lightweight design stays comfortable during moderate exercise. However, for very intense activities like sprinting or CrossFit, you might want earbuds with ear hooks or wings for extra security. The fit is reasonably secure for most users, but people with very small ears might experience some movement. Overall, they work well for most fitness activities at this price point.

How does the noise cancelling compare to AirPods Pro?

The Active Noise Cancelling on the Vibe Beam 2 is good for budget earbuds but not as strong as the AirPods Pro 2. Apple’s ANC is more sophisticated and blocks a wider range of frequencies more effectively. The Vibe Beam 2 handles low-frequency rumble well but lets through more mid and high-frequency sounds. For the price difference of over $130, this is expected. If you need the absolute best ANC for frequent flying, invest in premium options. For commuting and everyday use, the Vibe Beam 2 provides adequate noise cancelling at a fraction of the cost.

Can you use just one earbud at a time?

Yes, the JBL Vibe Beam 2 support single-earbud operation. You can use either the left or right earbud independently while keeping the other in the case. This is useful for staying aware of your surroundings or extending battery life. The earbud you’re using will work normally with all functions available. The microphone will capture your voice for calls even in single-earbud mode. Battery life naturally doubles when using only one earbud since you can swap them out. This flexibility makes them versatile for different situations throughout your day.

Do these earbuds work with Android and iPhone?

Absolutely, the JBL Vibe Beam 2 work with both Android and iPhone devices. They use standard Bluetooth connectivity, so any smartphone with Bluetooth will pair successfully. The JBL Headphones app is available for both iOS and Android, giving you full access to all features regardless of your phone. Touch controls and voice assistant access work on both platforms. The only difference is that iPhone users will use Siri while Android users access Google Assistant. The dual-device connectivity means you can even connect to both an iPhone and Android device simultaneously if needed.

How long does the charging case take to fully charge?

The charging case for the JBL Vibe Beam 2 takes approximately 2 hours to charge completely from empty. The earbuds themselves charge to full in about 2 hours as well when placed in the case. You can monitor the charging status through the LED indicator on the front of the case. Different light patterns show remaining battery levels. The case charges via USB-C cable, which is included in the box. You’ll need to provide your own wall adapter. The speed charging feature gives you 2 hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging when you’re in a rush.

Is the bass too overpowering on these earbuds?

The JBL Pure Bass sound signature emphasizes bass, but it’s not excessively overpowering for most listeners. The bass is punchy and energetic, perfect for hip-hop, EDM, and pop music. It doesn’t completely drown out mids and highs like some bass-heavy earbuds do. If you prefer a more balanced or neutral sound signature, you can adjust the EQ through the JBL Headphones app. The app offers presets like Vocal and Treble Boost if you want less bass emphasis. For bass lovers, the default tuning is satisfying and adds excitement to music. For those who prefer less bass, the customization options help you find your preferred sound balance.