JBL 510BT Bluetooth Headphones Review
I recently scored a deal on the JBL 510BT Bluetooth Headphones for half off, paying only $30. So far, they’ve proven to be a solid, budget-friendly option for wireless headphones.
Initial Impressions
While AirPods are great, the added bulk of a charging case can be inconvenient, especially when I'm on the move and worry about losing earbuds. For just $30, I’m not overly concerned about knocking around the JBLs.
I’ll need to use them for a few days to give them a proper review, but here's what I've gathered so far.
One Week Review
Final Verdict: Buy these headphones for $30.
While I wouldn't recommend them at full retail price, they deliver decent value for their lower price point.
Sound Quality
- Decent and Pleasant: The sound quality is pleasant, reminding me of my wired Sony ZX310 headphones.
- Bass and Clarity: These won’t win any awards, but they’re great for their segment. They can sound muddled at times, especially with heavier bass, but they pick up subtle notes during attentive listening.
- Genre Performance: I tested them with various artists like Sia, AC/DC, Queen, Metallica, and Led Zeppelin. They performed well with most tracks, although they struggled with Led Zeppelin. AC/DC and Queen sounded particularly nice.
Battery Life
- Excellent Battery Life: I haven’t tested the claimed 40 hours, but I’ve been using them for a week without needing to recharge. Typically, I use them for about 30-60 minutes for music or a few hours for streaming movies and shows. They’ve lasted through about 12 hours of listening in one week.
- Type C Charging: Nice touch!
Comfort and Build Quality
- Comfortable Fit: They are comfortable, with a clamping force similar to my old Sony ZX series. The JBLs are lightweight, making them easy to wear for extended periods.
- Build Quality: The build quality feels decent for the price, but I wouldn't expect them to hold up to rough treatment.
Value Proposition
Absolutely worth it at $30. While I’d think twice at the MSRP of $60, these headphones offer a good balance of specs at a price that makes them a clear winner for casual listening.
Updates Over Time
- 5/1/23: After several months of daily use, I’ve assigned them as my office headset. They remain a reliable choice for streaming and casual listening.
- 6/6/23: These headphones excelled during travel. Their lightweight design and long battery life made them perfect for in-flight entertainment. I’m now considering investing in a high-quality pair of Bluetooth headphones like the AirPods Max in the future.
- 11/05/23: Ten months in, and they’re still going strong. The battery life remains impressive, and the sound quality continues to meet my needs.
Overall, the JBL 510BT headphones have proven to be an excellent value, making me appreciate the convenience of Bluetooth headphones. They’re perfect for casual use, travel, and even as an office headset.
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