Hi All, this is just a very direct comparison of the JBL Tune 230 NC TWS and the Sony WF 1000XM4 wireless ear buds. I have been using the JBL Tune 230NC TWS for almost 6 months and I was very pleased with the sound quality and battery life. But being the gadget freak I wanted to upgrade to whatever the best thing around is at the moment.
I had been looking at either the JBL Tour Pro series or the Sony top end WF 1000XM4. After carefully reviewing the specs, I decided the Sony WF would be worth the additional 70-80 Euros (over the JBL Tune Pro). I have now been using the Sony wireless ear buds for a month and this is my review.
What are the Sony WF-1000XM4?
The Sony WF-1000XM4 is the latest iteration of Sony’s popular WF-1000X series of truly wireless earbuds. These earbuds are known for their superior noise-cancellation capabilities, which allow users to enjoy their music in noisy environments. The WF-1000XM4 boasts even better noise-cancelling performance, thanks to Sony’s proprietary QN1e noise-cancelling chip. Additionally, the WF-1000XM4 offers improved battery life, touch controls, and support for high-resolution audio codecs such as LDAC and AAC. With their sleek design, high-quality sound, and advanced noise-cancellation capabilities, the WF-1000XM4 is a top pick for anyone in the market for truly wireless earbuds.
What are the JBL 230NC?
The JBL TUNE 230NC is a compact, truly wireless earbud designed for music lovers on the go. The earbuds feature active noise cancelling technology, which helps to block out external noise and lets you focus on your music. The JBL TUNE 230NC also delivers powerful, clear sound with deep bass, thanks to JBL’s proprietary Pure Bass technology. The earbuds are easy to control, with touch controls on each earbud that allow you to adjust volume, skip tracks, and take calls. They also have an IPX5 water resistance rating, making them suitable for use during sports or in other active environments. With their long battery life, stylish design, and impressive sound quality, the JBL TUNE 230NC is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a truly wireless earbud that delivers on all fronts.
Is it worth upgrading to the Sony WF-1000XM4?
This is probably the question everyone wants to know, should I upgrade and is it worth it? And while I don’t regret buying the Sony ear buds, the law of diminishing returns definitely kicks in here. Both ear buds are extremely good but are the Sony WF-1000XM4 worth more than double the price tag? The answer is, maybe. If you have extra cash and want the best of the best, then yes definitely get the Sony’s. But, if you are looking for a massive difference in sound quality and functionality, no, you will not find this with the Sony WF1000XM4’s.
But read post first and then make your own decision!
Sound Quality
Both ear buds feature 6mm drivers and a frequency response of 20Hz to 20,000Hz although the Sony’s have a higher sampling option which extends this from 20Hz to 40,000Hz at 990kbps transfer rate. Note that this requires a compatible audio source so in a normal scenario the frequency response will be the same.
Sony also features 360 Reality Audio, however, just like the Hi Res feature, this requires a compatible service and I found that they are all subscription fees.
Both headphones have active noise cancelling while the JBL’s have 3 steps of noise cancelling, the sony’s only feature NC on or off. Sony however has some additional features such as Speak-to-Chat, adaptive sound control depending on your location,
All in all, both ear buds have excellent sound quality while the Sony’s offer some additional features you would expect from a premium product. However, for listening to audio streaming services or watching movies, both headphones will have excellent quality.
Call Quality
JBL Tune230NC feature four microphones while Sony feature two noise cancelling microphones. I spend a lot of time on both online and offline calls using my ear buds. The quality between the two during those calls is almost indistinguishable. The Sony WF-1000XM4 however are much better in windy environments. To the point where I used them while riding enduro trails on my mountain bike with minimal wind noise. So in extreme or sports scenarios, the Sony buds are better. For normal day to day operation, both ear buds will perform excellent.
Battery Life
Here the point goes to JBL. JBL advertises 8 hours of battery life with noise cancellation and let me tell you, they are not lying. Even when I am not on active calls, I always listen to something while working with NC on and I often get through the whole work day with no issues. The charging case offers an additional 30 hrs of playback and charges the buds really quickly.
Sony however, does not last as long. With Noise Cancellation on I usually get through 4 Hours out of a single charge with a mix of talking and listening to music or videos. Both headphones need about 1 1/2 hours to be fully charges. Sony offers wireless charging which you would expect from a premium model like this one.
Ergonomics & Fit
On first look, Sony WF-1000XM4 look bulky but they are surprising light and fit very well into my ears. You can wear them quite long without any discomfort. JBL however really shines here, the ear buds are more comfortable and I sometimes wear them during my whole working day with no issues what so ever. JBL Win’s this round.
Sony WF-100XM4 Special Features
The Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds are packed with impressive features that set them apart from the competition. One of the standout features is Sony’s latest noise cancelling technology, which provides a more immersive listening experience and blocks out external noise more effectively. Another highlight is the WF-1000XM4’s support for high-resolution audio codecs such as LDAC and AAC, which deliver exceptional audio quality. The earbuds also come with touch controls, making it easy to adjust volume, skip tracks, and take calls without reaching for your phone. Additionally, they feature long battery life, allowing you to listen to your music all day long. With its stylish design, advanced noise cancelling capabilities, and high-quality audio, the Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium truly wireless experience.
- Slightly Better Noise Cancellation
- Better Wind Noise Cancellation
- High Res and 360 Reality Audio
- Adaptive Sound Control and Location Based Sound Control
- Software Features such as Speak-to-Chat and ear measurement adjustment and auto pause when removing headphones
- Water Resistance IPX4
- Wireless Charging
JBL Tune 230NC Special Features
The JBL TUNE 230NC earbuds offer a range of special features that make them a standout choice for consumers. One of the most notable features is their active noise cancelling technology, which helps to block out external noise and let you focus on your music. Another highlight is the TUNE 230NC’s powerful, clear sound, thanks to JBL’s proprietary Pure Bass technology. The earbuds also offer convenient touch controls, making it easy to adjust volume, skip tracks, and take calls without reaching for your phone. Additionally, they have an IPX5 water resistance rating, making them suitable for use during sports or in other active environments. With its long battery life, stylish design, and impressive sound quality, the JBL TUNE 230NC earbuds are an excellent choice for anyone in the market for truly wireless earbuds that deliver on all fronts.
- Multiple Levels of Noise Cancellation
- 4 Microphones for better calls
- Better Battery Life
- Water Resistance IPX4
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