JBL Live Beam 3
JBL Live Beam 3 Overview
The JBL Live Beam 3 are true wireless earbuds that stand out primarily due to their Smart Charging Case™, which features a 1.45-inch touchscreen display. This display allows users to manage key functions—like adjusting volume, EQ settings, switching noise-cancelling modes, and checking battery status—directly from the case without needing to open the JBL Headphones app on a paired smartphone. This makes them part of JBL's 'Live 3' series, which focuses on this app-free control feature.
Key Features
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Smart Charging Case™ | 1.45-inch touchscreen display for app-free control over music, volume, EQ, ANC, and call settings. |
Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio Wireless support via the LDAC codec (on compatible Android devices). Features JBL Signature Sound through 10mm dynamic drivers. Includes JBL Spatial Sound for immersive audio. |
Noise Control | True Adaptive Noise Cancelling (ANC) that automatically adjusts to the environment and the user's ear canal shape. It also includes an Ambient Sound mode for awareness. |
Battery Life | Up to 48 hours of total playback (12 hours in the earbuds + 36 hours in the case with ANC off). Fast charging provides 4 hours of playtime after a 10-minute charge. Supports wireless charging. |
Call Quality | Equipped with 6 microphones (3 per earbud) with beamforming technology to reduce wind and noise interference. Includes a Voice Equalizer and Voice Level Optimizer for call customization. |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 (earbuds) and 5.1 (case). Features Multi-Point Connection to switch seamlessly between two Bluetooth devices. Includes Google Finder and Google Audio Switch support for Android users. |
Durability | IP55 rating for water and dust resistance, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use. |
Personalization | Supports Personi-Fi 3.0 via the JBL Headphones App, allowing interactive customization of the sound profile to match personal listening preferences. |
Design and Comfort
The Live Beam 3 uses a closed-stick (stem) design, similar to the popular Apple AirPods style, which helps with microphone positioning for clearer calls. The earbuds weigh approximately 5g each, and the charging case is relatively chunky compared to standard cases to accommodate the screen, weighing 72g.
Sound and Performance Summary
The 10mm dynamic drivers are tuned to deliver JBL's signature sound, characterized by rich, powerful bass, balanced mid-range, and detailed high frequencies. Reviewers often note that the sound is fun and warm, particularly good for bass-heavy and electronic music genres. The True Adaptive ANC is generally effective at canceling out low-frequency background noise, though some report it is strong but not best-in-class compared to flagship models from competitors.