JBL has updated its Live earbuds lineup with three new models dubbed the Live Buds 4, Live Beam 4, and Live Flex 4. The trio covers different fits, ranging from sealed in-ear buds to a more open stem-style option.
All three models also come with a touchscreen charging case that offers personalization options and quick access to earbud controls usually found inside the JBL Headphones app.
What can the smart case do?
A charging case with a built-in display is not completely new territory for JBL. The company already used the idea on the Live 3 series, but the Live 4 lineup gives it a larger screen and JBL’s new Smart OS 3.0 software. The updated case supports swipe controls, so users can swipe in different directions to check notifications, skip tracks, adjust EQ settings, and switch between frequently used features.
There is also more room for customization. Users can add favorite controls to the home screen, choose from new background themes, or set their own picture as the case background.
Which Live 4 model should you pick?
The main difference comes down to fit. Live Buds 4 use a compact in-ear design with silicone tips. Live Beam 4 has a stem-style design with ear tips for a sealed fit. Live Flex 4 also uses a stem design, but they sit in the outer ear without silicone tips, making them the more relaxed option for people who dislike the feeling of their ears being plugged.
All three models support Hi-Res Audio, JBL Signature Sound, JBL Spatial Sound, Personi-Fi 3.0, Personal Sound Amplification, and Low Volume EQ. The Buds 4 and Beam 4 use 10mm dynamic drivers, while the Flex 4 gets larger 12mm drivers.
Noise cancellation has also been upgraded with 4-mic True Adaptive Noise Cancelling 2.0. Call quality gets an upgrade too, with six microphones, a wind-proof design, and AI noise reduction that JBL says can quieten traffic, fan noise, and even a slamming door.
Battery life varies by model. With ANC off, JBL claims up to 40 hours on the Live Buds 4, 48 hours on the Live Beam 4, and 50 hours on the Live Flex 4. All three models are available at jbl.com for €199.99. Beam 4 and Flex 4 come in Black, Blue, Green, Silver, Orange, Purple, and Sand, while Buds 4 come in Black, Blue, Silver, and Sand.