Home / Technology / JBL Live Buds 4: Touchcase Earbuds That Dazzle
JBL Live Buds 4: Touchcase Earbuds That Dazzle
6 Sep
Summary
- Touchscreen charging case allows EQ, ANC, and tool adjustments.
- Sound quality is excellent, offering impactful bass and clear highs.
- Priced at £179.99 / AU$269.95, they offer strong value against rivals.
The JBL Live Buds 4 stand out with their innovative charging case, featuring a responsive touchscreen for adjusting sound settings, active noise cancellation (ANC), and even basic tools like a flashlight. While the case adds a novel touch, users can still opt for the JBL Headphones app for more extensive customization, including custom wallpapers.
These earbuds boast upgraded ANC and new drivers, aiming to enhance the audio experience over their predecessors. Call quality is supported by 6 microphones and AI technology, though real-world testing indicates some sibilance and less-than-premium clarity. The ANC is described as decent but not on par with leading brands, with some ambient sounds still audible.
However, sound quality is where the Live Buds 4 truly excel. They deliver impactful bass, clean mids, and expressive highs across various music genres. The ability to use the higher-resolution LDAC codec further refines the listening experience. Their comfortable, stem-less design and IP55 rating add to their practical appeal.
Released in May 2026, the JBL Live Buds 4 are priced at £179.99 / AU$269.95, positioning them as a strong contender offering significant value compared to more expensive options like the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Gen 2. Battery life is competitive, offering 8 hours with ANC on and up to 40 hours with the case.
