The JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 earbuds are a mid-tier wireless earbud option aimed at active users who prioritize a secure fit, solid sound quality, and noise cancellation. They offer an impressive combination of active noise cancellation (ANC), custom sound profiles, and a durable design—all features that make them a compelling choice for fitness enthusiasts and everyday listeners alike. In this review, we’ll cover the key aspects of the JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 to assess their value in comparison to competitors in the market.
Design and Comfort
The JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 earbuds maintain a sporty aesthetic with an emphasis on durability and comfort. They come equipped with an ear hook design, which helps to keep the earbuds securely in place, even during intense workouts. This design can be polarizing: while many users find the ear hooks supportive and reassuring during high-movement activities, some might feel they add bulk, making them less comfortable for extended listening.
Each earbud includes several ear tip sizes, allowing users to customize the fit. JLab includes both gel and foam tips, which is a nice touch, as foam tips can offer a more secure and noise-isolating fit. The earbuds are also IP66-rated, meaning they are highly resistant to both dust and water, a key feature for anyone looking to use them in various weather conditions or during sweaty workout sessions. While they may not survive a dip in the pool, they should be fine for rain or a particularly strenuous gym session.
Sound Quality
JLab has included three sound profiles in the Epic Sport ANC 3 earbuds: JLab Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost modes. Each mode offers distinct audio tuning, giving users some flexibility based on their preference or the genre they are listening to. The JLab Signature mode, for instance, enhances bass and mids, making it suitable for genres like pop and hip-hop, while Balanced mode provides a more neutral sound that suits a wider range of music. The Bass Boost mode, as the name implies, further emphasizes low frequencies, which can be enjoyable for bass-heavy tracks but might overpower mids and highs.
In terms of sound quality, the Epic Sport ANC 3 performs well for its price range. They don’t have the most detailed or audiophile-level sound but deliver a satisfying audio experience, particularly in JLab Signature mode, which is where they seem to excel. The bass is deep, if occasionally a bit overwhelming, while mids and highs are adequately clear, though they can feel recessed in comparison to premium earbuds. Overall, these earbuds are great for casual listening and workouts but may leave audiophiles wanting more.
Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
One of the major selling points of the JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 is its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). The ANC here is decent, but it doesn't compete with higher-end models from brands like Sony or Bose. It effectively reduces low-frequency sounds, such as the hum of an air conditioner or background chatter in a café, but struggles with higher frequencies. This is still commendable at this price point, as ANC can often be weak or absent in budget-friendly earbuds.
The Transparency mode on the Epic Sport ANC 3 is a welcome addition, allowing outside sounds to filter through so you can stay aware of your surroundings. This feature is particularly useful when running outdoors or in situations where hearing ambient sounds is important. However, some users report that the transparency mode feels less natural than expected, with ambient sounds sometimes appearing overly amplified or slightly distorted.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life is another strong area for the Epic Sport ANC 3. JLab claims 10 hours of battery life per charge with ANC turned off, and around 8 hours with ANC on. The case provides an additional 30 hours of playtime, which is competitive with similar models. In real-world use, the battery life does tend to be slightly lower than advertised when using ANC and high volumes, but it’s still more than adequate for a full day of use.
Bluetooth connectivity is generally reliable, with the earbuds supporting Bluetooth 5.2. Connection stability is strong, and pairing is straightforward. There may be occasional drops in crowded areas with high signal interference, but these incidents are rare and relatively minor.
Controls and App Experience
The Epic Sport ANC 3 uses touch controls for basic functions like volume adjustment, play/pause, and toggling between ANC and transparency modes. The controls are responsive but may require a little familiarization to avoid accidental touches, which is common with touch-sensitive earbuds.
One downside is that the JLab app is fairly basic. It allows users to customize sound profiles and adjust ANC levels, but it doesn’t offer the depth of customization found in other brands’ apps. For instance, it lacks the ability to fully remap controls or fine-tune the EQ settings in detail. However, for casual users, the app provides enough options to personalize the listening experience adequately.
Final Verdict
Overall, the JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 earbuds are a solid choice for those who want decent sound, reliable ANC, and a comfortable fit for active use—all without breaking the bank. Their ear hook design and IP66 rating make them particularly suitable for sports, while the multiple sound profiles and decent ANC performance provide flexibility and value.
However, they may not satisfy audiophiles seeking high-end sound quality or ANC power users looking for superior noise-canceling performance. While there are some areas for improvement, such as the basic app and middling transparency mode, the JLab Epic Sport ANC 3 offer good value within their category, making them a worthwhile investment for fitness enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.
£99.99
Visit uk.jlab.com