By Taylor Bennett 
JBL Tune 520BT Review: The Budget-Friendly Bass King
In today’s crowded headphone market, finding the right balance of affordability, performance, and convenience can be a challenge. But the search might just end here. Today, we’re reviewing the JBL Tune 520BT – Wireless On-Ear Headphones, Up to 57H Battery Life and Speed Charge, Lightweight, Comfortable and Foldable Design, Hands-Free Calls with Voice Aware (Black), a feature-packed on-ear headphone designed for everyday listening.
Detailed Review
The JBL Tune 520BT headphones aim to deliver a powerful audio experience without breaking the bank, and for the most part, they succeed. The star of the show is undoubtedly the JBL Pure Bass sound. If you’re a fan of bass-heavy music, you’ll appreciate the punchy and energetic low-end that these headphones provide. While audiophiles might find the sound profile a bit too emphasized on the bass, it’s perfect for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and pop. The mid-range and highs are present, but they take a backseat to the dominant bass.
Wireless connectivity is handled via Bluetooth 5.3, which ensures a stable and reliable connection with minimal latency. Pairing with devices is quick and easy. One of the most impressive features is the battery life. JBL claims up to 57 hours of playback on a single charge, and in our testing, we found this to be largely accurate, depending on the volume level. The speed charge feature is also a huge plus, providing an additional 3 hours of playtime with just a 5-minute charge. This is incredibly convenient for those times when you’re in a rush and need a quick boost of power.
Comfort is also a key consideration, and the Tune 520BT headphones are relatively lightweight and feature padded earcups. However, being on-ear headphones, they might not be as comfortable for extended listening sessions as over-ear models. JBL acknowledges that the headset can be initially tight and suggests stretching them out by placing them over a ball for 24 hours, a helpful tip. The foldable design makes them easy to transport and store when not in use.
The built-in microphone allows for hands-free calls, and the Voice Aware feature lets you hear your own voice while talking, which is helpful for avoiding shouting. The on-earcup controls are intuitive and allow you to easily adjust the volume, skip tracks, and answer calls. The JBL Headphones app is a welcome addition, allowing you to customize the sound profile with EQ settings and access voice prompts in your preferred language.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional Battery Life (up to 57 hours) | On-ear design might not be as comfortable for long listening sessions as over-ear headphones. |
| Powerful JBL Pure Bass Sound | Bass-heavy sound profile might not appeal to all listeners. |
| Bluetooth 5.3 for stable wireless connection | Initial tightness might require stretching. |
| Speed Charge feature (5 mins for 3 hours of playtime) | |
| Foldable and lightweight design | |
| Customizable EQ via JBL Headphones App |
Excellent Alternatives
- Sony WH-CH520: A popular on-ear headphone known for its balanced sound and comfortable design.
- Anker Soundcore Life Q30: A budget-friendly over-ear headphone with active noise cancellation.
- Skullcandy Hesh ANC: Another over-ear option with ANC and a focus on bass-heavy sound.
Final Verdict
The JBL Tune 520BT headphones offer a compelling combination of long battery life, powerful bass, and convenient features at an affordable price. While the on-ear design might not be for everyone, and the sound signature is definitely geared towards bass enthusiasts, these headphones are a solid choice for everyday listening, commuting, and workouts. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly wireless headphone with plenty of punch, the Tune 520BT is definitely worth considering.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5