By Taylor Bennett 
JLab Go Air Pop+ True Wireless Earbuds Review
In today’s crowded earbud market, finding the right balance of affordability, features, and performance can be a challenge. Today, we’re reviewing the JLab Go Air Pop+ True Wireless Earbuds, a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers. Do they live up to the hype? Let’s dive in.
Detailed Review
The JLab Go Air Pop+ earbuds aim to provide a complete wireless audio experience without breaking the bank. The first thing you’ll notice is the compact size of both the earbuds and the charging case. JLab touts a 15% size reduction and 40% weight reduction compared to the original Go Air, making them incredibly pocketable and convenient for on-the-go use.
Pairing is seamless, especially for Android users thanks to Google Fast Pair. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable and reliable connection. The “Dual Connect” feature allows you to use either earbud independently, which is handy for taking calls or conserving battery life.
Speaking of battery life, the Go Air Pop+ delivers a solid performance. JLab claims 9+ hours of playtime per earbud and an additional 26+ hours from the charging case, totaling 35+ hours. This is more than enough for most users to get through a week of moderate use. The integrated USB-C charging cable in the case is a nice touch, eliminating the need to carry an extra cable. A quick 10-minute charge provides an hour of playtime, which is very convenient.
Sound quality is decent for the price range. The earbuds feature 6mm dynamic drivers and offer three EQ presets (JLab Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost) accessible through the JLab app. While audiophiles might find the sound a bit lacking in detail, the average listener will likely be satisfied, especially with the Bass Boost setting for genres like hip-hop and electronic music.
The inclusion of “Be Aware Mode” is a welcome feature, allowing ambient noise to filter in for safer listening in environments where awareness is crucial. This is particularly useful for runners or cyclists. The built-in MEMS microphone in each earbud provides clear call quality, even in moderately noisy environments.
The JLab app is user-friendly and allows for customization of touch controls, Be Aware mode settings, and EQ presets. The touch controls themselves are responsive and easy to learn.
The IPX4 rating provides basic protection against sweat and splashes, making these earbuds suitable for workouts, although more intense activities might warrant a higher IP rating. The included three sizes of gel eartips ensure a comfortable and secure fit for most ears.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely Affordable | Sound quality may not satisfy audiophiles |
| Compact and Lightweight Design | IPX4 rating only offers basic water resistance |
| Long Battery Life (35+ hours) | Only supports SBC codec |
| Be Aware Mode for Ambient Sound | Case feels a bit plasticky |
| Google Fast Pair for Easy Pairing | |
| Customizable EQ via JLab App | |
| Integrated USB-C charging cable |
Excellent Alternatives
- TOZO T6 True Wireless Earbuds: A popular alternative with excellent sound quality and water resistance for the price.
- SoundPEATS TrueFree2 Wireless Earbuds: Offers a secure fit and good sound for workouts.
- Skullcandy Dime 3 True Wireless Earbuds: Another budget-friendly option known for its Skullcandy sound signature.
Final Verdict
The JLab Go Air Pop+ True Wireless Earbuds are an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable and feature-rich wireless audio experience. While not perfect, their compact size, long battery life, customizable sound, and convenient features like Google Fast Pair and Be Aware Mode make them a compelling option in their price range. If you’re seeking affordable earbuds for everyday use, the Go Air Pop+ are definitely worth considering.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5