JBL Tune Beam 2: A Comprehensive Review
JBL released the Tune Beam 2 in April 2025, aiming to redefine expectations for affordable wireless earbuds. The product belongs to JBL’s popular Tune series, targeting users who want rich features without crossing the $100 price mark. The earbuds combine strong audio performance, effective active noise cancellation (ANC), and modern app customization options, all while maintaining JBL’s signature bass-heavy tuning.
JBL set the retail price for the Tune Beam 2 at around ₹5,499 in India, which equals approximately USD 66. This pricing allows the Tune Beam 2 to compete directly with other popular models like the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro and the OnePlus Buds 3.
Design and Build Quality
The JBL Tune Beam 2 features a stick-style design with short stems that offer a discreet profile. The matte texture on the earbuds and charging case helps reduce fingerprint smudges while delivering a premium feel. JBL engineered the earbuds to fit comfortably for long listening sessions. Each bud weighs about 5.2 grams, so the design provides a lightweight and secure fit. The ear tips create a decent seal, enhancing both comfort and passive noise isolation.
JBL gave the Tune Beam 2 an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance. This protection allows the earbuds to handle light rain, sweat, and dusty environments, making them suitable for workouts and commutes. The charging case weighs around 42 grams and fits easily into bags and jackets, though it creates a noticeable bulge in tight jeans pockets.
JBL focused on durability, ensuring the lid of the charging case snaps shut securely with strong magnets. The case features three LED indicators that show the battery status. The build quality of both earbuds and the case feels sturdy enough to withstand daily use without showing early signs of wear.
Connectivity and Controls
JBL equipped the Tune Beam 2 with Bluetooth 5.3 technology. The earbuds support SBC and AAC codecs, which help ensure smooth audio streaming across Android and iOS devices. The Bluetooth 5.3 chipset provides reliable connections up to 12 meters without signal drops. JBL included Google Fast Pair for Android users, allowing instant pairing on compatible devices. Multi-point connectivity works seamlessly, letting users connect to two devices at once—such as a phone and a laptop—and switch between them with ease.
JBL designed touch controls that respond quickly to taps and swipes. The default setup places playback and call controls on the right earbud, while ANC and ambient mode controls rest on the left. Volume adjustments require reconfiguring controls on one earbud, which limits flexibility during quick interactions.
The JBL Headphones app enhances control. The app offers options to remap touch controls, tweak ANC levels, choose between audio and video latency modes, and adjust EQ settings. Users can select from seven EQ presets or create their own through the Personi-Fi 3.0 feature. The app also provides options for Spatial Audio modes, voice assistant preferences, call enhancements, and firmware updates. JBL added a find-my-earbuds function for extra convenience.
Sound Quality and ANC Performance
JBL used 10 mm dynamic drivers in the Tune Beam 2 to create a bold and energetic sound signature. The bass response feels deep and punchy without muddying the mids. The mids come through cleanly, allowing vocals and instruments to remain clear and detailed. The treble provides enough sparkle to keep music lively without causing fatigue. The earbuds deliver a soundstage that feels wide and immersive for the price. Spatial Audio features add a sense of surround effect, which works well for video content and casual listening.
The active noise cancellation on the Tune Beam 2 performs admirably for budget earbuds. The ANC effectively reduces low-frequency noises such as traffic, fans, and background chatter. The ambient modes—TalkThru and Ambient Aware—let outside sound in for safer outdoor use and easier conversations. The ANC system handles moderate noise environments well, though it cannot match premium flagship models that cost significantly more.
JBL tuned the earbuds to maintain consistent audio quality whether ANC stays on or off. The overall sound profile remains balanced, with the bass retaining its impact even during quiet listening at home.
Battery Life and Charging
JBL built the Tune Beam 2 to deliver long battery life. The earbuds provide up to 10 hours of continuous playback with ANC activated, while the charging case supplies another 38 hours. This setup ensures up to 48 hours of total use on a full charge. In real-world usage, the earbuds consistently deliver around 8 hours with ANC on, and up to 10 hours without ANC. The case holds enough charge to fully recharge the earbuds several times before needing its own recharge.
A full charge for the case and earbuds takes about two hours through the USB-C port. JBL included quick-charge technology that delivers two hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging. This feature proves especially helpful for users who need a fast top-up before heading out.
Call Quality
JBL integrated six microphones into the Tune Beam 2 to support calls and ANC functions. The microphones work well indoors, delivering clear voice pickup with minimal background noise. During outdoor use, wind and loud background sounds can sometimes interfere with call clarity. JBL addressed this with software-based noise reduction, which helps but does not completely eliminate the problem during challenging conditions.
Strengths
The JBL Tune Beam 2 offers several key advantages:
- Strong bass performance with clear mids and highs
- Effective ANC for the price range
- Long battery life with quick-charge support
- Extensive app-based customization
- Multi-point Bluetooth connectivity
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- IP54 rating for dust and water resistance
Limitations
The earbuds show a few areas that could improve:
- Lack of in-ear detection means music does not pause when removing the earbuds
- Touch control customization remains limited despite app support
- The charging case feels bulky in tight pockets
- Call quality can suffer outdoors in windy conditions
- App responsiveness occasionally lags on some devices
Comparison with Rivals
The Tune Beam 2 competes directly with models like the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro and OnePlus Buds 3. JBL’s model outperforms rivals in battery life and app customization. The ANC quality holds its ground against both competitors. While other models offer features like wear detection or higher-end codecs such as LDAC, the Tune Beam 2 counters with dependable performance, versatility, and superior bass impact.
Final Verdict
JBL succeeded in delivering an impressive true wireless package with the Tune Beam 2. The earbuds offer rich sound, dependable ANC, long-lasting battery life, and extensive customization options at a highly competitive price. While a few premium features remain absent, the overall value and user experience make the Tune Beam 2 a top choice in the budget ANC earbud category. The product delivers strong performance for commuters, gym-goers, and bass enthusiasts who want reliable everyday earbuds without breaking the bank.
