The mids and treble are given respectable prominence, while the bass is punchy, with plenty of energy to help power you through your next workout. Not surprisingly, especially when wearing the more isolating Comply tips, the sound can be a little narrow – but these aren’t headphones you’ll be listening to critically.

Jaybird X4 review | TechRadar Jaybird X4 review | TechRadar

Please note: The Firmware Update Assistant will have a software version. This is different to the headphone firmware version. The Jaybird X3s’ sound is slightly treble-led. There’s real zest and energy, favouring clarity over booming bass.Not everyone will love the Jaybird X3s’ style, though. The hook and tip combo fills your ears, with a feel not that far removed from a custom-fit in-ear monitor, although this does provide better-than-average noise isolation. The buttons on the newly designed remote are responsive and easy to operate blindly. Sarah Tew/CNET One of the biggest draws of the X3, relative to its predecessors, is their affordability. With that in mind, they’re an excellent choice. The fit is super-secure while remaining comfortable, the sound quality is great, and the battery life hasn’t been sacrificed. The Jaybird X3 rectify many of the complaints we had with the X2 and Freedom models.

Jaybird X3 Bluetooth Wireless Headphones Compatible with iOS

The big upgrade for the 2018-2019 Jaybird X4 is advanced water resistance. An IPX7 certification means these are among the most sweat and weather-proof earphones in existence. Like the Freedom, you’ll probably find yourself fiddling around with the fit out of the box, but once you’ve found a winning combination, you’ll be rewarded by wireless sports headphones that won’t budge. Don't lose the charging accessory or you'll have no way to charge the headphone; not as comfortable as the Bose SoundSport Wireless; noise-isolating design may be a safety issue for runners. Sound quality offers a good mix of an exercise-friendly tone without going overboard. And the companion app lets you thoroughly customise the character of what you're hearing. Jaybird does need to work on improving the response speed of the remote, though.The Jaybird X3 is a significant improvement over the X2 and one of the top Bluetooth sports headphone currently available. It remains a shame that the headphones can store only one profile, though. As with the Freedom, I’d love to be able to toggle between different profiles directly from the headphones. I tend to prefer a more bass-heavy sound when lifting weights, but a more serene one when zoning out on a 10K run. Jaybird X3 – Sound Quality I've updated my Jaybird Tarah Pro earbuds and I'm still having connectivity issues. What should I do? The earbud casings are nowhere near as tiny as those found on the Jaybird Freedom, however, nor are they made from metal. These are plastic, but they at least feel well-constructed and robust. The X3 are sweat-proof, as you’d expect.

Jaybird X3 review | TechRadar

MyTune ultimately proves Jaybird has done a very good job with its own default “flat” tuning. However, the ability to tweak some of its limitations is welcome. Verdict The Jaybird Tarah are essentially the budget Jaybird X4. They have the IP67 rating of the X4 but with a slightly different build. They don’t come with a carrying case or memory foam ear tips, and they have 6 rather than 8 hours of battery. But beyond these small differences they are essentially the same earbuds for cheaper. The Jaybird Tarah Pro are more expensive, but arguably worth it From an off state, press and hold the power button for 8 seconds until the LEDs flash red and green.

Make it rain

Jaybird has reduced the size of the earbud casing compared to the X2. Not only does this stop them from protruding out of your ears as much, but it also means they’re now “helmet compatible”; they won’t get in the way of your helmet straps. Having thrown on a cycling helmet, I can attest to this claim.

Jaybird X3 review - SoundGuys

The tip style is odd too. Instead of a lip on the aperture to keep the silicone tip in place, the Jaybird X3s use a sort of ridged cone. If they’re not pushed on firmly, the tips fall off easily. Frustratingly, while this is a positive move, I’m still a little disappointed to find that a proprietary clip is required to charge the X3 – rather than a direct micro-USB port like most headphones, including the previous Jaybird X2. In fact, adding further insult to injury, the charging clip actually has a micro-USB port on it. They low-end does have a good degree of punch to it, but those who prefer their bass to slap them round the face may find it a little reserved. Instead, the X3s are clean and clear, with good treble detail. As they house extra electronics and a battery, only the boldest just sit in your ear like a normal IEM (in-ear monitor). We don’t want them falling out mid-walk after all. Expertise Mobile accessories and portable audio, including headphones, earbuds and speakers CredentialsSome of you may want to do this when not out running or in the gym. The fins do apply consistent pressure to the inside of your ears, which may not feel that comfy long-term for some ear shapes. Fit and ruggedness are at the heart of the Jaybird X3s’ design. Other than solid Bluetooth reliability and a reasonable 8-hour battery life, the tech isn’t at the forefront. There’s no aptX or NFC support, for example. This really is a fabulous pair of sports earphones on the whole, and the flaws we’ve mentioned are comparatively minor for what is otherwise a superb wireless offering at a stellar price-point.