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JBL Live Beam 4 review: TechRadar calls them favorite earbuds of 2026 despite flaws

TechRadar's review praises JBL Live Beam 4's sound, comfort, and smart case, but notes ANC and call quality fall short.

AI News Feed · 2026-08-22 06:21

The earbuds feature new "fidelity drivers" for advanced audio and improved active noise cancelling over their predecessors. The reviewer praised the audio performance, particularly with LDAC enabled for higher-resolution Bluetooth streaming, describing the bass as forward but not overwhelming, and the overall sound as exciting, impactful, and detailed. Tuning into "Feel Da Vibe" by Soul Mass Transit System, the deep bassline was hypnotic and well-refined, with synths in the mid-range and drums up high never feeling lethargic.

The smart charging case remains the unique selling point of the Live series. Its updated UI is responsive and packed with functionality, allowing users to adjust ANC modes, equalizer, spatial sound, and playback settings, as well as customize touch controls. It also includes tools like a timer, flashlight, and a Find My Buds application, plus the ability to set a custom photo background. The reviewer admitted the screen could be seen as gimmicky but found it well-built and fun, though they still preferred using the JBL Headphones app for full control. Additionally, a smart talk option, similar to Sony's speak-to-chat, is available, and users can alter how their voice and the other party's voice sound on calls.

However, not all improvements hit the mark. Despite the inclusion of "Perfect Calls 2.0" AI-based technology, call quality was underwhelming. During a call, the reviewer's colleague noted a lack of clarity and definition in their voice. Voice recordings showed sibilance and prominent background noise. The ANC, while improved over the previous model, is still not top-tier; the reviewer could hear external noise like traffic, office typing, and bus chatter even when listening at around 70% volume. Those seeking silence like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Gen 2 may be disappointed. The spatial audio setting was also found to be poor.

In almost every other area, the Live Beam 4 impressed. The fit is comfortable and secure, and the battery life is impressive. With a fair price, these earbuds challenge some of the best wireless earbuds available. The review concluded that while ANC and call quality are weaknesses, the overall package makes them a strong contender, and the reviewer's favorite wireless earbuds of 2026 so far.