JBL Live Beam 3 vs Technics EAH-AZ100

The Technics EAH-AZ100 is the better pick for sound quality and noise cancelling. Reviewers call its Magnetic Fluid Drivers accurate and well balanced, and its adaptive ANC and eight-mic calling are strong. The JBL Live Beam 3 wins on battery, durability and the touchscreen case: 12 hours per charge, 48 total, IP55, and a case that controls settings without the app. The JBL is the tougher, longer-lasting pair for commutes and workouts. The Technics is the audiophile choice, with Dolby Atmos head tracking and multipoint to three devices, but it is IPX4 only and has fewer owner ratings behind it.

• Choose the JBL Live Beam 3 if you want the longest battery, a rugged IP55 build, and a case that controls music and settings without your phone.
• Choose the Technics EAH-AZ100 if sound accuracy, strong noise cancelling and Dolby Atmos with head tracking matter more to you than battery life.