JLab JBuds Pro JBUDSPROBT-BLK-BOX

The JLab JBuds Pro are cheap, tough, and sound better than they should. Just don't put your phone in your pocket and expect the music to keep playing.

The 10mm drivers pump out surprisingly lively sound for the money. JLab's three EQ modes (Signature, Balanced, Bass Boost) are a nice touch, and Bass Boost actually delivers some thump without turning everything to mud. The 6-hour battery life sounds fine on paper, but it lands in the 6th percentile of our database, which is rough. The real surprise? The build quality. These things feel more solid than their price suggests, ranking in the 91st percentile for build. But that Bluetooth 4.1 connection is a time capsule from 2013, and it shows.

The Soundcore P31i and Anker Space A40 are the obvious step-ups here. The Space A40 gives you actual ANC and way better battery life, but you'll pay significantly more. The P31i is closer in spirit, a budget pick with better Bluetooth range and a more modern connection. The EarFun Air Pro TW230B is another solid alternative if you want USB-C charging and better call quality. But if you're strictly looking at the cheapest thing that won't fall out during a run, the JBuds Pro hold their own against all of them.

At USD 20 to USD 40 depending on the vendor, these are a steal if you know what you're getting. The USD 20 listing is the obvious pick, that's impulse-buy territory. For that price, you're getting a pair of earbuds that'll survive your sweatiest gym session and sound better than they have any right to. Just don't expect them to replace your daily drivers for calls or long commutes.

The JLab JBuds Pro are the definition of a budget beater. You're getting a pair of true wireless earbuds with a secure fit, decent sound, and IP55 sweat resistance for the price of a couple of pizzas. The one thing to know? They nail the basics for casual listening and workouts, but the ancient Bluetooth 4.1 connection is the weak link that'll drive you nuts if you keep your phone in your pocket.

If you need reliable Bluetooth range for walking around with your phone in your pocket, these aren't it. The 15-20 foot range and occasional dropouts will drive you crazy. Go grab the Soundcore P31i or EarFun Air Pro TW230B instead, they have modern Bluetooth and won't cut out when you turn your head. Also skip these if you take a lot of calls, the mic quality is a weak spot.

Buy these if you want cheap workout earbuds that stay put and sound decent. The IP55 rating, secure fit, and surprisingly good build quality make them a no-brainer for the gym bag. But if you need reliable connectivity for walking around with your phone in your pocket, or you take a lot of calls, look elsewhere. The Bluetooth 4.1 range is the dealbreaker that keeps these from being an easy recommendation for everyone.