JVC Compact True Wireless Headphones review with ANC and low-latency mode for gaming

Description

Sleek Design and Comfort

The JVC Compact True Wireless Headphones (HAA30TB) immediately caught my eye with their minimalistic design. These earbuds are small, lightweight, and feel almost non-existent in my ears, which is a huge win for extended use. The matte black finish gives them a modern look, and they don’t scream “tech gadget” when you’re wearing them, making them suitable for both casual and professional settings. The ear cushions included in the package offer a snug fit, ensuring they stay in place during workouts or commutes. I’ve used these during a bumpy bus ride, and they didn’t budge, which is rare for most earbuds I’ve tried.

Performance and Sound Quality

I was curious about how the Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) would perform, and I’ve got to say, it’s not bad at all. While it might not completely eliminate every background noise like pricier alternatives, it does a solid job of muffling low-frequency sounds, such as the hum of an airplane engine or a noisy coffee shop. Listening to my favorite playlists felt immersive, thanks to the high-quality sound output. The frequency response of 20,000 Hz ensures a balanced soundstage; the bass is deep without being overwhelming, mids are clear, and highs are crisp.

The low-latency mode is another standout feature. Whether gaming or binge-watching movies, I didn’t notice any annoying delays between the video and audio. This feature alone makes these earbuds a great pick for gamers or streaming enthusiasts.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the aspects I love most about these earbuds is the 21-hour battery life. After putting them through their paces, I barely had to think about charging. The compact charging case is easy to carry around, and the quick charge feature is a lifesaver. A quick 10-minute charge gave me about 75 minutes of playback, which is incredible for those “oops, I forgot to charge” moments.

Control Features and Usability

The touch controls on the earbuds are intuitive and responsive, but there’s a slight learning curve if you’re not used to touch-sensitive devices. Once I got the hang of it, controlling music playback, answering calls, and even muting the mic during remote work meetings became second nature. The single ear use option is also handy; I often wear just one earbud for phone calls while keeping the other ear free to stay aware of my surroundings.

Positives

• Compact and lightweight design makes them comfortable for prolonged use.
• Reliable Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) for a more immersive listening experience.
• Low-latency mode ensures seamless audio-visual sync, ideal for gaming and streaming.
• Long battery life of up to 21 hours with the charging case.
• Quick charge feature provides 75 minutes of playback in just 10 minutes.

Shortcomings

• The Active Noise Cancelling could struggle with high-pitched sounds or extremely loud environments.
• Touch controls, while convenient, can sometimes be too sensitive, leading to accidental triggers.
• The IPX4 water resistance is decent, but these aren’t the best choice for heavy sweat workouts or rainy conditions.

Competing Products

I’ve had the chance to try similar products like the Sony WF-1000XM4 and Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro, and here’s how the JVC Compact True Wireless Headphones stack up. Sony’s model offers superior noise cancellation, but it comes at nearly double the price. The Galaxy Buds Pro, on the other hand, delivers slightly better water resistance (IPX7) and more customization options through its app. However, the 21-hour battery life of the JVC earbuds beats both competitors, and the low-latency mode is something neither Sony nor Samsung offers at this price point.

Value for Money

When comparing the features, performance, and price, it’s clear that these earbuds are a smart investment for anyone looking for a balance of quality and affordability. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of premium models, the battery life, low-latency mode, and ANC make them a solid choice for everyday use. If you’re a casual listener or someone who loves to game on the go, these earbuds are definitely worth every penny.

Additional information