OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

JBL E45bt Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£90
Avg. price in US: ~$100
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: 16 hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

JBL E45bt review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.6

Good

4.7

Poor

8.9

Excellent

5.3
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
4.6
Audio latency
25.0%
1.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
2.4
Battery life
3.5
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
2.4
Battery life
18.0%
6.0
Weight
16.0%
10
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
7.5
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
10
Multipoint support
16.0%
2.4
Battery life
14.0%
1.0
Companion app
4.3
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
6.0
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
2.4
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#59 in Best JBL Headphones
#297 in Best Cheap Bluetooth Wireless Headphones
#547 in Best Wireless Headphones
#737 in Best Headphones with Mic

Verdict

The JBL E45BT is a wireless on-ear headphone featuring 40mm dynamic drivers, a frequency response of 20Hz – 20kHz, and 32-ohm impedance. Its core characteristics include 'JBL Signature Sound' with boosted bass, Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity with multi-point switching, and a distinctive fabric-lined comfort-fit headband. Main pros include a solid 16-hour battery life with a quick 2-hour recharge, a lightweight 186g foldable design, and the inclusion of a detachable tangle-free cable for passive wired listening. However, notable cons include poor passive noise isolation, a plasticky build quality that some users find cheap, and potential discomfort during long sessions due to the on-ear pressure.

Technical Specifications of JBL E45bt

Overall score

5.6

Show more

Hide

Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

4.5

Show more

Hide

Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

Show more

Calls & Controls

8.4

Show more

Hide

Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?

Show more

Connectivity

4.4

Show more

Hide

Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

Show more

Features

2.7

Show more

Hide

Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

Show more

Battery

6.3

Show more

Hide

Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

Show more

Design

7.8

Show more

Hide

Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

JBL

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

on-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

Show more

JBL E45bt vs the average headphone

Why is JBL E45bt better than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

More flexible connectivity
JBL E45bt offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.
Importance: HIGH
JBL E45bt offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
Clear call microphone
JBL E45bt offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.
Importance: MEDIUM
JBL E45bt offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
On-device controls
JBL E45bt includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.
Importance: MEDIUM
JBL E45bt includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
In-line controls
JBL E45bt includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
JBL E45bt includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Foldable design
JBL E45bt has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
What it is: Earcups or headband can fold for compact storage
When it matters: When you travel often and want easier storage in a bag.
Importance: LOW
JBL E45bt has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
14.7% lower weight
JBL E45bt is lighter than the average headphone (186 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
JBL E45bt is lighter than the average headphone (186 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.186 g vs 218 g
Rechargeable battery
JBL E45bt has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones rely on an internal rechargeable battery instead of replaceable disposable cells.
When it matters: When you expect regular wireless use and want charging convenience instead of buying and replacing disposable batteries.
Importance: MEDIUM
JBL E45bt has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
Play while charging
JBL E45bt can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
What it is: Can be used while charging
When it matters: When you need to keep listening during long work or gaming sessions.
Importance: LOW
JBL E45bt can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
Foldable design
JBL E45bt has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
14.7% lower weight
JBL E45bt is lighter than the average headphone (186 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Rechargeable battery
JBL E45bt has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
Play while charging
JBL E45bt can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
More flexible connectivity
JBL E45bt offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
Clear call microphone
JBL E45bt offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
On-device controls
JBL E45bt includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
In-line controls
JBL E45bt includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is JBL E45bt worse than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

No travel bag
JBL E45bt does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
6 dB/mW lower sensitivity
JBL E45bt has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
JBL E45bt has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
7 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
JBL E45bt has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (96 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
14 hours shorter battery life
JBL E45bt has a lower battery life than the average headphone (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
38.5 ms higher audio latency
JBL E45bt has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (166 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
6 dB/mW lower sensitivity
JBL E45bt has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
JBL E45bt has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
14 hours shorter battery life
JBL E45bt has a lower battery life than the average headphone (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >45 hours
JBL E45bt has a lower battery life than the average headphone (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.16 hours vs 30 hours
2 Hz weaker bass extension
JBL E45bt has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
JBL E45bt has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
38.5 ms higher audio latency
JBL E45bt has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (166 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: <60 ms
JBL E45bt has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (166 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.166 ms vs 127.5 ms
No travel bag
JBL E45bt does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
JBL E45bt does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
7 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
JBL E45bt has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (96 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
JBL E45bt has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (96 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.96 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL

Graphic comparison of JBL E45bt and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about JBL E45bt?

Impressive 16-hour battery life with relatively fast charging
Lightweight and portable collapsible design
Well-balanced sound profile with clear highs and decent bass for the price
Multipoint connectivity allows seamless switching between two devices
Reliable wireless range and quick Bluetooth pairing
Versatile use with an included detachable fabric cable for wired listening

What customers dislike about JBL E45bt?

On-ear design can cause discomfort or pressure during long listening sessions
Poor noise isolation for loud environments due to open on-ear fit
Physical buttons are small and closely positioned, making them difficult to distinguish by touch
Mainly plastic construction can feel somewhat cheap or fragile
Noticeable audio latency during gaming or watching videos
Inconsistent bass response that is highly dependent on achieving a tight fit

Expert reviews

au.pcmag.com

03/08/2017

JBL E45BT - Review 2017 - PCMag Australia

The JBL E45BT are wireless on-ear headphones priced at $99.95 that offer a comfortable fit and a powerful, bass-forward sound signature. Designed with exceptionally comfortable earpads and a cloth-lined headband, the earcups feature 40mm drivers and can swivel and fold inward for easier storage, though no carrying case is included. The right earcup hosts the physical controls,...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

28/05/2017

JBL E45BT Review – A Decent Entry into the World of...

The Letem svetem Applem review positions the JBL E45BT as a well-crafted, entry-level wireless headphone model targeting budget-conscious or younger customers with a retail price of around 2600 CZK / €100. Equipped with 40mm drivers, Bluetooth 4.0, and a 16-hour battery life that fully recharges in 2 hours, these hybrid headphones offer multi-genre flexibility ranging from pop to...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

02/08/2017

JBL E45BT Review - PCMag UK

The JBL E45BT are comfortable, wireless on-ear headphones priced around $100 that deliver a powerful, bass-forward sound signature suitable for bass lovers. They feature exceptionally comfortable earcups and a cloth-lined headband, though they do not include a protective carrying case. The right earcup houses physical buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, and audio navigation;...Read more

rtings.com

13/03/2018

JBL E45BT Wireless Headphones Review - RTINGS.com

The JBL E45BT Wireless are versatile on-ear headphones offering well-balanced sound, excellent Bluetooth range, long battery life, and multi-device pairing. Their durable, premium design is suitable for daily, casual use. However, the headset is marred by a tight on-ear clamping force that causes fatigue, high wireless latency unsuitable for video or gaming, and poor noise...Read more

majorhifi.com

27/04/2017

JBL E45BT Review - Major HiFi

The Major HiFi review outlines the JBL E45BTGo as an affordable, $100 wireless on-ear headphone line featuring vibrant colours and a collapsible plastic frame. On the positive side (pros), the audio provides a great neutral-toned signature sound with accurate treble, lush mid-range frequencies, and highly detailed vocals. Functional perks include up to 16 hours of Bluetooth battery...Read more

headphonereview.com

19/04/2017

JBL E45BT On-Ear Wireless Headphones Review

The JBL E45BT on-ear wireless headphones offer a well-designed, lightweight, and portable option featuring a distinct look with folding and swiveling ear cups available in multiple colors. The audio performance is highly impressive for the $100 price point, delivering a well-tuned mid-range that adds warmth and vocal presence, alongside clean highs and a punchy bass. Additionally,...Read more

pcmag.com

02/08/2017

JBL E45BT Review - PCMag

The JBL E45BT headphones are described as a capable, budget-friendly $99.95 on-ear option featuring a comfortable design, versatile wireless-to-wired functionality, and a robust, bass-forward sound signature. While the audio delivers a powerful low-end without distortion, the heavily sculpted sound profile may not satisfy those seeking an accurate, flat response. Potential drawbacks...Read more

areadvd.de

20/01/2017

REVIEW: JBL E45BT On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones – A Thoroughly Impressive Model for €100

The JBL E45BT is a budget-friendly on-ear Bluetooth headphone that delivers a surprisingly high-quality audio performance for its price point of approximately €100. One of its standout pros is the "JBL Signature Sound," which features well-balanced 40mm drivers providing clear vocals and substantial, precise bass without being overpowering. Additionally, the review highlights...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

27/02/2017

JBL E45BT review on kopfhoerer.de

The JBL E45BT is a versatile, closed-back, dynamic on-ear Bluetooth headphone designed primarily for mobile use rather than audiophile listening at home. Priced around €100, it features 40mm drivers that deliver a balanced and effortless sound profile with good vocal clarity and warmth in the mid-range. It is built with a textile-covered headband and padded, rotatable,...Read more

leprogres.fr

01/12/2016

JBL E45BT: A Balanced and Stylish Bluetooth Headphone

The JBL E45BT is a stylish and balanced on-ear (supra-aural) Bluetooth headphone that offers an excellent quality-to-price ratio, typically retailing around a standard average price of €99. Designed to compete with models like the Sony MDR-ZX330BT and Jabra Wireless, it features a highly successful and elegant design characterized by its unique textile headband. Weighing 186 grams,...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

07/06/2018

JBL E45BT Review: Wireless headphones with average performance

The Labo Fnac review rates the JBL E45BT wireless, closed-back, on-ear headphones with 4 out of 5 stars, defining them as a device with average technical performance but a highly competitive value proposition. The laboratory testing praised the product's sound leakage containment (audio perturbation), awarding it a perfect score of 10 out of 10, meaning your music will not disturb...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

14/02/2018

JBL E45BT Review: A Bluetooth Headphone as Teenage as Its Target Audience

The JBL E45BT is a lightweight, flexible, and robust supra-auricular Bluetooth headset specifically designed for a younger audience with its bold color options (black, white, blue, or red) and fabric mesh headband. In terms of performance, it stands out for its strong battery life that easily reaches up to 20 hours at 75% volume, multi-point connectivity to link two devices...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

28/05/2017

JBL E45BT Review - A decent entry into the world of wireless audio

The JBL E45BT wireless headphones deliver high-quality audio performance characterized by excellent, controlled bass and a clear soundstage across multiple music genres, all at an accessible price point of approximately €100. Weighing only 186 grams, the headphones feature a robust and solid build with a metal inner frame, a comfortable fabric-covered headband, and a folding...Read more

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Headphones

Headphones

Headphones

Skullcandy Icon ANC

Headphones

Marshall Major V

Headphones

Headphones

Headphones

Creative Sound Blaster

Headphones

Philips A6219 Go

Headphones

JBL Tune600btnc

Headphones

Headphones

Jabra Move Wireless

Headphones

Compare JBL E45bt with

Compare