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JBL T290 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£25
Avg. price in US: ~$30
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

JBL T290 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Headphones category and whether it is worth buying.

6.1

Good

5.5

Good

8.7

Excellent

6.9
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
?
Audio latency
25.0%
4.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
4.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
?
Battery life
5.7
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
?
Battery life
18.0%
?
Weight
16.0%
4.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
4.0
Ambient sound mode
6.1
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
4.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
?
Battery life
14.0%
4.0
Companion app
7.3
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
?
Weight
24.0%
4.0
Water resistance
20.0%
?
IP rating
16.0%
?
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The JBL T290 is a lightweight, wired in-ear headphone featuring premium aluminum housings and 8.7mm dynamic drivers designed to deliver JBL Pure Bass sound. It operates with a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, a sensitivity of 102dB, and a low 16-ohm impedance, making it easy to drive from mobile devices via its 3.5mm L-shaped jack. Main characteristics include a durable, tangle-free flat cable and a convenient one-button inline remote with an integrated microphone for hands-free calls and track control. Key pros are its rugged metallic build quality, compact design, and punchy low-end performance suitable for modern electronic music. However, it lacks onboard volume controls, and some users note potential harshness in higher mid-tones or distortion at high volume levels.

Technical Specifications of pair of headphones JBL T290

Overall score

6.1

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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

5.4

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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: HIGH

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: HIGH

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

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Calls & Controls

6.5

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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: LOW

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: LOW

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

?

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Connectivity

4.5

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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: LOW

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: LOW

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

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: MEDIUM

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

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: LOW

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Features

4.4

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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

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: HIGH

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

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Battery

7.7

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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: LOW

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

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: LOW

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: LOW

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

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: LOW

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: LOW

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

7.2

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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: LOW

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: LOW

in-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

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

Importance: HIGH

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: LOW

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: LOW

N/A

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JBL T290 vs the average pair of headphones

Why is JBL T290 better than the average pair of headphones?

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93.6% lower weight
JBL T290 is lighter than the average pair of headphones (14 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: HIGH
Good value: <150 g
JBL T290 is lighter than the average pair of headphones (14 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.14 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
JBL T290 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: LOW
JBL T290 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Quick charge support
JBL T290 supports quick charge, the average pair of headphones does not. 33% of headphones support 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: LOW
JBL T290 supports quick charge, the average pair of headphones does not. 33% of headphones support quick charge.
In-line controls
JBL T290 includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% 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 T290 includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
JBL T290 includes a quick mic mute, the average pair of headphones does not. 29.3% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
JBL T290 includes a quick mic mute, the average pair of headphones does not. 29.3% of headphones support a mute function.
3.6x cheaper
JBL T290 is cheaper than the average pair of headphones (£25 vs £90).
JBL T290 is cheaper than the average pair of headphones (£25 vs £90).£25 vs £90
70.4% more popular
JBL T290 is more popular than the average pair of headphones (10.00 vs 5.869).
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.
JBL T290 is more popular than the average pair of headphones (10.00 vs 5.869).10 vs 5.87
8.6% higher user score
JBL T290 has a higher user score than the average pair of headphones (8.69 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
JBL T290 has a higher user score than the average pair of headphones (8.69 vs 8.000).8.69 vs 8
93.6% lower weight
JBL T290 is lighter than the average pair of headphones (14 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
12 dB higher max SPL
JBL T290 has a higher max SPL than the average pair of headphones (122 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
Quick charge support
JBL T290 supports quick charge, the average pair of headphones does not. 33% of headphones support quick charge.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
JBL T290 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average pair of headphones does not. 39.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
JBL T290 includes in-line controls, the average pair of headphones does not. 36.6% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
JBL T290 includes a quick mic mute, the average pair of headphones does not. 29.3% of headphones support a mute function.

Calls & Controls

Why is JBL T290 worse than the average pair of headphones?

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Non-replaceable earpads
JBL T290 has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
Fixed cable
JBL T290 has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
31.3 mm smaller driver size
JBL T290 has smaller driver size than the average pair of headphones (8.7 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
0.7 % higher distortion
JBL T290 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (1% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
JBL T290 has a higher lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
31.3 mm smaller driver size
JBL T290 has smaller driver size than the average pair of headphones (8.7 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
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: HIGH
JBL T290 has smaller driver size than the average pair of headphones (8.7 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.8.7 mm vs 40 mm
Non-replaceable earpads
JBL T290 has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
What it is: Earpads can be replaced when worn out
When it matters: When you care about long-term maintenance and extending product life.
Importance: LOW
JBL T290 has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
Fixed cable
JBL T290 has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: LOW
JBL T290 has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
0.7 % higher distortion
JBL T290 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (1% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=1%
JBL T290 has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (1% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.1 % vs 0.3 %
2 Hz weaker bass extension
JBL T290 has a higher lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (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 T290 has a higher lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz

Graphic comparison of JBL T290 and other products in the Headphones category

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about JBL T290?

Premium aluminum build that feels more expensive than the price suggests
Punchy and deep 'Pure Bass' performance for bass-heavy tracks
Tangle-resistant flat cable design
Lightweight and compact, making them highly portable
Effective passive noise isolation when using correctly sized tips
Clear mids and highs for detailed vocal performance

What customers dislike about JBL T290?

Lack of dedicated volume control buttons on the inline remote
Angled connector design can occasionally snag on clothing
Reported durability issues, specifically the left earpiece failing over time
Can become uncomfortable or cause earaches during long listening sessions
Inconsistent bass response according to some users depending on the fit
Noticeable sound distortion when listening at volumes above 70%

Expert reviews

letemsvetemapplem.eu

27/05/2017

Summary of the review

JBL T210 and T290 review – ideal replacement for EarPods?

The JBL T210 and T290 are budget-friendly, identical in-ear headphones priced around €20 and €30 respectively, offering a viable alternative to original Apple EarPods. The main differentiator between the two models is their build material: the T210 features a plastic body with a sheet metal cover, whereas the T290 boasts a premium aluminum build. Both models utilize 8.7mm drivers with a frequency range of 20Hz - 20kHz, weigh a lightweight 70 grams, and feature a 120cm flat, tangle-resistant cable. They include a single-button inline remote and microphone that mimics Apple controls, allowing users to play/pause with one click, skip forward with two clicks, and skip backward with three clicks. In terms of performance, the primary pros of these headphones are their excellent ambient noise isolation due to the earplug design, a rich "unique JBL sound" heavily focused on the bass spectrum, a flat cable that reduces tangling, and strong overall value for their low price point. On the downside, the cons include a lack of a true Hi-Fi audio experience, a tedious and demanding process for changing between the three...

thephonograph.net

25/02/2018

Summary of the review

JBL T290 - Review - ThePhonograph.net

The JBL T290, reviewed by ThePhonograph.net, are budget-friendly, lightweight earphones featuring durable aluminum housing, 8.7 mm drivers, and a tangle-free flat cable. They offer a unique, conservative sound signature with minimal bass bleed, providing clear, warm vocals. However, the review notes a lack of sub-bass depth, requiring significant EQ for punch, and highlights that the single-button remote lacks volume controls. Additionally, while clear, the higher mids can become harsh, and the overall sound is not ideal for those seeking deep bass.

letemsvetemapplem.eu

27/05/2017

Summary of the review

JBL T210 and T290 Review – The Ideal Replacement for EarPods?

The JBL T210 and T290 are budget-friendly, wired in-ear headphones priced at approximately €20 and €30 respectively, positioned as affordable alternatives to Apple EarPods. Both models feature identical internal specifications, utilizing 8.7mm dynamic drivers with a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, weighing a light 70 grams, and featuring a flat 120cm cable with an integrated one-button microphone controller. The single core structural difference lies in their housing materials: the cheaper T210 is built from plastic with a sheet metal cover, whereas the premium T290 boasts a sturdier aluminum body. Pros and Cons Pros:Sound quality punches well above typical low-end products in its price bracket. Stronger focus on the bass spectrum compared to regular EarPods. Excellent ambient noise isolation due to the secure plug design. Tangle-resistant flat cable design. Includes three sizes of ear tips and a carrying pouch. Cons:Audiophiles will not find a high-fidelity (Hi-Fi) listening experience here. Swapping out the ear tips to find the right fit is a frustrating and difficult process. The cheaper T210 plastic variation lacks the premium feel offered by the aluminum...

letemsvetemapplem.eu

27/05/2017

Summary of the review

JBL T210 and T290 Review – The Ideal EarPods Replacement

Overview and Key Features The JBL T210 and T290 are budget-friendly, intra-auricular headphones priced between €20 and €30, marketed as affordable alternatives to Apple EarPods. Technically identical in performance, both models feature 8.7 mm drivers with a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, a single-button inline remote for controlling playback and calls, a built-in microphone, and a 120 cm tangle-resistant flat cable. The primary distinction between the two lies in their build materials: the cheaper T210 is constructed from plastic with a sheet metal cover, whereas the premium T290 features an aluminum chassis. Pros and Cons Pros: Both models deliver balanced, competitive sound quality for their price point, providing a strong emphasis on the bass spectrum ("JBL Sound"). Because of their in-ear plug design, they offer superior ambient noise isolation compared to standard Apple EarPods. They are also lightweight, remain secure in the ear, and come packaged with three ear plug sizes and a portable carrying pouch. Cons: While the audio performance is highly satisfactory for general daily use, it lacks the depth required for a true Hi-Fi...

letemsvetemapplem.eu

27/05/2017

Summary of the review

JBL T210 and T290 Review: The Ideal EarPods Replacement?

The review positions the JBL T210 and JBL T290 as an affordable, budget-friendly alternative to standard Apple EarPods, costing around €20 and €30 respectively. On the pros side, both lightweight models deliver a punchy, bass-heavy "JBL Sound" through identical 8.7 mm dynamic drivers that provide superior passive noise isolation and a more absorbing experience than EarPods due to their in-ear plug design. Additionally, they feature a practical 120 cm tangle-free flat cable, a highly intuitive single-button inline remote control capable of multi-click navigation, and an aluminum casing on the slightly higher-end T290 model that gives it a premium look and feel. Conversely, the reviewer highlights several notable cons regarding their entry-level nature. While the sound quality outperforms generic ultra-low-cost headphones, it is firmly limited by the price point and explicitly lacks a true Hi-Fi audio experience. The packaging accessories are incredibly basic, limited to a simple carrying pouch and only two extra pairs of ear tips. Ergonomically, changing these silicone tips is noted as a tedious and frustrating process that requires immense patience. Finally, because these are purely traditional 3.5mm...

audiobeeld.nl

08/01/2022

Summary of the review

Best wired JBL earbuds [Top 5 – Test]

The JBL T290 is named the best wired earbud of the year due to its great price-to-quality ratio, clear sound, and lightweight aluminum design. It features a tangle-free flat cable and a built-in microphone for phone calls. Other models in the top five include the T210, which sounds slightly less clear than the T290 but is cheaper. The Endurance Run is a sweatproof sports model with a hook design to stay in your ears. The budget-friendly T205 and Tune 110 offer deeper bass but have lower overall sound quality. All five models feature JBL Pure Bass technology and built-in mics. They also work with both Android and iPhone devices. Pros and Cons Pro: Affordable prices. Pro: No charging needed. Pro: Flat cables prevent tangles. Pro: Built-in microphones. Con: Cheaper models sound worse. Con: Only one model resists sweat. Con: One earbud may stop working. Con: Most models lack voice assistants.

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