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JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£25
Avg. price in US: ~$20
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: 13 hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.8

Good

5.0

Good

9.1

Exceptional

8.8
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
9.1
Audio latency
25.0%
9.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
1.9
Battery life
2.3
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
1.9
Battery life
18.0%
7.7
Weight
16.0%
1.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
5.8
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
1.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
1.9
Battery life
14.0%
1.0
Companion app
4.7
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
7.7
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
1.9
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#13 in Best Jlab Headphones
#132 in Best Gaming Headphones
#132 in Best Gaming Headphones for PS5
#253 in Best Cheap Bluetooth Wireless Headphones
#487 in Best Wireless Headphones
#613 in Best Headphones with Mic

Verdict

The JLab JBuddies Studio is a pair of on-ear headphones specifically designed for children aged 6 to 16, featuring a built-in volume regulator that caps audio at a safe 85dB to protect young ears. These headphones utilize 40mm dynamic drivers with a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz and are built with comfortable Cloud Foam cushions, pinch-free hinges, and a foldable, travel-friendly stainless steel headband. Main pros include a versatile Shareport for dual-listening, a long-lasting battery life of approximately 13 to 24 hours depending on the specific model, and a durable yet lightweight 114g design that fits growing head sizes. However, some users have noted that the sound profile can lack deep bass response, the integrated microphone offers only average clarity for calls, and the build may feel somewhat plastic-heavy compared to premium adult alternatives.

Technical Specifications of JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio

Overall score

5.8

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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

4.4

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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: 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

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Calls & Controls

8.5

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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: 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

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Connectivity

5.0

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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: 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

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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

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

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Battery

4.9

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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: 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

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Design

7.5

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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: MEDIUM

JLab

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

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JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio vs the average headphone

Why is JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio better than the average headphone?

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EQ customization
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
More flexible connectivity
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
47.7% lower weight
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio is lighter than the average headphone (114 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio is lighter than the average headphone (114 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.114 g vs 218 g
Clear call microphone
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% 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: MEDIUM
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
On-device controls
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
In-line controls
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
67.5 ms lower audio latency
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower audio latency than the average headphone (60 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower audio latency than the average headphone (60 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.60 ms vs 127.5 ms
47.7% lower weight
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio is lighter than the average headphone (114 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Foldable design
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
Kid-friendly design
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a kid-friendly design, the average headphone does not. 3.5% of headphones are designed for kids.
Rechargeable battery
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
Play while charging
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
More flexible connectivity
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
67.5 ms lower audio latency
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower audio latency than the average headphone (60 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
Clear call microphone
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
On-device controls
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
In-line controls
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Quick mic mute
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
EQ customization
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.

Calls & Controls

Why is JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
17 dB/mW lower sensitivity
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (85 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
25 dB lower max SPL
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (85 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
18 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (85 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
1 hours longer charging time
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
17 hours shorter battery life
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower battery life than the average headphone (13 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
1 hours longer charging time
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.3 hours vs 2 hours
17 dB/mW lower sensitivity
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (85 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (85 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.85 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Fixed cable
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a fixed cable, while the average headphone 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: MEDIUM
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
17 hours shorter battery life
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower battery life than the average headphone (13 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower battery life than the average headphone (13 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.13 hours vs 30 hours
2 Hz weaker bass extension
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio 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
No travel bag
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
25 dB lower max SPL
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (85 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (85 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.85 dB vs 110 dB
18 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (85 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
JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (85 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.85 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL

Graphic comparison of JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio?

Effective volume limiting (85dB) for child ear safety
Highly affordable price point compared to competitors
Comfortable fit for small heads with soft Cloud Foam cushions
Durable, foldable design suitable for travel and school use
Long battery life (up to 13-24 hours depending on model version)
Includes a 'Shareport' feature to allow two children to listen together
Simple Bluetooth pairing and reliable wireless connectivity

What customers dislike about JLab Audio Jbuddies Studio?

Maximum volume may be too quiet for use in loud environments like airplanes
Audio quality lacks depth, specifically weak bass response
Control buttons can be frustrating or confusing to use
On-ear design provides minimal passive noise isolation
Charging cable provided is notably short
Built-in microphone quality is generally poor or inconsistent
Exposed wires between the headband and earcups can be a point of failure

Expert reviews

au.pcmag.com

29/11/2018

JLab JBuddies Studio Bluetooth Review - PCMag Australia

The JLab JBuddies Studio Bluetooth is a budget-friendly pair of wireless, volume-limiting headphones designed specifically for children aged six and older. Evaluated by PCMag with a 3.5 "Good" rating, these headphones are highly praised for their effective built-in safety ceiling that caps the maximum volume level at 85dB to protect children's hearing. Priced affordably at $30, they...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

28/11/2018

JLab JBuddies Studio Review

The JLab JBuddies Studio Bluetooth headphones are budget-friendly, volume-limited wireless headphones designed specifically for children ages six and up. Priced affordably at around $30, their standout feature is an effective 85dB volume limiter that safely protects young ears from hearing damage. The design includes generous, memory-foam-like padding on both the headband and the...Read more

mums-dads.co.uk

25/11/2021

JBuddies Studio Wireless Headset Review

The JBuddies Studio Wireless Headset review highlights several key advantages for parents looking to eliminate cable clutter. A standout benefit is the built-in volume limitation restricted to a safe level of 85dB, which prevents children from damaging their hearing. The design is praised for being lightweight, comfortably cushioned, and well-sized for smaller heads, avoiding the...Read more

pcmag.com

28/11/2018

JLab JBuddies Studio Bluetooth Review

The JLab JBuddies Studio Bluetooth headphones are a budget-friendly ($30) option for children, featuring a safe 85dB volume limiter, comfortable memory-foam padding, and a compact, foldable design. Despite the low price, they deliver clear, distortion-free audio suitable for young listeners. However, the headphones offer thin, bright sound lacking deep bass and only provide an...Read more

faz.net

30/03/2026

The best headphones for kids | Review 04/2026 - FAZ

The review breaks down several clear pros and cons across the evaluated models. Pros include effective volume caps at 85 dB across most recommended units, exceptional structural flexibility that prevents breakage from rough handling, and modern integrations like wireless audio-sharing and companion parental control apps. On the downside, cons involve the lack of an auxiliary audio...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

05/02/2026

JLAB Studio 2 Review: Great value for this budget headphones

The JLab Studio 2 is an affordable, entry-level wireless Bluetooth headphone priced under €40 that earns a 2 out of 5-star rating from Labo Fnac due to its highly uneven performance. A major strength is its excellent containment of sound leakage, scoring a perfect 10/10 for sound disturbance, meaning music won't easily bother people nearby. It also boasts a lightweight design of 140...Read more

protegez-vous.ca

Undated

JLAB JBuddies Studio | Protect-Yourself.ca

The JLab JBuddies Studio on-ear headphones, designed for children, are praised for excellent sound leak control and effective maximum volume regulation, according to Protégez-Vous. While they offer a, lightweight design and decent battery management, they lack active noise cancellation and struggle with sound attenuation in noisy environments. Pros include high-rated kid-safe volume...Read more

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