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JVC HA S90BN Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£130
Avg. price in US: ~$150
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: 27 hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

JVC HA S90BN review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

6.6

Good

6.4

Good

7.3

Very good

5.3
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
4.4
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%
4.3
Battery life
6.6
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
10
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
4.3
Battery life
18.0%
5.7
Weight
16.0%
10
Multipoint support
14.0%
1.0
Ambient sound mode
7.8
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%
4.3
Battery life
14.0%
1.0
Companion app
4.5
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
5.7
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
4.3
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#7 in Best JVC Headphones
#315 in Best Wireless Headphones for TV for Seniors
#315 in Best Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
#323 in Best Noise Cancelling Over Ear Headphones
#331 in Best Over Ear Headphones
#369 in Best Wireless Headphones
#400 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones
#406 in Best Headphones with Mic

Verdict

The JVC HA-S90BN is a pair of over-ear, closed-back wireless headphones featuring 40mm neodymium drivers and active noise cancellation (ANC). It offers versatile connectivity through Bluetooth 3.0 and NFC for instant pairing, alongside three selectable sound modes (Normal, Bass, and Clear) to tailor audio preferences. Its impressive battery life spans up to 27 hours in wireless mode (NC off) and up to 35 hours in non-Bluetooth noise-cancelling mode with the detachable 1.2m cable. Weighing approximately 195g, the design is both lightweight and two-way foldable for portability. Key advantages include its substantial battery longevity and comfortable, soft-padded ear cups suitable for long journeys. However, notable drawbacks include limited effective noise isolation due to a loose fit on some head shapes, lack of advanced Bluetooth codecs, and a somewhat unrefined midrange that can lead to a flatter soundstage compared to higher-end rivals.

Technical Specifications of JVC HA S90BN

Overall score

6.6

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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

8.1

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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

7.9

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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

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: 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

2.4

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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: 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

4.4

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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

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

JVC

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

over-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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JVC HA S90BN vs the average headphone

Why is JVC HA S90BN better than the average headphone?

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Active noise cancellation
JVC HA S90BN supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.
Importance: HIGH
JVC HA S90BN supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
10 Hz lower bass extension
JVC HA S90BN has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (8 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
JVC HA S90BN has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (8 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.8 Hz vs 18 Hz
More flexible connectivity
JVC HA S90BN 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
JVC HA S90BN offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
Clear call microphone
JVC HA S90BN 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
JVC HA S90BN offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
On-device controls
JVC HA S90BN 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
JVC HA S90BN includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
Wind noise reduction
JVC HA S90BN reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
What it is: Reduces wind interference for clearer outdoor calls
When it matters: When you take calls outdoors while walking, cycling, or commuting.
Importance: LOW
JVC HA S90BN reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Foldable design
JVC HA S90BN 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
JVC HA S90BN has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
JVC HA S90BN has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=24000 Hz
JVC HA S90BN has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.25000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
Foldable design
JVC HA S90BN has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
10.6% lower weight
JVC HA S90BN is lighter than the average headphone (195 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Active noise cancellation
JVC HA S90BN supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
10 Hz lower bass extension
JVC HA S90BN has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (8 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
JVC HA S90BN has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
Rechargeable battery
JVC HA S90BN has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
More flexible connectivity
JVC HA S90BN offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
Clear call microphone
JVC HA S90BN offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
On-device controls
JVC HA S90BN includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
Wind noise reduction
JVC HA S90BN reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Quick mic mute
JVC HA S90BN includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.

Calls & Controls

Why is JVC HA S90BN worse than the average headphone?

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2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
JVC HA S90BN has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
1.5 hours longer charging time
JVC HA S90BN has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
14 hours shorter ANC battery life
JVC HA S90BN has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
42.5 ms higher audio latency
JVC HA S90BN has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (170 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
1.5 hours longer charging time
JVC HA S90BN has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3.5 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
JVC HA S90BN has a higher charging time than the average headphone (3.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.3.5 hours vs 2 hours
14 hours shorter ANC battery life
JVC HA S90BN has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
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
JVC HA S90BN has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (16 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.16 hours vs 30 hours
42.5 ms higher audio latency
JVC HA S90BN has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (170 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
JVC HA S90BN has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (170 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.170 ms vs 127.5 ms
2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
JVC HA S90BN has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 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
JVC HA S90BN has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
8.9% lower user score
JVC HA S90BN has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.35 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.
JVC HA S90BN has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.35 vs 8.000).7.35 vs 8

Graphic comparison of JVC HA S90BN and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about JVC HA S90BN?

Exceptional battery life, offering up to 35 hours in wired noise-canceling mode and roughly 16–27 hours in wireless modes
High level of comfort for long listening sessions due to thick, soft ear padding and lightweight design
Convenient travel-friendly features, including a two-way foldable design and an included carrying pouch
Versatile connectivity options with NFC for quick pairing and a detachable cable for wired use if the battery dies
Strong wireless stability with minimal dropouts reported even through walls
Good microphone clarity for voice calls and office use

What customers dislike about JVC HA S90BN?

Underwhelming Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that struggles with low-frequency sounds like bus engines
Reports of audible digital noise or 'gremlins' in the right earcup when using certain wireless modes
Plastic build quality that can feel less premium and may occasionally creak
Potentially poor fit for some users, with a headband that can bow out and fail to provide a proper acoustic seal
Maximum volume levels may be insufficient for noisy environments like public transit
Bluetooth reconnecting can sometimes require manual re-pairing after a disconnect

Expert reviews

techgadgetscanada.com

07/08/2023

JVC HA-S90BN - Over-ear headphones review", "JVC HA-S90BN over-ear headphones review

The JVC HA-S90BN is a lightweight, travel-friendly pair of over-ear headphones featuring a flat-folding design, well-padded ear cups, and convenient on-ear controls including a volume rocker and a toggle switch for noise cancelling. The audio performance delivers strong clarity balanced with surprisingly powerful bass. A major standout feature is the exceptional battery life, which...Read more

whatmobile.net

29/04/2019

JVC (HA-S90BN-Z) Premium Sound Wireless Headphones with ANC

The What Mobile review of the JVC HA-S90BN-Z wireless over-ear headphones, priced at £119.99, highlights them as a stylish and comfortable upgrade from the original model. The design features a matte black finish with silver accents, featuring thick ear cup padding for natural noise isolation and a comfortable, slim, leather-cushioned headband. Key advantages include easy...Read more

trustedreviews.com

05/03/2018

JVC HA-S90BN Review - Trusted Reviews

The JVC HA-S90BNGo headphones offer a budget-friendly (£89) alternative to premium models, featuring a comfortable, low-profile design and reliable wireless connectivity. They boast exceptional battery life, customisable sound, and a rich, balanced audio performance that belies their price. However, the active noise cancellation (ANC) is largely ineffective and introduces...Read more

whathifi.com

15/03/2018

JVC HA-S90BN review

The JVC HA-S90BN-B-E wireless noise-cancelling headphones offer a generous selection of features for a budget price point. On the positive side, they deliver a well-balanced sound across the frequency range, boasting a sweet midrange that allows vocal lines and melodies to clearly shine through. They provide a decent amount of detail, and their active noise-cancelling technology...Read more

de.readly.com

03/07/2017

HA-S90BN - Mac Life

The July 2017 Mac Life (Germany) review evaluates a premium hardware accessory, highlighting its seamless integration into the macOS ecosystem, durable build quality, and efficient performance. However, the review notes significant drawbacks, including a high price point, limited post-purchase upgrade options, and a heavy reliance on adapter hubs for connectivity.

de.jvc.com

01/02/2017

HA-S90BN • JVC Germany - Reviews

The JVC HA-S90BN over-ear headphones deliver an excellent, "Business Class" consumer experience according to the ear in review. The test report praises the model as a chic, highly-equipped, and fun device that possesses everything needed to become a major market success. When paired wirelessly with a smartphone via Bluetooth, the headphones offer a highly dynamic, well-balanced...Read more

avguide.ch

01/10/2017

Eight Noise-Canceling Headphones Reviewed - Quiet Please!", "Testing Eight Noise-Canceling Headphones - Silence Please!

The avguide.ch review evaluates the JVC HA-S90BN, a lightweight wireless over-ear headset priced at a recommended retail price of 199.99. On the positive side, the headphones feature an exceptionally user-friendly design and a built-in three-stage sound switch allowing users to seamlessly alternate between linear, bass, and clear acoustic profiles. When used with a cable connection,...Read more

hifitest.de

03/10/2017

JVC HA-S90BN-B - Noise Cancelling Headphones - hifitest.de

The JVC HA-S90BN-B is reviewed as a feature-rich, "upper-class" over-ear headphone that delivers high value for its price of around 150 Euros. It is praised for its lightweight 195g build and secure, low-pressure fit that comfortably accommodates average-sized ears. In terms of performance, it delivers a balanced, dynamic sound profile via Bluetooth, which can be further customized...Read more

antoineguilbert.fr

22/06/2017

Review of the JVC HA-S90BN Bluetooth headphones with noise cancelling

The review by Antoine Guilbert evaluates the JVC HA-S70BT-E (also referenced as HA-S90BN in the text), a mid-range wireless headset blending Bluetooth 3.0 and active noise cancellation (ANC) for under €150. The reviewer notes that while the construction inspires solidity, the glossy plastic on the earcups scratches easily and traps fingerprints. In terms of performance, the sound...Read more

leclaireur.fnac.com

15/06/2017

JVC HA-S90BN Lab Test: A fully featured and affordable headset

The JVC HA-S90BN is an affordable circum-aural wireless headphone that features premium technologies such as Bluetooth, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), NFC pairing, apt-X, and Hi-Res Audio compatibility. Weighing 199 grams with a measured clamping force of 476 grams-force, the headset provides good comfort for extended listening sessions. Its overall build includes faux leather...Read more

Video reviews

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