Jaybird x2 vs x3
If you’re looking for comfortable Bluetooth headphones for your workout, Jaybird could be the best option for you.
Jaybird headphones offer excellent sound quality. They also have a solid battery life. Most importantly, they’re durable and completely resistant to perspiration.
But which model is the best for you? Here is a quick comparison of two popular Jaybird Bluetooth headphones for athletes: the X3 and the slightly older X2.
What You Need to Know about the Jaybird x3 Headphones
These wireless headphones are designed for intensive outdoor training. They can resist rain and mud. You can get them completely wet without causing any sort of damage.
The x3 headphones come with eight hours or more of battery life.
Furthermore, the Bluetooth signal strength is excellent, so you’re in for an immersive music experience as you run, cycle, or train at the gym. It is much easier to get a workout going when you don’t have to worry about dangling wires. Jaybird’s microphones also work fairly well, so you can use these headphones to take calls as well.
What You Need to Know about the Jaybird x2 Headphones
These headphones are a little larger than the x3 model. They also come with a slightly shorter battery life – they can last up to 7-8 hours between charging.
The sound quality of these headphones is also very impressive. Additionally, they are just as durable as the x3 headphones. Both models are completely waterproof.
So what are the key differences between these models? Which is the better option for you?
Comfort
Both headphones come with Comply foam ear tips. In both cases, you also get ergonomic earfins. You can place the earfin inside the shell of your ear, or you can hook them over your ear.
Whichever option you go for, you won’t have to worry about the earbuds slipping out. Comply foam has an impressive noise-canceling effect as well.
However, the x3 eartips are smaller and lighter. This makes them much more comfortable, especially after extended use.
Even more importantly, they don’t stick out from your ear. Hence, you can easily cover them with a hat or a headband, which is important in high summer. You can easily use the x3 under earmuffs too.
The winner: the x3.
Battery Life and Charging
We already mentioned that the x2 has a slightly shorter battery life. This is because it uses Bluetooth Version 2.1. But the x3 uses Bluetooth 4.1 instead, which is more energy-efficient.
However, the difference between the charging methods is much more important.
The x2 uses a standard micro-USB charging port. This means you can easily charge it anywhere you go.
As for the x3 model, Jaybird introduced a special charging clip for it. While this clip makes charging quicker, it has a huge downside. If you lose the clip, you can’t charge your x3 headphones with a regular charger.
Having to rely on a special charger is particularly inconvenient if you travel a lot. So the x2 is much more convenient in this regard.
The winner: the x2.
Audio Quality
Both headphones provide a rich and layered sound. The eartips shut out outside noise, which means you can enjoy your music without having to crank up the volume.
The key difference is that the x3 is compatible with the Jaybird App, while the x2 isn’t. This sound customization app lets you tailor your music to your taste. For example, you may want to add more bass to your favorite songs.
Using this app is simple and intuitive. You can create a profile of your own or download an existing profile that fits your preferred genres.
Your profile stores your preferred sound settings. You can access it from any other device, including a computer or iPad. Additionally, you can get in touch with other Jaybird App users who share your taste.
The winner: the x3.
The Price
Both Jaybird headphones are relatively affordable, considering the high performance. However, the x2 is much cheaper than the x3. You may even be able to get it for less than $100.
The winner: the x2.
The Verdict
So which is the better option?
The x2 offers comfort and a good battery life. It’s very affordable. It comes with a micro USB port, so you can charge it anywhere you like.
However, the x3 is a much better option if you can afford it. Since the earbuds don’t stick out of your ears, you can wear them comfortably under a hat. You can even wear these headphones to go skiing.
They come with a slightly better battery life. Since these headphones are lighter, they’re more comfortable than the x2.
But it’s the app that makes the x3 especially worth it. It gives you the option to experiment with the equalizer and create the best possible sound for each of your favorite song.
All things considered, the Jaybird x3 is the clear winner here.
A Final Thought
When you’re exercising, high-quality wireless headphones can make a massive difference. Good music can keep you motivated and help you find your rhythm. Whichever Jaybird you decide to go for, you’ll notice a quick improvement in your workout results.