JBL Tour Pro 3 review: Great sound meets a case you’ll actually use

Upon unboxing the JBL Tour Pro 3, I anticipated the typical high-end true wireless audio experience: stylish design, effective active noise cancellation (ANC), and reliable battery life. However, what truly caught my attention was the charging case, which includes a built-in touchscreen that enhances functionality instead of merely serving as a gimmick. The case, weighing 71.8 grams, feels noticeably heftier than standard options. This weight is due to the inclusion of a 1.57-inch touchscreen, allowing users to manage playback, modify ANC settings, adjust volume levels, and check battery status without reaching for their smartphones. Initially, this feature seemed excessive, but it quickly proved to be intuitive and user-friendly. Its matte finish minimizes fingerprints, and while its rounded design allows for easy placement in bags, it may feel a bit bulky for pocket storage. One downside is that even at its dimmest setting, the display is too bright for dark environments, which I discovered during late-night listening sessions. The earbuds feature a compact, stemmed design that is both stylish and practical, boasting a matte finish and IP55 rating for dust and water resistance. Weighing in at 5.6 grams each, they're not the lightest on the market, but the oval ear tips ensure a snug fit that remains comfortable during extended use. The wear detection technology functions flawlessly, pausing audio when the earbuds are removed and resuming playback once they are reinserted. Connectivity is seamless, thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC support, and Google Fast Pair—allowing quick connections to various devices. Pairing with my Nothing Phone (3) was instantaneous, and the dual-device connection enabled smooth transitions between my laptop and phone during calls and music playback. The JBL Headphones app enhances the experience, letting users customize touch controls and even change the wallpaper on the case’s display, adding a playful touch. Sound quality is exceptional, featuring a dual-driver configuration with a 10.2mm dynamic driver and a balanced armature, providing a clear and detailed audio profile. The bass is present without being overwhelming, while vocals remain sharp, and instruments are well-defined. The app’s equalizer offers robust customization, and the Personi-Fi 3.0 feature tailors sound to individual hearing profiles, significantly improving mid-range clarity. The adaptive ANC feature of the Tour Pro 3 adjusts automatically based on the environment. Transitioning from a serene café to a bustling street, I noticed the noise reduction occurring in real-time. While it doesn’t completely rival the quietness of Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra or Sony’s WF-1000XM5 in extreme conditions, it is still quite effective. Additionally, the Smart Ambient and TalkThru modes allow users to engage in conversations without removing the earbuds. Call quality stands out, supported by six microphones and AI-driven noise reduction, ensuring clear voice transmission while effectively minimizing background noise. Regarding battery life, JBL claims up to 11 hours without ANC and 8 hours with it. In my experience, I averaged around 9 hours while utilizing LDAC with varying ANC settings throughout the day. The case extends total battery life to approximately 32 to 44 hours, depending on ANC usage, and the inclusion of wireless charging and quick charge capabilities makes recharging convenient. In conclusion, the JBL Tour Pro 3 excels in delivering outstanding sound quality, effective ANC, and impressive battery performance. What sets them apart is the intelligent touchscreen case, which offers genuine utility rather than being just a novelty. Although they may feel a bit bulky in pockets and ears, and the ANC doesn’t quite compete with the absolute best in extreme noise environments, they represent a remarkable blend of premium audio and innovative features. Priced at Rs 19,999, these earbuds signify JBL's confident entry into the high-end true wireless market, earning their place in everyday audio gear.