JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds: The First-Class Noise Cancelling Earbuds for Frequent Flyers
Published on June 2, 2023, 6:19 p.m.
Frequent flyers and business travelers rejoice! The JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds are here to eliminate noise and discomfort during your trips. Keep reading to see why these Bluetooth earbuds with active noise cancellation are a must-have travel companion.
Overview
JLab Audio delivers audiophile-quality sound in a slick yet affordable package with the Epic Executive earbuds. With up to 11 hours of battery life, Bluetooth 5.0, and a water-resistant IP54 rating, these in-ear headphones check all the boxes for an excellent pair of wireless earbuds.
But what really makes the Epic Executive stand out is the active noise cancellation (ANC) feature. The ANC effectively blocks out ambient noise, so you can focus on your music or podcast without distractions.
Key Features
- Active noise cancellation blocks ambient sound
- Immersive JLab signature sound with emphasis on bass
- Up to 11 hours battery life per charge
- Bluetooth 5.0 wireless connectivity
- Onboard controls for music, calls, and volume
- Sweat-proof design for workouts (IP54 rating)
- Customizable eartips and fins for secure fit
- Quick charging (1 hr playtime from 10 mins charge)
- Travel-friendly with airline adapter and wired mode
Design
The JLab Epic Executive earbuds feature an understated design with glossy black plastic housings and silver metallic accents. The angular shape of the earbuds is ergonomic and designed for a secure in-ear fit. A short stem contains the microphone and onboard controls. Thecharging case has a sleek rounded rectangular shape with matte black finish. Overall, the design is contemporary and refined.
Ease of Use
The intuitive onboard controls make the JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds very easy to operate. With just a few clicks, you can play/pause music, enable noise cancellation, adjust volume, and take calls. The earbuds pair quickly via Bluetooth and reconnect to previously paired devices automatically. The included accessories like different sized eartips and fins allow you to customize the fit for all-day comfort.
Build Quality
The plastic construction feels sturdy, and the earbuds have an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. While not made of premium metal/glass, the JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds are built well for regular use. The case also protects and charges the earbuds when not in use.
Sound Quality
Users report excellent sound quality with impactful bass and clear mids/highs. The JLab signature sound reproduces music genres like EDM, hip-hop, pop, and rock very well. Call quality is also good with the built-in microphones blocking out ambient noise.
Noise Cancellation
The active noise cancellation is effective at blocking constant low rumbles like engine noise. It eliminates up to 90% of ambient sound for an immersive listening experience. However, sudden noises may still be audible.
Battery Life
Battery life depends on usage. With ANC off, users get 6-8 hours of listening time. With ANC on, battery lasts around 5 hours. The quick charge feature is useful for topping up before flights.
Connectivity
The JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds use Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity up to 30 feet from paired devices. Connection stability is decent but may experience occasional dropouts. The included 3.5mm audio cable allows wired listening if needed.
Comfort
The lightweight earbuds are comfortable for most users, especially with the customizable eartips/fins. However, long-term wear may cause fatigue for those with smaller ears. Proper fit is key for comfort.
Water Resistance
The IP54 rating makes the earbuds splash proof and resistant to sweat/light rain. However, they are not suitable for swimming or submersion.
Value
For under $100, the JLab Epic Executive earbuds deliver very good value considering their noise cancelling abilities and audio performance. They match or exceed more expensive models in key aspects like ANC effectiveness.
Use Cases
The JLab Epic Executive earbuds are ideal for frequent travelers who want to enjoy their music and media without noise distractions. The excellent active noise cancellation enables you to immerse in crystal clear sound whether you’re on a plane, train, or bus. Fans of bass-heavy genres like EDM, hip hop, and rock will appreciate the dynamic audio reproduction.
In the office, the noise cancellation helps you focus on work by tuning out chatter and background noise. The IP54 sweat-proof rating also makes these wireless earbuds suitable for gym sessions.
Customer Feedback Analysis
The JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds have garnered largely positive reviews from customers praising their active noise cancellation and sound quality. Here is a deeper look at what users like and dislike about these wireless ANC earbuds.
Noise Cancellation
The noise cancelling feature stands out as the highlight for many customers. They describe the ANC as “extremely impressive” and “borderline magical” in its ability to block out ambient noise. Users mention the earbuds making loud airplane cabins, crowded offices, and public transport sound serene and peaceful. The noise cancellation exceeds expectations and rivals more expensive brands according to reviews.
Audio Performance
In terms of sound, customers rave about the JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds’s lively, powerful bass reproduction and sparkling treble. The expansive soundstage and clarity make music listening more immersive. Vocals sound crisp, while instruments have excellent separation. The JLab signature audio delivers amazing bang for the buck.
Comfort and Fit
The lightweight earbuds are comfortable for most, but some with smaller ears find the bulge of the battery housing presses against their ear canal causing pain over time. Getting the right fit with the adjustable eartips and fins is key for comfort. The angled nozzle design makes them suitable for active use like exercise.
Battery Life
While the claimed battery life is 11 hours, real-world usage ranges between 6-8 hours for most people. The quick charging helps offset the shorter runtime by providing 1 hour of use from a 10 minute charge. Frequent flyers may need to top up mid-flight.
Connection Issues
A common complaint is intermittent Bluetooth dropout plagued by splitting audio and stutters. The connectivity issues seem to affect a small number of units. When functioning properly, the Bluetooth 5.0 provides a stable connection.
CALL QUALITY
Call quality is very good thanks to the MEMS mic system filtering out background noise. Voices transmit clearly to callers even in noisy environments.
Overall, the JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds live up to their promise of providing exceptional noise cancellation paired with audio performance that punches above their price bracket. For shoppers seeking affordable ANC earbuds, these should definitely be on the shortlist.
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation
- Excellent audio quality with rich bass
- Easy-to-use onboard controls
- Good wireless range with Bluetooth 5.0
- IP54 rating for sweat and splash resistance
- Customizable fit with multiple eartips
- Quick charging capability
Cons
- Battery life less than stated 11 hours for some users
- Intermittent Bluetooth connectivity problems
- Comfort and fit varies depending on ear shape
Value
Given its impressive noise cancelling performance and above-average sound quality, the JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds offers excellent value. The combination of features like long battery life, Bluetooth 5.0, on-ear controls, and sweat resistance make these earbuds a versatile choice for both travel and daily use. While not the cheapest ANC earbuds, the JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds deliver great bang for your buck.
Recommendation for Travelers
With class-leading noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, long battery life, and travel-friendly features, the JLab Epic Executive earbuds are a must-have for frequent flyers. The combination of ANC and in-ear seal makes these headphones perfect for blocking out engine roar and chatty passengers on flights.
The convenient controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and comfortable fit also make the JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds ideal for everyday use. For an affordable pair of noise cancelling earbuds packed with premium features, the JLab Epic Executive Wireless Earbuds should be at the top of your list.
What’s Included
The JLab Epic Executive earbuds include:
- Left and right wireless earbud
- USB-C charging cable
- 3 sizes of ear tips
- 3 sizes of ear fins
- Airline adapter
- Carrying case
- User manual
How to Use
Follow these steps to get started with your JLab Epic Executive earbuds:
- Charge the earbuds fully before first use.
- Insert earbuds and adjust ear tips and fins for comfortable fit.
- Activate Bluetooth pairing mode - LEDs flash red/blue.
- On phone, select “JLab Epic Executive” in Bluetooth settings to connect.
- Use onboard controls to play/pause music, adjust volume, enable noise cancellation, and take calls.
- Recharge the earbuds in the case for at least 1.5 hours when battery is low.
