8. JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX: Best for versatile travel connections
Sound quality and noise cancellation.
Listening to the JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX through AAC, we enjoyed lively trumpets, smooth bass, and clearly defined percussion, with quieter piano details that remained audible in busy arrangements. The noise cancellation handles low-frequency drones well, but the AirPods Max and Bose QuietComfort earbuds provide more effective isolation. The JBL app’s 10-band equalizer lets you customize the sound.
Comfort and design
Weighing 278g, the M3 is light and comfortable for long rides, with large padded earcups and an adjustable headband. The plastic case seems less sturdy than that of the AirPods Max, although the included hard case provides protection during travel.
Battery life and connectivity
Quoted battery life is 40 hours with noise cancellation enabled, with five hours of playback on a five-minute charge. AAC supports Bluetooth listening on iPhone and Mac, while USB-C provides wired audio. The included Smart TX transmitter converts wired sources, including in-flight entertainment, to wireless audio and can stream to multiple Auracast-compatible headsets.
Who should buy them?
Choose the M3 if long battery life and flexible connections are more important than stronger noise cancellation. Compared to the AirPods Max, you get a lighter design, higher endurance, a lower price, and a versatile transmitter. You sacrifice some build solidity and noise cancellation effectiveness.
