JLab Raises True Wireless Earbuds Call Quality with Detachable Mic

Always pushing different concepts into every product category, JLab introduced the new Work Buds ($79.99), a true wireless stereo concept that is intended to solve the sub-par microphone clarity problem during calls. The first time this is ever attempted in true wireless earbuds, the San Diego, CA-based added a a lightweight, detachable noise-canceling boom microphone. Revolutionary or simply awkward, now there is an option. You have to hand it to JLab. This idea provides optimal voice pickup for phone calls, video chats, and other situations where microphone clarity is important. And as the company highlights, the Work Buds are an ideal solution for those who prefer the convenient design and features of true wireless earbuds but want the microphone clarity that comes from a headset with a boom mic (and it looks like you are working, even when you are just listening to music at work).

Many consumers prefer true wireless earbuds for their size and convenience, but the placement of their microphones can lead to muffled audio due to adjacent activity, interference caused by wind, or obstruction from the user's hair or clothing. Bluetooth headsets with integrated boom mics can provide better audio quality, but their larger size can be a turnoff for many from using them, especially in non-office environments.

The Work Buds’ flexible noise-canceling boom mic can be connected to either earbud and positioned near the user's mouth for crystal clear calls. When no longer needed, the boom mic can be stored in the Work Buds' USB-C charging dock. Both earbuds have high-quality internal mics for when the boom mic is not warranted or left in the charging dock.

"JLab's Work Buds provide a best-of-all-worlds scenario for people who prefer true wireless earbuds but want the microphone quality that only a noise-canceling boom mic can provide. With JLab's Work Buds, people no longer have to sacrifice call quality for convenience with their earbuds," comments JLab CEO Win Cramer. 
 
Typical of new introductions from JLab, the Work Buds are a Bluetooth 5.3 design with surprising value for their $80 price tag. The Work Buds feature 10+ hours of playtime in each earbud. Dual connect technology allows either earbud to be used individually with or without the boom mic. Bluetooth Multipoint technology allows easy switching between a computer, phone, or tablet without disconnecting and pairing the Work Buds each time.

The Work Buds also feature touch controls, allowing the user to turn on the Be Aware setting to let outside noise, pause and resume audio, answer calls, adjust the EQ, and other settings. Work Buds will also be the first release from JLab to use the new JLab App which will allow additional customization of the touch controls and audio settings.

The Work Buds include three different-sized pairs of gel ear tips to provide an optimal fit, ensuring the best in-ear seal in each ear. Three different-sized pairs of JLab's signature Cush Fins are also included, which can be wrapped around the outside of each earbud for enhanced fit and comfort. 

These are compact TWS earbuds with 6mm custom-designed dynamic drivers that would stand-out even without the boom mic. The only drawback is the fact that - for some strange reason - the Work Buds are limited to the default SBC codec, and no support for AAC is included.
www.jlab.com