If you’re on the hunt for wireless earbuds that can keep up with your toughest workouts, the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 might just be the perfect fit. These true wireless Bluetooth earbuds are built for fitness enthusiasts, offering active noise cancellation (ANC), IP66 sweatproof durability, and an impressive 15-hour battery life per charge (plus 55 more hours with the case). But do they really deliver on performance, sound quality, and comfort? I put them to the test to find out.
Design & Build Quality
Durability Built for Workouts
Right out of the box, the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 looks and feels premium. These earbuds are designed with over-ear hooks, ensuring they stay secure even during intense movement. The IP66 sweatproof rating means they can handle heavy sweat and even some dust, making them perfect for outdoor runs and gym sessions.
Comfort & Fit
Unlike some other sports earbuds, these don’t dig into your ears or feel too bulky. The flexible ear hooks and multiple gel tip sizes provide a customizable fit, so whether you have small or large ears, you’ll find a comfortable seal. I found that they stayed in place even during sprints and HIIT workouts—no annoying readjustments needed.
Key Features & Performance
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode
The hybrid ANC does a solid job of blocking out distractions like gym chatter and wind noise on runs. While it’s not on the same level as premium ANC headphones, it’s impressive for sports earbuds.
On the flip side, the Be Aware Transparency Mode lets you hear your surroundings—great for outdoor running or when you need to stay aware of traffic. Switching between modes is super easy using the touch controls.
Sound Quality & EQ Settings
JLab packs in three EQ sound settings—JLab Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost. The default Signature setting offers a great mix of deep bass, crisp mids, and clear highs. If you love powerful bass for motivation during workouts, the Bass Boost mode will keep you pumped.
Battery Life: A Workout Champion
One of the biggest selling points is battery life. These earbuds last up to 15 hours on a single charge, and the charging case extends that to a whopping 70 hours total. That’s insane compared to many competitors that barely last 6-8 hours per charge.
The USB-C and wireless charging options for the case are a nice touch, ensuring you’re never stuck without power.
Touch Controls & Smart Features
JLab keeps things intuitive with touch-sensitive controls, allowing you to adjust volume, skip tracks, and toggle ANC without reaching for your phone. Plus, dual connect technology lets you use either earbud independently, so you can keep one in while staying aware of your environment.
How It Compares to Similar Earbuds
JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 vs. Powerbeats Pro
- Sound Quality: Powerbeats Pro has stronger bass, but JLab offers customizable EQ.
- Battery Life: JLab wins with 15+55 hours versus 9+24 hours on the Powerbeats.
- ANC & Transparency Mode: Powerbeats lack ANC, giving JLab the advantage.
- Fit & Comfort: Both offer secure over-ear hooks, but JLab provides more tip sizes.
JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 vs. Jabra Elite 7 Active
- Durability: Jabra has an IP57 rating (slightly better than JLab’s IP66 for dust resistance).
- Battery Life: JLab offers almost double the battery life.
- Sound Quality: Jabra has a more refined sound profile, but JLab’s EQ settings let you tweak the sound.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔️ Exceptional battery life (15+55 hours)
✔️ Secure fit with over-ear hooks
✔️ IP66 sweatproof and dust-resistant
✔️ Active noise cancellation (ANC) & Transparency mode
✔️ Customizable EQ sound settings
✔️ Wireless and USB-C charging
Cons:
❌ ANC isn’t as strong as premium brands like Sony or Bose
❌ Bulky charging case
❌ Touch controls can be sensitive
Why the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 Stands Out
The combination of long battery life, secure fit, customizable sound, and active noise cancellation makes these earbuds a standout choice for fitness lovers. While competitors like Powerbeats Pro and Jabra Elite 7 Active offer solid alternatives, JLab delivers more features at a better value.
User Reviews & Testimonials
I scoured online reviews to see what others think, and most users highlight:
✅ Battery life is unbeatable—many report going days without recharging.
✅ The fit is rock-solid—no slipping, even during intense workouts.
✅ ANC is decent, but some wish it was stronger.
✅ Sound quality is great for the price, especially with the custom EQ settings.
Some users mention that the charging case is on the larger side, but most agree it’s worth it for the extended battery life.
Tips & Tricks for Getting the Most Out of Your JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2
💡 Use the JLab Sound App to customize EQ settings and ANC levels for the best experience.
💡 Try different ear tips for a snug fit—this improves noise isolation and sound quality.
💡 Keep the case charged for uninterrupted use, especially for long trips.
💡 Use only one earbud at a time to extend battery life even further.
FAQs
1. Do the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 earbuds stay secure during workouts?
Yes! The over-ear hooks and multiple tip sizes ensure a snug fit, even during intense activities.
2. Can I use these earbuds for phone calls?
Absolutely. The built-in microphone delivers clear call quality, and you can use either earbud independently for calls.
3. How strong is the ANC feature?
While it’s effective at reducing background noise, it’s not as powerful as high-end ANC headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM4.
4. Do these earbuds support multipoint connection?
No, they don’t connect to two devices at once.
5. Are they waterproof?
They’re IP66-rated sweatproof, meaning they can handle sweat and rain but aren’t designed for swimming.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Them?
If you need true wireless earbuds built for workouts with an insanely long battery life, secure fit, and customizable sound, the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 is a fantastic choice. While the ANC could be stronger, the combination of features, durability, and value makes them a top contender for active users.
🎧 Highly recommended for fitness lovers, runners, and gym-goers who want long-lasting, sweatproof earbuds without breaking the bank.