The JBL Tune 500BT and Sony MDR-ZX310AP are two popular on-ear headphones offering great value for money. While both are lightweight, foldable, and provide stereo sound, they differ in design, sound quality, and features.
The JBL Tune 500BT stands out with its powerful bass and wireless Bluetooth connectivity, making it ideal for music lovers seeking mobility.
On the other hand, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP offers a more balanced sound profile and wired connectivity, appealing to users who prefer simplicity and reliability.
Dimensional Value
Jbl Tune 500
The JBL Tune 500 weighs 155g, which is slightly heavier than the Sony MDR-ZX310AP, which weighs only 125g. In terms of size, the JBL Tune 500 is slightly bulkier, with unfolded dimensions of 17.7 x 17.3 x 7.3 cm,
Sony Mdr Zx310
the Sony MDR-ZX310AP has more compact dimensions of 16.3 x 18.5 x 6.7 cm. When folded, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP is more portable, measuring 16.3 x 18.5 x 4.5 cm compared to the JBL Tune 500, which folds to 17.7 x 17.3 x 5.8 cm
1. Available Color:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones are available in a wide variety of colors, including black, white, blue, and pink. These options offer users the chance to personalize their headphones to match their style or personality.
The vibrant color choices make these headphones appealing to a younger audience or anyone looking for more color variety in their audio accessories.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones come in a more limited range of colors, including black, white, and blue. While these colors are still fashionable, they offer fewer options compared to the JBL Tune 500BT. Sony’s color options lean more towards classic and neutral shades that cater to a more conservative audience.
2. Sound Quality:
JBL Tune 500BT: The sound quality of the JBL Tune 500BT is characterized by JBL’s signature bass-heavy sound, which is ideal for users who enjoy music genres like EDM, hip-hop, or rock that benefit from a strong bass response.
The deep bass provided by these headphones delivers a more immersive audio experience, although the mids and highs can sometimes feel slightly overshadowed by the powerful low end.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones offer a more balanced and neutral sound profile. While they may lack the deep bass that the JBL headphones deliver, they provide clear sound across the entire frequency spectrum, making them suitable for users who prefer a more accurate, balanced sound, particularly for vocal and instrumental music. These headphones excel in providing a crisp and detailed treble range.
3. Comfortability:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT is designed with comfort in mind, featuring lightweight materials and soft ear cups that provide a comfortable fit. However, as on-ear headphones, they might become uncomfortable during long listening sessions due to the pressure they place on the ears.
For shorter listening periods, the comfort level is adequate, but users who plan on using the headphones for extended periods might feel some discomfort after a while.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are also lightweight and comfortable for everyday use. However, like the JBL Tune 500BT, their on-ear design may cause some discomfort after prolonged use, as they exert pressure on the ears.
They are more comfortable for daily activities and casual listening, but for those seeking long-lasting comfort, over-ear headphones may be a better choice.
4. Fit:
JBL Tune 500BT: These headphones offer an on-ear fit, which provides a secure hold but might not be as snug as over-ear models. The adjustable headband ensures a customizable fit, making them suitable for various head sizes. They provide a solid fit for everyday activities and casual use, but the design may not be ideal for more vigorous exercises.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are also on-ear, offering a snug fit for most users. While they fit securely for regular use, they are not as tightly fitted as premium models.
The snugness is adequate for daily use, but for more intense physical activities, users may find these headphones slightly less secure compared to more high-end models.
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5. Foldable:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones come with a foldable design, making them easy to store and carry.
This foldability is a convenient feature for those who travel frequently or need to pack their headphones in a bag, as it reduces the overall size of the headphones, keeping them safe from damage and easy to transport.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: Similarly, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are designed to be foldable, allowing for easy storage and portability.
The foldable feature is a practical and space-saving solution for users who need to carry their headphones with them while traveling or commuting.
6. Noise Cancellation:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones do not feature active noise cancellation (ANC) but offer passive noise isolation due to their on-ear design.
This allows them to block out some ambient noise, but they are not as effective at eliminating background noise as ANC-enabled headphones. They are suitable for quieter environments, such as at home or in less noisy public spaces.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones also lack ANC and rely on passive noise isolation from the on-ear design. While they can block out a fair amount of background noise, they won’t provide the same level of noise isolation as ANC headphones. These are more suitable for less noisy settings or casual environments.
7. Battery Life:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT offers impressive battery life, with up to 16 hours of continuous playback on a single charge.
This long battery life ensures that users can enjoy music, movies, or calls for an extended period without needing to recharge frequently, making these headphones ideal for commutes or long trips.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: As the Sony MDR-ZX310AP is a wired headphone, it does not require a battery. This eliminates the need to worry about charging and makes them a convenient choice for users who prefer a simple plug-and-play experience without the hassle of managing battery life.
8. Battery Indicator:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones come with a battery indicator that allows users to easily check the remaining battery level.
This is especially useful for ensuring that the headphones don’t run out of power unexpectedly during use, allowing users to plan for recharging when necessary.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: Since the Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are wired and do not require a battery, there is no need for a battery indicator. Users can simply plug them in and enjoy uninterrupted audio without worrying about power levels.
9. Charge Time:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT requires approximately 2 hours to fully charge. This is a quick charge time, meaning users can get back to enjoying their music or calls with minimal downtime. The fast charging feature makes these headphones convenient for users with busy schedules.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: As wired headphones, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP do not require any charging. This makes them incredibly convenient for users who do not want to worry about waiting for the headphones to charge before use.
10. Charging Type:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones use a micro USB charging port. While micro USB is a common and widely used charging standard, some users might find it slightly outdated, as newer devices increasingly use USB-C for faster charging. Nevertheless, the micro USB charging port is still compatible with many devices.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are wired, so they do not require any charging. You simply plug the 3.5mm audio jack into your device, and you’re good to go.
11. Weight:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT weighs 155 grams, making it lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions. The low weight helps reduce strain on the head, making them suitable for prolonged use, even though their on-ear design might cause some discomfort after a few hours.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are slightly lighter at 125 grams. The lightweight design contributes to increased portability and comfort, making them ideal for everyday casual use. The lighter weight ensures less pressure on the head and ears during longer listening sessions.
12. Cable:
JBL Tune 500BT: These headphones are wireless and do not require a cable for standard usage. Bluetooth technology allows users to connect wirelessly to their devices, which provides greater mobility and eliminates the clutter of cords.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are wired, featuring a 3.5mm audio cable. This type of connection ensures a stable and uninterrupted audio experience without any concerns over wireless interference or battery life.
13. IP Rating:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones do not have an official IP rating for water or dust resistance, which means they are not designed for heavy exposure to moisture or dust. These headphones are best suited for indoor use or light outdoor activities.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: Like the JBL Tune 500BT, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones do not feature an IP rating. They should be used in typical indoor environments and should be kept away from moisture or extreme outdoor conditions.
14. Stereo Speakers:
JBL Tune 500BT: These headphones provide stereo sound, delivering an immersive audio experience with clear separation of left and right channels. The bass-heavy profile enhances the overall audio experience, particularly for music that relies on powerful low-end frequencies.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones also feature stereo sound, offering clear and well-balanced audio.
They deliver precise treble and mids, with an emphasis on clarity rather than bass. This makes them a good choice for users who prefer detailed and crisp sound over a heavy bass response.
15. Microphone:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones come equipped with a built-in microphone, allowing for hands-free calls and voice commands.
This feature is convenient for users who need to take calls or interact with voice assistants while using the headphones.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are also equipped with a built-in microphone for hands-free calling. Additionally, the inline remote allows users to control music playback and adjust volume without reaching for their device.
16. Lowest Frequency:
JBL Tune 500BT: These headphones can reach as low as 20Hz, offering a deep, punchy bass response that enhances the listening experience, especially for genres that thrive on low-frequency sound. This makes them ideal for bass lovers.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP has a lowest frequency of around 10Hz. While this allows for decent bass reproduction, the depth and power of the low end aren’t as pronounced as the JBL’s, focusing more on clarity than bass intensity.
17. Highest Frequency:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones have a frequency response that reaches up to 20,000Hz, providing clear and sharp high-end sounds. This broad frequency range ensures that the treble notes are distinct, improving detail in higher-pitched audio.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: With a slightly higher frequency range of up to 22,000Hz, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones provide additional clarity in the treble range. This allows for slightly crisper high-end sounds, offering better detail in high-frequency notes compared to the JBL.
18. Driver:
JBL Tune 500BT: Featuring 32mm drivers, the JBL Tune 500BT delivers powerful sound, especially with its enhanced bass response. These larger drivers allow for a fuller, richer sound that emphasizes low-end frequencies, offering an energetic audio experience for users.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP features 30mm drivers, delivering clear, balanced sound. While these drivers are slightly smaller than the JBL’s, they still provide accurate audio across all frequencies, focusing on a more neutral sound profile compared to the bass-heavy JBL.
19. Magnet Type:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT uses neodymium magnets, which help improve sound quality by providing a strong magnetic field.
This contributes to the headphones’ ability to produce powerful sound, especially in the bass, enhancing overall audio clarity and volume.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: Like the JBL, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones are equipped with neodymium magnets.
These magnets provide high-quality sound and ensure the drivers work efficiently, allowing for clear audio reproduction across all frequencies, delivering a balanced listening experience.
20. Control Method:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones feature convenient on-ear controls that allow users to manage volume, playback, and calls without needing to access their device. These simple controls enhance the overall user experience, making it easier to adjust settings on the go.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones also feature on-ear buttons for playback control and answering calls. While not as advanced as the JBL’s Bluetooth controls, these buttons allow users to manage basic audio functions easily, offering a straightforward user interface.
21. Connectivity Type:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT connects via Bluetooth, offering wireless listening freedom. Bluetooth connectivity ensures a smooth, stable connection to compatible devices, allowing users to enjoy their music without the limitations of wires or cables, increasing mobility.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones rely on a wired 3.5mm audio jack for connectivity. This wired connection ensures a consistent and reliable audio experience without the need for charging or managing wireless signals, but limits mobility compared to wireless headphones.
22. Bluetooth Version:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones support Bluetooth 4.1, offering stable and fast wireless connectivity. Bluetooth 4.1 ensures minimal dropouts and efficient power usage, providing a reliable wireless listening experience with most compatible devices at an optimal range.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: Since the Sony MDR-ZX310AP is a wired model, it does not support Bluetooth connectivity. This makes it a suitable option for users who prefer a simple, no-fuss wired setup without worrying about pairing or managing Bluetooth connections.
23. Bluetooth Range:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT offers a Bluetooth range of approximately 10 meters (33 feet). This allows users to move freely within a reasonable distance from their connected device without losing the connection, offering added convenience for wireless use.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones do not feature Bluetooth connectivity. Since they are wired, there is no Bluetooth range to consider, and users will always need to stay connected via the 3.5mm audio jack to their devices for audio playback.
24. Multipoint Connection:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT supports multipoint connection, meaning it can be paired with two devices simultaneously. This feature allows users to easily switch between devices, such as a phone and a tablet, without needing to disconnect and reconnect each time.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP does not support multipoint connection, as it lacks Bluetooth functionality. Being a wired headphone, it can only be connected to one device at a time, requiring users to unplug and replug if they wish to switch between devices.
25. Warranty:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT headphones typically come with a 1-year warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship and provides users with peace of mind in case of product issues, allowing for potential repairs or replacements.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP also comes with a 1-year warranty. This warranty protects users against manufacturing defects and ensures that the headphones will be replaced or repaired if any issues arise within the first year of purchase.
26. APTX Adaptive:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT does not support APTX Adaptive technology. While it offers Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity, it does not feature enhanced audio codecs like APTX Adaptive, meaning it may not deliver the same high-quality streaming experience as headphones that support APTX.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones do not support APTX Adaptive either. Since these are wired headphones, audio quality is determined by the wired connection rather than Bluetooth codecs, ensuring consistent sound quality without the need for APTX or other wireless protocols
27. APTX:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT does not support APTX, which means it doesn’t benefit from the high-definition audio compression used by some wireless headphones. However, its Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity still provides a stable wireless experience, even if not in the highest possible audio quality.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: Similarly, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP does not support APTX. These headphones are wired, so audio quality is not reliant on Bluetooth codecs like APTX. The wired connection ensures a consistent, high-quality listening experience without worrying about wireless audio performance.
28. LDAC:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT does not support LDAC, which is a high-resolution audio codec used to transmit lossless audio via Bluetooth. Although it offers good sound quality, it doesn’t provide the high-res audio streaming capability that LDAC-equipped headphones deliver.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: Like the JBL, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP does not support LDAC. Since these are wired headphones, high-resolution audio is not dependent on Bluetooth, but the quality is still good with a solid connection via the 3.5mm jack, without needing advanced codecs.
29. In/On Ear Detection:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT does not feature in/on-ear detection. This means the headphones do not automatically pause music or interact based on whether they are worn or removed. Users must manually control playback for this functionality.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP also does not include in/on-ear detection. As a wired headphone, it doesn’t have sensors for automatic play/pause functionality. Playback must be manually controlled through the inline remote or the connected device.
30. App Supported:
JBL Tune 500BT: The JBL Tune 500BT is compatible with the JBL Headphones app, providing additional customization options, such as adjusting sound settings, managing connections, and enhancing user experience. The app adds convenience and functionality for users who want more control over their headphones.
Sony MDR-ZX310AP: The Sony MDR-ZX310AP headphones do not support a dedicated app. These headphones are designed to be simple and straightforward, without the need for extra software or customization, making them ideal for users who prefer plug-and-play functionality without added complexity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the JBL Tune 500BT and Sony MDR-ZX310AP offer solid performance in their respective categories.
The JBL Tune 500BT is perfect for those seeking wireless convenience and deep bass, ideal for on-the-go listening. In contrast, the Sony MDR-ZX310AP is a better choice for users who prioritize a balanced sound and prefer a wired connection for consistent audio performance.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your preferences for portability, sound quality, and connectivity, with each model providing great value.
