• Home
  • SUBSCRIBE!
  • Garmin Edge Bike Computers
    • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
      • ALL Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared with Detailed Chart: Edge 130 Plus, Explore, 530, 830 and 1030 Plus
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos
      • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus Bike Computers: Premium vs. Budget!
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 GPS Bike Computers: Full Review and Comparison of GPS Bike Computers with Navigation
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 GPS Bike Computers
    • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
      • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
      • Garmin Edge 520 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT
      • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
    • 9 New Features in the Garmin Edge 830
    • 7 of the Best Fitness Trackers for Cyclists – Fitbit and Garmin
    • How to Upload Your Bike Rides to Strava While Garmin Connect is Down
  • About
    • Start Here!
    • Contact Us
  • Product Reviews
    • Garmin Edge and Wahoo Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared: Versus Posts!
        • ALL Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared with Chart & Video: Edge 130 Plus, Explore, 530, 830 and 1030 Plus
        • Garmin Edge 530 vs. 830 vs. 1030 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos
        • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus: Premium vs. Budget!
        • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s NEW About the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus?
      • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
        • Garmin Edge 530 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
        • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs. Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
        • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
        • Garmin Edge 520 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT
      • Garmin Varia Vision and Varia Rear Light Radar
      • How to Upload Your Bike Rides to Strava While Garmin Connect is Down
    • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers, 2021
    • Bike Computer Reviews
      • Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65, 2020 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
      • Best Bike Computers, 2020 – Includes CatEye, Garmin, and Wireless Bike Computers
      • ALL Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared with Detailed Chart & Videos: Edge 130 Plus, Explore, 530, 830 and 1030 Plus
      • Quick Links to our Best Posts about Bike Computers
    • Cycling Gear Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Pants for Men and Women, 2021
        • 3 Regular-Looking Pants that Work Well as Cycling Pants
        • Showers Pass Rogue Cycling Pants – Review by Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist
      • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers, 2021
      • 7 of the Best Women’s Cycling Jackets, 2020 – Waterproof and Windproof
        • Best Cheap Cycling Jackets under $100
        • Best Cycling Jackets
      • 9 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Jackets for Men and Women, 2021
      • 7 of the Best Cycling Balaclavas to Keep Your Head Warm this Winter
      • Best Waterproof Cycling Gear for Men and Women, 2021
      • 7 of the Best Short Sleeved Cycling Jerseys for 2021
      • 7 of the Best Cheap Cycling Jackets Under $100
    • 90 Best Gifts for Cyclists – Our Ultimate Gift Guide for Cyclists
    • Bike Pannier Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers, 2020 – for Better Bike Commuting and Touring
      • Best Waterproof Bike Panniers for Touring and Commuting: Ortlieb Bike Panniers
      • Best Commuter/Bike Touring Panniers: Two Wheel Gear Classic 2.0 Garment Pannier Review
    • Bike Light Reviews
      • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting, 2021
      • Quick Links to Our Best Posts about Bike Lights
      • 3 of the best bike lights for commuter cyclists – Light & Motion Urban 350 vs. CatEye Volt 800 vs. NiteRider Lumina 750
    • Bike Saddles
      • 9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles, 2021
      • How to Choose the Right Bike Saddle
    • Headphone Reviews
      • 5 of the Best Headphones for Safe Cycling in 2021
    • Recumbent Trikes
  • Bike Computers
    • Garmin Edge Bike Computers
      • Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
        • ALL Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared with Detailed Chart & Videos: Edge 130 Plus, Explore, 530, 830 and 1030 Plus
        • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos
        • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs Garmin Edge 1030. What’s NEW About the Garmin Edge 1030 Plus?
        • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 GPS Bike Computers: Full Review and Comparison of GPS Bike Computers with Navigation
        • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs. 130 Plus Bike Computers: Premium vs. Cheap
      • Garmin Edge vs. Wahoo Bike Computers
        • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
        • Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt vs Garmin Edge 130 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, with Videos
        • Garmin Edge 520 Plus vs Wahoo ELEMNT
        • Garmin Edge 520 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT
    • Quick Links to our Best Posts about Bike Computers
    • Best Cheap Bike Computers Under $65, 2020 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
    • Best Bike Computers, 2020 – Includes CatEye, Garmin, and Wireless Bike Computers
    • 7 of the Best Bike Computers, 2020 – from Budget to Premium
  • Health Benefits
    • Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
      • How to Prevent Cycling Knee and Hip Pain – Complete Guide to Stretching for Cyclists
      • How to Cure Cycling Knee Pain with a Miraculous, Cheap Cure
      • 7 Ways to Prevent Cycling Knee Pain
      • Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Great Strength and Conditioning Exercises for Cyclists
      • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
    • Cycling and Strength
      • How Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
        • How Strength Training Can Boost Your Cycling Speed and Quality of Life
    • Cycling and Sleep
      • How Cycling Helps You to Sleep Better and Get Healthier
      • Why Cycling May Be the Sleep Aid You Need
      • How I Became a Bike Commuter and Shed Stress Immediately
      • One in Three Cyclists Experience Reduced Stress Levels
    • Cycling and Aging
      • Study Shows that Interval Training on a Bike is the Best Exercise to Fight Aging
      • Study Shows that Cycling Really Does Fight Aging
      • How Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
        • How Strength Training Can Boost Your Cycling Speed and Quality of Life
        • 5 Great Strength and Conditioning Exercises for Cyclists
        • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
        • What Is the Function of Myelin in the Body?
    • Kids biking
      • 7 of the Best Baby and Child Bike Seats to Keep Your Child Safe – Reviews and Videos – 2020
      • 9 Simple Steps to Teach a Child to Ride a Bike
      • 5 Tips for Parents to Keep your Kids Safe on their Bikes
      • How to Transport Kids on Bikes (Video and Infographic)
      • 10 Family-Friendly USA Cycling Trails to Visit with the Kids
      • Babies and Bikes: How to Get Kids Active from the Start
      • How to Encourage Kids to Ride Bikes
        • How to Help your Kids Bike to School
A Blog for Average People who LOVE to ride bikes!

Average Joe Cyclist

A Blog for Average People who LOVE to ride bikes!

  • Cycling Training Plans
    • Our Most Successful Cycling Training Plans
      • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 1
      • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 2 – Interval Training
      • How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
      • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner’s Bike Training Plan
      • Top 7 Strength Building Exercises for Cyclists
    • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner’s Bike Training Plan
      • Top 10 Tips on How to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling
    • How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
    • Workouts and Stretching for Cyclists
      • How to Prevent Cycling Knee and Hip Pain – Complete Guide to Stretching for Cyclists
      • Updated Video: 3 Hip Stretches to Cure Cycling Hip Pain
      • Stop Doing Crunches! 10 Minute Core Workout for Cyclists
      • 5 Best Core Exercises for Cyclists
      • Muscle Stretching: The Cyclist’s Secret Skill – Why Stretching is Important for Cyclists
      • The 10 Best Stretches for Cyclists
    • How to Protect Your Testosterone Levels from Over-Training
    • 7 Reasons to do High Intensity Training (HIT) on Your Bike – And How to Add Interval Training to Your Cycling
      • Study Shows that Interval Training on a Bike is the Best Exercise to Fight Aging
      • Research shows Amazing Benefits of Sprint Intervals in Cycling
    • 7 Top Tips to Help You Keep Mountain Biking after Age 40
      • How Cycling Can Help You to Stay Strong as You Age
  • Indoor Cycling Training
    • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers, 2021
    • 5 of the Best Smart Indoor Trainers for Effective Indoor Training
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • What is a Smart Turbo Indoor Trainer?
  • Cycling with Dogs
    • 5 of the Best Dog Bike Baskets to Safely Take Your Dog Cycling in 2021
    • Complete Guide to Taking Your Dog on Bike Rides in a Bike Basket
    • 6 Steps to Gently Train Your Dog to Go On Bike Rides With You
  • Lose Weight!
    • Cycling and Weight Loss
      • 7 Steps to Lose Weight by Cycling
      • 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers, 2021
      • Top 10 Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
      • 5 Quick and Easy Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
      • The Top 10 Ride Your Way Lean Eating Rules, for Effective Weight Loss
      • How Cycling to Lose Weight Saved Phil’s Life – Heartwarming Video
    • A Guide for Fat Cyclists
    • Our Best Lose Weight with Cycling Posts
    • Cycling Nutrition
      • Best Matcha Tea for Cyclists: My Matcha Life
        • How to Make Matcha Tea
      • How Protein Helps your Post Bike Ride Recovery
      • 5 Best Protein Supplements for Exercise Recovery and Health
    • Cycling Training Plans
      • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
      • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner’s Bike Training Plan
      • Our Most Successful Cycling Training Plans
      • How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
      • 7 Reasons to do High Intensity Training (HIT) on Your Bike – And How to Add Interval Training to Your Cycling
    • Cycling and Health
  • Tips & How-Tos
    • How to Prevent & Cure Cycling Knee Pain
      • How to Cure Cycling Knee Pain with a Miraculous, Cheap Cure
      • How to Prevent Cycling Knee and Hip Pain – Complete Guide to Stretching for Cyclists
      • Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain
      • 7 Ways to Prevent Cycling Knee Pain
      • 5 Doctor’s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery
    • Bike maintenance
      • How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire
    • How to Keep your Bike from being Stolen – Top 10 Tips
      • 7 of the Best Bike Locks to Keep Your Bike Safe, 2021
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
    • How to Pick the Right Size Bike – Complete Bike Frame Size Guide
    • How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Training System on Any Budget
    • Complete Guide to How to Buy and Sell Bikes on Craigslist
    • How to Understand Bike Terminology
  • Bike Commuting
    • Bike Commuting Tips
      • How to Set Up a Commuter Bike
      • 9 Useful Tips for Women Bike Commuters
      • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting, 2021
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers, 2020 – for Better Bike Commuting and Touring
      • Top 10 Tips on How to Avoid a Sore Butt from Cycling
      • How Women Cyclists Can Prevent Saddle Soreness and Associated Issues
        • How to Choose the Right Bike Saddle
      • 9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles, 2021
      • The 7 Biggest Mistakes People Make When They Try to Start Bike Commuting
      • Can Cycling Cause Penis Numbness, Erectile Dysfunction, and Prostate Cancer?
      • Best Commuter/Bike Touring Panniers: Two Wheel Gear Classic 2.0 Garment Pannier Review
    • Winter Cycling
      • Our Top Tips to Keep You Warm and Dry for Fall and Winter Cycling
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
      • Quick Links to Our Best Posts about Cold Weather Cycling
      • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers, 2020 – for Better Bike Commuting and Touring
    • Benefits of Being a Bike Commuter
      • Ten Reasons to be a Bike Commuter
      • Survey Shows London Bike Commuters are Happier and More Productive
      • What Is the Function of Myelin in the Body?
      • Research shows that cycling makes your brain grow!
      • 5 Ways that Cycling Boosts Your Brain Function
    • Bike Maintenance
      • How to Get Your Bike Ready for Safe Winter Cycling
      • How To Clean Your Bike Chain the Easy Way
      • How to Set Up a Commuter Bike
      • How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire
      • Inspirational Video: How to Fix a Bike Flat – with No Hands
    • Cycling Infrastructure
      • 4 Benefits of Separated Bike Lanes
      • 3 Reasons Why We Need Separated Bike Lanes
      • Research reveals a surprising benefit of separated bike lanes
      • Montreal Cycling, Part 3: Separated Bike Lanes – What Other Cities can Learn from Montreal
      • Cycling and the Post-Covid Transformation
    • Safety for Cyclists
      • How to Use Bike Reflectors to Be More Visible
      • 7 of the Best Bike Lights for Night Riding and Commuting, 2021
You are here: Home / Average Joe Cyclist Product Reviews / Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones

Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones

June 26, 2017 by Average Joe Cyclist

Pin
Share
Tweet

AvatarBose SoundSport Wireless Headphones and Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones are two of the most popular Bluetooth Headphones for athletes such as cyclists. They are both viewed as premium headphones, although the Bose are usually more expensive.

This post compares Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones to help you choose between them. We start off with a chart that you can use to compare the key features of both sets of headphones; then move on to differences, and videos. If you find this review useful, please feel free to use the affiliate links to buy – it’s the only way I can get paid for my work, and of course, it costs you nothing.

On the left are Bose Soundsport; on the right are Jaybirds X3. These are two of the most popular sports Bluetooth headphones. Which ones are best for you? Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones
On the left are Bose Soundsport; on the right are Jaybirds X3 (both are available in other colors too). These are two of the most popular Bluetooth sports headphones. Which ones are best for you?
Related Content: 5 of the Best Headphones for Safe Cycling

Comparison Chart: Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones

 

Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones

Bose SoundSport Headphones

Lowest Price on Amazon Right Now:$42.50$129.00
Buy them on Amazon Canada:Click here for latest price in CanadaClick here for latest price in Canada
Buy them on Amazon UK:Click here for latest price in the UKClick here for latest price in the UK
Battery Time:Battery time is claimed at 8 hours, which I find to be accurate. Also you can get an hours' play time out of 15 minutes charging, which is handy in an earphones emergency!Claimed battery time is 6 hours; in practice I usually get more than this - about 7 hours of listening
Safety while cycling:These aim to exclude sound. If you are using the Comply ear tips, they do an excellent job of excluding sound. Which is great for some purposes, but not exactly safe if you have to be aware of what is going on around you. When I cycle with these, I only use one of the earbuds. You can also choose to use the supplied silicone ear tips, which do not exclude as much sound (because they do not expand to fill your ear canal)These fit more externally without completely plugging up your ears, so they are safer than the Jaybirds in terms of being able to hear your surroundings better
Bluetooth Connection to your smart device:Connectivity is excellent, outstanding, and flawlessConnectivity is excellent and instant. Effortlessly manages to handle switching devices
Low Battery Alert:A rather lovely, mellow female voice tells you that "Battery is low", and then she keeps quiet. This gives you another 20 minutes of listening time, before she sweetly says "Power off." Also, the Bluebuds X3 have a tiny battery indicator that shows up on your smart deviceEvery time you wake these headphones up, a measured female voice tells you the level of battery left, rounded off to the nearest 10%. This is enormously helpful. She also gives you low battery warnings
Communications:The Jaybird X3 communicate with you via a pleasant female voice. She tells you "Power on" when you switch on, and then "Headphones Connected" when they're connected, cutting out the guesswork. She also tells you how much battery power you haveThe Bose SoundSport communicate via a measured, pleasant female voice. Instead of telling you the power is on, she shows you they are on by telling you the percentage of battery life you have left, and what device the headphones are connected to
Price Comparison of Jaybird X3 and Bose SoundSportJaybird X3 can sometimes be bought for as little as $100 these days - a lot cheaper than they used to be, and a great price for premium Bluetooth headphonesBose SoundSports cost anything from about $135 to $170
Waterproof?Not waterproof; but guaranteed sweatproofNot waterproof; but guaranteed sweatproof
Ear fitComes with three sizes of Comply memory foam ear tips that are designed to plug up your ears for comfortable noise exclusion. Possibly not the best choice on a bike; great for the gym. However, they also come with 3 sets of silicone tips, which plug up your ears less, and which I find comfortableComes with three sizes of soft, removable tips
Built-in microphone for making phone calls?Yes - works very wellYes - works very well
Do they stay in your ears?They are designed to have a secure fit for athletic use. They come with tiny ear fins, which help them to stay in by hooking into the curve of your earThey are designed to have a secure fit for athletic use. They come with tiny ear fins, which help them to stay in by hooking into the curve of your ear. They almost never fall out
What powers do you have?With the Jaybirds X3, you can use the inline controller to turn them on and off, answer calls, skip tracks and go back tracks, switch phone calls, and call up SiriWith the Bose SoundSport, you can use the control on the right earbud to switch them on and off; you can use the inline controller to change volume, skip tracks and take calls
Durability/ruggednessQuite sensitive; need to be handled with careSurprisingly rugged - I have been wearing mine while sleeping for a year now, and can hardly believe they have survived a year of me rolling over them
AppThe Mysound app is an electronic equalizer that enables you to create a personalized sound profile that stays with the earbuds, regardless of which device you are doing. A great app if you enjoy that sort of thing, and definitely lifts the sound qualityThe Bose Connect app allows you to do ... virtually nothing. I honestly don't know what the point of this app is. It enables you to switch off audio prompts - I cannot imagine why anyone would want to do that
Auto Off?Yes, the auto off ensures you do not run your batteries down for no good reasonYes, the auto off ensures you do not run your batteries down for no good reason. It also announces that it is turning off with a melodic chime, which I like
Charging time2.5 hours2 hours
Weight0.5 oz (14 grams)0.8 oz (23 grams)



Amazon Canada
Click Here to Buy them in Canada!
Amazon UK
Click here to buy them in the UK!

Safety note: I often get emails telling me that headphones are not safe for cyclists. My posts on headphones are not meant as an endorsement – I do not think I have the right to tell other people what they can and cannot do. If you are especially interested in safe cycling, please don’t send me an angry email – instead, please read my very popular post on How to Choose the Safest Headphones for Cycling.

Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones – Big Picture

These are both premium headphones that will elevate your listening experience to a new high of wireless, Bluetooth convenience and wonderfulness. Thanks to the Bluetooth technology,  you do not not have to run wires through your shirt to your phone. They are both quite expensive – but, as I often explain to Maggie, not having to deal with wires on my bike or my hike is priceless. Wires have caused me to accidentally break a phone at least once, so I could (and often do) argue that Bluetooth actually SAVES money!

On the left are Jaybirds X3 (also available in several other colors): on the right are Bose Soundsports (also available in black). Which are better for you? Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones
On the left are Jaybirds X3 (also available in several other colors): on the right are Bose Soundsports (also available in black). Which ones should you get?

With both of these headphones, the sound quality is equal to or better than most in-ear wired headphones of comparable prices. With both of these headphones, you get to control them without having to take your phone out of your pocket, backpack, or pannier, which can be safer if you are on transit late at night and don’t want to flash your expensive phone around. It is also super convenient – personally, I HATE having to stop my bike to change a track or change the volume. As you can see in the illustration above, both have an inline controller on the cord that you use for most controls. Also, the Bose has a power switch on the actual earbud. The Jaybirds have more control options on the controller, and the controller has a build quality that looks stronger than the controller on the Bose SoundSport. However, the Bose SoundSport earbuds feel strong and rugged, and are clearly of good quality. I wear mine to bed every night, because I like to listen to podcasts to put me to sleep. Then of course I roll around and they get pulled out of my ears, and I roll onto them … I can hardly believe they have survived this treatment for a year.

With both of them, you can listen to whatever you like, or take calls while cycling or running – all without ever touching your phone. Very special, and I feel privileged to be able to do that.

Both stay in the ear well, using a similar ear fin device; the Bose SoundSport are slightly bulkier than the Jaybirds X3. I find them both soft and comfortable in my ears, and can wear them for hours. I have been known to search for my earphones without realizing that they are actually in my ears! But then I do wear them just about all the time. It used to annoy Maggie, so I got her a pair of Bose, and now she gets it, and is a lot more tolerant.

All that said, there are some differences between the Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones, which I highlight below.

Sound Quality of the Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones

Make no mistake, both offer premium listening experiences, making your ears feel like they are wrapped in luxury. I love them, and am completely addicted to this listening experience. I feel like it is a necessity for my mental health, not a luxury (another point that I regularly explain to Maggie). In fact … come to think of it … if I was unhappy, that would make my wife unhappy, so I really buy Bluetooth headphones for my wife’s sake. I am thoughtful that way!

I use my Bose and my Jaybirds for listening to music, podcasts, and audible books, and they are both excellent for all of those purposes.

However, if you compare the sound quality of the Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones, there is no doubt that Bose has the edge. Listening to music on Bose is absolutely splendid to the point of being transporting, thanks to the rich quality of the sound. This is partly because they are Bose, and partly because the earbuds are quite substantially bigger. The Jaybirds 3 also have excellent sound quality, but they are not sublime to the same degree. I have a bad habit of sometimes not listening to music for a while (in favor of podcasts). This is not good, because music is so good for my mood and sanity. Switching on my Bose reminds me how wonderful music is, and gets me listening to music again.

Jaybird X3 complete package on the left; Bose Soundsports 2 complete package plus charger on the right. The Jaybird X3 shows a phone because they are highlighting the Mysound app (which you can use to finetune the sound) - of course, you have to buy a phone separately. Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones
Jaybird X3 complete package on the left; Bose Soundsports complete package plus charger on the right. The Jaybird X3 shows a phone because they are highlighting the Mysound app (which you can use to fine-tune the sound) – of course, you have to buy a phone separately
The earbuds of the Jaybirds are shown on the left; compared with the earbuds of the Bose on the right. Both stay in the ear well; the Bose are slightly bulkier. The Bose are completely rubber; the Jaybird X3 have been reinforced with metal for increased durability. Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones
The earbuds of the Jaybirds are shown on the left; compared with the earbuds of the Bose on the right. Both stay in the ear well; the Bose are slightly bulkier. The Bose are completely rubber; the Jaybird X3 have been reinforced with metal for increased durability

Video Comparing Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones

Here is a video that compares Jaybird X3 vs Bose SoundSports. The narrator tends to cover things that I do not, so listen to him if you are still making up your mind. Don’t be put off by the working out at the beginning – at minute 1:08 he starts to say a lot of very useful things.

Size of the Ear Tips

The Jaybird X3 ear tips are quite a bit smaller, and quite a bit less visible than the Bose SoundSport. I have previously written a scathing review about how there was almost no difference between the Jaybird X and the Jaybird X2. However, I must say that there is a noticeable improvement from the Jaybird X2 to the X3 – they have got smaller, stronger, and cheaper. This video shows this more clearly:

On the other hand, some people find the Bose SoundSport ear tips a bit big and bulky. Well, they are on the large side, for sure. But they are super comfortable, and really, the larger size is part of what creates the awesome sound.

New App on the Jaybird X3

The Bose app is pretty minimal, and I am not even sure what it is for. You can quite easily use the Bose earphones without ever downloading or using the Bose app. I have had my Bose for years, and never use the app.

The situation is very different with the Jaybirds. The Jaybird X3 headphones are compatible with Jaybird’s app, MySound. This app behaves like those equalizers we used to have on our hifi music systems, allowing you to fine tune the music. You can even set up different profiles for different kinds of music, such as one for rock and another for hip hop. This video shows how the MySound app works. It was made for Jaybird Freedom headphones, which are the only other Jays that the app is compatible with.

Bottom Line on Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones vs Jaybird X3 Sport Headphones

As you will know if you have read this far: Bose offers better sound, while Jaybirds offers a much better app. I love both my Bose and my Jaybirds X3. The X3 are in fact the best Jaybirds so far developed. I have used almost every kind of Jaybird headphones over the years. At times it has been a love-hate relationship, and certainly I was very disappointed by the Jaybirds X to X2 “upgrade.” But I have to say that with the X3, Jaybird has finally hit the sweet spot. Better sound, smaller size, greater comfort, true noise isolation for those who want it, great app, stronger build quality – and then to top it all off, they even dropped the price to a level which seems more than fair (price is another aspect I have complained about in earlier versions of Jaybirds). If you’re looking for premium Bluetooth sports headphones for a great price, you cannot really go wrong with JaybirdX3 or with Bose SoundSport. Both companies are reputable with great after sales service, so make sure you keep your receipt in a safe place.

Whichever you end up buying – enjoy!



Amazon Canada
Click Here to Buy them in Canada!
Amazon UK
Click here to buy them in the UK!

Bose SoundSport vs Jaybird X3 - detailed comparison

Check Out Our Most Popular Posts!

  • 7 of the best indoor bike trainers
    7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers
  • All Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared
    ALL Garmin Edge Bike Computers Compared, with Comparative Chart & Videos
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison with Reviews and Videos
  • Garmin Edge 130 Plus vs. 1030 Plus. Would a much CHEAPER bike computer work for you?
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs. Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
  • Zwift makes indoor cycling fun!
    How to Set Up a Zwift Indoor Bike Training System on Any Budget
  • 7 of the Best Cheap Bike Computers under $65 – Includes Budget Wireless Computers
  • 7 of the Best Fitness Trackers for Cyclists to Track Bike Rides
  • Best road bike saddles
    Video-packed post - 9 of the Best Road Bike Saddles for Men and Women
  • 7 of the Best Bike Computers
  • 5 of the Best Smart Indoor Trainers for Effective Indoor Training
  • 5 of the Best Dog Bike Baskets to Safely Take Your Dog Cycling in 2020
  • 9 of the best waterproof cycling jackets for men and women. A great waterproof cycling jacket will keep you dry, and at the same time be breathable, so that you don't overheat your core
    9 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Jackets for Men and Women
  • 7 of the best waterproof cycling pants for men and women
    7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Pants for Men and Women
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030
    Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030
  • Get a new bike, and then get outside and have fun!
    7 Great Budget Bikes You Can Buy on Amazon, 2020 - Cruiser, Mountain, Road and Hybrid
  • Our Most Popular Cycling Fitness Plans
    Our Most Popular Cycling Fitness Plans
  • Average Joe Cyclist’s Beginner Cyclist Training Plan: Phase 1 - Start Getting Fit Now!
  • Waterproof cycling jackets - group of cyclists
    Best Waterproof Cycling Gear - Includes Jackets, Pants, Gloves, and Balaclavas
  • Great bike lights will light up the night for you! Just be sure to get the ones that are right for you
    7 of the Best Bike Lights
  • 7 of the Best Women's Cycling Jackets
  • Garmin Edge 1030 vs 1000
  • 7 of the Best Windproof Cycling Jackets - Find a Great Fall Cycling Jacket Now!
  • How to Choose the Safest Headphones for Cycling
  • 7 of the Best Waterproof Bike Panniers Compared
  • 7 of the Best Child Bike Seats Compared
  • How to Buy the Best Electric Bike
  • 7 best bike locks
    7 of the Best Bike locks Compared. Find the Best Bike Lock For You!
  • How to Choose the Right Type of Bike - Beginner's Guide
    Complete Guide to How to Buy and Sell Bikes on Craigslist

Did you enjoy this post or find it helpful? If so, please support our blog!


average-joe-cyclist-mug-shot copyWe write this blog because we love cycling. But we also need to earn a living, so we REALLY would appreciate if you click through to one of our reputable affiliates for your online shopping. We are proudly affiliated with Amazon, which sells pretty much everything, and has outstanding shipping and return policies. For your cycling and athletic shopping needs, we are also affiliated to Competitive Cyclist, REI Co-op, and Backcountry. When you buy from our affiliates we make a small commission, and this is the only way we earn any income. Plus, it costs you nothing at all - a real win/win situation!
Shop at Amazon in the USA:
Shop at Amazon in Canada:
Shop at Amazon in the UK:
Amazon USA
Amazon Canada
Amazon UK
Buy from the Online Retailer of Your Choice!

Related

Pin
Share
Tweet

Filed Under: Average Joe Cyclist Product Reviews, Headphone Reviews Tagged With: Bluetooth Headphones, Cycling headphones, Sports headphones

  • Garmin Edge 1030 Plus vs 830 vs 530

Welcome to Average Joe Cyclist!

Average Joe CyclistWelcome to our blog! I’m Joe Goodwill, an average cyclist, and I write a blog for people like me. People who love cycling but will probably never win any races, and who don’t necessarily look good in Lycra! I also write the Electric Bikes Blog and Average Joe's RV Living Blog. To find our most popular posts, check out our Start Here page.

Mrs Average Joe Cyclist - MaggieHi! I'm Maggie Neilson (aka Mrs. Average Joe Cyclist). Joe and I have done a lot of cycling, and we share what we have learned on this blog . We also write reviews of cycling products and trails! Get to know us better HERE.

How our Product Links Work

  • You pay EXACTLY the same price, whether you use our links or go direct to the websites.
  • Earning some commission enables us to spend more time writing posts 🙂
  • THANK YOU to all the good people who have bought through our links. Your support is sincerely appreciated.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Shop at Amazon in the USA.

Amazon USAShop at Amazon in Canada.

Amazon CanadaShop at Amazon in the UK.

Amazon UK

Search Average Joe Cyclist!

Trending – Our Top Posts Right Now!

  • 7 of the best budget indoor trainers 7 of the Best Budget Indoor Bike Trainers, 2021
  • 7 of the best waterproof cycling pants for men and women 7 of the Best Waterproof Cycling Pants for Men and Women, 2021
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 GPS Bike Computers: Full Review and Comparison of GPS Bike Computers with Navigation
  • A Guide for Fat Cyclists. I am not exactly your stereotypical cyclist with the body of a greyhound. However, I don’t let my weight stop me from cycling. This was a 15-mile cross-country ride I did with my wife. We are pushing our bikes here because we were on loose gravel A Guide for Fat Cyclists
  • Cycling is a fantastic way to lose weight. And as a bonus: if you lose weight while maintaining your power, you will become faster on your bike 5 Quick and Easy Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
  • tips for success lose weight cycling Top 10 Tips to Lose Weight Cycling
  • We simply did not evolve to sit in front of a computer all day. No wonder exercise is such a mood lifter, when we actually get out and do it. 7 Steps to Lose Weight by Cycling
  • If you keep asking your body to do more, it will grow stronger and fitter to adapt to your demands. How to Get Bike Fit: Complete Bike Training Plan
  • Garmin Edge 530 vs 830 vs 1030 Plus Bike Computers: In-Depth Comparison, Reviews and Videos

​

Special Offer for Average Joe Cyclist Readers – Get 10% off a New Totem Pole Bike Rack!

Transport up to 6 bikes with the revolutionary new Totem Pole Bike Rack! AND get a 10% discount off the price! Just use the discount code AVERAGEJOE

Click here to claim your discount!

9 of the best road bike saddles

How Women Cyclists can prevent saddle soreness and associated issues

World's first folding electric carbon bike

Copyright © 2021 · Average Joe Cyclist, please contact us for syndication rights.