Beats Studio Pro vs JBL Live 660NC
The Verdict
Both over-ear headphones share similar form factors and 40mm drivers, but diverge significantly in price and features. Beats Studio Pro ($349.99) emphasizes Apple ecosystem integration with Personalized Spatial Audio, head tracking, and lossless USB-C audio,premium touches for Apple users. Its 24-hour ANC battery life trails the JBL Live 660NC's impressive 40-hour ANC runtime, though Fast Fuel charging recovers 4 hours in 10 minutes. JBL's offering delivers exceptional value at $149, featuring multipoint Bluetooth for seamless device switching, dual voice assistant support, and superior battery longevity. Sound quality differences favor Beats' tuning options via three signature profiles, while JBL relies on its established signature sound. For Apple-centric users prioritizing spatial audio and premium aesthetics, Beats justifies the premium. However, budget-conscious listeners and Android users will find JBL's multipoint connectivity, longer battery life, and half the price far more compelling. JBL Live 660NC emerges as the better all-around value proposition.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Beats Studio Pro if…
- →Lossless USB-C wired audio playback
- →Works well with both iOS and Android
- →Comfortable, lightweight build
Buy the JBL Live 660NC if…
- →40-hour battery with ANC is exceptional at $149
- →JBL's signature fun sound profile is engaging for pop and rock
- →Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Beats Studio Pro
Pros
- Lossless USB-C wired audio playback
- Works well with both iOS and Android
- Comfortable, lightweight build
- Strong battery life
Cons
- No multipoint Bluetooth pairing
- ANC trails Sony, Bose, Apple
- Same physical design as 2017 Studio 3
- No aptX or LDAC codec support
JBL Live 660NC
Pros
- 40-hour battery with ANC is exceptional at $149
- JBL's signature fun sound profile is engaging for pop and rock
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
- Built-in voice assistant support for hands-free control
- Comfortable lightweight fit for extended wear
Cons
- ANC is decent but noticeably behind Sony and Bose
- No LDAC or aptX codecs — limited to AAC
- Bluetooth 5.0 is a generation behind newer models
- Plastic build doesn't feel premium
Full Specifications
| Spec | Beats Studio Pro | JBL Live 660NC |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 260 g | 260 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 24 hours ANC on (40 hours ANC off) | 40 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs (ANC off) |
| Charging | USB-C, 10 min = 4 hours Fast Fuel | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 4 hrs |
| Drivers | 40mm custom dynamic | 40 mm |
| Features | Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, Lossless audio over USB-C, Native compatibility with both Apple and Android, Transparency mode, Three signature sound profiles via USB-C | Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes, JBL Signature Sound, Multipoint Bluetooth connection, Google Assistant and Alexa built-in, Speed Charge support |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Beats products or all JBL products. View full details for the Beats Studio Pro or the JBL Live 660NC.