The Live 680NC combines an on-ear frame with connectivity normally associated with a larger travel headphone. It leaves a useful choice at a desk: listen over Bluetooth, or connect a compatible USB audio source and keep the phone free.
In depth
JBL Live 680NC review
Published
Best forListeners who like on-ear pads and want phone, laptop and wired-source options.
At a glance
- Noise cancellation
- Supported
- Weight
- 231.16 g
- Battery life
- Up to 50 h (ANC on)
- Connections
- 3.5 mm analog-source cableBluetooth 6.0 multipointUSB-C digital
Pros
- Multipoint and two wired source options are useful at a mixed-device desk.
- Up to 50 hours of Bluetooth playback with ANC enabled.
Cons
- On-head pressure can build during a long session.
- The supplied analog audio lead does not serve as a USB charging cable.
Sound & Noise Cancellation
- 40 mm drivers
- Adaptive ANC
- App EQ
TechRadar’s reviewer heard plenty of low-end weight and a softer top end. Listeners who want brighter cymbals or more clearly outlined vocals have EQ adjustments in JBL’s app. Listen in ordinary stereo first so you can separate the effect of equalization from the optional spatial processing. 1
Design & Comfort
- 231.16 g
- On-ear cushions
- Foldable construction
The compact ear cushions rest on the outer ear, and the headband carries the rest of the weight. TechRadar noticed pressure at the top of the head after longer use. If you wear glasses, test with your usual frames and give the fit more than a few minutes. 1
Connectivity & Battery
- Bluetooth 6.0 multipoint
- Up to 50 hours with ANC
Connect a phone and computer over Bluetooth or use a suitable USB-C data cable for digital audio. JBL supplies a cable for an analog headphone jack; bring a separate USB charging cable. Rated playback reaches 80 hours with ANC off, or 50 hours with Bluetooth and ANC together.
Alternatives
The Live 780NC surrounds the ear and weighs 260 g. With the same 50-hour ANC estimate, the choice has more to do with pad placement than battery size. If you already own a comfortable pair of on-ears with enough runtime, check whether digital USB or two-device switching would actually change your routine.
Verdict
The Live 680NC brings useful desk and travel connections to an on-ear shape. It works best if the pads stay comfortable through a full album or meeting. That’s worth establishing before choosing it over the larger Live 780NC.
About this review
This is a research-based review. The Fasit has not physically tested this product.
Sources & Research
1 reference
Independent sources cited in this article.
- TechRadarJBL Live 680NC review (opens in a new tab)https://www.techradar.com/audio/wireless-headphones/the-jbl-live-680nc-may-sound-good-but-the-battery-life-and-plethora-of-top-features-are-the-star-of-the-show
Reviewer heard prominent low end and softer treble, noted pressure at the crown during longer sessions and absent charging cable.