JLab Go Pop+ Review: Budget Earbuds Tested for Sound and Value

In a market flooded with premium-priced earbuds, the JLab Go Pop+ arrives like a splash of neon paint—promising lively colors and lively sound for just $30. But can these ultra-affordable earbuds deliver more than just a budget-friendly price tag? We tested them head-to-head against rivals to find out if they’re a bargain or a bust.

JLab Go Pop+ Earbuds: Design and Comfort

Priced at £25/$30/AU$50, the Go Pop+ makes affordability its headline feature. The plastic case feels surprisingly scratch-resistant despite its budget origins, though the lid snaps shut aggressively. Inside, you’ll find featherlight earbuds (7.8g total) in 14 eye-catching finishes—from mint to transparent.

Comfort is a mixed bag. While the IPX4 rating shrugs off sweat and rain, the flimsy ear tips struggle to cushion your ears. During testing, we found longer sessions became uncomfortable as thin silicone failed to buffer hard plastic. Fit security is decent with three tip sizes, but rival models like the Sony WF-C510 offer plusher materials for slightly more.

A quirky design choice: The USB-C cable is permanently attached to the case. While convenient for laptop charging, it limits flexibility.

Features and Battery: Punching Above Their Weight?

Unexpectedly, the Go Pop+ packs features rare at this price:

• 9-hour battery life per charge (35 hours with case)
• Google Fast Pair for Android
• On-ear touch controls (responsive but slightly delayed)
• Dual Connect for single-bud use
• JLab app with 10-band EQ and control customization

The “Be Aware” mode amplifies environmental sounds effectively—a lifesaver near traffic. However, call quality disappoints. Voices sound robotic, and microphones pick up wind noise aggressively. As noted in our tests, switching to a phone’s native speaker offered clearer conversations.

Sound Quality: The Crucial Test

We pushed the 8mm drivers through multiple genres:

• Tom Waits’ “Martha” revealed a hard, tinny edge to piano notes
• George Benson’s “Give Me The Night” stayed coherent but lacked dynamism
• Hans Zimmer’s “Gladiator” score collapsed under complexity—strained and thin

While clearer than some budget rivals, the sound signature feels compressed. Bass lacks punch, and orchestral swells lose drama. The Earfun Air (similarly priced) offers more engaging, 3D-like sound, while the Sony WF-C510 ($50) delivers superior musicality and depth.

For budget-conscious buyers seeking features over fidelity, the JLab Go Pop+ shines—but audiophiles should invest $20 more for the Sony WF-C510’s richer sound. Test your priorities before choosing.

Must Know

Q: Are JLab Go Pop+ earbuds waterproof?
A: They carry an IPX4 rating, resisting sweat and rain splashes—ideal for workouts or commutes. Avoid submersion.

Q: How do Go Pop+ compare to Earfun Air?
A: Both sit at $30, but the Earfun Air offers warmer, more engaging sound. Go Pop+ excels in battery life (9hrs vs 7hrs) and color options.

Q: Is noise cancellation included?
A: No ANC at this price. Only “Be Aware” mode to amplify surroundings.

Q: Can you use one earbud alone?
A: Yes, Dual Connect enables single-bud use—a rarity in budget earbuds.

Q: Do they work with iPhones?
A: Yes, but Google Fast Pair is Android-only. iOS users get standard Bluetooth 5.3 pairing.

Q: How’s the mic quality for calls?
A: Mediocre. Voices sound artificial, and background noise easily intrudes.