Finding the right pair of true wireless earbuds can be tricky, especially when there are multiple budget-friendly options to choose from. The JLab GO Air POP and JLab GO POP+ both offer lightweight designs, solid battery life, and reliable audio performance—all without breaking the bank.
While they share some similarities, these earbuds cater to slightly different users. Whether you’re looking for a customizable listening experience or a hassle-free, everyday companion, this comparison will break down the key differences to help you decide which one is the better fit for your needs.
Jlab Go Air Pop
Affordable earbuds with 8+ hours battery, touch controls, Bluetooth 5.1, IPX4 rating, and EQ presets for a customizable listening experience.
Jlab Go Pop+
Upgraded earbuds with 9+ hours battery, Bluetooth 5.3, Google Fast Pair, custom EQ via JLab App, and Be Aware Mode for ambient sound awareness.
Design & Comfort
When it comes to design, both the JLab GO Air POP and JLab GO POP+ keep things simple and lightweight, making them easy to wear for extended periods. However, there are some key differences in how they fit and feel.
The GO Air POP features an ultra-compact build with a lightweight plastic construction that doesn’t feel bulky in the ears. Its small size makes it a great choice for users with smaller ear canals, providing a secure and comfortable fit without unnecessary pressure. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, including black, lilac, teal, rose, and slate, allowing for a bit of personalization.
On the other hand, the GO POP+ prioritizes a snug, ergonomic fit that stays in place even during long listening sessions. While specific details about the materials and color options aren’t as widely available, the design is focused on comfort and usability, making it a practical choice for those who need all-day wear without discomfort.
Sound Quality
Both the JLab GO Air POP and JLab GO POP+ deliver solid audio performance for budget-friendly wireless earbuds, but their sound profiles cater to different listening preferences.
The GO Air POP stands out with its three built-in EQ presets:
- JLab Signature – A balanced mix of bass, mids, and treble for an all-around listening experience.
- Balanced – A more neutral tuning, ideal for podcasts, audiobooks, and general audio clarity.
- Bass Boost – Emphasizes low frequencies for those who enjoy deeper, more powerful bass.
With these settings, the GO Air POP offers a level of customization that makes it a great pick for casual listeners who like to tweak their sound depending on what they’re listening to. Whether you want extra bass for workouts or a more even profile for spoken-word content, there’s some flexibility built in.
The GO POP+, while not as detailed in terms of EQ settings, is designed to provide clear, high-quality sound that enhances focus—a feature that makes it a great choice for professionals, students, or anyone who needs background audio while working. While it may not have as much bass emphasis or tuning options as the GO Air POP, its well-balanced audio profile makes it a reliable companion for long listening sessions without distractions.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key factor when choosing wireless earbuds, and both the JLab GO Air POP and JLab GO POP+ offer impressive longevity for budget-friendly models. However, the GO POP+ pulls ahead slightly in total battery performance.
The GO Air POP provides 8+ hours of playtime per earbud, with an additional 24+ hours from the charging case, bringing the total battery life to over 32 hours. This makes it a solid choice for users who want extended listening time without frequent recharging.
The GO POP+, on the other hand, delivers 9+ hours of playtime per earbud, and the charging case adds 26+ hours, totaling over 35 hours of battery life. This slight increase in total playtime makes the GO POP+ a great option for those who need all-day reliability without worrying about battery depletion.
Both models use USB-C charging for quick and convenient power-ups, and they feature an integrated charging cable for added portability.
Additional Features
Both the JLab GO Air POP and JLab GO POP+ come packed with user-friendly features, but they take slightly different approaches when it comes to controls, water resistance, and connectivity.
Controls and Usability
The GO Air POP features touch controls, allowing users to adjust volume, switch tracks, and activate voice assistants with simple taps. While convenient, touch controls can sometimes be prone to accidental activation, especially when adjusting the earbuds in your ears.
The GO POP+ opts for physical button controls, which provide a more tactile and reliable way to control playback. With a single press, you can pause or play music, making it easy to use without having to rely on precise touch gestures. This can be especially useful during workouts or when wearing gloves.
Water Resistance
The GO Air POP comes with an IPX4 water resistance rating, meaning it can handle light splashes and sweat, making it suitable for workouts or casual outdoor use.
The GO POP+ also features IPX4 water resistance, providing the same level of protection against moisture, ensuring durability for daily use and exercise.
Connectivity
Both models use Bluetooth 5.1, offering a stable wireless connection with minimal dropouts. They also support SBC and AAC codecs, ensuring compatibility with most smartphones and streaming apps while providing clear audio and low-latency performance.
Conclusion
The JLab GO Air POP and GO POP+ both offer solid sound, long battery life, and reliable connectivity, but they differ in controls and total playtime. The GO Air POP features touch controls and 32+ hours of battery, while the GO POP+ provides physical buttons and 35+ hours of battery, catering to different user preferences.
For those who prefer customizable sound with EQ presets and intuitive touch controls, the GO Air POP is a great pick. If longer battery life, tactile buttons, and ease of use matter most, the GO POP+ is a better fit. Both are excellent for daily use, whether you're commuting, working, or relaxing.
Nerko is a writer for Zoopy, and he's been working there since 2019. He loves to ride his motorcycle and bicycle, especially in the summertime! He also enjoys watching science fiction movies, and his favorite movie is Interstellar. Nerko is also a competitive gamer - so if you're looking for a good competition, he's your man!