JBL Live Beam 3 vs Nothing Ear (open)

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the JBL Live Beam 3 is the better pick — it scores 86/100 to the Nothing Ear (open)'s 60, leading on Noise Cancelling and Battery. Choose the Nothing Ear (open) instead if you want to spend less.

  • Sound quality isn't scored yet (we have no measured audio data), so the score covers features, battery, noise cancelling and build.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Key takeaways

  • JBL Live Beam 3 leads Nothing Ear (open) overall by 26 points (86 vs 60 out of 100).
  • JBL Live Beam 3 stands out on Total Battery Life with Case: 48 h (60% more), Build IP Rating: IP55, Build Weight per Earbud: 5 g (38% less).
JBL Live Beam 3 leads overall
JBL Live Beam 3
86
Nothing Ear (open)
60
Why it stands out
  • Total Battery Life with Case: 48 h (60% more)
  • Build IP Rating: IP55
  • Build Weight per Earbud: 5 g (38% less)

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

JBL Live Beam 3

The JBL Live Beam 3 are true wireless earbuds featuring 10mm dynamic drivers and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with support for LDAC and LC3 codecs. Designed for everyday portable listening, they feature a smart charging case with a built-in display and comprehensive app integration for on-the-go control.

Best for users who want high-resolution wireless audio streaming via LDACBest for all-day listening without frequent recharging stopsBest for multitasking across multiple paired devices simultaneously
Pros
  • Extended battery life offering up to 10 hours per charge with an additional 38 hours from the case
  • High-resolution audio support via LDAC alongside standard codecs
  • Active noise cancelling and adjustable transparency mode
  • IP55 dust and water resistance rating for daily durability
  • Multipoint connection support for simultaneous pairing with multiple devices
Cons
  • Charging case is relatively heavy at 72 grams compared to standard cases
  • Stem-style design may not suit all ear shapes comfortably

Nothing Ear (open)

The Nothing Ear (open) is a pair of open-style wireless earbuds engineered for active users who need to remain aware of their environment. Incorporating Nothing's signature transparent aesthetic with silicone ear hooks, the earbuds offer up to 30 hours of total playback time using the included case. At a price of $99, they prioritize physical stability and situational safety over audio isolation.

Best for Outdoor running and exercising where situational awareness is criticalBest for Users seeking lightweight, hook-based earbuds for secure wear during workouts
Pros
  • Open-ear design maintains full awareness of external surroundings
  • Silicone ear hooks provide a secure and lightweight fit during athletic movement
  • Offers up to 30 hours of total battery life with the charging case
Cons
  • Open sound architecture does not isolate external noise or provide noise cancellation

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Enter today's price for each product to see which offers better value. Use the same currency for both.

JBL Live Beam 3

Nothing Ear (open)

Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

JBL Live Beam 3
72g
Weight
Nothing Ear (open)
63.8g
Weight
JBL Live Beam 3
5g
Weight
Nothing Ear (open)
8.1g
Weight

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about JBL Live Beam 3 vs Nothing Ear (open) comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, JBL Live Beam 3 rates higher at 86/100 versus 67/100 for Nothing Ear (open) — a 19-point lead. JBL Live Beam 3 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
JBL Live Beam 3 and Nothing Ear (open) are compared side by side above across every spec in the earbuds category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 86/100 for JBL Live Beam 3 and 67/100 for Nothing Ear (open).
If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, JBL Live Beam 3 (86/100) edges out Nothing Ear (open) (67/100). But if Nothing Ear (open) is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.

Which would you buy?

Cast your vote