JBL Live 770NC vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Get the JBL Live 770NC unless you absolutely need high-resolution audio. The numbers tell the story: 65 hours of battery life versus 50 hours on the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black), plus the JBL offers Active Noise Cancelling. In real-world use, that means more music and less charging, making it the smarter buy for daily commuters or travelers in 2026. If you’re a critical listener who prioritizes audio quality, the ATH-M50xBT2’s LDAC support is a game-changer, delivering high-resolution sound. However, its lack of ANC means you'll miss out on the immersive experience when you're in noisy environments. So, while both are mid-range, the JBL Live 770NC shines brighter in battery life and noise management while the Audio-Technica excels in sound fidelity for serious audio enthusiasts.
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JBL Live 770NC
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: JBL Live 770NC vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
JBL Live 770NC
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
| Criterion | JBL Live 770NC | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(1,519)Amazon | ★4.4(3,219)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) | Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio ready via OTA update) | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC (LC3 ready via future update) | LDAC, AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with 4 noise-sensing mics) | No (Passive noise isolation only) |
Transparency | Yes (Smart Ambient / TalkThru) | No |
Drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (JBL Signature Sound) | 45mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz (Wireless) / 20 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) | 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz |
Microphones | 2 Beamforming Microphones for calls (Wind-noise reduction) | Dual MEMS microphones (beamforming) |
Battery Life | Up to 65 hours (ANC off) / Up to 50 hours (ANC on) | Up to 50 hours (Continuous use) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C; Full charge in 3 hours; 5 min charge = 4 hours playback | USB-C; ~3.5 hours full charge; 10 min rapid charge = up to 3 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Multi-point connection for 2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (Video Mode available via JBL Headphones App) | Yes (via Audio-Technica CONNECT app) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Detachable 3.5mm audio cable included; Microphone DOES NOT work in wired mode) | Yes (1.2 m / 3.9' cable included; works with zero battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating stated) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 9.03 oz (256 g) | 10.8 oz (307 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Power, Bluetooth) + Touch Control on earcup (Voice Assistant, ANC) | Physical buttons (Power/Pairing, Volume, Multifunction/Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | JBL Headphones App (Personi-Fi 2.0, Parametric EQ, Spatial Sound) | Audio-Technica CONNECT app (5-band EQ, Codec switch, Low Latency, L/R Balance) |
Extras | JBL Spatial Sound; Auto Play/Pause; Google Finder support; Comfort-fit fabric headband | Google Fast Pair; Amazon Alexa built-in; Sidetone circuitry; 1.2 m cable & carrying pouch included |
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JBL Live 770NC
✓ Pros:
- • Excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • Personi-Fi 2.0 adapts the sound profile to your specific hearing capabilities
- • True Adaptive ANC effectively adjusts to changing environments automatically
- • Lightweight design with a fabric headband ensures comfort for long sessions
- • Supports Bluetooth Multipoint for seamless switching between phone and laptop
✗ Cons:
- • Microphone functionality is disabled when using the wired connection
- • Lacks high-bitrate codecs like LDAC or aptX at launch
- • No official water resistance (IP) rating makes them unsuitable for heavy workouts
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- • High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
- • Multipoint pairing allows seamless switching between two devices
- • Preserves the acclaimed sonic signature of the wired M50x studio monitors
- • Dedicated low-latency mode improves lip-sync for gaming and video
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- • No official IP water or dust resistance rating
- • Passive noise isolation is effective but not equal to active solutions
- • Clamp force may feel tight for some users during extended listening sessions
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Which one is better?
The JBL Live 770NC is the better buy for most people - its 65-hour battery crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) with 50 hours. That said, grab the ATH-M50xBT2 if you need high-resolution audio support for your music - it's a no-brainer if sound quality is your top priority.
Who should buy each?
Choose the JBL Live 770NC if: you want maximum battery life for long trips, need Active Noise Cancelling for a busy commute, or prefer a lightweight design for comfort during extended use. (9.03 oz weight)
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you prioritize high-resolution audio for serious listening, want seamless switching between devices, or appreciate a classic sound signature from studio monitors. (10.83 oz weight)
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
JBL Live 770NC excels if you value excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) is better if you prioritize exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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