JBL Live 770NC vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
If you're looking for the best battery life, the JBL Live 770NC is the clear choice with an impressive 65 hours. In real-world use, that means you can enjoy music for days without needing a charge, making it a no-brainer for long trips or daily commutes. On the flip side, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) offers high-resolution audio support with the LDAC codec, which can elevate your listening experience. However, it lacks Active Noise Cancelling, which the JBL provides, so consider your priorities before deciding. Key specs: Weight: 9.03 oz vs 10.83 oz and Battery: 65h vs 50h.
Why compare these? Both the JBL Live 770NC and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) are mid-range headphones competing in the same market segment. This makes them direct rivals for buyers looking for mid-range features and performance in 2026. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | JBL Live | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.6★ (1,519 reviews) | 4.4★ (3,219 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency | Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency |
| Main Drawback | Microphone functionality is disabled when using the wired connection | Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors |
| Market Position | Mid-range | Mid-range |
JBL Live 770NC
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired)
Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio ready via OTA update)
SBC, AAC (LC3 ready via future update)
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
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
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired)
Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio ready via OTA update)
SBC, AAC (LC3 ready via future update)
Yes (True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with 4 noise-sensing mics)
Yes (Smart Ambient / TalkThru)
Pros
- Excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- Personi-Fi 2.0 adapts the sound profile to your specific hearing capabilities
Cons
- Microphone functionality is disabled when using the wired connection
- Lacks high-bitrate codecs like LDAC or aptX at launch
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)
Over-ear (closed-back)
Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C (Charging) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog)
Bluetooth 5.0
LDAC, AAC, SBC
No (Passive noise isolation only)
No
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
- High-resolution audio support via LDAC codec
Cons
- Lacks Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency modes found in competitors
- No official IP water or dust resistance rating
Which one is better?
The JBL Live 770NC is the better buy for most people - its 65-hour battery life crushes the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) at 50 hours. That said, grab the Audio-Technica if you need high-res audio support for your music - it offers that extra edge with LDAC.
Who should buy each?
Choose the JBL Live 770NC if: you need up to 65 hours of battery life, you want Active Noise Cancelling for a quieter experience, or you enjoy customizable sound profiles.
Choose the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) if: you prioritize high-resolution audio for music, you want a headphone at 10.8oz, or you need a wired option that works without battery.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.4★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose JBL Live
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 3,219 reviews vs 1,519
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Excellent battery life Priority
Excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency
→ Choose JBL Live
Exceptional battery life Priority
Exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency
→ Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Bottom line: The JBL Live 770NC edges ahead with a 4.6★ rating compared to 4.4★. However, Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: JBL Live 770NC or Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)?
JBL Live 770NC is the better choice if you prioritize excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) wins if you value exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Both are rated highly (4.6★ vs 4.4★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between JBL Live 770NC and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black)?
Key differences: JBL Live 770NC offers excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency, while Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) stands out with exceptional battery life (up to 50 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Consider that JBL Live 770NC microphone functionality is disabled when using the wired connection. Meanwhile, Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 (Black) lacks active noise cancelling (anc) and transparency modes found in competitors. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 26, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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