JBL Live 770NC vs Bose QuietComfort SC
The JBL Live 770NC is a no-brainer for anyone who values battery life, boasting an impressive 65-hour playtime compared to the Bose QuietComfort SC's 24 hours. In real-world use, this means you can binge your favorite shows or enjoy long commutes without worrying about recharging every few days. The deciding factor here is the JBL's outstanding battery, allowing up to 50 hours with ANC on. Meanwhile, the Bose excels in comfort and noise cancellation, but its limited battery life may not be ideal for heavy users. If you're always on the go, the JBL is hard to beat.
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JBL Live 770NC
Bose QuietComfort SC
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 Bose QuietComfort SC
JBL Live 770NC
Bose QuietComfort SC
| Criterion | JBL Live 770NC | Bose QuietComfort SC |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(1,519)Amazon | ★4.6(16,733)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 + 3.5mm AUX (wired) | Bluetooth 5.1 + 2.5mm Jack (Analog) + USB-C (Charging only) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio ready via OTA update) | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | SBC, AAC (LC3 ready via future update) | AAC, SBC |
ANC | Yes (True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with 4 noise-sensing mics) | Yes (Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, Custom Modes with Wind Block) |
Transparency | Yes (Smart Ambient / TalkThru) | Yes (Aware Mode with ActiveSense) |
Drivers | 40mm Dynamic Drivers (JBL Signature Sound) | Bose TriPort acoustic architecture (Proprietary) |
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz (Wireless) / 20 Hz – 40,000 Hz (Wired) | Not disclosed by manufacturer |
Microphones | 2 Beamforming Microphones for calls (Wind-noise reduction) | Built-in microphone array (calls/ANC) + In-line microphone on audio cable |
Battery Life | Up to 65 hours (ANC off) / Up to 50 hours (ANC on) | Up to 24 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) |
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; 2.5 hours full charge; 15 min rapid charge = up to 4 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Multi-point connection for 2 devices) | Yes (2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | Yes (Video Mode available via JBL Headphones App) | No (Standard SBC/AAC latency) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Detachable 3.5mm audio cable included; Microphone DOES NOT work in wired mode) | Yes (2.5mm to 3.5mm analog cable included; works passively without battery) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating stated) | None (No IP rating) |
Weight | 9.03 oz (256 g) | 8.5 oz (240 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Power, Bluetooth) + Touch Control on earcup (Voice Assistant, ANC) | Physical buttons (Power/BT, Volume +/-, Multi-function, Action button) |
App Eq | JBL Headphones App (Personi-Fi 2.0, Parametric EQ, Spatial Sound) | Bose Music app (3-band EQ, Custom ANC modes, Shortcut settings) |
Extras | JBL Spatial Sound; Auto Play/Pause; Google Finder support; Comfort-fit fabric headband | Soft carrying case (SC exclusive); SimpleSync (connect to Bose soundbars); Spotify Tap |
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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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Bose QuietComfort SC
✓ Pros:
- • World-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and Wind Block
- • Extremely comfortable 'clamp-free' fit suitable for all-day wear
- • Physical buttons provide reliable control compared to touch gestures
- • Soft case makes the headphones easier to pack into tight bags than hard shells
- • Multipoint Bluetooth allows seamless switching between phone and laptop
✗ Cons:
- • Soft case offers significantly less impact protection than the standard hard case
- • Lacks high-bitrate codecs (aptX/LDAC) found in competitors
- • Wired connection requires a 2.5mm cable (less common than 3.5mm)
- • No USB-C audio support (USB port is for charging only)
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Which one is better?
The JBL Live 770NC is the better buy for most people - its incredible 65-hour battery life crushes the Bose QuietComfort SC's 24 hours. That said, grab the Bose if you need top-notch noise cancellation and comfort - it's lighter at 8.5oz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the JBL Live 770NC if: you want the longest battery life for non-stop listening, you frequently switch between devices with Bluetooth multipoint, or you enjoy a custom sound profile tailored to your hearing. (9.03 oz weight)
Choose the Bose QuietComfort SC if: you prioritize superior noise cancellation for travel, you prefer a lighter headphone design for long wear, or you want reliable physical buttons for controls. (8.47 oz weight)
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
JBL Live 770NC excels if you value excellent battery life (up to 65 hours) minimizes charging frequency. Bose QuietComfort SC is better if you prioritize world-class noise cancellation with adjustable modes and wind block. 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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