JBL Tune 510BT Review: Sound Performance and Specs

The JBL Tune 510BT is an affordable wireless headphone option that prioritizes bass-heavy sound, long battery life, and convenient Bluetooth connectivity. It features JBL Pure Bass Sound, which is the same tuning found in many of JBL’s larger sound systems, emphasizing deep, punchy low-end frequencies. The wireless Bluetooth connection allows for seamless pairing with two devices, meaning you can listen to music on your laptop and take calls on your phone without constantly reconnecting. With up to 40 hours of battery life, it’s built for all-day listening, and a quick 5-minute charge provides an additional 2 hours of playtime. It also includes a built-in microphone for hands-free calls and support for Siri and Google Assistant activation via a multi-function button. These headphones are designed to be lightweight and adjustable, making them a practical choice for casual listening and daily use.

Specs Table

Here is a detailed specs table for the JBL Tune 510BT headphones:

SpecificationDetails
Audio TechnologyJBL Pure Bass Sound
Driver Size32mm Dynamic Drivers
Frequency Response20Hz – 20kHz
Impedance32 Ohms
Sensitivity103.5 dB SPL @ 1kHz/1mW
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0
Multi-Device ConnectionYes (Switch between two devices)
Wireless RangeUp to 10 meters (33 feet)
Battery LifeUp to 40 hours
Charging Time~2 hours (Full charge)
Quick Charge5 minutes = 2 hours playback
Charging PortUSB Type-C
MicrophoneYes (Built-in, for calls and voice assistant)
Voice Assistant SupportYes (Siri, Google Assistant)
ControlsOn-ear buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Calls, Voice Assistant)
Noise CancellationNo (Passive noise isolation only)
Ear Cup TypeOn-ear
Headband AdjustmentYes (Adjustable headband)
Foldable DesignYes
WeightApprox. 160g
Connectivity OptionsBluetooth (Wireless only, No wired option)

Sound Performance

When I tested the Tune 510BT, I wanted to see how well it handled different music genres and especially with bass-heavy genres. I started with The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights”, a track that thrives on thumping bass and sharp synths, and the Pure Bass Sound definitely came through, making the beat feel full and immersive. In Billie Eilish’s “Everything I Wanted”, the low-end was deep and smooth, though I noticed that the mids could feel a little recessed, making the vocals slightly less forward in the mix. Switching to rock, I played Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”, and while the instrumentation remained clear, the emphasis on bass made the highs a bit less crisp than I would prefer for more detailed tracks. For jazz, I tried Miles Davis’ “So What”, and while the bass response gave warmth to the upright bass, the lack of a more refined treble range made the cymbals sound slightly less detailed. Overall, it performed well for pop, hip-hop, and electronic music, but for more balanced or detailed genres like classical or acoustic, the sound leaned more toward a bass-forward profile.

The bass on this headphone is strong and punchy giving music a deep and powerful feel, especially in genres like hip-hop, pop, and EDM. Vocals and instruments in the midrange are clear but can sometimes sit a little behind the bass. The highs add some sparkle without being too sharp or harsh. It’s not the most detailed or balanced sound out there, but it delivers a warm and lively listening experience that you will really enjoy.

JBL Tune 510BT Review
The JBL Tune 510BT headphones are foldable and lightweight

Design

In terms of design and comfort, the Tune 510BT is built for convenience rather than premium aesthetics. The plastic construction keeps it lightweight, which is great for long listening sessions, though it doesn’t feel as premium as some higher-end headphones. The ear cups have a soft padding, which is comfortable for short to moderate wear, but after a few hours, I did notice some pressure on the ears, which is common for on-ear headphones rather than over-ear designs. The adjustable headband helps with fit, making it suitable for different head sizes, and it folds down easily for portability. The buttons on the ear cup are straightforward, making it easy to adjust volume, pause music, or take calls without needing to reach for a phone. There’s no active noise cancellation, so background noise can still seep in, making it less ideal for commuting or noisy environments.

The Verdict?

Personally, I would go with the JBL Tune 510BT if I wanted an affordable, bass-heavy wireless headphone with long battery life and an easy-to-use design. Compared to something like the Sony WH-CH520, which has a similar price point but a slightly weaker bass response, I think the JBL is a better choice for bass lovers. The Skullcandy Riff Wireless 2 is also another good choice, providing similar sound quality with a slightly more comfortable fit, but the Tune 510BT wins with its longer battery life and multi-device connectivity. If you listen to hip-hop, EDM, or pop, and need a reliable wireless headphone for daily use, this is a great budget option for the bass and beats.