JBL's most exciting earbuds are three new open-ear models

JBL is updating its entire Bluetooth headphone lineup, but a couple of open-ear models stand out from the rest.

The JBL Sense Pro and Sense Lite series are two major entries into the open-ear earbud category. The form-factor isn’t one that caters to everyone, but it offers some standout features that make it a great choice. Namely, it doesn’t block out environmental noises, which serves as a safeguard as well as a preference.

The Sense Pros are JBL’s more premium model. The company notes that each makes heavy strides in providing bass response, even without a closed connection. There are 16.2mm drivers in the earbuds, and they supposedly deliver High-Res Audio resting up against the ear, which is great to see in this form.

JBL notes the Sense Pro open-ear earbuds also provide excellent call quality with a specialized Voice Pickup Sensor tech embedded in. That utilizes the four microphones with a little AI sprinkled in.

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The Sense Pros last 38 hours on using the case, with each full charge lasting around 8 hours.

The Sense Lite series, on the other hand, promotes comfort over audio quality. They offer a similar call experience but likely don’t have the same punch as the Pro model. On the plus side, these come with an IP54 water and dust resistance rating for heavier action.

These get around 32 hours of runtime. The difference is in the case, which has a slightly lower battery capacity than the premium model.

Both models look incredibly comfortable. The over-ear design allows for pressure relief from the ear canal itself and makes for what’s generally a better experience in conditions where noise isolation isn’t necessary. Both models come in a white and black colorway.

The JBL Sense Pro starts at $199.95, and the JBL Sense Lite comes in at $149.95, with availability for both in March 2026.

JBL also dropped a new release for users who are looking for something a little different.

The Soundgear Clips are also considered open-ear, but they come in a much different form factor. Rather than an over-ear design that wraps around the top, the Soundgear Clips wrap around the center, arching outward from the ear to secure from behind. That air conduction design allows for a more acute sound performance and better bass and less sound leakage, according to JBL.

The buds get an acceptable 32 hours of playback with the case. Without it, each one sees 8 hours of use. On top of that, the earphones are IP54 water and dust resistant, and they bring touch controls.

The JBL Soundgear Clips will be available in March, too, starting at $149.95.