The JBL Tune 510BT and JBL Tune 520BT are affordable, wireless on-ear headphones offering impressive features for everyday use.
Both models share similarities like a foldable design, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and a lightweight build.
However, the 520BT improves on key aspects, including enhanced bass, longer battery life (up to 57 hours), and Bluetooth 5.3 for better connectivity.
With upgraded comfort, sound quality, and minor refinements, the 520BT stands as a more advanced option, while the 510BT remains a solid budget-friendly choice.
Available Colors
JBL Tune 510BT:
Available in Black, White, Blue, and Pink, offering a variety of options to suit different personal styles.
These colors make it versatile for users seeking both casual and professional aesthetics.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Comes in the same color options as the 510BT—Black, White, Blue, and Pink.
This range ensures it appeals to a wide audience with both bold and neutral color choices.
Sound Quality
JBL Tune 510BT:
Offers clear highs and mids with good sound balance.
Some users find the bass a bit weak, making it more suited for general listening rather than bass-heavy genres.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Features enhanced bass and overall improved clarity.
This fuller sound profile makes it better for listeners who enjoy richer, more immersive music experiences across a range of genres.
Comfortability
JBL Tune 510BT:
Provides moderate comfort for shorter listening sessions, though the fit may feel tight for extended use, especially for users with larger head sizes.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Improved padding and fit make it more comfortable for long listening periods. Users will appreciate the softer feel and reduced ear pressure.
Fit
JBL Tune 510BT:
On-ear design offers a compact, portable option, though it provides less noise isolation compared to over-ear models.
Best suited for quieter environments.
JBL Tune 520BT:
On-ear design similar to the 510BT, with slightly better comfort and fit. Suitable for daily use and casual listening, especially in moderate noise settings.
Foldable Design
JBL Tune 510BT:
Foldable for easy portability, making it simple to store and ideal for on-the-go use.
This feature is perfect for traveling or commuting.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also foldable, providing the same portability benefits as the 510BT. Fits compactly into bags or cases, enhancing its convenience for transport.
Noise Cancellation
JBL Tune 510BT:
Lacks active noise cancellation; however, it provides passive noise isolation through a snug fit, making it suitable for low to moderate noise environments.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Similar to the 510BT, without active noise cancellation but with slightly improved passive isolation due to enhanced fit, blocking out background noise effectively.
Battery Life
JBL Tune 510BT:
Offers up to 40 hours of battery life, sufficient for most daily uses. This duration reduces the need for frequent recharging.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Extended battery life of up to 57 hours, perfect for users who need prolonged playback without frequent charging, ideal for travel and long listening sessions.
Battery Indicator
JBL Tune 510BT:
Includes a battery level indicator, allowing users to monitor battery status and avoid sudden shutdowns due to low power.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also has a battery indicator, providing the same convenience for tracking battery levels and ensuring it’s ready for use.
Charge Time
JBL Tune 510BT:
Fully charges in about 2 hours, making it easy to get a quick recharge and resume listening without much downtime.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Similar 2-hour charging time, providing a convenient quick-charge option for users on the go, keeping downtime to a minimum.
Charging Type
JBL Tune 510BT:
Uses USB Type-C for charging, providing a widely compatible and reversible connection that’s efficient and easy to use.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also charges via USB Type-C, ensuring a fast, convenient, and widely compatible charging experience, just like the 510BT.
Compare Here: Sony Wh-Ch520 vs JBL Tune 520BT
Weight
JBL Tune 510BT:
Weighs approximately 160 grams, which is comfortable for most users and easy to wear for moderate periods.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Slightly lighter at 157 grams, adding a bit more comfort and reducing fatigue for longer listening sessions.
Cable
JBL Tune 510BT:
Does not include a detachable or tangle-free cable, which could be less convenient for users who frequently store their headphones.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Features a tangle-free cable, making it easier to handle and store, providing an added layer of convenience for active users.
IP Rating
JBL Tune 510BT:
Lacks an official IP rating, meaning it is not specifically designed for water or dust resistance, best suited for indoor use.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Similarly lacks an IP rating, making it suitable for dry conditions, as it may not withstand exposure to moisture or heavy dust.
Stereo Speakers
JBL Tune 510BT:
Equipped with stereo speakers, providing a full, balanced sound experience suitable for music, movies, and gaming.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also includes stereo speakers, delivering an immersive experience similar to the 510BT, with enhanced sound clarity.
Microphone
JBL Tune 510BT:
Single built-in microphone, suitable for hands-free calls and voice commands, though it may lack the clarity of multi-microphone setups.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also has a single microphone, providing similar functionality for calls and voice assistant use, ideal for basic communication needs.
Lowest Frequency
JBL Tune 510BT:
Covers a frequency range from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, delivering full sound within the standard hearing range.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Offers the same frequency range, though enhanced bass response gives it a richer, more satisfying profile for music.
Driver Size
JBL Tune 510BT:
Features a 32 mm driver, providing decent sound output and clarity, suitable for general listening purposes.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Upgraded to a 33 mm driver, resulting in slightly stronger bass and a fuller, more impactful sound.
Control Method
JBL Tune 510BT:
Control buttons on the device allow easy access to playback, volume, and power functions, convenient for quick adjustments.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Similar on-device control buttons for playback and volume, providing straightforward functionality for managing settings and music.
Connectivity Type
JBL Tune 510BT:
Wireless Bluetooth connection for easy pairing with various devices, eliminating the need for cables.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also wireless, offering the same Bluetooth convenience as the 510BT, ideal for cord-free listening.
Bluetooth Version and Range
JBL Tune 510BT:
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, providing a standard range of around 10 meters for stable connectivity.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Upgraded to Bluetooth 5.3, which offers better stability and efficiency, though both models have similar effective ranges.
Multipoint Connection
JBL Tune 510BT:
Supports multipoint connection, allowing connection to two Bluetooth devices at once for seamless switching.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also supports multipoint, enabling easy transitions between two devices, perfect for multitaskers.
Warranty
JBL Tune 510BT:
Typically comes with a 1-year warranty, covering manufacturing defects, providing peace of mind for users.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Also has a 1-year warranty, offering the same coverage as the 510BT, though specifics may vary by region.
APTX
JBL Tune 510BT:
Lacks advanced Bluetooth codecs like APTX, LDAC, or AAC, focusing on standard audio quality for casual listening.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Similarly lacks these codecs, making both models more suitable for everyday audio needs than high-fidelity listening.
In/On Ear Detection
JBL Tune 510BT:
Does not feature in/on-ear detection or app support, providing straightforward functionality without extra customization.
JBL Tune 520BT:
Lacks in/on-ear detection as well, offering a simple user experience with no additional app-based adjustments.