Skip to content
HearWiki

AKG K490NC vs JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 81. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones - Outstanding overall at around $30.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones leads on 6 of 7 measures.

  • AKG K490NC
  • JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones
HearWiki score
36
81
Sound
6.0
6.4
Noise cancelling
3.5
-
Battery
6.0
9.0
Calls
-
6.2
Value
-
9.0
Price (USD)
$50
$30

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones is 6 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. The platform is level; the newer hardware shows up in convenience features instead - the JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones adds USB-C. For 6 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • K490NC2018
  • JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones20246 yr newer
What differsK490NCJBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones

Everyday features

USB-C
No
Yes

Specifications

K490NCJBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones
Type
On-Ear
On-Ear
Price (USD)
$50
$30
HearWiki score
36
81
Released
2018
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
40 mm dynamic
40 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
40 mm
Drivers per side
-
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
32 Ω
Sensitivity
117 dB/mW
-
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
117
-
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC
Multipoint pairing
-
No
Wireless range
-
9 m
Battery life
-
70 h
Full charge time
-
180 min
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
Yes
No
ANC type
-
none
Transparency mode
-
No
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
No
Controls
-
buttons
Weight
150 g
150 g
Foldable
Yes
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
Yes
Connector
3.5 mm
-
Microphones
-
1
Microphone type
-
MEMS
Mic sensitivity
-
-42 dBV

What reviewers said

AKG K490NC

The AKG K490NC are lightweight, foldable on-ear headphones that pair a balanced 40mm dynamic driver with active noise cancellation for everyday listening. Their sound and ANC are competent for casual use, though not class-leading, and the included wired connection with detachable cable adds flexibility at a budget-friendly price. Battery life and portability are highlights, making them a solid pick for commuters rather than critical listeners.

  • Pro:Lightweight and foldable for easy travel
  • Pro:Balanced sound with decent clarity for the price
  • Pro:Active noise cancellation works well for casual environments
  • Con:ANC and soundstage are only middling, not top-tier
  • Con:High mids and sub-bass decay could be better
  • Con:Recharge via a non-standard USB-to-2.5mm cable

JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones

The JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones are a budget-friendly on-ear option designed with safety and convenience in mind, featuring volume limiting and a remarkably long battery life. They offer a straightforward wireless experience with Bluetooth 5.3, a built-in mic, and a simple button control scheme, making them a practical choice for younger listeners. While they perform well for their intended audience, the fit may be snug for older kids, which can impact comfort and sound isolation.

  • Pro:Volume limiting for hearing safety
  • Pro:Exceptional 70-hour battery life
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for younger kids
  • Con:Ear cups may feel small for older children
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or transparency mode
  • Con:Plastic build feels less durable than premium options

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonAKG K490NCJLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones