First impressions matter, and the Tour Pro 3's charging case definitely makes one. Though perhaps not always for the better. After years of witnessing the relentless march towards smaller and lighter charging cases, the Tour Pro 3 feels like it’s decided to go against the grain. It’s not absurdly big, but if you’ve been spoiled by the increasingly svelte true wireless designs over the years, this one’s bulk is noticeable. Slipping it into jeans or a compact sling isn’t as seamless as, say, the Sony WF-1000XM5 or the AirPods Pro.
The headline feature, of course, is the 1.5-inch colour touchscreen on the front of the case. It’s capacitive, not resistive, so technically modern, but visually and functionally, it’s more 2012 Android phone than 2025 smartwatch. Navigation is stiff, icons are dated, and responsiveness leaves a lot to be desired. It looks cool and will definitely earn glances on the metro, but it’s more form than function. Using it to switch tracks, ANC modes, or adjust volume defeats the point of “leaving your phone in your pocket” because now you’re clutching a smaller, less useful screen instead. It’s a gimmick, albeit a novel one, and only really makes sense in specific cases (like when your phone’s out of reach and your smartwatch is out of juice).
The buds themselves? Stocky, short-stemmed, and lightweight, but with a choice of silicone or foam ear tips and JBL has gone the extra mile to offer different sound tuning for both kinds of eartips. Through the app, you can specify which ones you are using with the Tour Pro 3 and the system will reboot with new EQ curves! Easy fit, good seal, and nothing too polarizing in the aesthetics but the “feel” could be more premium. They’re IPX55 rated though, so sweat and rain won’t pose a threat.