JBL Unveils Three New Gaming Headsets, Including a High-End Model
▼ Summary
– JBL has announced three new gaming headsets, the Quantum 250, 650X, and 950X, for the US market in 2026 as part of its CES announcements.
– The flagship Quantum 950X is a wireless headset with Hi-Res Audio, a hot-swappable battery for 50 hours of life, and a wireless base station for controls and RGB lighting.
– The Quantum 950X also features a 6mm AI noise-canceling microphone, spatial sound, and 3D head tracking, and will cost $399.95 in black in April 2026.
– The mid-range Quantum 650X, releasing in April for $199.95, retains spatial audio and the AI microphone but omits the base station and 3D head tracking.
– The budget Quantum 250 is a lightweight wired headset with basic features, available in black or white for $79.95 in March 2026.
JBL is expanding its gaming audio lineup with three new headsets set to launch in the US market throughout 2026. The announcement, made during CES 2026, introduces models designed to cater to a wide range of budgets and performance needs, from an affordable wired option to a feature-packed wireless flagship. This strategic release aims to solidify JBL’s position in the competitive gaming peripheral space by offering distinct choices for casual and dedicated gamers alike.
Leading the pack is the JBL Quantum 950X, a new wireless flagship headset priced at $399.95. This premium model is built for an immersive experience, featuring 50mm carbon dynamic drivers certified for Hi-Res Audio. A key convenience is the inclusion of a spare battery, enabling hot-swapping for a combined 50 hours of total battery life. The headset connects via a dedicated wireless base station, which provides physical controls for EQ presets and game-chat balance without requiring software. It also includes customizable RGB lighting. For communication, it uses a 6mm cardioid microphone with AI-powered background noise reduction. Advanced audio features include support for spatial sound and 3D head tracking to enhance positional awareness in games. The Quantum 950X is scheduled for an April 2026 release in a black color option.
For gamers seeking a strong mid-range alternative, the JBL Quantum 650X offers a compelling balance of features at $199.95. Also launching in April 2026, this model retains several high-end technologies while forgoing some premium extras. It supports spatial audio and uses the same quality drivers and AI-enhanced microphone as the flagship. However, it does not include the wireless base station or the 3D head tracking functionality. This headset will be available exclusively in black.
Completing the trio is the budget-friendly JBL Quantum 250, a wired headset priced at just $79.95. Aimed at simplicity and value, this lightweight model is set for a slightly earlier release in March 2026. It will be offered in both black and white. Despite its accessible price point, JBL has included support for spatial audio and equipped it with capable drivers and a microphone, ensuring a solid core gaming audio experience without the complexity of wireless connectivity or advanced software controls.
It’s worth noting that the Quantum 250 was previously announced for Europe during Gamescom 2025. European markets also already have access to models equivalent to the US-bound Quantum 650X and 950X, simply named the Quantum 650 and Quantum 950 without the “X” suffix. The upcoming US releases represent the formal introduction of this refreshed lineup to American consumers.
(Source: TechRadar)
