When comparing JBuds J4 vs GrizzlyBuds, the Slant community recommends JBuds J4 for most people. In the question“What are the best rugged and durable earbuds & IEMs that last?” JBuds J4 is ranked 4th while GrizzlyBuds is ranked 18th. The most important reason people chose JBuds J4 is:
J4 cables are reinforced with kevlar to resist breakage. The flat design helps prevent kinks, as the cable coils rather than twisting or bunching. Also, tough and flexible reinforced exoskeletons protect the cable connections and joints.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Durable Kevlar-reinforced flat cables with strain relief
J4 cables are reinforced with kevlar to resist breakage. The flat design helps prevent kinks, as the cable coils rather than twisting or bunching. Also, tough and flexible reinforced exoskeletons protect the cable connections and joints.
Pro Heavy-duty aluminum housing
JBuds J4 components are protected by rigid aluminum cylinders, capped with aluminum grills.
Pro Detailed sounding highs with punchy bass
Overall sound is quite bassy, with low end that is very punchy and fast, so it does not muddy up the music. The mids are slightly recessed, though the vocals can still be quite clearly heard as the bass does not overpower it. Highs on the other hand sound pretty good as they are clear and detailed without getting harsh.
Pro A good number of accessories are bundled
With the J4, you get an EVA foam carrying case for even more protection and convenience when bringing these on the go. Also, there are two sets of silicone ear tips: 3 pairs of single flange tips as well as 3 pairs of double flange tips. A shirt clip is also included.
Pro Sustainable design
GrizzlyBuds are committed to reducing consumer waste. Each part can be individually replaced, meaning that no working parts need to be thrown away if just one piece breaks.
Pro Replacement parts are cheap
If one of the speakers goes out, it costs $14 to replace. If the cable goes out, it costs $11. Note that the assembled product is only $2 less than building it from parts.
Pro Good sound with excellent bass response
GrizzlyBuds' sound quality exceeds expectations for their price range.
Pro Extremely durable
Replaceable parts aside, GrizzlyBuds are built not to break in the first place. Earphone components are housed in aluminum cylinders, and the cable is reinforced with kevlar.
Cons
Con Heavy wires generate noise
The J4's thick cables carry sound like a stethoscope, including the sound of the cables themselves moving and rubbing against things. This can be particularly bad while walking or running.
Con Significant defect rate
Although the J4s are built to be durable, many users report them breaking down after 1-3 months of light use.
Con No volume control
The J4s come with a mic and control switch, but no built-in volume control.
Con Sketchy company
These originally appeared on Kickstarter as "IRONBuds", for which the company never delivered on their promised product. What they did deliver suffered from poor construction quality, and looks exactly like what is pictured here. The custom components that allow the parts to be swappable might have more value if they could be sourced from other companies or were held together with enough glue to keep them from falling apart in the first place.
Con No option for controls or mic
Despite a replaceable cable, GrizzlyBuds does not offer anything beyond basic headphone function.