JBL is using August 26 to roll out a major overhaul of its gaming portfolio. The Quantum 850 is a new premium headset featuring head tracking and adaptive noise cancellation. The Quantum 520 and Quantum 520X occupy the 100-euro wireless segment, while the wired Quantum 120 serves as the entry-level model for less than 50 euros. In between, the already available Quantum 650, priced at 149.99 euros, remains in the lineup.
All models feature dynamic 50-mm drivers and are designed to provide precise spatial localization via JBL Quantum Spatial Sound. The newly updated JBL QuantumENGINE software handles the calibration of sound, microphone, and individual profiles.
JBL Quantum 850 with Head Tracking and ANC
The JBL Quantum 850 is positioned just below the top-of-the-line Quantum 950. Its Hi-Res-certified 50-mm carbon drivers are designed to make even subtle details and the direction of movement more discernible thanks to their extended high-frequency response.
JBL Quantum Spatial Sound, combined with head tracking, creates a three-dimensional soundscape. It also features adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC), which is designed to reduce distracting ambient noise. For communicating with teammates, the headset includes a detachable, unidirectional 6-mm boom microphone with noise cancellation.
Using a low-latency 2.4 GHz USB-C dongle and Bluetooth 5.3, the Quantum 850 can connect to two sources simultaneously. For example, you can play game audio from your PC while your smartphone remains connected for calls. Alternatively, USB-C and a 3.5-mm analog jack are available.
One of its standout features is its repairability: the microphone, USB cable, ear cushions, ear cup covers, headband, and even the battery can all be replaced. The Quantum 850 is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, PlayStation, and Nintendo systems. It also has Zoom certification.
However, buyers will have to do without the base station that comes with the more expensive Quantum 950. It allows direct access to sound and lighting settings, as well as quick charging of a replaceable battery.
The Quantum 650, 520, and 520X transmit twice
The Quantum 650, Quantum 520, and Quantum 520X also support both a low-latency 2.4 GHz connection and Bluetooth 5.3. In addition, a wired USB-C connection is available.
Priced at 149.99 euros, the Quantum 650 bridges the gap between the new premium model and the 520 series. Its battery is rated to last up to 45 hours. The microphone, ear cushions, ear cup covers, and cable are all replaceable. JBL offers this model in black, white, teal, and purple.
According to the manufacturer, the Quantum 520 and Quantum 520X offer up to 37 hours of battery life. Five minutes on the charger is said to provide enough power for another hour of playtime on all three wireless models.
Technically, the Quantum 520 and Quantum 520X differ only slightly. However, the X model has official Xbox certification and is available exclusively in black. The standard Quantum 520, on the other hand, is available in black as well as the new colors Ice, Coral, and Purple.
Quantum 120 relies on the cable
At 44.99 euros, the JBL Quantum 120 is the most affordable model in the new series. It requires neither a battery nor a wireless dongle; instead, it connects to a PC, smartphone, or game console via a 3.5-mm audio cable.
Despite its low price, JBL also highlights the Quantum 120’s Hi-Res-capable 50-mm carbon driver, Quantum Spatial Sound, and a detachable 6-mm noise-canceling cardioid microphone. This lightweight wired model is available in black, ice, coral, and purple.
Prices and availability
The new gaming headsets will be available starting August 26, 2026, or, in the case of the Quantum 850, starting in August:
- JBL Quantum 850: 279.99 euros
- JBL Quantum 650: 149.99 euros
- JBL Quantum 520: 99.99 euros
- JBL Quantum 520X: 99.99 euros
- JBL Quantum 120: 44.99 euros
