JBL has unveiled three new gaming headsets—the Quantum 520 Wireless, the Quantum 520X Wireless, and the wired Quantum 120—which are now available for 44.99 to 99.99 euros. All three models feature 50-mm carbon drivers, JBL Spatial Sound, and the QuantumENGINE software, complementing the JBL Quantum 650 Wireless—the mid-range flagship—to form a complete Quantum lineup. Whether you want to game wirelessly or prefer the more affordable, wired model, the lineup now offers an option for virtually every budget.
Three New Models for a Larger Setup
With these three new headsets, JBL is systematically expanding its gaming portfolio down to the entry-level segment. Until now, the Quantum 650 Wireless represented the mid-range of the lineup; now, three additional options are being added: the Quantum 520 Wireless, the Xbox-certified Quantum 520X Wireless, and the entry-level wired model, the Quantum 120.
According to Carsten Olesen, President of Consumer Audio at HARMAN, this expansion is intended to make high-quality sound accessible to gamers of “all skill levels,” from beginners to ambitious pros.
50-mm drivers and JBL Spatial Sound for precise sound localization
Technically, all four current Quantum models (650, 520, 520X, and 120) share the same 50-mm carbon dynamic driver and JBL Spatial Sound technology. This technology is designed to ensure that footsteps, an approaching opponent, or the sound of a weapon being reloaded can still be clearly pinpointed even from a greater distance. Especially in competitive shooters, this can provide a decisive advantage when you hear an opponent before you see them.
Detachable Microphone and Fine-Tuning via QuantumENGINE
All four headsets come with a detachable 6-mm cardioid boom microphone featuring noise cancellation, ensuring your voice remains clear in team chat even during loud gaming sessions. The JBL QuantumENGINE software lets you customize sound, microphone settings, and profiles—handy for anyone who wants to save separate presets for different games or genres.
Battery Life and Colors
In terms of battery life, the Quantum 650 remains in the lead with up to 45 hours, while the two new wireless models, the Quantum 520 and 520X, offer up to 37 hours. A five-minute quick charge provides an additional hour of playtime for all three wireless headsets. The wired Quantum 120, of course, does not require a battery. There are four color options to choose from: the understated classics Ice and Black, as well as the more eye-catching shades Coral and Purple. The available colors depend on the model: the 520X is currently available exclusively in black.
Connectivity: wireless, wired, or for the Xbox
The Quantum 520 and 520X can connect via a 2.4-GHz dongle, Bluetooth 5.3, or a low-latency USB-C cable. The Quantum 520X is also Xbox-certified, delivering high-quality wireless sound on Microsoft’s console. For those who prefer wired play anyway, the Quantum 120 with a 3.5-mm jack offers an affordable alternative that, according to JBL, packs the sound, feature set, and comfort of the more expensive models into a lighter design.
Pricing and Availability
The new headsets will be available starting August 26, 2026. The JBL Quantum 120 costs 44.99 euros (44.95 CHF), while the Quantum 520 and Quantum 520X are each priced at 99.99 euros (99.95 CHF). For comparison: The Quantum 650 is still priced at 149.99 euros. All models are available now directly from JBL and at specialty retailers.
Technical Specifications Comparison
| Feature | JBL Quantum 650 | JBL Quantum 520 | JBL Quantum 520X | JBL Quantum 120 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driver size | 50-mm carbon dynamic | 50-mm carbon dynamic | 50-mm carbon dynamic | 50-mm carbon dynamic |
| JBL Spatial Sound | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hi-Res Audio | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| JBL QuantumENGINE | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity | Dual-wireless (2.4 GHz dongle/Bluetooth 5.3), USB-C wired | Dual wireless (2.4 GHz dongle/Bluetooth 5.3), USB-C wired | Dual wireless (2.4 GHz dongle/Bluetooth 5.3), USB-C wired | 3.5-mm audio cable |
| Microphone | Detachable 6-mm cardioid boom microphone with noise cancellation | Detachable 6-mm cardioid boom microphone with noise cancellation | Detachable 6-mm cardioid boom microphone with noise cancellation | Detachable 6-mm cardioid boom microphone with noise cancellation |
| Battery life | Up to 45 hours (5-minute quick charge = 1 hour) | Up to 37 hours (5-minute quick charge = 1 hour) | Up to 37 hours (5-minute quick charge = 1 hour) | Not available (wired) |
| Compatibility | Windows PC, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, PlayStation | Windows PC, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, PlayStation | Windows PC, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation | Windows PC, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, all gaming consoles |
| Colors | Black, White, Teal, Purple | Black, Ice, Coral, Purple | Black | Black, Ice, Coral, Purple |
| Price (MSRP) | €149.99 / CHF 149.95 | €99.99 / CHF 99.95 | 99.99 € / 99.95 CHF | 44.99 € / 44.95 CHF |
Conclusion
With the Quantum 520, 520X, and 120, JBL bridges the gap between entry-level and mid-range headsets, offering a suitable option within its own Quantum series for virtually every need and budget. Those looking to step up a notch will find the new JBL Quantum 850, the series’ current flagship model. Our review of the Sony INZONE H9 II provides a comparison with the competition in the premium segment; if you’re looking in a similar price range to the Quantum 520 and 520X, you might also want to check out the new beyerdynamic MMX 100 wireless and MMX 130 wireless.
