Review of Jabra Elite 8 Active: Testing the Toughest Earbuds
The newest pair of workout-focused earbuds from Jabra have been hailed as “the world’s toughest buds,” and on paper they do appear to live up to this boast. These earphones are extremely durable and can withstand a decent amount of bumps and drops thanks to their superior waterproofing and sturdy design.
However, the Jabra Elite 8 Active comes with a hefty $199 price tag. Do they merit the expense? I’ve tested them out during travel, exercise, and leisure to help you make an informed choice.
Design and construction
Black, Caramel, Grey, and Navy Blue are the four fashionable color choices for the Jabra Elite 8 Active. Three sets of ear gels are included in the package to fit various ear shapes, and their circular design includes a closed-seal tip. The earphones in question are small and light, weighing only 5 grams each.
Their IP68 rating, which is uncommon among earbuds, is one distinguishing characteristic. This implies that you can use them confidently and damage-free close to water. However, swimming with them is not practical due to Bluetooth’s underwater limits. You would require headphones with dedicated offline music storage for listening while submerged.
Although additional wings or hooks for added stability are not included, the earbuds are pleasant for prolonged wear and can stay in place during a variety of activities.
The shell and buds’ rubberized covering can absorb dirt and markings more readily than other rivals, but both have proven resilient against mild knocks.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active has buttons on each bud with each one having a specific function instead of touch controls. These buttons are responsive, but they can also be a little unsettling, possibly forcing the bud farther into your ear canal.
Intelligent Features
It’s simple to pair the earbuds with your smartphone: just take them out of the case, press the buttons for three seconds to enter pairing mode, and then connect them via Bluetooth settings.
For iOS and Android, Jabra provides the Jabra+ app to maximize their functionality. EQ levels, button controls, and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) settings can all be adjusted here.
Six audio presets, including Neutral, Speech, Bass Boost, Treble Boost, Smooth, and Energize, are available in the app. Additionally, sliders for customizing sound choices are available. The software supports Spotify Tap, Google Assistant on Android, and Siri on iOS, and it provides options for adjusting call audio output.
The Jabra app has a simple, adaptable interface and a seamless user experience.
Bluetooth connectivity is dependable and has a 33-foot maximum range. Additionally, on-ear recognition, which can be turned on or off in the app settings, pauses audio playback when you take out one or both earbuds.
Sound caliber
The Jabra Elite 8 Active has 6mm drivers with a 20–20000Hz frequency range. They lack the high-resolution codec support offered in certain competitors, despite supporting common codecs like SBC and AAC.
The audio quality is still excellent, giving a well-balanced sound profile across the bass, mids, and highs. It is possible to adjust the listening experience using several EQ modes.
The earphones are adept at handling a range of musical genres, offering clarity and vocal and instrument differentiation. Although this can be changed in the EQ settings, the bass may not have enough “thump” in the standard configuration. On these headphones, rock, pop, and funk music all sound great.
backing for While Dolby spatial audio improves cinematic immersion, it might not be the best option for playing back regular music.
The Elite 8 Active’s Active Noise Cancellation is strong and effectively reduces background noise. The Talk Through/Ambient mode is a useful tool for keeping your surroundings in mind while listening.
The battery’s life and charging
The Jabra Elite 8 Active excels at battery life. They provide a single charge lasting up to eight hours, which may be increased to 32 hours when using ANC and a case. The case can give an astonishing 56 hours of listening without ANC, while the earphones by themselves can do the same for 14 hours.
Jabra warns that it could take up to three hours for a full charge, although charging is generally slow, averaging about 2 hours and 35 minutes. One hour of listening time can be obtained after a five-minute rapid charge thanks to the capability for wireless charging.
Amount and Availability
Priced at $199, Jabra, Amazon, and Walmart all sell the Jabra Elite 8 Active. For further assurance, Jabra offers a two-year warranty.
Is the Jabra Elite 8 Active a Good Investment?
Even though the Jabra Elite 8 Active is expensive, it is justified, especially if you require dependable workout earphones. These earphones are exceptionally strong, comfortable, and dust- and water-resistant. Across all musical genres, the sound quality is impressive, and the ANC works well.
Although there are a number of expensive alternatives available, your decision should be based on your unique demands and preferences.
