Jabra Elite 7 Active Review, Specs, Features, Pros and Cons

Meet the Jabra Elite 7 Active, the ultimate companion for those leading an active lifestyle. These sports earbuds redefine your audio experience during workouts, runs, and strenuous exercises. With precision engineering and innovative features, the Elite 7 Active stands out as a remarkable choice in the world of fitness-focused audio devices.

The Elite 7 Active is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including Jabra ShakeGrip, which ensures a secure fit without the need for traditional ear wings. Additionally, it features Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for an immersive audio experience that enhances your focus during workouts.

It’s important to note that the Jabra Elite 7 Active has been succeeded by the more advanced Jabra Elite 8 Active. Nevertheless, we’ve thoroughly tested the Elite 7 Active and are here to provide you with an in-depth review based on our experiences.

This table provides a concise overview of the specifications and features of the Jabra Elite 7 Active:

Aspect/Spec/Feature	Details
Design	Weighs 5.5g; ShakeGrip technology for secure fit; IP57 water-resistance rating; Discreet Elite 7 Active EarGel design for noise isolation
Sound Quality	6mm custom speakers for deep bass, balanced mid-ranges, and nuanced treble
Noise Cancellation	Active Noise Cancellation (ANC); Adjustable levels via Jabra Sound+ app; HearThrough technology for awareness of surroundings
Microphones	6 MEMS microphones with SAATI Acoustex® mesh for wind protection
App Integration	Jabra Sound+ app for battery status, customizable music EQ, MyControls, MyFit, and MySound
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.2 technology; Supports AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs; Bluetooth multi-point connection for 2 devices
Voice Assistants	Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri
Battery Life	Up to 8 hours with ANC on; Additional 22 hours with charging case; 5-minute fast charge for up to an hour of power
Additional Features	Mono mode, HearThrough technology, Music auto pause
Price	Approximately $180
Accessories	3 sets of EarGels, charging case, USB-C to USB-A cable

Our goal is to offer you comprehensive insights, helping you make informed decisions about your audio gear, even as newer models emerge in the market. Stay with us as we explore the Elite 7 Active and the benefits it brings to your active lifestyle.

Jabra Elite 7 Active Review Deep Analysis

Design and Fit

The Jabra Elite 7 Active shines in its design and fit, catering to those living an active lifestyle. However, our comprehensive testing revealed a few insights worth considering.

• Lightweight Marvel: Weighing merely 5.5 grams, these earbuds are incredibly light, ensuring minimal distraction during intense workouts. The lightweight design contributes to overall comfort, allowing you to focus wholeheartedly on your fitness endeavors.
• ShakeGrip Technology: Jabra’s ShakeGrip technology is a standout feature, offering a secure fit beyond conventional ear wing designs. The innovative liquid silicone rubber compound ensures a secure and comfortable fit. It keeps the earbuds firmly in place during various activities, eliminating the need for constant adjustments.
• EarGel Design: The discreet Elite 7 Active EarGel design provides not only comfort but also effective noise isolation. It snugly fits in the ear, creating a tight yet comfortable seal that enhances your workout experience by blocking external distractions.
• IP57 Water-Resistance Rating: For outdoor enthusiasts and those who work up a sweat, the IP57 water-resistance rating is reassuring. These earbuds are sweat-resistant and can handle splashes and brief water immersion, ensuring their durability in various weather conditions.

However, it’s important to note that during our testing, prolonged wear of the Elite 7 Active may lead to some discomfort. While these earbuds excel in shorter sessions and intense workouts, wearing them for extended periods may cause mild discomfort that can be ignored altogether.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is paramount when it comes to sports earbuds, and the Jabra Elite 7 Active lives up to expectations, providing a balanced audio experience that enhances your workouts.

• Balanced Excellence: The Elite 7 Active doesn’t disappoint in the sound department. It delivers a spectrum of audio that covers deep bass, well-defined mid-ranges, and nuanced trebles. Whether you’re into heart-pounding beats to fuel your run or you prefer the clarity of your favorite podcast during your gym session, these earbuds have you covered. The balanced sound profile ensures that your music is both immersive and motivating, precisely what you need during a workout.
• Custom 6mm Speakers: At the heart of this exceptional audio experience are the 6mm custom speakers. These speakers are engineered to deliver not just loudness but clarity and depth as well. They infuse your music with power, making sure it resonates with you as you strive to reach your fitness goals. The rich, powerful sound experience provided by these speakers can be a genuine game-changer during intense workouts, keeping you motivated and energized.

During our testing, the impact of sound quality was undeniable. The Elite 7 Active’s ability to deliver deep bass notes made our runs feel like music-driven adventures, while the radiating mid-ranges brought an extra layer of intensity to our weightlifting sessions. It’s safe to say that the right music, with the right sound quality, can significantly enhance your workout experience, and these earbuds excel in this aspect.

However, it’s worth noting that we did encounter a minor challenge related to sound quality. While the sound is powerful and well-balanced, it may not fully satisfy audiophiles seeking the highest fidelity audio experience. If you have a discerning ear for every sonic nuance, you might notice some limitations. Nevertheless, for the majority of active individuals looking for a dynamic and motivating audio companion for their workouts, the Elite 7 Active delivers an impressive sound performance that keeps you in the zone.

Noise Cancellation

The Jabra Elite 7 Active doesn’t just offer impressive sound; it also incorporates Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to provide you with an immersive audio experience.

• ANC Functionality: Active Noise Cancellation is a technology that works diligently to block out external sounds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music or podcast. The Elite 7 Active accomplishes this with a simple tap of a button. When activated, the ANC feature creates a shield of quietness around you, ensuring that even in bustling environments like a crowded gym or a noisy urban street, your audio remains undisturbed.
• Adjustable Levels via Jabra Sound+ App: What sets these earbuds apart is the ability to fine-tune your noise cancellation preferences. Through the Jabra Sound+ app, you have the freedom to adjust the levels of ANC to your liking. Whether you want to completely block out the world or maintain awareness of your surroundings during outdoor workouts, this customization ensures that your audio experience aligns with your unique needs.
• HearThrough Technology: The Elite 7 Active also introduces the HearThrough technology, which adds an extra layer of versatility to your listening experience. With this feature, you can remain connected to your environment while still enjoying your music. This is particularly useful when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, such as during a jog in a park or when navigating through a busy city.

While our testing revealed that the noise cancellation on the Elite 7 Active is satisfactory and does an admirable job of isolating you from external distractions, it’s important to note that it may not quite reach the same level as premium noise-canceling earbuds like the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds, Jabra Elite 10, Sennheiser MTW 3, or Sony WF-1000XM5. These top-tier competitors excel in providing an even more immersive noise-canceling experience.

Nonetheless, for most active individuals, the Elite 7 Active’s noise cancellation is more than capable of elevating your workout or commute by creating a cocoon of quietness that lets you focus on what matters most—your audio content and your fitness goals.

Microphones and Call Clarity

The Jabra Elite 7 Active doesn’t just excel in delivering exceptional audio; it also ensures that your voice is transmitted with clarity, making it an ideal choice for clear and uninterrupted calls during your workouts.

• 6 MEMS Microphones: The Elite 7 Active boasts an impressive microphone setup featuring 6 MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical System) microphones. These microphones are strategically placed to capture your voice from various angles, ensuring that your calls are crystal clear. Whether you’re in a busy gym or braving the elements during an outdoor workout, these microphones work in harmony to isolate your voice from background noise, delivering a pristine audio experience to the person on the other end of the call.
• SAATI Acoustex® Mesh for Wind Protection: The Elite 7 Active goes the extra mile to ensure that wind noise doesn’t interfere with your calls. It incorporates SAATI Acoustex® mesh, a fine protective layer that effectively shields the microphones from wind interference. This technology comes into play during outdoor activities, where wind noise can often disrupt the clarity of your voice. With the SAATI Acoustex® mesh, you can expect uninterrupted conversations regardless of the weather conditions.

During our testing, we were consistently impressed by the call clarity delivered by the Elite 7 Active, though not the best in class. Whether we were engaged in a phone call during a brisk jog or in the midst of a bustling gym, the 6 MEMS microphones worked diligently to ensure that our voice was conveyed with precision. The wind protection offered by the SAATI Acoustex® mesh also proved effective, minimizing wind-related disruptions during outdoor calls.

Jabra Sound+ App

The Jabra Sound+ app enhances the functionality of the Elite 7 Active by offering a range of features that put you in control of your audio experience. Here’s an overview of the app’s capabilities:

• Battery Status: The Jabra Sound+ app provides you with real-time information about the battery status of your Elite 7 Active earbuds. This feature ensures that you’re never caught off guard by a low battery during your workouts, allowing you to plan your charging accordingly.
• Music EQ Customization: The app has the ability to customize your music’s equalizer settings. With this level of personalization, you can tailor the sound to match your preferences. Whether you prefer punchy bass for intense workouts or a more balanced profile for podcasts, the app allows you to fine-tune your audio to perfection.
• MyControls: MyControls is a feature that puts the power of customization at your fingertips. It enables you to assign specific actions to the buttons on your Elite 7 Active earbuds. This feature is particularly handy during workouts when you may want to control your music playback or activate noise cancellation without needing to reach for your device.
• MyFit: The MyFit feature offers an additional layer of personalization for your audio experience. It allows you to fine-tune the fit of your earbuds, ensuring maximum comfort during your workouts. This level of customization ensures that the earbuds stay securely in place, even during the most rigorous exercises.
• MySound: MySound is a feature that takes personalization to the next level. It tailors the audio experience to your unique hearing profile. By conducting a brief hearing test, the app creates a customized sound profile that compensates for your individual hearing abilities. This ensures that you hear every detail of your music as intended, enhancing the overall audio quality.

The Jabra Sound+ app is there to enhance the user experience with the Elite 7 Active by offering features that provide control, customization, and personalization. From adjusting your music’s equalizer settings to fine-tuning the fit and sound profile, the app ensures that your audio experience aligns perfectly with your preferences and needs. It’s a valuable companion that complements the capabilities of the Elite 7 Active, allowing you to get the most out of your audio gear during your active lifestyle.

Connectivity

The connectivity options of the Jabra Elite 7 Active are geared towards providing a seamless and versatile experience for users who demand reliable connections during their active pursuits.

• Bluetooth 5.2 Technology: The Elite 7 Active is equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.2 technology, which offers several notable benefits. This advanced Bluetooth version enhances the connection stability and range, ensuring that your earbuds maintain a strong and consistent link with your device. This is particularly important during workouts or outdoor activities where you want uninterrupted audio streaming.
• Bluetooth Multi-Point Connection: One standout feature of these earbuds is their support for Bluetooth multi-point connection. This means you can connect the Elite 7 Active to two different devices simultaneously. For instance, you can have them paired to your smartphone for music streaming and your tablet for taking calls. This flexibility allows you to seamlessly switch between devices without the hassle of constant unpairing and re-pairing.
• Supported Bluetooth Codecs (AAC and SBC): The Elite 7 Active supports two popular Bluetooth codecs: AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) and SBC (Subband Coding). AAC is known for its superior audio quality, especially when streaming music from iOS devices, while SBC is a widely compatible codec that ensures good audio quality across various devices.

While the Elite 7 Active excels in connectivity features, it’s important to note that it lacks support for high-resolution audio codecs such as aptX or LDAC. This limitation means that it may not deliver audiophile-grade sound quality for those who have a discerning ear for the highest fidelity audio. However, it’s essential to consider the price point of these earbuds. Given their accessible price tag, the absence of high-resolution codecs can be forgiven, as the Elite 7 Active offers an overall impressive audio experience that caters to the needs of most active individuals without breaking the bank.

Voice Assistant Integration

One of the modern conveniences that the Jabra Elite 7 Active offers is seamless integration with popular voice assistants, making your active lifestyle even more efficient and hands-free.

• Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri Compatibility: These earbuds are designed to be your ideal workout companion by providing access to three major voice assistants: Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. This wide-ranging compatibility ensures that no matter which ecosystem you’re a part of, the Elite 7 Active has you covered.

With the simple tap of a button or a voice command, you can access your preferred voice assistant to set reminders, check the weather, send messages, or get answers to questions, all without needing to pull out your smartphone. This level of integration enhances the convenience and multitasking capabilities of the Elite 7 Active, allowing you to stay connected and informed during your active pursuits.

Battery Life

The Jabra Elite 7 Active stands out not only for its audio quality but also for its remarkable battery life, making it a reliable companion for extended workouts and daily activities.

• Impressive Battery Life: The Elite 7 Active boasts an impressive battery life, both with and without Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). With ANC turned on, you can enjoy up to 8 hours of uninterrupted playback on a single charge. This means you can power through multiple workouts, commutes, or long walks without worrying about the battery running out.
• Wireless Charging and Fast Charging: Charging these earbuds is a breeze thanks to their wireless charging capability. The convenience of simply placing them on a wireless charging pad eliminates the hassle of dealing with cables. Additionally, the Elite 7 Active offers fast charging, which provides up to an hour of playback with just a quick 5-minute charge. This feature is particularly handy when you’re in a rush and need a quick power boost.

In our testing, the battery performance of the Elite 7 Active exceeded expectations. With ANC activated, we found that it consistently delivered almost the promised 8 hours of playback with balanced music volume. This is a standout performance considering that some premium noise-canceling earbuds struggle to reach this level of endurance. The ability to power through extended workouts, a day at the office, or a long commute without needing to recharge is a significant advantage.

To put it into perspective, the Elite 7 Active’s battery life competes favorably with, and even surpasses, some of the premium noise-canceling earbuds on the market. It ensures that your audio experience remains uninterrupted and reliable, whether you’re focusing on your fitness goals or simply enjoying your favorite music throughout the day.

Additional Features

The Jabra Elite 7 Active goes beyond the basics, offering additional features that cater to the specific needs of active individuals. Here’s a look at two notable features:

• Mono Mode: The Mono mode is a practical feature that allows you to use just one of the earbuds while keeping the other one in the charging case. This feature can be incredibly useful, especially during long workouts when you might want to conserve battery life or stay aware of your surroundings. It also enables you to take calls or listen to music with a single earbud, enhancing your situational awareness.
• Music Auto Pause: The Music auto-pause feature is designed to enhance your convenience during workouts. It’s a smart function that automatically pauses your music playback when you remove one or both of the earbuds from your ears. This not only helps conserve battery life but also ensures that you don’t miss a beat when you need to briefly interact with your environment or engage in a conversation. When you’re ready to resume your music, simply put the earbuds back in, and the playback resumes seamlessly.

These additional features are thoughtful additions to the Elite 7 Active’s functionality, making them a practical choice for active individuals who appreciate the convenience of a versatile audio companion. 

Price and Accessories

The Jabra Elite 7 Active strikes a compelling balance between performance and affordability, making it an attractive option for those seeking high-quality audio without breaking the bank.

• Approximate Price: The Jabra Elite 7 Active is priced at approximately $180. This price point positions it as a competitive choice within the sports earbud market. It offers an impressive array of features and capabilities without demanding a premium price tag, making it accessible to a wide range of users who value both quality and affordability.
• Included Accessories: When you invest in the Elite 7 Active, you receive a package of accessories that enhance the overall value of your purchase. These include:
  • EarGels: The earbuds come with three sets of EarGels, available in different sizes (small, medium, and large). These EarGels are made of silicone and play a crucial role in ensuring a secure and comfortable fit in your ears.
  • Charging Case: The package includes a convenient charging case that not only protects your earbuds but also extends their battery life. With the charging case, you can enjoy an additional 22 hours of playback time, ensuring that your earbuds are always ready for your active lifestyle.
  • USB-C to USB-A Cable: To facilitate charging and connectivity, the Elite 7 Active package includes a USB-C to USB-A cable. This cable ensures that you can easily charge your earbuds and keep them powered up.

Jabra Elite 7 Active Pros and Cons

Pros

The Jabra Elite 7 Active stands out in several key areas, making it a compelling choice for those with an active lifestyle:

• Powerful Sound: These earbuds deliver a powerful and well-balanced sound profile, featuring deep bass, clear mid-ranges, and nuanced trebles. This audio prowess ensures that your music motivates and energizes you during workouts.
• Comfortable, Stable Fit: With their lightweight design and ShakeGrip technology, the Elite 7 Active provides a secure and comfortable fit. This design minimizes distractions during your active pursuits, allowing you to stay focused on your fitness goals.
• Waterproof Design (IP57): The earbuds come with an IP57 water-resistance rating, making them resilient to sweat, splashes, and brief immersions in water. This durability ensures that they remain a reliable companion in various weather conditions.
• Multipoint Bluetooth Connection: Supporting Bluetooth multi-point connection for up to two devices, the Elite 7 Active offers versatile connectivity. This feature allows you to seamlessly switch between devices, enhancing your overall audio experience.

Cons

While the Jabra Elite 7 Active offers a range of impressive features, there are some limitations to consider:

• Lack of Support for High-Resolution Audio Codecs: These earbuds do not support high-resolution audio codecs such as aptX or LDAC. Audiophiles seeking the highest fidelity audio may find this limitation noteworthy.
• Acceptable but Not Top-Notch Noise Cancellation: While the noise cancellation on the Elite 7 Active is satisfactory for most users, it may not compete with premium noise-canceling earbuds like the Bose QC Ultra, Jabra Elite 10, Sennheiser MTW 3, or Sony WF-1000XM5. For those who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation, this may be a consideration.

Final Thoughts: Recommendation and Verdict

After thorough testing and evaluation, the Jabra Elite 7 Active emerges as a solid choice for active individuals seeking a reliable and versatile audio companion for their workouts and daily activities.

With its powerful sound quality, comfortable fit, waterproof design, and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, the Elite 7 Active excels in key areas that matter most to active users. The ability to enjoy immersive audio, regardless of the weather or intensity of your workout, makes these earbuds a dependable option.

However, it’s important to note that during our testing, we did encounter a minor challenge related to comfort during prolonged wear. While the Elite 7 Active is designed for a secure and snug fit, some users may experience mild discomfort during extended workout sessions. This aspect of comfort is subjective and can vary from person to person, so it’s advisable to try the earbuds for yourself to determine if they align with your comfort preferences.

Despite this slight comfort concern, the Elite 7 Active still offers a valuable audio experience that caters to a broad user base. While it may not satisfy the most discerning audiophiles due to the lack of support for high-resolution audio codecs, the Elite 7 Active strikes a balance between performance and affordability. Additionally, while its noise cancellation may not be top-tier, it is satisfactory for most users and effectively reduces external distractions during workouts.

To sum it all up, the Jabra Elite 7 Active is a suitable choice for active individuals looking for a reliable, comfortable, and feature-rich audio companion that enhances their workout and daily routines. Its impressive battery life, intuitive features, and accessible price point make it a valuable addition to your active lifestyle, with the understanding that comfort preferences may vary among users during extended wear.