The Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds, an improvement from the Jabra Elite 7 Active, are not your average wireless earphones. They are designed with a clear focus on those who lead an active lifestyle, making them the perfect companion for workouts and outdoor adventures. In this Jabra Elite 8 Active review, we’ll delve into the impressive features that set these earbuds apart.
Ruggedness is a striking quality of Jabra Elite 8 Active. Built to meet military standards, these earbuds are tough enough to withstand extreme conditions. They boast an impressive IP68 rating, making them dustproof, waterproof, and sweatproof. This means you can take them on your most challenging workouts or outdoor escapades without worrying about damage.
Jabra Elite 8 Active also incorporates cutting-edge technologies. Jabra ShakeGrip ensures that these earbuds stay securely in place, even during rigorous activities, providing peace of mind that they won’t slip out when you need them the most.
Moreover, these earbuds feature Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, which is a game-changer for immersive listening experiences. It allows you to block out distractions and focus on your music or calls. And when it comes to audio quality, Dolby Audio technology ensures that you’ll enjoy a clear, rich, and powerful sound that elevates your music, podcasts, or phone calls to a whole new level.
This summary table provides a quick overview of the key specifications and features of the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds:
| Aspect | Features |
| Design & Durability | Military standards, IP68 rating (dustproof, waterproof, sweatproof), Jabra ShakeGrip for a secure fit, Lightweight (5g) |
| Sound Quality | 6mm speakers, Dolby Audio technology, Spatial sound powered by Dolby Atmos |
| Noise Cancellation | Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, Wind-neutralizing HearThrough technology |
| Microphones | 6-Mic call technology (MEMS) for crystal clear calls even in noisy environments |
| App & Connectivity | Jabra Sound+ app for customization, Bluetooth 5.3 technology, Bluetooth multipoint connection (up to 10 devices) |
| Voice Assistant Integration | Siri and Google Assistant integration |
| Battery Life | Up to 8 hours playback on a single charge (ANC on), Up to 14 hours with ANC off, Charging case provides 3 full charges |
| Additional Features | Smartwatch Connectivity, Mono mode, Sidetone, Auto music pause/resume, Fast Pair, Swift Pair, Spotify Tap |
| Charging | Wireless charging, Quick 5-minute charge provides up to 1 hour playback time, Sleep mode available |
| Price | Approximately $200 |
| Accessories | Charging case, 3 sets of EarGels (small, medium, large), USB-C to USB-A cable |
In the coming sections, we’ll explore these features and more, providing an in-depth look at what makes the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds a top choice for active individuals seeking both durability and exceptional audio performance.
Table of Contents
Jabra Elite 8 Active Review: An In-depth Look
Design and Build
The Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds are not just a feat of engineering; they also showcase thoughtful design considerations. First and foremost, they come in a variety of colors, with four distinct options available to suit your style. Whether you prefer a bold statement or something more understated, there’s a color for everyone.
Durability is a striking aspect of Jabra Elite 8 Active. They’ve been rigorously built to meet military standards, earning them an impressive IP68 rating. This means they are not only dustproof but also fully waterproof, making them an excellent choice for those sweaty workouts or even outdoor adventures in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Moreover, they’re drop-resistant, so accidental falls won’t leave you in despair.
Despite their robust build, the Elite 8 Active earbuds manage to maintain a lightweight profile, weighing just 5 grams each. This makes them incredibly comfortable to wear for extended periods, whether you’re going for a long run or simply enjoying your favorite music throughout the day. Plus, they come with three different sizes of silicone EarGels to ensure a snug and personalized fit, enhancing both comfort and sound isolation.
To further enhance the user experience, Jabra has incorporated ShakeGrip technology. This innovative feature ensures that these earbuds stay securely in place, even during the most vigorous activities. No matter how intense your workout or outdoor adventure gets, you can trust that your Elite 8 Actives will stay put.
It’s worth noting that the charging case, while not as rugged as the earbuds themselves, still offers a respectable level of protection with its IP54 rating. This ensures that your earbuds remain safe and functional, even when stored in less-than-ideal conditions. It’s an extra layer of peace of mind for those who are always on the move.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds truly deliver an exceptional audio experience. Central to this experience are the 6mm speakers integrated into these earbuds. These speakers may be compact in size, but they pack a powerful punch. They are finely tuned to produce a clear, rich, and immersive sound that elevates your music, podcasts, and phone calls to a whole new level. Whether you’re enjoying your favorite tracks or engaging in a phone conversation, you can expect audio that’s both crisp and vibrant.
The spatial sound technology enhances the auditory experience even further, powered by Dolby Atmos. This technology creates a three-dimensional audio environment that surrounds you, adding depth and dimension to your audio content. It’s like having your own personal soundstage, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music or entertainment. With spatial sound, you can discern nuances in your audio that you may have missed with conventional earbuds, making for a truly captivating and enjoyable listening experience.
The 6mm speakers and Dolby Atmos technology combine to deliver sound quality that is both powerful and immersive. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a podcast lover, or someone who values crystal-clear phone calls, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds offer a sound experience that’s second to none.
Noise Cancellation
The Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds take noise cancellation to the next level with their Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. This advanced feature employs a combination of feedforward and feedback microphones to analyze and counteract external sounds in real-time. Whether you’re in a noisy gym, bustling cafe, or on a crowded commute, the Elite 8 Active earbuds work diligently to eliminate unwanted distractions, allowing you to focus on your audio content.
Their wind-neutralizing HearThrough technology is a game-changer for those who venture into windy outdoor environments. HearThrough intelligently detects and reduces wind interference, ensuring that your audio remains clear and undisturbed. Even in challenging conditions, such as gusty winds, this technology automatically filters out wind noise, providing a seamless listening experience.
In terms of noise cancellation strength, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds excel with a 1.6x stronger noise cancellation capability when compared to standard Jabra ANC. This means they effectively block out a wider range of ambient noises, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in your audio without disruptions. Whether you’re seeking tranquility during a flight or focus during a workout, these earbuds prove their prowess in keeping unwanted sounds at bay.
Microphones
In today’s world, clear and uninterrupted communication is more crucial than ever, and the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds rise to the occasion with their advanced 6-Mic call technology.
These microphones utilize Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology, known for its precision and reliability. What this means for you is crystal-clear call quality, even in the noisiest of surroundings.
Whether you’re taking an important business call in a bustling cafe or catching up with a friend in a crowded city street, the Elite 8 Active earbuds ensure that your voice is amplified and isolated from background noise. This not only makes your conversations more effortless and natural but also enhances the overall calling experience.
App and Connectivity
The Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds are not just standalone audio devices; they come with a companion that unlocks their full potential—the Jabra Sound+ app. This app offers a range of features to enhance your listening experience. With it, you can check the battery status of your earbuds, customize your music with an equalizer, and choose from music EQ presets to suit your preferences. Additionally, the app provides MyControls, allowing you to customize the earbuds’ controls to your liking. It also offers the Soundscape feature, which can further enrich your listening experience with immersive soundscapes tailored to various activities.
When it comes to connectivity, the Elite 8 Active earbuds are equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 technology. This latest iteration of Bluetooth brings several benefits to the table. It offers more stable and faster wireless connections, reducing latency for an uninterrupted audio experience. Moreover, Bluetooth 5.3 enhances energy efficiency, ensuring that you can enjoy extended listening sessions without worrying about frequent recharges.
As part of improving connectivity further, these wireless earbuds feature Bluetooth multipoint connection capability. With this, you can pair your Elite 8 Active earbuds with up to 10 different devices simultaneously. This means you can seamlessly switch between your smartphone, tablet, laptop, and other devices without the hassle of re-pairing. It’s a convenience that keeps you connected to your audio world effortlessly.
Furthermore, these earbuds support the AAC and SBC audio codecs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and delivering high-quality audio streaming. Whether you’re an Android or iOS user, you can trust that the Elite 8 Active earbuds will provide a seamless and high-fidelity audio experience.
Voice Assistant Integration
For those who appreciate the convenience of voice commands, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds offer seamless integration with two of the most popular voice assistants: Siri and Google Assistant.
With a simple voice prompt, you can access a world of information and control your devices without ever reaching for your smartphone. Whether you need to set a reminder, ask for directions, or play your favorite playlist, these earbuds make it effortless. This voice assistant integration adds a layer of accessibility to your daily tasks, enhancing your overall experience with these versatile earbuds.
Whether you’re an iOS user with Siri or an Android enthusiast with Google Assistant, the Elite 8 Active earbuds ensure that you stay connected and in control with just a word.
Battery Life
When it comes to keeping your music going, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds excel in the battery department. With the Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on, these earbuds offer an impressive 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. That’s enough to power through an intense workout or a long commute without needing a recharge.
For those times when you want to extend your listening experience, turning off ANC provides an even longer runtime. With ANC off, you can enjoy up to 14 hours of playback, making the Elite 8 Active earbuds perfect for those extended travel days or extended listening sessions.
The convenience doesn’t stop there. The included charging case offers the flexibility of three additional full charges. This means you get up to 24 hours of wireless recharging on the go. It’s a reassuring feature, ensuring that your earbuds are ready whenever you are.
For those moments when you’re in a hurry, the quick 5-minute charge comes to the rescue, providing up to 1 hour of playback time. It’s a lifesaver when you need a burst of music to power through a short task or a quick workout.
Additionally, these earbuds come with a sleep mode, which helps conserve battery life when they’re not in use. This feature ensures that your earbuds are energy-efficient, so you can make the most of every charge without constantly worrying about recharging them.
Added Features
Beyond exceptional audio quality and noise cancellation, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds come packed with a range of additional features that enhance your overall experience. One of those features is their smartwatch connectivity. This feature allows you to leave your phone at home while still enjoying your music. Simply connect the earbuds to your smartwatch, and you’re ready to go. It’s a game-changer for those who like to travel light during their workouts or outdoor adventures.
Another impressive feature is the spatial sound powered by Dolby Audio technology. This feature adds a new dimension to your audio, creating a three-dimensional soundscape that immerses you in your music or entertainment. It’s like having your own personal soundstage, offering an experience that goes beyond traditional stereo audio.
For those who prefer to use a single earbud at times, the Elite 8 Active earbuds offer a mono mode. This allows you to use either the left or right earbud independently, providing flexibility for calls or when you need to stay aware of your surroundings.
Additionally, the earbuds come with a range of handy features like Sidetone, which allows you to hear your own voice during calls, and Auto music pause/resume, which automatically pauses your music when you remove an earbud and resumes it when you put it back in.
The Fast Pair and Swift Pair features simplify the initial pairing process, ensuring a hassle-free setup with your devices. Moreover, Spotify Tap integration allows for convenient music control when using the popular streaming service.
Price and Accessories
In terms of affordability, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds offer excellent value for the features they bring to the table. With an approximate price tag of around $200, they strike a balance between premium performance and accessibility. This pricing makes them an attractive choice for those seeking high-quality wireless earbuds without breaking the bank.
Moreover, when you invest in the Jabra Elite 8 Active, you’re not just getting exceptional earbuds; you also receive a set of accessories that enhance your overall experience. The package includes a sturdy and protective charging case, ensuring your earbuds remain safe and charged on the go. Additionally, you’ll find three sets of EarGels in varying sizes (small, medium, and large) to ensure a comfortable and secure fit that suits your ears perfectly. Lastly, a USB-C to USB-A cable is included for convenient charging and connectivity.
Jabra Elite 8 Active Pros and Cons
In a balanced assessment of the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds, it’s evident that they offer a plethora of advantages that make them a compelling choice. Powerful sound quality is one of the fantastic characteristics they deliver. With 6mm speakers and Dolby Audio technology, these earbuds offer a rich and immersive audio experience that’s sure to satisfy music enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.
Durability is another strong point of the Elite 8 Active earbuds. They are built to military standards, featuring an IP68 rating for water, dust, and drop resistance. This ruggedness ensures they can withstand the rigors of workouts and outdoor adventures without missing a beat.
Moreover, the inclusion of multipoint Bluetooth connectivity is a major advantage. Being able to pair these earbuds with up to 10 devices simultaneously adds versatility and convenience to your daily tech setup.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the cons as well. The lack of support for high-resolution audio codecs is a limitation that might disappoint those who seek the highest fidelity in their audio playback. Additionally, while the noise cancellation performance is commendable, it may not reach the industry-leading standards of some competitors.
Final Thoughts: Our take
Having had the opportunity to put the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds to the test during various activities, it’s evident that these earbuds shine in real-world scenarios. During rigorous workouts, these earbuds stay true to their promise of a secure fit thanks to the Jabra ShakeGrip technology. Whether I’m doing high-intensity interval training or going for a long run, they remain comfortably in place, ensuring I stay immersed in my workout playlist without any interruptions.
From a user experience perspective, the combination of powerful sound, durable design, and intuitive controls makes these earbuds a joy to use. The spatial sound powered by Dolby Atmos truly adds a new dimension to music and movies, creating an immersive experience that’s hard to match.
However, it’s worth noting that while noise cancellation is effective in most environments, it may not completely block out extremely loud noises. This is a minor drawback in otherwise impressive noise-cancelling earbuds.
Overall, based on their features and my personal experiences, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds offer a compelling package for fitness enthusiasts and music lovers. Their blend of durability, sound quality, and innovative features make them a strong contender in the competitive true wireless earbuds market.
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