Jabra Elite 8 Active vs Jabra Elite 7 Active: A Comparison

What are the similarities and differences between Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active? In this comparison, we delve into two prominent contenders in the realm of sports and active earbuds. The Jabra Elite 7 Active, once a leading choice for fitness enthusiasts, has now been succeeded by the more advanced Jabra Elite 8 Active. However, it’s essential to note that the Elite 7 Active still holds its ground, boasting its own set of impressive features and capabilities. These earbuds cater to a specific audience: those who demand peak performance during workouts and active pursuits.

The Jabra Elite 8 Active emerges as a formidable force in the active earbud market. Crafted to endure extreme conditions, these earbuds are not just sports companions; they’re designed as military standards built to withstand the harshest environments. With an IP68 dustproof, waterproof, and sweatproof rating, the Elite 8 Active offers durability that’s hard to match. These earbuds introduce innovative technologies such as Jabra ShakeGrip for a secure fit, Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation for immersive sound, Dolby Atmos experience (spatial sound), and windproof call technology for crystal-clear communication. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and athletes, the Elite 8 Active raises the bar for what active earbuds can achieve.

On the other hand, the Jabra Elite 7 Active remains a respected authority in the realm of sports earbuds. Designed to focus on stability and comfort, these earbuds utilize ShakeGrip technology, employing a special liquid silicone rubber compound to ensure a secure fit without the need for ear wings. With an IP57 water-resistance rating and deep, balanced sound delivered through 6mm custom speakers, the Elite 7 Active has been a reliable choice for active individuals. While they lack some of the advanced features of the Elite 8 Active, they continue to cater to those seeking quality sound and a secure fit during their workouts.

This table provides a concise overview of the key features and differences between the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active:

Feature	Jabra Elite 8 Active	Jabra Elite 7 Active
Design	IP68 rated for dustproof, waterproof, and sweatproof; Jabra ShakeGrip for secure fit; 4 color options, 5.0g	IP57 water-resistant; ShakeGrip technology for secure fit; 3 EarGel sizes; Discreet EarGel design, 5.5g
Sound Quality	Dolby Atmos support; 6mm speakers for powerful sound	6mm custom speakers for balanced sound
Noise Cancellation	Adaptive Hybrid ANC; Wind-neutralizing HearThrough technology	ANC with adjustable levels; HearThrough technology
Microphones	6-Mic call technology (MEMS) for crystal-clear calls	6 MEMS microphones with SAATI Acoustex® mesh for wind protection
App Features	Jabra Sound+ app with customizable EQ, MyControls, and more	Jabra Sound+ app with customizable EQ, MyControls, MyFit, MySound, and more
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connection; AAC and SBC support	Bluetooth 5.2 with multipoint connection; AAC and SBC support
Voice Assistant Integration	Siri, Google Assistant	Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri
Battery Life	Up to 8 hours with ANC on, 14 hours with ANC off; 24 hours with charging case; Quick 5-minute charge	Up to 8 hours with ANC on, 30 hours with charging case; Quick 5-minute charge
Additional Features	Smartwatch Connectivity, Spatial sound, Mono mode, HearThrough, Auto music pause/resume, and more	Mono mode, HearThrough technology, Music auto pause
Price	Approximately $200	Approximately $180
Pros	Powerful spatial sound, Secure, comfortable fit, IP68 rating, Multipoint connection, Wireless charging	Immersive sound, Secure, comfortable fit, IP57 rating, More accessible price, Multipoint connection, Wireless charging
Cons	No high-res audio support, Acceptable noise cancellation	No high-res audio support, Acceptable noise cancellation

Both these models target fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and anyone leading an active lifestyle. Let us now dig deep into evaluating these two models and determine your best fit based on individual preferences, needs, and budget.

Jabra Elite 8 Active vs Jabra Elite 7 Active: Show Down

Design and Fit

In the realm of design, both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active exhibit features tailored for active users, emphasizing a secure and comfortable fit.

Jabra Elite 8 Active: Rugged and Lightweight

The Jabra Elite 8 Active is crafted with a focus on durability and lightweight comfort. These earbuds, weighing a mere 5g each, are exceptionally light, minimizing any potential discomfort during extended wear. To enhance the user experience further, Jabra provides three sets of EarGels in different sizes (small, medium, and large). This variety of EarGel options allows users to select the perfect fit, ensuring both stability and personalized comfort during workouts and activities.

The design of the Elite 8 Active boasts an impressive IP68 rating, making them dustproof, waterproof, and sweatproof. This robust construction empowers users to confidently tackle the most challenging environments, from dusty trails to intense workouts. The incorporation of Jabra ShakeGrip technology adds another layer of assurance, guaranteeing that the earbuds remain securely in place, even during demanding physical exertion.

Jabra Elite 7 Active: Balanced and Comfortable

In contrast, the Jabra Elite 7 Active strikes a balance between durability and comfort. Weighing 5.5g, these earbuds offer a blend of durability and weight optimization. Like the Elite 8 Active, the Elite 7 Active also provides three sets of EarGels in varying sizes (small, medium, and large). This diversity in EarGel choices ensures users can tailor their fit precisely to their ear shape, enhancing both stability and overall comfort.

While the Elite 7 Active possesses an IP57 rating, slightly lower than the Elite 8 Active, it still offers commendable resistance to moisture, making them suitable for sweaty workouts and light rain. The incorporation of ShakeGrip technology with the same liquid silicone rubber compound ensures that these earbuds remain securely in place, regardless of the activity level.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is a critical factor when choosing earbuds, and both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active offer distinct audio experiences.

Jabra Elite 8 Active: Dolby Atmos Enhancement

The Jabra Elite 8 Active sets itself apart with its support for Dolby Atmos, a cutting-edge audio technology that enhances the spatial and immersive quality of sound. This means users can expect a powerful, clear, and rich audio experience that goes beyond traditional stereo sound. Dolby Atmos allows sound to move in three-dimensional space, creating a captivating sense of depth and directionality.

With 6mm speakers, the Elite 8 Active delivers this enhanced audio quality effectively. Whether you’re listening to music during your workout or immersing yourself in the audio of your favorite movies and shows, the Elite 8 Active aims to provide an exceptional soundstage for an immersive experience.

Jabra Elite 7 Active: Balanced Sound

The Jabra Elite 7 Active, while not incorporating Dolby Atmos support, offers a balanced and engaging sound profile. These earbuds feature 6mm custom speakers that deliver deep, balanced bass, radiating mid-ranges, and nuanced treble. While not as spatially immersive as Dolby Atmos, the sound quality is still commendable, providing users with a rich and powerful audio experience.

The audio characteristics of the Elite 7 Active are tailored to keep you motivated and energized during your workouts and activities. Whether you’re enjoying your favorite music genres or podcasts, the Elite 7 Active aims to deliver a satisfying auditory experience that enhances your active lifestyle.

Noise Cancellation

Effective noise cancellation is essential for an immersive listening experience, and both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active incorporate noise-canceling technologies tailored to different user needs.

Jabra Elite 8 Active: Adaptive Hybrid ANC

The Jabra Elite 8 Active sets a high standard with its Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. This advanced ANC system is designed to adapt to your surroundings, effectively reducing external noise for a more immersive audio experience. Whether you’re in a crowded gym or a noisy outdoor environment, the Elite 8 Active’s ANC aims to minimize distractions and allow you to focus on your music or calls.

One standout feature of the Elite 8 Active’s ANC is its wind-neutralizing HearThrough technology. This innovative addition helps you stay aware of your surroundings by reducing wind interference. It automatically filters out wind noise, ensuring clarity in windy and more extreme environments. Additionally, the Elite 8 Active boasts 1.6 times stronger noise cancellation compared to Jabra’s standard ANC technology, further enhancing its noise reduction capabilities.

Jabra Elite 7 Active: Adjustable ANC Levels

The Jabra Elite 7 Active, while not featuring the same Adaptive Hybrid ANC as the Elite 8 Active, offers users the flexibility of adjustable ANC levels. This means you can customize the level of noise cancellation to your own preference using the Jabra Sound+ app. Whether you want complete isolation from external noise or prefer a more ambient awareness of your surroundings, the Elite 7 Active allows you to find the right balance.

Additionally, the Elite 7 Active incorporates HearThrough technology, which lets you remain aware of your environment when needed. While not as advanced as the wind-neutralizing technology in the Elite 8 Active, it still serves the purpose of keeping you connected to your surroundings.

Microphones

The quality of microphones is crucial for clear and effective communication during calls, and both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active integrate microphone technologies tailored to enhance call clarity.

Jabra Elite 8 Active: Crystal-Clear 6-Mic Technology

The Jabra Elite 8 Active distinguishes itself with a state-of-the-art 6-Mic call technology (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems or MEMS). This advanced microphone setup is engineered to amplify your voice even in noisy surroundings, ensuring crystal-clear calls. The six microphones work in concert to capture your voice while effectively reducing background noise and distractions. This technology is particularly advantageous for users who frequently find themselves in loud environments, such as gyms or bustling streets.

Jabra Elite 7 Active: Fine Acoustic Mesh Protection

The Jabra Elite 7 Active utilizes a microphone setup with 6 MEMS microphones covered by a fine SAATI Acoustex® mesh. While the specific details of this setup aren’t as explicitly mentioned, the use of a fine acoustic mesh suggests that the microphones are protected from external elements like wind and debris. This design approach aims to deliver outstanding call clarity by minimizing the interference of ambient noise during calls.

App Features

Both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active utilize the same companion app, the Jabra Sound+ app, which offers a range of useful features to enhance your listening experience.

Jabra Sound+ App Features:

• Customizable EQ: The Jabra Sound+ app allows users to customize the equalizer settings to fine-tune their audio experience. This feature enables you to adjust the sound profile to match your preferences, whether you prefer more bass, a balanced sound, or other specific audio characteristics.
• MyControls: With MyControls, you can personalize the functions of the earbuds to suit your needs. Assign specific actions or shortcuts to different button controls, giving you quick access to your preferred functions, such as adjusting volume or activating voice assistants.
• MyFit: This feature assists in achieving the best fit for your earbuds. It provides guidance and tips on how to position and wear the earbuds correctly to ensure optimal comfort and sound quality.
• MySound: MySound is a personalized audio calibration feature that tailors the sound output to your unique hearing profile. It conducts a hearing test and adjusts the audio settings to compensate for any hearing deficiencies, resulting in a more customized listening experience.
• Battery Status: The app provides real-time battery status updates for both the earbuds and the charging case, ensuring that you’re aware of the remaining power and can plan your usage accordingly.
• Firmware Updates: Stay up-to-date with the latest features and improvements through firmware updates delivered via the app. This ensures that your earbuds are always running at their best.
• Voice Assistant Integration: The app seamlessly integrates with voice assistants such as Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa, enabling hands-free control and access to information with a simple voice command.
• Music EQ Presets: In addition to customizable EQ, the app offers preset EQ settings optimized for various music genres, allowing you to quickly switch between different audio profiles to suit your music preferences.

These common features available through the Jabra Sound+ app ensure that users of both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active can tailor their audio experience to their liking, optimize the fit and comfort of their earbuds, and stay connected through voice assistants. The app serves as a valuable companion for maximizing the potential of these earbuds.

Connectivity

The connectivity of wireless earbuds plays a significant role in the overall user experience, including seamless pairing, stable connections, and codec support. 

Jabra Elite 8 Active: Bluetooth 5.3 and Multipoint Connection

The Jabra Elite 8 Active is equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 technology, representing the latest advancement in wireless connectivity. Bluetooth 5.3 offers improved stability, reduced latency, and enhanced range compared to previous Bluetooth versions. This ensures a robust and reliable connection between the earbuds and your devices.

Jabra Elite 8 Active also supports multipoint connection. This means you can seamlessly connect the earbuds to up to 10 devices. This versatility is especially convenient if you frequently switch between multiple devices, such as a smartphone, tablet, and laptop. You can effortlessly switch between them without the hassle of re-pairing.

Jabra Elite 7 Active: Bluetooth 5.2 and Multi-point Connection

The Jabra Elite 7 Active utilizes Bluetooth 5.2 technology, which is also a capable wireless standard offering good stability and connectivity performance. While it may not be the latest version, Bluetooth 5.2 still provides a dependable connection for most users.

Similar to the Elite 8 Active, the Elite 7 Active also supports multi-point connection, allowing you to connect the earbuds to two devices simultaneously. This feature is practical for those who want to stay connected to multiple devices without the need for constant re-pairing.

Voice Assistant Integration

Both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active are designed to seamlessly integrate with popular voice assistants, enhancing the convenience and functionality of these earbuds.

Supported Voice Assistants: Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa

Both models offer voice assistant integration with some of the most widely used voice assistants in the market:

• Siri: Users with Apple devices can easily access Siri for hands-free control, information retrieval, and voice commands.
• Google Assistant: Android users can take advantage of Google Assistant to perform various tasks, ask questions, and control their devices using voice commands.
• Alexa: Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant is also supported, providing access to a wide range of Amazon Alexa features and functions.

This integration ensures that users can interact with their preferred voice assistant, allowing for voice-controlled actions, information retrieval, and smart home device control.

Battery Life

The battery life of wireless earbuds is a crucial factor, particularly for active users who want extended listening time and the convenience of fast charging. 

Jabra Elite 8 Active: Versatile Battery Performance

The Jabra Elite 8 Active offers versatile battery performance to accommodate different user scenarios:

• With ANC On: When using the earbuds with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled, the Elite 8 Active provides up to 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. This duration ensures that you can enjoy uninterrupted music or calls during extended workouts or commutes.
• With ANC Off: If you choose to turn off ANC, the Elite 8 Active extends the battery life to an impressive 14 hours on a single charge. This mode is suitable for situations where noise cancellation is not a priority, allowing you to maximize usage time.
• Charging Case: The charging case for the Elite 8 Active offers an additional 24 hours of wireless recharging with ANC enabled. This means you can achieve a total of up to 32 hours of playback without needing to access a power source. Additionally, the case supports wireless charging, adding convenience to the recharging process.
• Fast Charging: For users who require a quick power boost, the Elite 8 Active features fast charging. A 5-minute charge can provide up to 1 hour of playback time, ensuring that you’re never without music or calls for long.

Jabra Elite 7 Active: Long Playback with Fast Charging

The Jabra Elite 7 Active is designed for users who prioritize extended listening time and the convenience of fast charging:

• With ANC On: The Elite 7 Active offers up to 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge with ANC enabled, ensuring you have enough battery life for most activities.
• Charging Case: The charging case for the Elite 7 Active extends the total playback time to an impressive 30 hours. This means you can go several days without needing to recharge the case.
• Fast Charging: Similar to the Elite 8 Active, the Elite 7 Active supports fast charging. A speedy 5-minute charge can provide up to an hour of playback, making it ideal for quick top-ups before workouts or commutes.

Additional Features

Both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active come equipped with several additional features and capabilities that enhance their functionality and cater to various user needs.

Both models share the following main additional features:

• Mono Mode: This feature allows users to use a single earbud while keeping the other one in the charging case. It’s handy for situations where you need to stay connected to your surroundings or if you want to extend the usage of one earbud.
• HearThrough: The HearThrough technology in both models enhances situational awareness. It allows you to remain aware of your surroundings by letting in external sounds, making it safer to use the earbuds in busy or outdoor environments.

These features are designed to provide users with flexibility and safety during their activities.

Price

Price is often a significant consideration when choosing wireless earbuds, and it’s important to compare the price points of the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active to determine which option aligns with your budget.

Jabra Elite 8 Active: Approximately $200

The Jabra Elite 8 Active is priced at approximately $200. This price point positions it as a mid-range option, offering a balance between advanced features and affordability. It’s a competitive choice for users who seek premium features like Dolby Atmos, advanced ANC, and versatile battery performance without breaking the bank.

Jabra Elite 7 Active: Approximately $180

The Jabra Elite 7 Active comes at an approximate price of $180, making it a slightly more affordable option compared to the Elite 8 Active. Despite its lower price point, the Elite 7 Active still offers a robust set of features, including balanced sound quality, adjustable ANC, and impressive battery life, making it an attractive choice for users who want a reliable audio companion for their active lifestyle.

Accessories

The included accessories can significantly impact the overall value and convenience of wireless earbuds. 

Jabra Elite 8 Active Accessories:

• Charging Case: The Elite 8 Active comes with a charging case that not only protects the earbuds but also extends their battery life through multiple charges.
• EarGels: Jabra includes three sets of EarGels (small, medium, and large) to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for a variety of ear shapes and sizes.
• USB-C to USB-A Cable: A USB-C to USB-A cable is included for charging the earbuds and the charging case.

Jabra Elite 7 Active Accessories:

• Charging Case: Similar to the Elite 8 Active, the Elite 7 Active includes a charging case for secure storage and recharging of the earbuds.
• EarGels: Three sets of EarGels (small, medium, and large) are provided to enable users to find the perfect fit for their ears, ensuring both stability and comfort.
• USB-C to USB-A Cable: A USB-C to USB-A cable is included for convenient charging of the earbuds and the charging case.

Pros and Cons

Jabra Elite 8 Active Pros:

• Dolby Atmos Support: The Elite 8 Active offers immersive sound quality with Dolby Atmos support, providing a rich and spatial audio experience.
• Adaptive Hybrid ANC: It features advanced Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, effectively reducing external noise in challenging environments.
• Strong Battery Performance: With up to 8 hours of playback with ANC on and the ability to extend it to 14 hours with ANC off, the Elite 8 Active offers impressive battery life.
• Multipoint Connectivity: Users can connect up to 10 devices, making it versatile for various usage scenarios and seamless switching between devices.
• Wireless Charging: The charging case supports wireless charging, adding convenience to the recharging process.

Jabra Elite 8 Active Cons:

• Pricing: At approximately $200, it falls into the mid-range category, which might not be suitable for budget-conscious users.
• No High-Resolution Audio Support: It lacks support for high-resolution audio codecs, which might disappoint audiophiles.
• Noise Cancellation, While Good, Not Industry-Leading: While the ANC is strong, it may not compete with some top-tier noise-cancelling earbuds on the market.

Jabra Elite 7 Active Pros:

• Balanced Sound: The Elite 7 Active provides balanced sound quality, catering to users who prioritize clear audio without spatial enhancements.
• Long Battery Life: With up to 8 hours of playback with ANC on and a total of 30 hours with the charging case, it offers extended listening time.
• Affordable Price: Priced at approximately $180, it offers a budget-friendly option without compromising essential features.
• Fast Charging: The fast charging feature allows for quick power boosts with just a 5-minute charge.

Jabra Elite 7 Active Cons:

• Lack of High-Resolution Audio Support: Similar to the Elite 8 Active, it does not support high-resolution audio codecs, which may not satisfy audiophiles.
• Noise Cancellation, While Acceptable, Not Top-Notch: While the adjustable ANC levels are useful, they may not match the noise-canceling capabilities of some premium earbuds.

Jabra Elite 8 Active vs. Jabra Elite 7 Active: Key Similarities and Differences

The Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active, while sharing some common features, exhibit notable differences in design and other aspects:

Key Similarities:

• Mono Mode and HearThrough: Both models offer mono mode for single-earbud use and HearThrough technology for situational awareness, ensuring flexibility and safety during use.
• ShakeGrip Technology: Both earbuds incorporate ShakeGrip technology, featuring a special liquid silicone rubber compound that holds the buds securely in the ear without the need for additional ear wings, ensuring a secure fit even during extreme activities.
• Voice Assistant Support: Both earbuds seamlessly integrate with popular voice assistants, including Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa, making them versatile for various device ecosystems.
• Customizable EQ: Users can fine-tune their sound experience through customizable EQ features available in their respective companion apps.
• Wireless Charging: Both models come with wireless charging cases, offering convenience for on-the-go recharging.
• Accessories: The included accessories, such as multiple EarGels and USB-C to USB-A cables, provide a complete and comfortable out-of-the-box experience.
• Battery Life: Both earbuds offer similar battery life, with up to 8 hours of playback when ANC is active, ensuring extended listening sessions.

Key Differences:

• Water-resistance Rating: The Elite 8 Active features an IP68 rating for dustproof and waterproof capabilities, while the Elite 7 Active has an IP57 rating for water resistance.
• Audio Quality: The Elite 8 Active excels with Dolby Atmos support for an immersive audio experience, whereas the Elite 7 Active offers balanced sound without spatial enhancements.
• Noise Cancellation: The Elite 8 Active boasts Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation for robust noise reduction, while the Elite 7 Active provides adjustable ANC levels.
• Bluetooth Technology: The Elite 8 Active utilizes Bluetooth 5.3, while the Elite 7 Active uses Bluetooth 5.2. Both support multi-point connection, allowing users to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.
• Price: The Elite 8 Active is priced at approximately $200, positioning it as a mid-range option, while the Elite 7 Active is more budget-friendly, priced at around $180.

Final Thoughts: Recommendation and Verdict

After comparing the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active in detail, it’s clear that each model has its unique strengths and caters to different user preferences and use cases.

Jabra Elite 8 Active:

Strengths:

• Dolby Atmos Support for immersive audio.
• Adaptive Hybrid ANC for strong noise cancellation.
• Versatile battery performance with ANC on/off.
• Multipoint connectivity for seamless switching between devices.
• Wireless and fast charging for added convenience.

The Jabra Elite 8 Active is well-suited for users who prioritize immersive audio experiences with Dolby Atmos and require strong noise cancellation in challenging environments. It’s also an excellent choice for those who frequently switch between multiple devices and value the convenience of wireless and fast charging.

Jabra Elite 7 Active:

Strengths:

• Balanced sound quality for clear audio.
• Long battery life with the charging case.
• More budget-friendly price point.
• Wireless charging and fast charging for quick power boosts.

The Jabra Elite 7 Active is an ideal choice for users seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising essential features. It’s well-suited for those who prioritize extended battery life and appreciate the convenience of fast charging. Additionally, users who prefer balanced sound without the need for spatial audio enhancements will find the Elite 7 Active appealing.

Overall, both the Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 7 Active offer compelling features and performance within their respective price points. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences:

• Choose the Jabra Elite 8 Active if you desire an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos, strong noise cancellation, versatile battery performance, multipoint connectivity, and wireless charging. It’s suitable for users who prioritize audio quality and convenience.
• Opt for the Jabra Elite 7 Active if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with balanced sound quality, long battery life, and fast charging. It’s an excellent choice for users who value affordability without compromising essential features.

Ultimately, both models provide excellent audio experiences and are designed to enhance your active lifestyle, so your decision should align with your specific priorities and budget considerations.