In the world of earbuds, the Jabra Elite 8 Active stands out as a durable and feature-rich choice that has been put to the test under challenging conditions. This review dives into the resilience, setup, fit, sound quality, battery life, case, and bonus features that make the Jabra Elite 8 Active a compelling option, especially for avid runners.
Resilience and IP68 Rating:
The Jabra Elite 8 Active proved their strength when subjected to a stress test during a run in unpredictable weather. Soaked in rain and sleet, these earbuds lived up to their claim of being the "World's Toughest" with an impressive IP68 rating. The 6 signifies high resistance to solids like dust and dirt, while the 8 indicates top-tier protection against water, making them capable of withstanding immersion.
“These are my go to earbuds for running. Not only do they sound amazing but the Jabra Elite 8’s can withstand anything that Mother Nature can throw at them.”
Price and Affordability:
While priced at $199.99, which may seem on the higher end, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds offer substantial value and are currently available with a 10% discount on the official Jabra website (at the time of publication). Although full retail prices apply on platforms like Amazon, the features packed into these earbuds justify the investment.
Setup and Fit:
The setup process for the Jabra Elite 8 Active is straightforward, typical of modern Bluetooth devices. While the companion Jabra app is optional, it enhances the user experience by allowing customization through Spatial Sound, an equalizer, Jabra Music presets, and more. The earbuds' fit, supported by Jabra ShakeGrip™ technology, ensures a secure hold during runs, even in adverse weather conditions. The inclusion of three sizes of silicone tips allows for a customized fit, though additional size options for further fine-tuning would be appreciated.
Sound Quality and Features:
The sound quality of the Jabra Elite 8 Active is impressive, delivering clear mids and sufficient bass even without adjusting presets or the equalizer. The earbuds offer six presets, including options like Bass Boost or Treble Boost. The Spatial Sound feature aims to provide a lifelike listening experience, though individual experiences may vary based on audio files. Notably, Wind Noise Reduction is a valuable addition, minimizing wind noise during outdoor activities like running.
Battery Life and Case:
The Elite 8 Active earbuds boast an impressive battery life, providing 14 hours of continuous listening with active noise cancellation turned off and 8 hours with ANC enabled. The charging case extends the total listening time to up to 56 hours with ANC turned off. The case, comparable in size to the iPod Pros, is convenient and supports both wired and wireless charging.
Target Audience:
Designed with runners in mind, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds prove resilient to various environmental challenges. The IP68 rating ensures dust and water resistance, making them an ideal choice for those who face unpredictable weather conditions during their runs.
Bonus Feature - Soundscapes:
An unexpected yet welcomed feature is Soundscapes, accessible through the Jabra app. This feature allows users to choose from 12 different options, including pink noise, ocean waves, and a perfect storm, providing a customizable audio experience for various needs.
Pros:- Water Proof/Dust Proof
- Small Size & Compact Case
- Soundscapes
- ANC
- ShakeGrip
- Need More ear tips
- Feedback on button action
Conclusion:
During a two-week testing period, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds emerge as a resilient and feature-rich companion for individuals leading an active lifestyle, particularly those passionate about running. Enduring a stress test under unpredictable weather conditions, these earbuds showcase their claim of being the "World's Toughest" with an impressive IP68 rating. The exceptional build quality, coupled with an array of features, positions these earbuds as an outstanding choice for anyone seeking durability and functionality in their daily audio companions.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds, with their clear audio, wind reduction, shake-proof silicone tips, and clear microphones for calls, are not only a reliable replacement for your daily driver earbuds but also an investment in enhanced audio experiences. The inclusion of ANC is just the tip of the iceberg; Jabra has packed numerous cool and interesting features into this compact package. With an IP68 rating, these earbuds prove to be capable of handling whatever you throw at them. In summary, the Elite 8 Active earbuds stand out as our current top pick, offering a harmonious blend of durability, innovation, and exceptional audio quality.
Check Out The Jabra Elite 8 ACTIVE earbuds on Amazon
Check Out The Jabra Elite 8 ACTIVE earbuds on Jabra.com
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