The fitness audio market offers many options for workout enthusiasts. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 brings military grade durability and premium features to active users.
This comprehensive review explores all aspects of these wireless earbuds for both fitness and everyday use.
Key Takeaways
- Military Grade Durability – The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 features an IP68 rating for complete protection against dust and water submersion up to 1.5 meters. The rugged construction meets US Military standards for ruggedized electronics, making them virtually indestructible during intense workouts.
- Enhanced Sound Experience – These earbuds deliver improved audio quality with Dolby Spatial Audio support and 6mm speakers. The balanced sound profile works well across music genres, podcasts, and calls without requiring active noise cancellation to sound good.
- Impressive Battery Life – With up to 8 hours of continuous playback with ANC on (extending to 14 hours with ANC off) and a total of 32 hours with the charging case, these earbuds provide reliable power for multiple workout sessions or long commutes.
- Secure Fit for Active Use – The proprietary ShakeGrip coating prevents slippage during intense activities, making these earbuds stay firmly in place without the need for ear hooks or wings, even during high-impact exercises.
- Smart Case Connectivity – The innovative smart case not only charges your earbuds but also allows you to connect to external audio sources via USB-C or 3.5mm connections, turning any wired audio device into a wireless streaming solution.
Design and Build Quality
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 earbuds make a strong first impression with their robust build quality. These earbuds feature a compact design with a secure fit that works well for various ear shapes. The most notable aspect of their design is the proprietary ShakeGrip coating. This special rubberized finish ensures the earbuds stay firmly in place during high intensity workouts.
The earbuds come in four attractive color options: Black, Navy, Olive, and Coral. This variety gives users more personal expression compared to the limited colors of many competitors. The matte finish looks premium and resists fingerprints effectively.
The charging case deserves special mention for its innovative design. Unlike standard earbud cases, this smart case includes both USB C and 3.5mm connectivity. This feature lets users connect the case to gym equipment, airplane entertainment systems, or other audio sources and stream content wirelessly to the earbuds. This capability adds significant value for travelers and fitness enthusiasts who use various equipment.
The controls feature physical buttons rather than touch sensors. This design choice works better during workouts when fingers might be sweaty or gloved. The buttons provide tactile feedback so users know their commands register correctly. Button combinations control playback, volume, call management, and noise cancellation settings without requiring users to reach for their phones.
The fit feels remarkably secure without pressure points or discomfort during long sessions. The earbuds include three sizes of silicone ear tips to accommodate different ear canals. The absence of ear wings might concern some users initially, but the ShakeGrip technology eliminates the need for additional stabilizers.
Sound Quality Performance
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 delivers impressive audio performance that satisfies both casual listeners and audiophiles. These earbuds feature 6mm speakers that produce a well balanced sound signature right out of the box. The bass response feels punchy without overwhelming the mids and highs, making them versatile for various music genres.
Rock and electronic music benefit from the solid low end response. The earbuds handle bass heavy tracks without distortion even at high volumes. Vocals remain clear and forward in the mix, which podcast listeners will appreciate. The high frequencies offer good detail without becoming harsh or sibilant during extended listening sessions.
The default sound profile suits most users, but the Sound+ app provides a 5 band equalizer for those who prefer customization. The app includes several presets for different genres, plus the ability to create and save custom profiles. This flexibility makes these earbuds adaptable to personal preferences and different content types.
Jabra introduced spatial audio support powered by Dolby Audio in this generation. This feature creates a more immersive soundstage that gives music a sense of depth and directionality. While not as sophisticated as some competitors with head tracking, the implementation enhances movies and certain music genres significantly. The sound feels less confined to your head and more like listening in a good acoustic space.
Call quality performs admirably in most environments. The six microphone array effectively captures your voice while filtering background noise. Calls sound natural to recipients even in moderately noisy environments like coffee shops or outdoor settings. Wind noise reduction works reasonably well though extremely windy conditions can still cause some issues.
Active Noise Cancellation and Ambient Awareness
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 offers improved active noise cancellation compared to its predecessor. The ANC technology effectively reduces steady low frequency noises like airplane engines, air conditioners, and gym equipment hums. This improvement makes these earbuds more versatile for both workout and everyday scenarios.
Testing reveals the ANC performs best with consistent background noise. It significantly reduces the rumble of public transportation and dampens the drone of treadmills and exercise bikes. While not class leading like some premium competitors from Bose or Sony, the noise cancellation proves sufficient for most environments fitness enthusiasts encounter.
The implementation avoids common ANC issues like pressure sensation or background hiss. Users can wear these earbuds comfortably for hours without the discomfort some noise cancelling headphones cause. The system includes multiple intensity levels accessible through the Sound+ app, allowing users to adjust the strength based on their environment and personal preference.
The HearThrough transparency mode sees meaningful improvement in this generation. The natural sounding pass through lets ambient sounds in clearly without the artificial quality some competitors produce. This feature proves essential for outdoor runners and cyclists who need environmental awareness for safety. Voice detection automatically activates transparency mode when you speak, making brief conversations convenient without removing the earbuds.
A standout feature called Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation automatically adjusts the level of noise blocking based on your surroundings. When moving between environments like leaving a noisy gym for a quiet street the earbuds smoothly transition without manual adjustments. This intuitive experience makes the earbuds feel more integrated into daily life.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 boasts impressive battery performance that exceeds industry standards. The earbuds deliver approximately 8 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled and extend to 14 hours with noise cancellation turned off. Real world testing confirms these claims, with most users achieving between 7 9 hours with active noise cancellation enabled at moderate volume levels.
The charging case provides an additional three full charges, bringing the total listening time to around 32 hours before requiring external power. This capacity ensures multiple days of regular use between charges for most users. A quick charge feature provides 1 hour of playback from just 5 minutes in the case, perfect for those moments when you discover low battery just before a workout.
Connectivity options show significant improvement in the Gen 2 model. Bluetooth 5.3 provides stable connections up to the standard 10 meter range. The implementation supports multiple simultaneous connections through Multipoint technology, allowing users to pair with both a phone and computer simultaneously. Switching between devices happens seamlessly without manual reconnection steps.
The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 supports various codecs including SBC, AAC, and LC3 through Bluetooth LE Audio. While audiophiles might miss aptX support, most users will not notice any quality limitations in daily use. The connection remains strong even in challenging environments like crowded gyms where Bluetooth interference commonly affects less capable earbuds.
Smartwatch connectivity deserves special mention as a standout feature. The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 maintains reliable connections with popular fitness watches, allowing users to leave their phones behind during workouts while still enjoying music. This capability particularly benefits runners and other outdoor athletes who prefer traveling light.
Durability and Water Resistance
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 sets the industry standard for durability in wireless earbuds. These earbuds earned an IP68 rating, the highest available protection against dust and water intrusion. This certification confirms the earbuds remain completely dustproof and can withstand submersion in water up to 1.5 meters deep for extended periods.
Beyond standard testing, Jabra submitted these earbuds for US Military standards certification. They passed rigorous evaluations for resistance to temperature extremes, humidity, salt spray, and mechanical shock. This military grade durability ensures the earbuds survive intense workouts and outdoor adventures in harsh conditions that would damage lesser products.
The ShakeGrip coating serves dual purposes. Beyond keeping the earbuds secure in your ears, this rubberized material provides additional impact protection. The matte finish resists scratches better than glossy alternatives found on many competing products. Even after months of regular use, testing units maintained their appearance without visible wear.
Sweat resistance deserves particular attention for fitness focused earbuds. Many wireless earbuds claim water resistance but fail when exposed to the corrosive properties of sweat over time. The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 includes special protection against sweat damage, ensuring longevity through countless high intensity workouts where perspiration would otherwise cause gradual deterioration.
The charging case offers more moderate protection with an IP54 rating. This level safeguards against dust and water splashes but not full submersion. The case construction feels solid with a sturdy hinge mechanism that shows no signs of loosening over time. The materials resist scratches and scuffs from keys and coins when carried in pockets or bags.
Smart Features and App Integration
The Jabra Sound+ app provides a comprehensive control center for the Elite 8 Active Gen 2. The clean interface allows intuitive access to all features without overwhelming users with excessive options. Initial setup guides users through fit testing and control customization to personalize their experience from the start.
Sound personalization stands out as a particularly useful feature. The app includes a hearing test that creates a custom sound profile tailored to your specific hearing characteristics. This personalization compensates for frequency response variations between individuals, resulting in a more natural and engaging listening experience unique to each user.
Button customization lets users reassign functions to match their preferences. You can configure different actions for single, double, and triple presses on each earbud. This flexibility proves especially valuable during workouts when accessing specific controls quickly makes all the difference. The app remembers multiple configurations for different activities if desired.
Find My Earbuds functionality helps locate misplaced earbuds through sound alerts and last known location tracking. This feature saves time and prevents potential loss of investment when an earbud slips between couch cushions or falls in an obscure gym corner. The system even works when earbuds have depleted batteries by recording their last connected location.
Sleep mode represents a thoughtful addition for nighttime users. This feature transforms the earbuds into sleep aids with various soundscapes designed to promote restful sleep. Options include white noise, rainfall, ocean waves, and other soothing audio environments. The earbuds automatically shut off after a user defined period to conserve battery once you fall asleep.
Workout Performance
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 truly excels during physical activities. The secure fit from the ShakeGrip coating keeps these earbuds firmly in place during high impact exercises like running, jumping, and burpees. Even vigorous head movements fail to dislodge the earbuds, eliminating the frustration of constantly readjusting during workouts.
The physical buttons prove supremely practical during exercise. Unlike touch controls that often register accidental touches from sweat or hair contact, the button design requires intentional presses. This thoughtful feature prevents unwanted track skips or volume changes when wiping sweat or adjusting clothing during intense sessions.
Sound quality remains consistent during movement, without the subtle connection drops or audio stuttering that plague many wireless earbuds. This stability matters particularly for rhythm based exercises where music timing impacts performance. The robust signal maintains audio quality throughout gym environments despite potential interference from other wireless devices.
The IP68 rating means these earbuds handle sweat without concern. Users report no degradation in performance even after months of heavy perspiration exposure. The ability to rinse the earbuds under running water after particularly sweaty sessions ensures hygienic maintenance without worry of damage.
Battery life spans multiple workout sessions, eliminating the need for frequent recharging. The quick charge feature proves especially valuable for fitness enthusiasts who discover low battery just before heading to the gym. Five minutes in the case provides enough power for a complete workout session, minimizing disruption to exercise routines.
Comfort and Fit for Extended Use
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 achieves an impressive balance between security and comfort. The ergonomic shape contours naturally to most ear anatomies without creating pressure points during extended wear. Users report comfortable listening sessions lasting 4 6 hours without the fatigue some competing earbuds cause.
Weight distribution plays a significant role in long term comfort. Each earbud weighs approximately 5 grams, placing minimal strain on ear cartilage. The lightweight design prevents the gradual discomfort heavier options create during marathon listening sessions or long workouts.
The ShakeGrip material feels soft against skin while maintaining sufficient friction to prevent slippage. Unlike some competitors that achieve stability through pressure or ear hooks, these earbuds stay secure without applying uncomfortable force. The absence of protruding elements means they work well even when wearing hats, helmets, or glasses.
The included silicone ear tips come in three sizes to accommodate various ear canal dimensions. The material maintains its elasticity over time, continuing to create an effective seal months after purchase. This proper seal contributes significantly to both sound quality and stability by preventing audio leakage and keeping the earbuds positioned correctly.
For users concerned about fit, the Sound+ app includes a fit test feature. This test plays test tones and measures sound leakage to confirm proper ear tip size selection. Following this guidance ensures optimal sound quality and noise isolation while maximizing comfort for your specific ear anatomy.
Comparison with Competitors
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 competes in a crowded field of premium wireless earbuds. Against the Sony WF 1000XM5, the Jabra offers superior durability and fit security for active use, though Sony edges ahead in noise cancellation effectiveness and sound customization options. The Jabra earbuds cost less while providing comparable overall performance for most users.
Compared to Apple AirPods Pro 2, the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 provides better durability and workout performance. The AirPods offer slightly better integration with Apple devices and spatial audio with head tracking. Android users gain significantly more value from the Jabra option due to full feature compatibility across platforms versus the limited functionality AirPods provide outside the Apple ecosystem.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds deliver superior noise cancellation but fall short in durability ratings and secure fit during intense activities. The Jabra model offers longer battery life and costs considerably less while providing adequate noise cancellation for most environments.
For dedicated workout earbuds, the Beats Powerbeats Pro offer comparable secure fit with ear hooks but lack noise cancellation and waterproofing meets only IPX4 standards. The Jabra provides a more versatile option suitable for both gym and everyday scenarios without compromising on stability.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 strikes an exceptional balance between specialization and versatility. While some competitors excel in specific categories like noise cancellation or sound quality, few match the comprehensive package of durability, performance, and features at this price point.
Price and Value Assessment
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 retails for approximately $229, positioning them in the premium earbud segment but below the most expensive options from Sony, Apple, and Bose. This price point represents a $30 increase over the first generation model, justified by the enhanced features and smart case functionality.
Value assessment must consider the comprehensive feature set these earbuds deliver. Few competitors offer military grade durability, advanced audio capabilities, and innovative smart case connectivity in a single package. For active users who would otherwise purchase separate workout and everyday earbuds, the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 provides excellent value as a single solution.
The durability factor significantly impacts long term value. Many wireless earbuds require replacement within 1 2 years due to battery degradation or damage from moisture exposure. The robust construction and waterproofing of the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 suggest a longer useful lifespan, effectively reducing the annual cost of ownership despite the initial premium price.
Warranty coverage adds further value security. Jabra provides a standard 2 year warranty against water and dust damage when registered through the Sound+ app. This coverage exceeds industry standards and demonstrates manufacturer confidence in product durability. Users gain peace of mind knowing their investment remains protected against common failure points.
Sales and promotions typically reduce the price by 15 20% several times annually. Prospective buyers willing to monitor pricing may find opportunities to acquire these earbuds at a more accessible price point. Even at full retail cost, the feature set justifies the investment for users who prioritize durability and workout performance.
Final Verdict
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 delivers an impressive combination of durability, sound quality, and innovative features. These earbuds excel particularly for active users who demand weather resistance and stable fit without compromising audio performance. The military grade construction inspires confidence for long term reliability in challenging environments.
Sound quality provides balanced performance across various content types. While audiophiles might prefer more specialized options, most users will find the audio presentation engaging and versatile. The spatial sound implementation enhances the listening experience for movies and certain music genres without feeling gimmicky.
Battery life exceeds expectations for compact earbuds. The ability to last through multiple workouts or long travel days without recharging adds significant practical value. The quick charge capability ensures brief charging sessions provide meaningful playback time when needed urgently.
The innovative smart case functionality demonstrates thoughtful design beyond typical earbud accessories. The ability to connect to external audio sources extends utility in travel and gym scenarios where wireless connectivity otherwise proves challenging. This feature alone distinguishes the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 from many competitors.
Minor limitations include ANC performance that falls slightly behind category leaders and absence of aptX codec support. These factors rarely impact everyday usage but merit consideration for specific use cases where these capabilities take priority. For most users, the comprehensive feature set outweighs these modest shortcomings.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 earns strong recommendation for users prioritizing durability and workout performance without sacrificing everyday features. They represent an excellent investment for active individuals seeking a single earbud solution for diverse listening environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 worth upgrading from the first generation?
The upgrade offers improved ANC, better spatial audio, and the innovative smart case. First generation owners might not find these improvements essential unless they specifically need the new features.
How do these compare to AirPods Pro for iPhone users?
AirPods Pro offer better iOS integration but less durability. iPhone users who prioritize workout performance should choose the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2.
Can I use these earbuds for swimming?
Despite the IP68 rating, Jabra does not recommend these for swimming as Bluetooth signals do not transmit well underwater.
How effective is the noise cancellation for air travel?
The ANC handles airplane engine noise effectively but does not match the best from Bose or Sony for this specific use case.
Do these earbuds work well for small ears?
The compact design and multiple ear tip sizes accommodate most ear sizes, including smaller ear canals.
