We subjected the Jabra Elite 8 Active to rigorous testing, simulating real-world conditions: embedding them in sand, submerging them in water, using them during cycling and gym sessions, and even performing drop tests. When Jabra claims to have engineered the world’s toughest headphones (supported by Force Technology certification), thorough evaluation is paramount. The Jabra Elite 8 Active consistently met the challenge, demonstrating resilience by withstanding dust and water while maintaining performance. Beyond durability, these earbuds prove their competence extends indoors, offering features like wireless charging, effective active noise cancellation, and a well-defined soundstage.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active adopts a straightforward approach, prioritizing essential features. Rather than incorporating innovations like UV cleaning or advanced hearing tests, Jabra has focused on refining core functionalities. This design choice mitigates the paradox of choice, ensuring user satisfaction by offering a streamlined, yet comprehensive experience. The result is a set of earbuds that are consistently reliable and, in many respects, exceptional.
Overall – Jabra Elite 8 Active
The package includes four sizes of ear tips, a USB-C cable, a charging case, and the earbuds themselves, all in a matching color. The earbuds feature 6 mm drivers and provide a battery life of 8 hours with active noise cancellation enabled. The charging case extends the total battery life to 32 hours. Disabling noise cancellation increases this to an impressive 56 hours. Considering the compact size of both the earbuds and the charging case, this extended battery life is noteworthy. Furthermore, the earbuds boast a standby time of up to 315 days, a figure rarely seen. The rapid charging capabilities of both the earbuds and the case ensure that battery life concerns are minimized.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active boasts an IP68 rating, signifying complete waterproof and dustproof protection. Our testing included submersion in water and exposure to sand. We found that rinsing the earbuds under running water after sand exposure was an efficient cleaning method. While water ingress into the earbuds initially resulted in exaggerated bass, the sound profile returned to normal within minutes. The case, with an IP54 rating, offers splashproof protection. Physical buttons provide reliable operation, even with gloves or headwear. This design demonstrates a focus on user-friendliness and practicality.
Soundstage and noise cancellation – Jabra Elite 8 Active
Jabra’s decision to support only AAC and SBC codecs does not detract from the audio quality. The default soundstage is comprehensive and convincing, negating the need for extensive EQ adjustments. The earbuds exhibit a slightly bass-heavy profile, similar to the Anker Soundcore Sport X10, which is beneficial during intense physical activity when perceived bass frequencies often diminish. While the 6 mm drivers may not possess the same acoustic capabilities as the larger drivers in the Jabra Elite 10, the Jabra Elite 8 Active delivers excellent sound reproduction across various audio genres.
Noise cancellation
The Jabra Elite 8 Active features exceptional active noise cancellation, ranking among the best we’ve tested. The soundstage remains consistent across hear-through, Off, and ANC modes, effectively silencing ambient noise. Similar to the Sony WH-1000XM4, the Jabra Elite 8 Active incorporates pressure relief, preventing the discomfort often associated with noise cancellation. This results in reduced ear fatigue during extended use.
The experience, comfort and fit
A key requirement for sports headphones is a secure fit during movement. The Jabra Elite 8 Active utilizes a silicone coating to enhance grip, effectively keeping the earbuds in place. While some sports headphones, such as the Soundcore Sport X10 or Skullcandy Push Active, employ brackets for added security, the Jabra Elite 8 Active proves that these are not necessary. After rigorous testing, including cycling in the rain and various exercises, the Jabra Elite 8 Active remained firmly in place. Weighing only five grams, the earbuds are barely noticeable, ensuring a comfortable fit.
The Jabra Sound + app
Jabra’s Sound+ app provides extensive customization options, including configurable 1-, 2-, and 3-press controls. While long press functionality is reserved for volume control, the app allows for adjusting hear-through settings. However, we found the default noise cancellation settings to be satisfactory, negating the need for adjustments.
Jabra’s Soundscapes feature offers ambient soundscapes (fans, rain, noise, etc.) to enhance focus and isolation. While these soundscapes have been available for some time, the looping can be noticeable. Despite this limitation, the inclusion of Soundscapes is a valuable feature.
While Jabra is renowned for its high-quality call headsets, the Jabra Elite 8 Active does not quite reach the same level of call quality. Although call quality remains good, it is not as exceptional as dedicated call headsets like the Jabra Elite 65e.
The bottom line – Jabra Elite 8 Active
The Jabra Elite 8 Active, priced at 2,500 kronor, offers a robust and versatile solution suitable for various environments. These earbuds can withstand diverse weather conditions and are easily portable without requiring a protective case. The Jabra Elite 8 Active prioritizes essential functionality, avoiding unnecessary features and bloatware. The default soundstage is excellent, the noise cancellation is remarkably effective, and the control options are comprehensive. The user experience is streamlined, eliminating the need for intrusive processes like ear scanning or account creation. This simplicity is a welcome departure from contemporary trends.
In conclusion, Jabra’s Elite 8 Active excels by emphasizing core functionality, robust build quality, and user-friendly design, offering a refreshing alternative to feature-laden alternatives.
Jabra provided review samples for this evaluation. The provision of review materials does not influence our editorial independence; our reviews are conducted independently and prioritize the interests of our readers and consumers.
