Jabra Elite 4 Active in-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds Review


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The Jabra Elite 4 Active True Wireless Earbuds are the perfect companion for those leading an active lifestyle. These earbuds are specifically designed to stay securely in your ears during any activity, whether you’re going for a long run or constantly on the move. With a secure active fit and a wing-free ergonomic design, you can be confident that these earphones will stay in place and provide excellent comfort.

One of the standout features of the Jabra Elite 4 Active earbuds is their innovative noise control. Equipped with four integrated microphones, these earbuds ensure clear calls on the go. They even have adjustable HearThrough technology that allows you to hear your surroundings with the touch of a button. On the other hand, if you prefer to tune out the world and fully immerse yourself in your music, you can activate the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature.

For precision and convenience, the Elite 4 Active earbuds are equipped with physical buttons that give you better control when using them on the go. Additionally, you can personalize the sound to your preferences with bass boost and equalizer options using the Jabra Sound+ app. This app also provides easy access to Siri, Android-compatible Spotify Tap playback, and Alexa Built-in, eliminating the need to reach for your phone.

The battery life is impressive, with up to 7 hours of usage per bud and a total of 28 hours with the charging case. Speaking of the charging case, it features a USB-C port and a powerful magnetic docking system that securely holds the earbuds in place. It’s worth noting that you can also use one bud while the other is charging, thanks to the Mono Mode feature.

In terms of durability, the Jabra Elite 4 Active earbuds are IP57 water- and sweatproof, making them suitable for even the most intense workouts. Plus, they come with a 2-year warranty (registration required). The frustration-free packaging ensures a hassle-free unboxing experience, and the plain box minimizes unnecessary waste.

Overall, the Jabra Elite 4 Active True Wireless Earbuds offer a comfortable and secure fit, innovative noise control features, optimal performance, and convenient connectivity options. However, it’s important to consider that individual experiences may vary, and some users may find specific features more useful than others. So, if you’re in the market for earbuds that are designed with an active lifestyle in mind, the Jabra Elite 4 Active earbuds may be worth a closer look.

Key Technical Specifications:

  • Earphone weight: 5g
  • IP57 water- and sweatproof
  • Four integrated microphones
  • Adjustable HearThrough technology
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
  • Bass boost and equaliser options
  • Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity
  • Google Fast Pair compatible
  • Up to 7 hours battery life per bud
  • Up to 28 hours battery life with the case
  • Fast charging capability
  • USB-C port
  • Magnetic docking system
  • Includes EarGels in 3 sizes
  • Colour: Black
  • 2-year warranty (registration required)

Jabra Elite 4 Active: A Competitive Contender in the True Wireless Earbuds Arena

The Australian market has welcomed an array of true wireless earbuds tailored for the active lifestyle, and the Jabra Elite 4 Active In-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds make a compelling case amongst stiff competition. As aficionados of tech-savvy solutions, we delve into how these buds perform in comparison to rivals like Apple’s AirPods Pro, Bose Sport Earbuds, and Sony WF-SP800N.

Security and Comfort on the Go

One of the standout features of the Jabra Elite 4 Active is its secure and comfortable fit, with an ergonomic, wing-free design specifically catered to dynamic movements. While not as instantly recognizable as the Apple AirPods Pro, Jabra’s solution offers enviable stability, particularly evident during high-energy workouts. The IP57 rating, earning its keep in hostile weather or sweat-intensive routines, outmatches some competitors who max out at lower IP ratings. Yet, it’s notable that the absence of wings, while generally comfortable, may not provide the ultimate security for everyone.

Sound Quality and Noise Management

Jabra’s integration of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and adjustable HearThrough technology parallel the offerings from major competitors like the Sony WF-SP800N. The four microphones shielded by a special mesh cover ensure clarity during calls even in windy conditions. However, while Jabra impresses with precision and customisation via the Sound+ app, audiophiles might argue that the competition edges out in sheer sound depth and nuances, particularly noticeable when compared to the Bose Sport Earbuds’ stellar audio fidelity.

Usability and Battery Life

Physical buttons on the Elite 4 Active provide tangible control, a blessing for those who find touch controls finicky during intense activities. Fast Pairing via Google and seamless support for Alexa, Siri, and Spotify Tap make these earbuds strikingly versatile, though some users might long for the featherlight convenience of the AirPods Pro’s touch-centric ecosystem. Battery life competes robustly, with each bud offering up to 7 hours and an impressive 28 hours with the case, slightly surpassing the endurance of similar models in the bracket. Furthermore, the inclusion of Mono Mode and USB-C charging are modern touches that cater to user convenience.

Aesthetic and Packaging

The Jabra Elite 4 Active come in minimal, frustration-free packaging – an environmentally thoughtful choice. However, in a market where unboxing experiences are sometimes seen as part of the product, this simplicity can feel lackluster against the premium presentation of Apple and Sony’s offerings.

For Whom Does It Shine?

Ultimately, the Jabra Elite 4 Active earbuds deliver a compelling mix of features, robust performance, and comfort for those leading an active lifestyle. They’re ideal for fitness enthusiasts who need reliable, sweatproof gear that can pull double duty for both workouts and daily commutes. However, if you’re a discerning audiophile or someone who enjoys the prestige and nuanced soundscape of the Bose or Sony counterparts, you may find the Elite 4 Active offering just shy of perfection.

In conclusion, the Jabra Elite 4 Active embodies the brand’s commitment to thoughtful design and practical engineering, making it a solid contender in the competitive realm of true wireless earbuds, but not without room for rethinking and enhancements.

Price: 72.82

Posted by Matthew Miller

Matthew Miller is a Brisbane-based Consumer Technology Editor at Techbest covering breaking Australia tech news.