If you're in the market for wireless earbuds around $170, you've likely come across two popular contenders: the Apple AirPods 3rd Generation ($169.99) and the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($169.99). Let's dive into how these earbuds stack up and help you make the right choice for your needs.
Wireless earbuds have come a long way since the first AirPods launched in 2016. Today's models pack impressive tech into tiny packages - from spatial audio (which creates a 3D soundstage around your head) to advanced noise cancellation that adapts to your environment.
The AirPods 3 launched in October 2021, bringing significant improvements over the 2nd generation, including better battery life and spatial audio support. The Jabra Elite 8 Active is much newer, releasing in early 2024 with features like improved durability and advanced noise cancellation.
These earbuds target slightly different users, despite their identical price points. The AirPods 3 cater to Apple ecosystem users who value seamless integration and convenience. They're great for casual listening, calls, and daily use, but they aren't specifically designed for intense workouts.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active, as the name suggests, targets active users who need durability and stability. They're built to military standards for durability (MIL-STD-810H) and have an IP68 rating, meaning they're completely dustproof and can handle being submerged in water - a significant step up from the AirPods' IPX4 splash resistance.
The AirPods 3 deliver balanced audio with Apple's computational audio features doing heavy lifting behind the scenes. The spatial audio feature, which uses head tracking to create a theater-like experience, is particularly impressive when watching movies or TV shows on Apple devices. The sound signature is clean and neutral, though bass lovers might find it lacking some punch.
The Jabra Elite 8 offers more customizable sound through its Sound+ app. You get a five-band equalizer and several presets to tune the audio to your liking. The bass is naturally stronger than the AirPods 3, and the sealed design provides better isolation from outside noise. They also support Dolby Audio for spatial sound, though it's not quite as sophisticated as Apple's implementation.
The AirPods 3 use an open design similar to previous models but with a slightly shorter stem. They're incredibly lightweight and comfortable for long sessions, though they might not stay in place during vigorous exercise. The lack of ear tips means they let in more ambient sound, which some users prefer for awareness.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active uses Jabra's ShakeGrip technology - a special coating that helps them stay put even during intense workouts. They come with different sized ear tips for a customizable fit, and the sealed design provides better isolation. While slightly heavier than the AirPods, they're more secure and better suited for active use.
Battery life has improved significantly in recent years. The AirPods 3 offer 6 hours of listening time (5 with spatial audio enabled) and up to 30 hours total with the charging case. The Jabra Elite 8 Active pushes this further with 8 hours per charge and 32 hours total with the case. Both support wireless charging, though the AirPods also work with Apple's MagSafe system.
If you're deep in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods 3 offer unmatched integration:
The Jabra takes a more platform-agnostic approach with:
At $169.99, both earbuds offer different kinds of value. The AirPods 3's value lies in their seamless integration with Apple devices and solid overall performance. The Jabra Elite 8 Active delivers more features, better durability, and platform flexibility for the same price.
Choose the AirPods 3 if:
Choose the Jabra Elite 8 Active if:
Having tested both models extensively, I've found the choice really comes down to use case rather than absolute quality. For my daily commute and office work, the AirPods 3 are fantastic - they're easy to pop in and out, and the open design helps me stay aware of my surroundings. However, for workouts or noisy environments, I consistently reach for the Jabra Elite 8 Active. Their secure fit and better isolation make them more practical in these situations.
For home theater use, both offer different advantages. The AirPods 3's spatial audio really shines when watching movies on Apple TV+ or other supported services, creating a convincing surround sound effect. The Jabra Elite 8 Active's sealed design provides better immersion through isolation, and their smart case can actually connect to your TV's audio output, making them more versatile for different setups.
Both the AirPods 3 and Jabra Elite 8 Active are excellent earbuds that justify their price tags in different ways. The AirPods 3 excel at being simple, reliable everyday earbuds for Apple users, while the Jabra Elite 8 Active offer more features and durability for active users or those wanting more flexibility.
The decision ultimately comes down to your primary use case and ecosystem preference. If you're an Apple user who values simplicity and seamless integration, the AirPods 3 are an easy choice. If you want more durability, better sound isolation, or platform flexibility, the Jabra Elite 8 Active offer more bang for your buck.
| Apple AirPods 3rd Generation ($169.99) | Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($169.99) |
|---|---|
| Water/Dust Resistance - Critical for durability and workout use | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant only) | IP68 (fully waterproof, dustproof) |
| Battery Life - Important for all-day use without charging | |
| 6 hours (30 with case) | 8 hours (32 with case) |
| Noise Isolation - Affects sound quality and environmental awareness | |
| Open design (lets in ambient sound) | Sealed design with ANC (blocks external noise) |
| Fit Security - Critical for active use and exercise | |
| Basic fit, may fall out during activity | ShakeGrip coating, multiple ear tips, very secure |
| Ecosystem Integration - Affects ease of use with your devices | |
| Seamless Apple integration, limited elsewhere | Works equally well on all platforms, connects to 2 devices |
| Sound Customization - Affects ability to tune audio to your preference | |
| Fixed sound profile, Adaptive EQ | 5-band EQ, multiple presets, app controls |
| Extra Features - Additional value considerations | |
| Spatial Audio, Find My network, automatic switching | Dolby Audio, smart case transmitter, military-grade durability |
| Charging Options - Convenience factor | |
| Lightning, MagSafe, Qi wireless | USB-C, Qi wireless |
| Ideal Use Case - Who it's best for | |
| Apple users wanting convenience and simplicity | Active users needing durability and customization |
The Apple AirPods 3 offer superior spatial audio for movies through Apple TV and supported services. However, the Jabra Elite 8 Active provide better sound isolation and bass response, which many prefer for movie watching. The Jabra's smart case can also connect directly to TV audio outputs, making them more versatile for home theater use.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active offers more features and durability for the price, including better water resistance, longer battery life, and sound customization. However, for Apple users, the AirPods 3's ecosystem integration might provide better value despite fewer features.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active offers 8 hours per charge (32 with case), while the AirPods 3 provides 6 hours (30 with case). Both offer quick charging features, but Jabra's longer single-charge time is beneficial for extended viewing sessions.
Both can connect via Bluetooth to smart TVs. The Jabra Elite 8 Active includes a smart case that can connect to any TV's audio output, while the AirPods 3 work best with Apple TV devices for optimal features.
The AirPods 3 are slightly more comfortable for side-lying due to their lighter design, but the Jabra Elite 8 Active provide better sound isolation and deeper bass for immersive movie watching.
Yes, both support spatial audio. The AirPods 3 use Apple's spatial audio with head tracking, while the Jabra Elite 8 Active support Dolby Audio for spatial sound effects.
The AirPods 3 have minimal latency with Apple devices, while the Jabra Elite 8 Active perform equally well across all platforms but may have slightly more latency depending on the device connection.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active supports multipoint connection for two devices simultaneously, while the AirPods 3 can automatically switch between Apple devices only.
The AirPods 3 support Audio Sharing with other AirPods users on Apple devices. The Jabra Elite 8 Active don't offer this feature but can connect to shared audio apps.
Both work well, but differently. The AirPods 3 excel with Apple TV integration, while the Jabra Elite 8 Active's smart case allows connection to any audio source, including AV receivers.
Both have good microphones, but the AirPods 3 integrate better with Siri, while the Jabra Elite 8 Active work equally well with all voice assistants and have better wind noise reduction.
The AirPods 3 are lighter and more comfortable for extended use but may fall out more easily. The Jabra Elite 8 Active provide a more secure fit but might cause more fatigue during very long sessions due to their sealed design.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: recordingnow.com - apple.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - support.apple.com - apple.com - portableone.com - apple.com - bhphotovideo.com - apple.com - apple.com - tomsguide.com - soundguys.com - youtube.com - runnersworld.com - bestbuy.com - soundguys.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - youtube.com
