Today we're diving deep into two popular wireless earbuds that represent different approaches to personal audio - the premium $249 Apple AirPods Pro 2 and the mid-range $119.99 Jabra Elite 4 Active.
The wireless earbud market has evolved dramatically since the first AirPods launched in 2016. Today's buyers face choices between premium features, ecosystem integration, and value-focused alternatives. Let's break down what matters most when choosing wireless earbuds in 2024.
Sound quality remains king, but noise cancellation technology (which uses microphones to detect and counter external sounds) has become equally important for many users. Battery life has improved across the board, with most options now offering 6+ hours per charge. Meanwhile, features like spatial audio (creating a 3D-like sound experience) and multipoint connectivity (connecting to multiple devices simultaneously) have become key differentiators.
The AirPods Pro 2 launched in late 2022, bringing significant improvements over the original Pro model. The H2 chip introduction enabled better noise cancellation and more precise sound processing. Apple has since added features through software updates, including Adaptive Audio (which automatically adjusts sound based on your environment) and Conversation Detection.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active also arrived in 2022, positioned as a fitness-friendly option with impressive durability. While lacking some premium features, it brings solid fundamentals at a more accessible price point. Jabra has maintained the product with firmware updates, though changes have been more modest compared to Apple's additions.
The AirPods Pro 2 deliver remarkably balanced audio with precise bass that doesn't overwhelm. Their Adaptive EQ feature constantly adjusts sound based on your ear shape and fit, something I've found makes a noticeable difference when switching between users. The spatial audio feature, which creates a theater-like experience for compatible content, is particularly impressive for movies and TV shows.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active produces good, clear sound with a slightly bass-forward signature that works well for workout playlists. While they lack spatial audio, they offer more sound customization through their app's equalizer. In my testing, they handled most music genres well, though complex orchestral pieces showed their limitations compared to the AirPods.
Here's where the price difference becomes apparent. The AirPods Pro 2's noise cancellation is remarkable, significantly reducing both constant noise (like airplane engines) and variable sounds (like office chatter). The transparency mode, which lets you hear your surroundings, sounds more natural than any competitor I've tested.
The Jabra's noise cancellation is functional but basic. It handles steady noise okay but struggles with sudden sounds and voices. However, it's still effective enough for gym use or casual commuting, just don't expect the same isolation as premium options.
Both models offer different approaches to fit security. The AirPods Pro 2 use a lightweight design with flexible ear tips in multiple sizes. They're comfortable for long sessions, though some users find they can loosen during vigorous activity.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active takes a more sport-focused approach with a slightly larger but more secure fit. Their IP57 water resistance rating (meaning they're protected against dust and can handle brief water immersion) beats the AirPods' IPX4 (splash-resistant only), making them more suitable for intense workouts or rainy runs.
The AirPods Pro 2 offer:
The Jabra Elite 4 Active provide:
For home theater use, the AirPods Pro 2 have a clear advantage. Their spatial audio feature, especially when watching Dolby Atmos content, creates an impressive virtual surround sound experience. The head tracking feature makes it feel like the sound is coming from your TV or device, even when you turn your head.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active work fine for TV watching but offer a more basic stereo experience. They're perfectly serviceable for casual viewing but lack the immersive features that make the AirPods Pro 2 special for media consumption.
At $249, the AirPods Pro 2 represent a significant investment. However, for Apple users who'll take advantage of their full feature set, they offer clear value through superior sound quality, noise cancellation, and ecosystem integration.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active, at $119.99, deliver impressive value for their price point. They handle the basics well and offer superior durability, making them an excellent choice for active users or those who prioritize durability over premium features.
Both products excel in their respective categories. The AirPods Pro 2 represent the premium end of wireless earbuds, offering cutting-edge features and superior sound quality. The Jabra Elite 4 Active deliver solid performance and durability at a more accessible price point.
For most Apple users who can afford them, the AirPods Pro 2 are worth the premium. Their integration with Apple devices, superior noise cancellation, and spatial audio features create a compelling package. However, the Jabra Elite 4 Active remain an excellent choice for users seeking durability and value, especially if they're platform-agnostic or primarily focused on fitness use.
| $249 Apple AirPods Pro 2 | $119.99 Jabra Elite 4 Active |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation - Critical for commuting and office use | |
| Premium ANC with adaptive audio | Basic ANC, struggles with variable sounds |
| Water/Dust Resistance - Important for durability and workout use | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant only) | IP57 (fully waterproof and dustproof) |
| Battery Life - Affects daily charging needs | |
| 6 hours (buds), 30 hours (with case) | 7 hours (buds), 28 hours (with case) |
| Sound Quality - Primary factor in overall satisfaction | |
| Balanced, refined with spatial audio | Good, bass-forward, customizable EQ |
| Device Integration - Affects convenience and features | |
| Seamless Apple ecosystem, limited Android | Platform agnostic, works well with all devices |
| Call Quality - Important for work use | |
| Excellent with voice isolation | Good but basic voice handling |
| Find My Support - Helpful for lost earbuds | |
| Precision finding with U1 chip | Basic last location only |
| Controls - Affects daily usability | |
| Touch controls, can be finicky | Physical buttons, more reliable |
| Extra Features - May justify price difference | |
| Spatial audio, conversation detection, adaptive EQ | Basic EQ, multipoint connection |
| Best Use Case - Who should buy | |
| Apple users wanting premium features | Active users needing durability and value |
The $249 AirPods Pro 2 are significantly better for movie watching due to their spatial audio feature and head tracking, creating a virtual surround sound experience. The $119.99 Jabra Elite 4 Active provide basic stereo sound only.
For Apple users and home theater enthusiasts, the AirPods Pro 2 justify their higher price through superior noise cancellation, spatial audio, and ecosystem integration. However, if you primarily need workout earbuds or use Android, the Jabra Elite 4 Active offer better value.
Both offer similar battery life, with Jabra slightly ahead at 7 hours per charge versus AirPods Pro 2's 6 hours. Total battery life with cases is comparable (28-30 hours).
Both can connect to TVs with Bluetooth, but AirPods Pro 2 offer better latency and spatial audio support for more immersive viewing. The Jabra Elite 4 Active work fine but lack advanced home theater features.
The AirPods Pro 2 have significantly better noise cancellation, especially for variable sounds. The Jabra Elite 4 Active offer basic noise reduction that's adequate for gym use but not premium performance.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active are specifically designed for exercise with IP57 water resistance. While AirPods Pro 2 can be used for workouts, their IPX4 rating offers less protection.
AirPods Pro 2 provide superior call quality with better voice isolation and background noise reduction. Jabra Elite 4 Active offer decent call quality but lack advanced voice features.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active work better with Android, offering full features across all platforms. The AirPods Pro 2 lose several key features when not used with Apple devices.
Both work for gaming, but AirPods Pro 2 offer lower latency with Apple devices. Neither is ideal for competitive gaming where wired headphones are preferred.
AirPods Pro 2 offer more refined sound with spatial audio support. Jabra Elite 4 Active provide good sound quality with stronger bass response and customizable EQ.
Both models should last 2-3 years with proper care. AirPods Pro 2's battery service is available through Apple, while Jabra offers standard warranty coverage.
The AirPods Pro 2 fully support Dolby Atmos through spatial audio, creating a virtual surround experience. The Jabra Elite 4 Active will play Atmos content but only in basic stereo format.
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 - apple.com - cnet.com - hearingreview.com - target.com - support.apple.com - costco.com - cnet.com - quill.com - soundguys.com - blog.ear-phone-review.com - camelcamelcamel.com - youtube.com - rtings.com - headphonecheck.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - jabra.com
