When you're looking for premium wireless earbuds in 2024, two standout options are the Apple AirPods Pro 2 ($189-249) and the Jabra Elite 7 Pro ($130-200). Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your needs.
True wireless earbuds have come a long way since the first AirPods launched in 2016. Today's models pack impressive technology into tiny packages - we're talking active noise cancellation (which uses microphones to detect and cancel out background noise), spatial audio (creating a 3D sound experience), and smart features like automatic device switching and voice assistant integration.
The key things most people care about haven't changed though: sound quality, comfort, battery life, and value for money. What has changed is how good these features have become, even in mid-range models.
The AirPods Pro 2 launched in late 2022, bringing Apple's H2 chip (their latest audio processor) and significantly improved noise cancellation. They've had several software updates since release, adding features like Adaptive Audio (which automatically adjusts sound based on your environment) and better Find My integration.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro came out in late 2021 but remain competitive thanks to their excellent feature set and more recent price drops. They introduced Jabra's MultiSensor Voice technology, which uses bone conduction sensors to improve call quality - something that still sets them apart today.
The AirPods deliver a clean, balanced sound that works well across different music genres. Their spatial audio feature, which creates a virtual surround sound experience, is particularly impressive when watching movies or TV shows. I've found it makes action scenes more immersive, though it does reduce battery life somewhat.
The sound signature is relatively neutral, which means no part of the frequency range (bass, mids, or treble) overwhelms the others. This is great for acoustic music and vocals but might not satisfy bass heads who want extra thump in their electronic music.
Jabra takes a different approach, offering a more customizable sound through their Sound+ app. Out of the box, they have stronger bass than the AirPods, which many people prefer for modern music. The app's equalizer lets you fine-tune the sound to your taste - something Apple doesn't offer.
This is where we see some of the biggest differences between these earbuds. The AirPods Pro 2 have truly exceptional noise cancellation that adapts to your environment. In my experience testing both, they're noticeably better at blocking out both constant noise (like airplane engines) and irregular sounds (like office chatter).
The Jabra's noise cancellation is good but not quite at the same level. However, their HearThrough mode (similar to Apple's Transparency mode) works well for staying aware of your surroundings. Both models let you adjust how much outside sound comes through, though Apple's implementation sounds more natural.
Here's where Jabra pulls ahead:
Both support wireless charging and quick charging (about an hour of playback from 5 minutes of charging), but Jabra's longer single-charge battery life means you'll need to put them in the case less often during long listening sessions.
Both earbuds are comfortable for long-term wear, but they use different approaches:
The AirPods Pro 2 are lighter and have a more minimalist design. They come with four sizes of ear tips and include a fit test in the iPhone settings to help you choose the right size.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro have a more secure fit that's better for workouts, with three sizes of ear tips. They're slightly heavier but many people find them more stable during activity.
For home theater use, the AirPods Pro 2 have an edge thanks to their spatial audio feature, which creates a virtual surround sound experience. When watching movies on an Apple TV or iPad, the head tracking feature makes it feel like the sound is coming from your screen, even when you turn your head.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro work fine for movie watching but don't offer the same spatial audio features. However, their stronger bass response might be preferred for action movies and their longer battery life means less charging during movie marathons.
The value equation here depends largely on your ecosystem and priorities:
AirPods Pro 2 are worth the premium if:
Jabra Elite 7 Pro offer better value if:
Consider these questions:
If you're an iPhone user who wants the best overall experience and don't mind paying more, the AirPods Pro 2 are probably your best bet. Their integration with Apple devices and superior noise cancellation make them worth the premium.
If you want more flexibility, better durability, or prefer stronger bass, go for the Jabra Elite 7 Pro. They're an excellent value, especially if you can find them on sale, and their more customizable experience works well across all platforms.
Remember, both are excellent choices - it's really about matching the features to your specific needs and preferences.
| Apple AirPods Pro 2 ($189-249) | Jabra Elite 7 Pro ($130-200) |
|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation - Critical for commuting and office work | |
| Industry-leading ANC with adaptive audio | Good but not class-leading ANC |
| Battery Life - Impacts how often you need to charge during the day | |
| 6 hours (30 hours with case) | 8 hours (30 hours with case) |
| Water/Dust Resistance - Important for workout use and durability | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant) | IP57 (waterproof and dustproof) |
| Device Integration - Affects ease of use and features available | |
| Seamless Apple ecosystem, limited Android | Works equally well on all platforms |
| Sound Customization - Determines how much you can adjust audio to your taste | |
| Limited EQ options, preset sound profiles | Full EQ control with Sound+ app |
| Spatial Audio - Enhances movie watching experience | |
| Advanced spatial audio with head tracking | Basic stereo sound only |
| Call Quality - Critical for work calls and voice chats | |
| Excellent in quiet environments | Superior in windy conditions (bone conduction) |
| Fit Security - Important for exercise and active use | |
| Comfortable but can loosen during workouts | More secure fit, better for active use |
| Extra Features - Added value considerations | |
| Find My tracking, Adaptive Audio, Automatic switching | MultiPoint connection, customizable controls |
| Case Charging - Convenience factor | |
| MagSafe, Qi wireless, USB-C | Qi wireless, USB-C |
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are superior for movie watching due to their spatial audio feature with head tracking, creating a virtual surround sound experience. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro offer good stereo sound but lack spatial audio capabilities.
If you're an Apple user or prioritize noise cancellation, the AirPods Pro 2 justify their higher price ($189-249). However, the Jabra Elite 7 Pro ($130-200) offer better value with longer battery life and more durability.
The AirPods Pro 2 offer significantly better noise cancellation, particularly for consistent background noise like airplane engines or office chatter. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro provide good but not class-leading noise cancellation.
Both can connect to TVs with Bluetooth capability. The AirPods Pro 2 work especially well with Apple TV devices, offering spatial audio and automatic device switching. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro work with any Bluetooth TV but without spatial audio features.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro offer 8 hours per charge compared to 6 hours for the AirPods Pro 2. Both cases provide about 30 hours total playtime.
Both excel at call quality, but in different ways. The AirPods Pro 2 perform better in quiet environments, while the Jabra Elite 7 Pro handle wind noise better thanks to bone conduction technology.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro are significantly better for Android users, offering full functionality and customization. The AirPods Pro 2 lose several key features when not paired with Apple devices.
The AirPods Pro 2 have lower latency with Apple devices, making them better for gaming within the Apple ecosystem. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro have standard Bluetooth latency which may be noticeable in fast-paced games.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro have superior water resistance with an IP57 rating (waterproof), while the AirPods Pro 2 are IPX4 rated (splash-resistant only).
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro support multipoint connection, allowing simultaneous connection to two devices. The AirPods Pro 2 only offer seamless switching between Apple devices.
For home theater, the AirPods Pro 2 are superior due to their spatial audio feature, which creates a virtual surround sound experience when watching movies. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro provide good stereo sound but lack this immersive feature.
Both work with all streaming services, but the AirPods Pro 2 offer spatial audio support with compatible services when used with Apple devices. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro provide standard stereo playback for all services.
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 - nextpit.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - soyacincau.com - soundguys.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - headsetadvisor.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - jabra.com
