If you're in the market for high-end wireless earbuds in 2024, you're facing some excellent choices. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the Beats Fit Pro ($149.99) and the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 ($199.99). Both offer impressive features, but they take different approaches to solving common earbud challenges.
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 external noise), spatial audio (creating a 3D sound experience), and smart features like automatic device switching.
The Beats Fit Pro launched in late 2021, while the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 arrived in late 2023. This timing difference matters because we've seen significant improvements in battery life and noise cancellation technology over these two years. However, both products have received firmware updates to keep their features current.
Both earbuds deliver excellent audio, but they have distinct sound signatures that will appeal to different listeners.
The Beats Fit Pro emphasizes bass and treble, creating an exciting sound that makes pop, hip-hop, and electronic music really shine. The bass is punchy without being overwhelming, and the highs are crisp without becoming harsh. If you're coming from older Beats products, you'll notice the sound is more balanced than the bass-heavy reputation Beats once had.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 takes a more neutral approach, aiming for a balanced sound across all frequencies. This makes it versatile across different types of music, from classical to rock. The sound stage (how wide and deep the audio appears) is notably larger than the Beats, giving you a more spacious listening experience.
Both support spatial audio, which creates a virtual surround sound experience. The Beats version works especially well with Apple Music and Apple TV+, while Jabra uses Dolby Atmos technology that works across more platforms.
Here's where these earbuds take very different approaches:
The Beats Fit Pro uses a secure-fit wing tip design that locks into your ear's concha (the bowl-shaped area above your ear canal). This makes them extremely stable during workouts or running, though some users find the wing tips can cause fatigue during very long listening sessions.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 uses a semi-open design with oval-shaped tips that create a gentler seal. This approach reduces ear fatigue and that "plugged" feeling some people dislike about earbuds. However, they're not quite as secure for high-impact activities.
Battery technology has improved significantly in recent years, and both models reflect this:
Beats Fit Pro:
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2:
This is where your choice of smartphone becomes important. The Beats Fit Pro is deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem, offering:
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 takes a more platform-agnostic approach:
For home theater use, both models support low-latency audio modes when used with compatible devices. The Beats Fit Pro works particularly well with Apple TV, automatically switching to low-latency mode. The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 includes a unique feature where its case can act as a Bluetooth transmitter - you can plug it into your TV's headphone jack and use it to stream audio to the earbuds, which is great for late-night viewing.
The Beats Fit Pro at $149.99 represents solid value, especially if you're in the Apple ecosystem. You're getting most of the features of the more expensive AirPods Pro in a more workout-friendly design.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 at $199.99 is pricier but offers more versatility across platforms and slightly better battery life. The additional features like wireless charging and better water resistance help justify the higher price.
Consider these key factors when making your choice:
Both the Beats Fit Pro and Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 are excellent earbuds that serve different needs. The Beats excel at secure fit and Apple integration, while the Jabra offers more versatility and slightly better sound quality. Neither would be a bad choice, but your specific needs should guide your decision.
For most iPhone users who exercise regularly, I'd recommend the Beats Fit Pro. For everyone else, especially those who prioritize sound quality and use multiple devices, the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is likely the better choice, despite the higher price tag.
Remember that both models frequently go on sale, so it's worth watching for deals if you're not in a hurry to make a purchase.
| Beats Fit Pro ($149.99) | Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 ($199.99) |
|---|---|
| Ecosystem Integration - Determines how seamlessly they work with your devices | |
| Apple-optimized with H1 chip, seamless iOS features | Platform-agnostic, works equally well on all devices |
| Fit Style - Critical for comfort and intended use case | |
| Wing tip design for workout stability | Semi-open design for all-day comfort |
| Water Resistance - Important for durability and workout use | |
| IPX4 (splash/sweat resistant) | IP57 (waterproof and dustproof) |
| Battery Life - Impacts daily convenience and charging needs | |
| 6h (ANC on), 24h with case | 8h (ANC on), 28h with case |
| Charging Options - Affects convenience and compatibility | |
| USB-C only | USB-C and wireless charging |
| Sound Signature - Determines music enjoyment and preference | |
| Bass-forward, energetic sound (great for workouts) | Balanced, neutral sound (better for varied genres) |
| Noise Cancellation - Critical for commuting and office use | |
| Good ANC, excellent for most situations | Enhanced ANC, better wind noise handling |
| Special Features - Can significantly impact usefulness | |
| Spatial audio with head tracking, Audio sharing | Dolby Atmos, MultiPoint connection, Smart Case with transmitter |
| Case Size - Affects portability | |
| Compact, pocket-friendly | Slightly bulkier but more feature-rich |
| Value Proposition - What you get for the money | |
| Better value for Apple users and fitness focus | Premium features justify higher price for platform-agnostic users |
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 has an advantage for home theater use thanks to its Smart Case that can act as a Bluetooth transmitter for TVs. However, the Beats Fit Pro works exceptionally well with Apple TV for low-latency viewing. Both offer spatial audio for immersive movie watching.
The Beats Fit Pro is the better choice for iPhone users due to its Apple H1 chip integration, offering seamless pairing, automatic device switching, and "Hey Siri" support.
The Jabra Elite 10 offers slightly better battery life with 8 hours per charge (versus 6 hours on the Beats) and 28 total hours with the case (versus 24 hours for the Beats).
Both work for gaming, but the Jabra Elite 10 has an advantage with its Smart Case's transmitter function. The Beats Fit Pro works best when paired with an Apple TV for gaming.
The Jabra Elite 10 has slightly stronger noise cancellation and better wind noise handling, though both offer effective ANC for most situations.
The Jabra Elite 10 is better for late-night TV viewing due to its Smart Case's ability to connect directly to TVs via audio cable, ensuring perfect audio sync.
The Jabra Elite 10 tends to be more comfortable for extended viewing with its semi-open design, while the Beats Fit Pro can cause fatigue due to its wing tip design.
Yes, both support spatial audio, but the Beats Fit Pro works best with Apple TV+ content, while the Jabra Elite 10 uses Dolby Atmos for broader compatibility.
Both perform well, but the Jabra Elite 10 has a more balanced sound profile that can make dialogue clearer, while the Beats Fit Pro has a bassier signature.
The Jabra Elite 10 offers true MultiPoint connection for any two devices, while the Beats Fit Pro only offers seamless switching between Apple devices.
At $149.99, the Beats Fit Pro offers better value for Apple users, while the $199.99 Jabra Elite 10 justifies its higher price with additional features and versatility.
The Jabra Elite 10 works better with Android TV devices due to its platform-agnostic design and Google Fast Pair support, while the Beats Fit Pro lacks some features when used with Android.
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: sixminutemile.com - apple.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - pcrichard.com - expercom.com - target.com - beatsbydre.com - soundguys.com - businesswire.com - staples.com - tomsguide.com - soundguys.com - rtings.com - rtings.com - loudnwireless.com - soundguys.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - seriousinsights.net
