Most of us rely on wireless earbuds daily, whether for music, podcasts, calls, or watching videos. With two compelling new options - the Beats Studio Buds Plus ($129.99) and Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($229) - let's dive into how to pick the right pair for your needs.
Wireless earbuds have evolved dramatically since Apple's original AirPods launched in 2016. Today's models pack impressive tech into tiny packages - active noise cancellation (which uses microphones to detect and cancel out background noise), spatial audio (creating a virtual surround sound experience), and smart features like automatic device switching.
The two models we're comparing represent different approaches to modern earbud design. The Beats Studio Buds Plus arrived in May 2023 as a refinement of the original Studio Buds, while the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 just launched in June 2024 with several technological advances over its predecessor.
The durability difference between these models is striking and might be the deciding factor for many users. The Beats offer IPX4 water resistance, which means they can handle sweat and light rain - fine for most daily use. However, the Jabra's IP68 rating means they're fully waterproof and dustproof - you could theoretically submerge them in water (though I wouldn't recommend it).
Jabra's "ShakeGrip" coating is particularly clever - it's a specialized silicone rubber that becomes more grippy when wet with sweat. In testing, they stayed put during intense workouts where other earbuds might pop loose. The Beats take a more traditional approach with multiple ear tip sizes but lack special grip features.
Both earbuds deliver good sound quality, but there are notable differences:
The Beats Studio Buds Plus offer what I'd call a "crowd-pleasing" sound profile - clean bass that doesn't overwhelm, clear vocals, and decent treble detail. They support spatial audio, which can make movies and specially-mixed music feel more immersive by creating a virtual surround sound effect. For home theater use, the spatial audio feature works well with supported content, though you'll want to make sure your streaming service offers compatible audio tracks.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 take things up a notch technically. Their implementation of Dolby Audio provides more sophisticated spatial processing, and the sound signature has more character - punchier bass and crisper highs. The companion app offers extensive EQ (equalizer) controls to tune the sound to your preference, something the Beats lack.
Here's where we see a major technological gap between the two price points:
The Beats offer basic noise cancellation that works fine for constant sounds like airplane engines or train noise. Their transparency mode (which lets you hear your surroundings) is natural-sounding and perfectly serviceable for quick conversations.
The Jabras pack significantly more advanced noise cancellation tech. Their adaptive system actually adjusts to your environment in real-time, and it's notably better at handling dynamic noises like office chatter or street sounds. The "HearThrough" awareness mode is more sophisticated too, using the six-microphone array to provide natural-sounding environmental awareness.
Battery technology has improved significantly in recent years, and both models show this:
Both support quick charging, but the Jabras' wireless charging case is more convenient - just drop it on any Qi charging pad. The Beats require a USB-C cable.
Both models work well with both iOS and Android devices, but there are some ecosystem advantages to consider:
The Beats integrate more seamlessly with Apple devices, offering instant pairing and the ability to use "Hey Siri" voice commands. They also support Android's Fast Pair feature for quick setup on those devices.
The Jabras are more platform-agnostic but offer some unique features through their Sound+ app, including customizable controls, detailed EQ settings, and firmware updates. Their new smart case can even act as a Bluetooth transmitter for devices that don't have Bluetooth built-in - a clever solution for using them with older equipment or airplane entertainment systems.
At $100 less, the Beats Studio Buds Plus represent solid value for everyday users. They nail the basics: good sound, decent battery life, and basic water resistance. They're a particularly good choice if you:
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 justify their higher price if you:
Consider your primary use case first. If you're mainly listening during commutes, at work, or for casual use, the Beats will serve you well while saving you $100. Their sound quality and features are more than adequate for most users.
However, if you're hard on your gear, exercise frequently, or want the best technical features available, the Jabras are worth the premium. Their durability alone could save money in the long run if you've previously damaged earbuds through exposure to water or dust.
For home theater use, both models support spatial audio, but the Jabras' Dolby implementation edges out the Beats. The smart case feature could also be valuable if you want to use them with non-Bluetooth devices like traditional AV receivers.
Remember that both models represent significant improvements over their predecessors, particularly in sound quality and noise cancellation. The technology in even the less expensive Beats would have been flagship-level just a few years ago, showing how quickly the category continues to evolve.
| Beats Studio Buds Plus ($129.99) | Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($229) |
|---|---|
| Water Resistance Rating - Determines where and how you can use them | |
| IPX4 (splash resistant only) | IP68 (fully waterproof and dustproof) |
| Battery Life - Critical for all-day use without recharging | |
| 6 hours (buds), 24 hours (with case) | 8-14 hours (buds), 56 hours (with case) |
| Noise Cancellation - Impacts your ability to focus in noisy environments | |
| Basic ANC, single mode | Adaptive ANC, adjusts automatically to environment |
| Durability Features - Important for active users and longevity | |
| Standard silicone ear tips | ShakeGrip coating, reinforced design |
| Charging Options - Affects convenience of daily use | |
| USB-C only | USB-C and wireless Qi charging |
| Special Features - Can significantly impact versatility | |
| Spatial audio, Find My device support | Dolby Audio, Smart Case with Bluetooth transmitter |
| Device Ecosystem - Matters for seamless integration | |
| Optimized for Apple devices | Platform agnostic, better Android features |
| Sound Customization - Important for personalized listening | |
| Fixed sound profile | Adjustable EQ, multiple sound presets |
| Call Quality - Critical for professional use | |
| Basic voice isolation | 6-mic array with advanced noise reduction |
| Value Proposition - Helps decide if premium features are worth it | |
| Excellent value for casual use | Premium price justified by durability and features |
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($229) offers superior Dolby Audio processing and longer battery life, making them better for movie watching. However, the Beats Studio Buds Plus ($129.99) still provide good spatial audio performance at a lower price point.
There's a $100 difference - the Beats Studio Buds Plus cost $129.99, while the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 are priced at $229.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 significantly outperform with 8-14 hours per charge and up to 56 hours total with the case, compared to the Beats Studio Buds Plus at 6 hours per charge and 24 hours total.
Yes, both models work with Bluetooth-enabled devices. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 have an advantage with their smart case that can connect to non-Bluetooth sources like older AV receivers.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 feature superior adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts automatically. The Beats Studio Buds Plus offer basic noise cancellation that works adequately for constant background noise.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 are specifically designed for exercise with IP68 waterproofing and ShakeGrip technology. The Beats Studio Buds Plus are only IPX4 rated, making them suitable for light exercise only.
The Beats Studio Buds Plus integrate more seamlessly with Apple devices, offering instant pairing and Siri support. However, both models work well with iPhones.
Both work for calls, but the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 offer superior call quality with their 6-microphone array and advanced noise reduction. The Beats Studio Buds Plus provide adequate call performance for casual use.
Only the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 support wireless charging. The Beats Studio Buds Plus require USB-C charging.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 offer more detailed sound and customizable EQ settings. The Beats Studio Buds Plus provide good but less adjustable audio quality.
Both models work with consoles that support Bluetooth audio. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2's smart case provides additional connectivity options for devices without native Bluetooth support.
The Beats Studio Buds Plus offer better value for casual users at $129.99. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 justify their $229 price tag if you need durability, superior noise cancellation, and advanced features.
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: techradar.com - soundguys.com - t3.com - youtube.com - rtings.com - cdw.com - beatsbydre.com - target.com - beatsbydre.com - marketplace.uvation.com - abt.com - beatsbydre.com - beatsbydre.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
