The world of premium wireless earbuds keeps evolving, and 2024 brings us two compelling options from respected audio brands. Today we're comparing the $279 Elite 10 Gen 2 and $249 Pi6 to help you decide which better suits your needs.
Wireless earbuds have come a long way since the original AirPods launched in 2016. Today's premium models pack impressive technology into tiny packages - from advanced noise cancellation to spatial audio processing that creates a virtual surround sound experience. What used to be compromised alternatives to wired headphones are now legitimate high-end audio devices.
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 showcases the company's audiophile heritage with its 12mm bio-cellulose drivers. These specially engineered speakers use natural materials that reduce unwanted vibrations, resulting in clearer highs and more controlled bass. In testing, they deliver exceptional detail and a wide soundstage (the perceived space between instruments).
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 takes a different approach, using 10mm drivers optimized for their Dolby Atmos implementation. While slightly smaller, these drivers are tuned for an engaging sound that works particularly well with spatial audio content. Think of spatial audio as surround sound for headphones - it makes music and movies feel more immersive by positioning sounds all around you.
For pure audio quality, the Pi6 edges ahead with its more refined sound. However, the Elite 10 Gen 2's Dolby processing creates a more theatrical experience that many users might prefer, especially when watching movies or gaming.
Both models offer active noise cancellation (ANC), which uses microphones to detect external noise and create inverse sound waves to cancel it out. The Elite 10 Gen 2 has notably improved its ANC from the previous generation, now blocking up to 90% of ambient noise according to Jabra. It's particularly effective against low-frequency sounds like airplane engines or train noise.
The Pi6's noise cancellation is good but not class-leading. However, it offers excellent passive noise isolation thanks to its well-designed ear tips. Both models include transparency modes (called HearThrough on the Jabra) that let you hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds.
Battery life remains a critical factor for wireless earbuds. The Pi6 leads in single-charge duration, offering 8 hours with ANC enabled. The charging case extends this to 24 hours total.
The Elite 10 Gen 2 provides 6 hours per charge with ANC on, but its case holds more backup power, offering 27 hours total. Both models support wireless charging and quick charging features - a 15-minute charge gives you about 2 hours of playback.
This is where the Elite 10 Gen 2 really shines. Its smart case includes LE Audio technology (a new Bluetooth standard) that can receive audio from devices like gym equipment or airplane entertainment systems. It's like having a built-in Bluetooth adapter for older audio sources.
Both models support multipoint connection, letting you connect to two devices simultaneously - handy for switching between your phone and laptop. They also work with voice assistants and offer customizable touch controls.
The Pi6 supports more advanced Bluetooth codecs including aptX Adaptive, which can deliver higher quality audio on compatible Android devices. The Elite 10 Gen 2 focuses instead on spatial audio processing and head tracking.
Finding comfortable earbuds is highly personal, but both models offer thoughtful designs. The Elite 10 Gen 2 uses a semi-open design that reduces ear pressure, while the Pi6 provides four sizes of ear tips for a secure fit.
Both are water-resistant, though the Elite 10 Gen 2's IP57 rating offers better protection than the Pi6's IP54 rating. This means the Jabras can handle brief submersion while the Pi6 is only splash-resistant.
For home theater enthusiasts, the Elite 10 Gen 2 has a clear advantage thanks to its Dolby Atmos support and smart case features. The ability to connect directly to TVs or other sources via the case makes it more versatile for movie watching. The head tracking feature also enhances the theater experience by maintaining proper sound positioning as you move your head.
The Pi6 still performs admirably for movies, with its superior drivers providing excellent clarity for dialogue and sound effects. However, it lacks the spatial audio processing that can make modern movies more immersive.
At $249, the Pi6 represents excellent value for audiophiles prioritizing sound quality. The higher-priced Elite 10 Gen 2 ($279) justifies its premium with more features and newer technology.
Choose the Elite 10 Gen 2 if you:
Choose the Pi6 if you:
Both are excellent choices that showcase how far wireless audio has come. The Elite 10 Gen 2 represents the cutting edge of wireless audio technology, while the Pi6 delivers a more focused, audiophile-grade experience. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you value advanced features or pure audio quality more highly.
| Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 | Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 |
|---|---|
| Price - What you're paying for features vs pure audio quality | |
| $279 | $249 |
| Driver Size - Larger drivers generally produce fuller sound | |
| 10mm dynamic drivers | 12mm bio-cellulose drivers (noticeably better clarity) |
| Battery Life (ANC On) - Critical for all-day use without recharging | |
| 6 hours (27 hours with case) | 8 hours (24 hours with case) |
| Water Resistance - Important for workout use or rain | |
| IP57 (fully waterproof) | IP54 (splash resistant only) |
| Noise Cancellation - Essential for commuting or office use | |
| Advanced ANC with adaptive features (excellent) | Standard ANC (good but not class-leading) |
| Special Features - Additional value beyond basic functionality | |
| Dolby Atmos, head tracking, smart case with LE Audio | aptX Adaptive codec support |
| Multipoint Connection - Convenient for using with multiple devices | |
| Yes, seamless switching | Yes, standard implementation |
| Charging Options - Flexibility in how you power up | |
| Wireless Qi + USB-C, 5min quick charge = 1hr playback | USB-C only, 15min quick charge = 2hrs playback |
| Ear Tip Sizes - Critical for comfort and sound isolation | |
| 3 sizes | 4 sizes (including XS) |
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is superior for movie watching due to its Dolby Atmos support and head tracking features. While the Pi6 offers excellent audio quality, it lacks spatial audio processing that enhances the home theater experience.
The $279 Elite 10 Gen 2 justifies its higher price through additional features like spatial audio and a smart case. However, if pure audio quality is your priority, the $249 Pi6 offers better value.
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 offers longer single-charge battery life at 8 hours with ANC on, compared to the Elite 10 Gen 2's 6 hours. However, the Jabra provides more total battery life with its case (27 hours vs 24 hours).
Yes, but the Elite 10 Gen 2 has an advantage with its smart case that can connect directly to TVs via USB-C or 3.5mm audio, while the Pi6 requires your TV to have Bluetooth capability.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 offers superior noise cancellation with its advanced adaptive ANC technology. The Pi6 provides good but not class-leading noise cancellation.
The Elite 10 Gen 2 is better for gaming due to its spatial audio features and head tracking. The Pi6 offers excellent audio quality but lacks gaming-specific features.
Both the Elite 10 Gen 2 and Pi6 support multipoint connection, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously.
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 excels in pure audio quality with its bio-cellulose drivers, while the Elite 10 Gen 2 offers a more processed, feature-rich sound experience.
The Elite 10 Gen 2 has superior water resistance with an IP57 rating (waterproof), while the Pi6 is IP54 rated (splash-resistant only).
Both models work well with either platform, though the Pi6 offers additional codec support for Android, while the Elite 10 Gen 2 provides a more consistent experience across both platforms.
The Elite 10 Gen 2 features a semi-open design that reduces ear pressure, while the Pi6 offers more ear tip size options. Comfort is subjective, but both are designed for extended use.
The Elite 10 Gen 2 is ideal for air travel thanks to its smart case that can connect to in-flight entertainment systems. The Pi6 requires your device to have Bluetooth capability.
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: tomsguide.com - soundguys.com - rtings.com - rtings.com - loudnwireless.com - soundguys.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - seriousinsights.net - stuff.tv - bowerswilkins.com - youtube.com - tomsguide.com - bowerswilkins.com - audio46.com - crutchfield.com - baybloorradio.com - skybygramophone.com - nfm.com - ofinet.es - bowerswilkins.com
