When it comes to workout-ready wireless earbuds, Jabra has been a major player for years. Today, we're comparing the Jabra Elite 4 Active ($120) and Jabra Elite 8 Active ($200), two models that share DNA but target different users. Let's break down exactly what you get for the $80 price difference and who should choose which model.
Released in January 2022, the Elite 4 Active marked Jabra's entry into the mid-range workout earbud space. It brought features previously reserved for premium models, like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which blocks out unwanted background noise using microphones and sound processing.
The Elite 8 Active, launched in September 2023, represents Jabra's latest technology. It introduces several improvements including better water resistance, enhanced noise cancellation, and spatial audio support (which creates a more immersive, theater-like sound experience).
Both models feature Jabra's wing-free design, but there are important differences in how they stay secure. The Elite 4 Active uses a basic silicone coating that works well for moderate activity. The Elite 8 Active introduces ShakeGrip™ technology - a specially designed liquid silicone rubber that provides noticeably better grip when you're really sweating.
Water resistance is another key difference. The Elite 4's IP57 rating means it's protected against dust and can handle being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. The Elite 8 ups this to IP68, adding better dust protection and deeper water resistance. For most users, both are more than adequate, but if you're frequently running in heavy rain or doing intense beach workouts, the Elite 8's superior protection might be worth considering.
Both models deliver clear, balanced audio that works well for both music and podcasts. However, the Elite 8 Active takes things further with:
The Elite 4's noise cancellation is good for blocking constant sounds like airplane engines or gym equipment, but the Elite 8's system is noticeably better at handling variable noise like conversations or wind. I've used both on flights, and while the Elite 4 performed admirably, the Elite 8's noise cancellation felt closer to premium offerings from Sony and Bose.
Here's where things get interesting. The Elite 4 Active provides:
The Elite 8 Active offers:
While the Elite 8 has better numbers across the board, the Elite 4's battery life is still plenty for most users. The bigger practical difference is the Elite 8's wireless charging support, which is genuinely convenient if you already have wireless chargers around your home or office.
This is where the price gap starts to make more sense. The Elite 8 Active includes several premium features missing from the Elite 4:
The multipoint feature alone might be worth the upgrade if you frequently switch between a phone and laptop, as it makes the transition seamless.
After using both models extensively, here's how they perform in different scenarios:
While neither model is specifically designed for home theater use, the Elite 8's spatial audio support makes it the better choice for movie watching. When connected to a compatible device, it creates a more cinematic experience with better directional audio. However, both models have minimal audio lag, making them suitable for casual TV viewing.
The Elite 4 Active delivers exceptional value at $120, offering most of the features casual users need. It's a great choice if you:
The Elite 8 Active at $200 makes sense if you:
Ask yourself these questions:
If you answered yes to two or more, consider the Elite 8 Active. If not, the Elite 4 Active likely offers everything you need at a better price point.
Both models represent significant improvements over their predecessors, with the Elite 4 hitting a sweet spot of features and value, while the Elite 8 pushes the boundaries of what workout earbuds can do. The choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget, but you can't go wrong with either option.
Remember: Whichever model you choose, take time to find the right ear tip size and position - it makes a huge difference in both sound quality and security during workouts.
| Jabra Elite 4 Active ($120) | Jabra Elite 8 Active ($200) |
|---|---|
| Water/Dust Rating - Critical for durability during sweaty workouts and outdoor use | |
| IP57 (good for sweat and rain) | IP68 (better for extreme conditions, beach use) |
| Active Noise Cancellation - Important for gym and travel environments | |
| Basic ANC (handles constant noise) | Adaptive Hybrid ANC (2x stronger, better with variable noise) |
| Battery Life - Key for extended workouts and daily convenience | |
| 7 hrs (28 total with case) | 8 hrs (32 total with case) |
| Microphone System - Affects call quality and noise reduction | |
| 4 mics (good for casual calls) | 6 mics (superior for windy conditions and calls) |
| Connectivity - Important for switching between devices | |
| Bluetooth 5.2, single device | Bluetooth 5.3 with Multipoint (connect to two devices) |
| Charging Options - Affects daily convenience | |
| USB-C only, 10min = 1hr playback | USB-C + Wireless charging, 5min = 1hr playback |
| Special Features - Enhanced audio experience | |
| Standard stereo audio | Dolby spatial audio, enhanced bass response |
| Fit Security - Critical for workout stability | |
| Basic silicone grip (good for moderate activity) | ShakeGrip™ technology (superior for intense workouts) |
| Value Proposition - Who should choose this model | |
| Better value for casual users, basic workouts | Worth premium for intense training, multiple devices, or maximum durability |
The Jabra Elite 8 Active ($200) is notably better for movies thanks to its Dolby spatial audio support, creating a more immersive home theater experience. The Elite 4 Active ($120) offers standard stereo sound, which is good but less cinematic.
Both the Elite 4 and Elite 8 Active have minimal audio lag that most users won't notice. They use modern Bluetooth protocols that keep audio well-synchronized with video content.
The Elite 8 Active offers 8 hours of playback (32 with case), while the Elite 4 Active provides 7 hours (28 with case). Both are sufficient for movie watching, but Elite 8 gives you an extra hour per charge.
Both models can connect to TVs that support Bluetooth audio. The Elite 8 Active has an advantage with Bluetooth 5.3 for more stable connectivity and better range.
If you're primarily using them for home theater, the Elite 8 Active's spatial audio and better connectivity make it worth the premium over the Elite 4 Active. However, if you're mainly using them for casual listening, the Elite 4 provides excellent value.
The Elite 8 Active's adaptive hybrid ANC is noticeably better at blocking external noise, making it superior for immersive movie watching. The Elite 4's basic ANC is good but less effective.
The Elite 8 Active supports multipoint connection, allowing easy switching between TV and phone. The Elite 4 Active requires manual reconnection when switching devices.
Both models are comfortable for extended wear, but the Elite 8 Active's more advanced ear tip design and better pressure relief make it slightly more comfortable for long viewing sessions.
Only the Elite 8 Active supports Dolby spatial audio for a surround sound-like experience. The Elite 4 Active provides standard stereo audio only.
The Elite 8 Active's six-microphone system and advanced audio processing provide clearer dialogue. The Elite 4 Active's four-mic system is good but less refined.
Neither the Elite 4 Active nor Elite 8 Active support audio sharing between two sets of earbuds. This is a limitation of both models.
If home theater is your primary use case, the Elite 8 Active's spatial audio and superior sound quality justify its higher price. However, the Elite 4 Active remains a solid choice for casual viewers on a budget.
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: 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 - techradar.com - soundguys.com - bestbuy.com - rtings.com - youtube.com - soundguys.com - rtings.com - runnersworld.com - target.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - jabra.com
