Finding the right wireless earbuds can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Today, we're comparing two popular 2023 releases: the Jabra Elite 4 Active ($69.99) and the Soundcore P40i ($59.99). Both offer impressive features at mid-range prices, but they target slightly different users.
True wireless earbuds (TWS) have come a long way since Apple launched the original AirPods in 2016. Today's models pack sophisticated technology into tiny packages, offering features that were premium just a few years ago. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) - which uses microphones to detect and cancel out background noise - has become standard even in mid-range options. Similarly, advanced Bluetooth codecs (ways of transmitting audio wirelessly) have improved sound quality dramatically.
The technology continues evolving quickly. Both our reviewed models showcase this progress, offering features like adaptive ANC, customizable sound profiles, and multi-device connectivity that were previously only found in $200+ earbuds.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active takes a more professional approach to sound, with a balanced profile that works well across different types of music. Its support for the aptX codec (a high-quality way to transmit audio over Bluetooth) gives it an edge for Android users who care about audio quality.
The P40i leans into what many casual listeners want - powerful bass and dramatic sound. Its 11mm drivers (the speakers inside the earbuds) are slightly larger than the Jabra's, and it shows in the low-end punch. While it lacks aptX support, its extensive EQ options through the Soundcore app let you fine-tune the sound to your preferences.
Here's where we see a clear winner - the P40i dominates with 12 hours of playback per charge, nearly double the Elite 4's 7 hours. For context, that's enough to last through a full international flight. The charging case adds another 48 hours for the P40i versus 21 hours for the Elite 4.
Both support fast charging, but in slightly different ways:
The Elite 4 Active lives up to its name with an IP57 rating, meaning it's protected against dust and can survive being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. The P40i's IPX5 rating only guarantees protection against water sprays - fine for sweat but not for swimming.
In terms of fit, the Elite 4 Active provides a more secure grip, making it better suited for workouts. The P40i offers a comfortable but looser fit that some might prefer for casual listening.
Having tested both models in various environments, the Elite 4 Active clearly offers superior noise cancellation. On a recent flight, it noticeably reduced engine noise and nearby conversations. The P40i's ANC works, but it's more suited to reducing constant, low-frequency noise like air conditioning or train rumble.
For voice calls, the Elite 4 Active's four-microphone system produces clearer audio and better background noise reduction. The P40i's six mics sound good on paper, but in practice, they don't match the Jabra's call quality. That said, both are perfectly adequate for casual calls and video chats.
While neither model is specifically designed for TV watching, they both support standard Bluetooth audio. The Elite 4's aptX support gives it an advantage here, with slightly better audio-video sync. However, for serious TV watching, you might want to consider dedicated low-latency earbuds or headphones instead.
Both models offer companion apps for customization, but they take different approaches:
The Soundcore app provides:
Jabra's Sound+ app offers:
At $69.99, the Elite 4 Active delivers professional-grade features that would have cost $200+ just two years ago. Its superior ANC, call quality, and durability make it an excellent value for active users or frequent travelers.
The P40i at $59.99 offers incredible battery life and bass-forward sound that many will prefer for music and entertainment. Its extensive app customization helps compensate for its less refined out-of-box sound.
Choose the Elite 4 Active if you:
Go for the P40i if you:
Both models represent excellent value in early 2024, but technology moves quickly. We're likely to see improvements in battery life and ANC performance across all price ranges this year. However, both these models should remain competitive for at least another year, especially given their reasonable prices.
For most users, the choice comes down to use case rather than absolute quality. The Elite 4 Active is the more capable all-rounder, while the P40i excels at entertainment and everyday use. Either way, you're getting features and performance that would have cost significantly more just a few years ago.
Remember: The best earbuds are the ones that fit your specific needs and usage patterns. Consider how you'll primarily use them, and choose accordingly.
| Jabra Elite 4 Active ($69.99) | Soundcore P40i ($59.99) |
|---|---|
| Battery Life - Crucial for all-day use without recharging | |
| 7 hours + 21 hours case (adequate for most days) | 12 hours + 48 hours case (exceptional, multi-day use) |
| Water Resistance - Important for workouts and durability | |
| IP57 (fully waterproof, good for swimming) | IPX5 (splash resistant only) |
| ANC Performance - Critical for commuting and office work | |
| Advanced hybrid ANC (excellent noise reduction) | Basic ANC (moderate noise reduction) |
| Sound Quality - Affects overall listening experience | |
| Balanced profile with aptX support (better for Android) | Bass-heavy with extensive EQ options (more customizable) |
| Fit Security - Essential for exercise and movement | |
| Secure fit with wing tips (excellent for workouts) | Standard fit (better for casual use) |
| Call Quality - Important for work and communication | |
| 4-mic system with superior clarity | 6-mic system with good but lesser performance |
| Fast Charging - Helpful for quick top-ups | |
| 10 min = 1 hour playback | 10 min = 5 hours playback |
| Extra Features - Added value considerations | |
| Find My Earbuds, sidetone adjustment | Gaming mode, stand-case design, extensive EQ |
The Jabra Elite 4 Active ($69.99) has better audio-video sync thanks to aptX codec support, making it the superior choice for TV watching. The Soundcore P40i ($59.99) may experience slight lag during video content.
The P40i offers significantly longer battery life at 12 hours per charge plus 48 hours from the case. The Elite 4 Active provides 7 hours plus 21 hours from the case.
The Jabra Elite 4 Active features more effective noise cancellation, making it better for immersive movie watching and general use. The P40i offers basic ANC that's less effective.
The P40i includes a specific gaming mode for reduced latency. The Elite 4 Active doesn't have a gaming mode but offers lower latency through aptX support on Android devices.
The P40i offers a looser, more comfortable fit ideal for extended viewing. The Elite 4 Active has a tighter, more secure fit that some might find less comfortable during long sessions.
Both models support multipoint connection. The Elite 4 Active and P40i can connect to two devices simultaneously, making it easy to switch between your TV and phone.
The Elite 4 Active provides more balanced sound with better detail for dialogue and soundtracks. The P40i offers stronger bass response which some might prefer for action movies.
Both the Elite 4 Active and P40i work with any Bluetooth-enabled TV, but compatibility and latency can vary by TV model.
The Elite 4 Active features physical buttons that are more reliable during use. The P40i uses touch controls which are more modern but can be less precise.
Both models are excellent for private listening. The Elite 4 Active offers better noise isolation, while the P40i provides longer battery life for extended viewing sessions.
The P40i at $59.99 offers better value for casual users and longer battery life. The Elite 4 Active at $69.99 justifies its higher price with better ANC and audio quality.
Both the Elite 4 Active and P40i can be paired with multiple devices, though you'll need to disconnect from one device to connect to another unless using multipoint connection.
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 - rtings.com - youtube.com - soundcore.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - soundcore.com - verizon.com - nfm.com - insight.com - soundcore.com - youtube.com - soundcore.com - dexgen.com.bd - ictmirror.com
