It's 2024, and the true wireless earbud market keeps getting more interesting. Today we're comparing two compelling options: the $199 Jabra Elite 7 Pro and the $249 Bowers & Wilkins Pi6. Let's dig into what makes each special and help you figure out which might be right for you.
True wireless earbuds have come a long way since the original 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 background noise), advanced Bluetooth codecs (think HD for audio), and smart features that seemed like science fiction just a few years ago.
When the Jabra Elite 7 Pro launched in late 2021, it brought some serious innovations to the market, particularly in call quality. The B&W Pi6, released in mid-2023, represents a more recent take on the premium audio experience. Both have received software updates since launch that have improved their performance.
The Elite 7 Pro and Pi6 take notably different approaches to sound. The Jabra offers what I'd call a "modern consumer" sound profile - punchy bass, clear vocals, and enough sparkle in the high frequencies to make music engaging. It's great for popular music genres like hip-hop, rock, and pop.
The B&W Pi6, true to the company's audiophile heritage, aims for a more neutral, detailed sound. Its 12mm bio-cellulose drivers (the speakers inside the earbuds) deliver what audiophiles call a "reference" sound - closer to how the music was mixed in the studio. If you listen to classical music, jazz, or complex acoustic recordings, you'll appreciate this approach.
Both support the basic AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs, but the Pi6 adds aptX Adaptive support. This newer codec can stream higher-quality audio (think CD quality and beyond) when paired with compatible Android phones. It's worth noting that iPhones only support AAC, so this advantage only matters for Android users.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) has become a must-have feature, and both earbuds deliver solid performance here. The Elite 7 Pro offers more customization through its app, letting you adjust the level of noise cancellation. In my testing, it does particularly well with constant, low-frequency noise like airplane engines or air conditioning.
The Pi6 takes a more automated approach, adapting its noise cancellation to your environment. While it might not block quite as much noise as class leaders like the Sony WF-1000XM5, it creates a nice bubble of quiet without the "pressure" feeling some ANC systems can create.
Both offer transparency modes (called HearThrough on the Jabra) that let you hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds. The Pi6's implementation sounds more natural to my ears, though the Jabra's is perfectly serviceable.
Here's where the Elite 7 Pro really shines. Its MultiSensor Voice technology combines traditional microphones with a bone conduction sensor that detects speech vibrations in your jaw. The result is remarkably clear calls even in noisy environments. I've taken calls while walking down busy streets, and people on the other end had no idea I wasn't at my desk.
The Pi6 handles calls competently but doesn't offer anything special in this department. Its three-microphone array works fine in quiet environments but struggles more with wind and background noise.
Both earbuds support Bluetooth multipoint, letting you connect to two devices simultaneously (like your phone and laptop). This feature has become increasingly important as we juggle multiple devices throughout the day.
Battery life is a clear win for the Elite 7 Pro, offering 8 hours of playback with ANC on and a total of 30 hours with the charging case. The Pi6 manages about 5 hours per charge with 24 hours total. Both support wireless charging and quick charging features, though Jabra's implementation is slightly more efficient.
The Elite 7 Pro boasts an IP57 rating, meaning it's fully protected against dust and can handle being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. The Pi6's IP54 rating offers basic protection against dust and splashes but isn't meant for submersion.
Fit is subjective, but Jabra's smaller size and longer nozzles tend to work well for more ear shapes. The Pi6's slightly larger build might not be as comfortable for smaller ears, though both come with multiple tip sizes to help you find the right fit.
Both earbuds offer companion apps, but Jabra's is more fully featured. You get customizable controls, an equalizer, find my earbuds functionality, and firmware updates. B&W's app is simpler but elegant, focusing on essential functions like ANC control and firmware updates.
At $199, the Elite 7 Pro represents excellent value, especially considering its feature set and performance. The Pi6 at $249 asks for a premium but justifies it with superior sound quality and premium materials.
Choose the Jabra Elite 7 Pro if:
Choose the B&W Pi6 if:
Both of these earbuds represent different priorities in the true wireless market. The Elite 7 Pro is the more practical choice, offering excellent all-around performance and features at a competitive price. The Pi6 is for those who prioritize audio quality and are willing to pay a premium for it.
For home theater use, both can work well, though you'll want to make sure your TV or streaming device supports low-latency Bluetooth codecs to avoid audio sync issues. The Pi6's aptX Adaptive support gives it an edge here when paired with compatible devices.
The true wireless market continues to evolve rapidly, but both of these models hold their own in 2024. Whether you choose the versatile Jabra or the audio-focused B&W, you're getting a capable set of earbuds that should serve you well for years to come.
| Jabra Elite 7 Pro ($199) | Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 ($249) |
|---|---|
| Audio Codecs - Determines maximum sound quality possible, especially important for Android users | |
| SBC, AAC only (standard quality) | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive (superior for Android) |
| Battery Life - Critical for all-day use without recharging | |
| 8 hours + 30 total with case (class-leading) | 5 hours + 24 total with case (average) |
| Water/Dust Protection - Important for workout or outdoor use | |
| IP57 (fully waterproof) | IP54 (splash resistant only) |
| Call Quality - Essential for business use or frequent calls | |
| MultiSensor Voice with bone conduction (exceptional) | Standard 3-mic array (adequate) |
| ANC Performance - Critical for commuting or office use | |
| Customizable levels, good performance (8/10) | Adaptive ANC, better passive isolation (8.5/10) |
| Driver Size - Impacts sound staging and bass response | |
| 6mm (punchy, consumer-friendly sound) | 12mm bio-cellulose (more detailed, audiophile tuning) |
| Extra Features - Adds versatility and convenience | |
| Wireless charging, multipoint, FindMyBuds | Wireless charging, multipoint, premium materials |
| Fit and Comfort - Critical for long sessions | |
| Compact design, multiple tip sizes (excellent for small ears) | Larger build, premium materials (better for medium/large ears) |
| App Features - Important for customization | |
| Full EQ, button customization, sound profiles | Basic EQ, limited customization |
The $249 B&W Pi6 offers superior sound quality for movies with its larger 12mm bio-cellulose drivers and aptX Adaptive support. While the $199 Elite 7 Pro is good, the Pi6's better sound staging and detail retrieval make it the better choice for home theater use.
The B&W Pi6 has an advantage here with its aptX Adaptive codec support, which provides lower latency for compatible devices. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro relies on standard AAC/SBC codecs, which may have slightly more noticeable delay.
Yes, both are excellent choices. The noise cancellation on both models helps block out ambient sounds, making them perfect for late-night viewing without disturbing others.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro offers superior battery life with 8 hours per charge and 30 hours total with the case, compared to the Pi6's 5 hours per charge and 24 hours total.
Yes, if your TV supports Bluetooth audio output. The Pi6 offers better compatibility with modern TVs through aptX Adaptive, while the Elite 7 Pro uses standard Bluetooth codecs.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro significantly outperforms the Pi6 for calls, thanks to its MultiSensor Voice technology with bone conduction sensors.
The B&W Pi6 justifies its higher price for home theater use with superior sound quality and low latency. The Elite 7 Pro offers better value for mixed-use scenarios.
Both models support Bluetooth multipoint, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously, like your TV and phone.
The Elite 7 Pro tends to be more comfortable for longer sessions due to its smaller size and lighter weight, though comfort is subjective.
The noise cancellation feature on both models helps focus on audio regardless of room conditions, making them equally suitable for any viewing environment.
The B&W Pi6 delivers better dynamic range and detail for action sequences, though the Elite 7 Pro provides satisfying bass response for explosions and effects.
No additional accessories are required if your TV has Bluetooth. However, some users might want a Bluetooth transmitter for older TVs without built-in Bluetooth support.
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: nextpit.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - soyacincau.com - soundguys.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - headsetadvisor.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - jabra.com - stuff.tv - bowerswilkins.com - youtube.com - tomsguide.com - bowerswilkins.com - audio46.com - crutchfield.com - baybloorradio.com - skybygramophone.com - nfm.com - ofinet.es - bowerswilkins.com
