True wireless earbuds have come a long way since Apple launched the first AirPods in 2016. Today's options pack impressive technology into incredibly small packages, with features that would have seemed like science fiction just a few years ago. Let's dive into two compelling choices: the Jabra Elite 7 Pro ($189.99) and the JBL Tour Pro+ ($149.94).
Before we compare these specific models, it's worth understanding what makes modern wireless earbuds special. Unlike traditional Bluetooth headphones, true wireless earbuds have no cables connecting the left and right sides. They use advanced wireless technology to stay perfectly synchronized while delivering high-quality audio to each ear independently.
Both these models were released in late 2021/early 2022, representing a mature generation of true wireless technology. They include features like:
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro takes a balanced approach to sound, with what audio engineers call a "neutral signature." This means it tries to reproduce music exactly as it was recorded, without artificially boosting any frequencies. In practice, this makes it excellent for a wide range of music genres and spoken content like podcasts or audiobooks.
The JBL Tour Pro+ follows JBL's traditional "house sound," with more emphasis on bass frequencies. This can make music more exciting and energetic, especially for genres like hip-hop, EDM, or modern pop. However, this boost might not be ideal if you're looking for the most accurate sound reproduction.
Both models let you adjust their sound through smartphone apps, but Jabra's app offers more precise control over different frequency ranges. This means you can fine-tune the sound more exactly to your preferences.
One area where these earbuds really differentiate themselves is in how they handle phone calls. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro introduces what they call "MultiSensor Voice" technology, which combines traditional microphones with a bone conduction sensor. This sensor actually detects vibrations in your jaw while you're speaking, helping to separate your voice from background noise more effectively.
The JBL Tour Pro+ uses a more conventional three-microphone system. While it works well in quiet environments, it doesn't match the Jabra's performance in challenging conditions like windy outdoors or noisy cafes.
Having tested both models, I can say the Jabra Elite 7 Pro has a clear advantage in comfort for long-term wear. They're smaller and lighter, with a shape that seems to disappear in your ears. They also come with Jabra's excellent fit-test feature in their app, which helps you confirm you're using the right size ear tips.
The JBL Tour Pro+ isn't uncomfortable by any means, but their slightly larger size means you're more aware of them while wearing them. However, some users might prefer this more substantial feel, as it can make them feel more secure during exercise.
Both models offer competitive battery life, but with different strengths:
Jabra Elite 7 Pro:
JBL Tour Pro+:
While neither model is specifically designed for home theater use, both can work well for watching TV or movies. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro has a slight edge here due to its more neutral sound profile, which tends to work better for dialogue clarity. However, the JBL's stronger bass response might be preferred for action movies and gaming.
Both models support the AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs, but neither offers aptX or LDAC support, which some audiophiles prefer for minimum audio delay. In practice, both perform well enough for most viewers, with minimal audio lag when watching videos.
Both earbuds offer companion apps, but they take different approaches:
The Jabra Sound+ app provides:
JBL's app offers:
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro leads with an IP57 rating, meaning it's fully protected against dust and can survive being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. The JBL Tour Pro+ has an IPX4 rating, which protects against splashes and sweat but isn't fully waterproof.
Choose the Jabra Elite 7 Pro if:
Choose the JBL Tour Pro+ if:
At $189.99, the Jabra Elite 7 Pro sits in the premium segment of the market, competing with options like the Apple AirPods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4. Its price is justified by its superior call quality, durability, and comfort.
The JBL Tour Pro+ at $149.94 represents excellent value, offering many premium features at a more accessible price point. It's a particularly good choice for music lovers who prefer a more energetic sound signature.
Both these earbuds represent excellent choices in their respective price brackets. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro justifies its higher price with superior technical features and build quality, while the JBL Tour Pro+ offers tremendous value for those who don't need the absolute cutting edge in call quality or durability.
Remember that personal preference plays a huge role in earbud selection. If possible, try both options or purchase from a retailer with a good return policy. Your specific use case - whether it's mainly calls, music, exercise, or a mix of everything - should guide your final decision.
| Jabra Elite 7 Pro ($189.99) | JBL Tour Pro+ ($149.94) |
|---|---|
| Price Point - Consider if premium features justify the cost difference | |
| Premium pricing, but with advanced features | More affordable with good value proposition |
| Battery Life with ANC - Critical for daily use without frequent charging | |
| 6 hours + 24 hours case (30 total) | 6 hours + 26 hours case (32 total) |
| Water/Dust Resistance - Important for durability and workout use | |
| IP57 (fully waterproof and dustproof) | IPX4 (splash resistant only) |
| Call Quality Technology - Critical for business users and frequent callers | |
| MultiSensor Voice with bone conduction | Standard 3-mic array |
| Driver Size - Affects sound quality and bass response | |
| 6mm drivers (balanced sound) | 6.8mm drivers (stronger bass) |
| Quick Charge Capability - Helpful for emergency situations | |
| 5 min charge = 1 hour playback | 10 min charge = 2 hours playback |
| Sound Profile - Personal preference, but affects versatility | |
| Neutral, accurate sound (better for all genres) | Bass-forward (better for modern music) |
| Noise Cancellation Adjustability - Important for different environments | |
| 5 levels of adjustable ANC | Basic on/off ANC control |
| Size/Weight - Affects comfort during long sessions | |
| 5.4g per bud (very lightweight) | 15g per bud (more noticeable) |
| Connectivity - Important for switching between devices | |
| Multipoint connection, Bluetooth 5.2 | Single device, Bluetooth 5.0 |
For home theater use, the Jabra Elite 7 Pro ($189.99) offers better dialogue clarity due to its neutral sound profile. However, if you enjoy action movies, the JBL Tour Pro+ ($149.94) provides stronger bass response for explosive scenes. Both have similar latency performance, but neither offers specialized codecs for minimal audio delay.
The JBL Tour Pro+ slightly edges out with 32 hours total (6 hours + 26 from case) compared to the Jabra Elite 7 Pro's 30 hours total (6 hours + 24 from case) when using ANC.
Both models work well for late-night TV viewing. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro offers better noise isolation, which means you can listen at lower volumes. The JBL Tour Pro+ provides stronger bass response which some viewers prefer for movies and TV shows.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro offers more adjustable noise cancellation with 5 levels, making it better at blocking out household noises. The JBL Tour Pro+ has basic ANC that works well but offers less customization.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro supports multipoint connection, allowing easy switching between TV and phone. The JBL Tour Pro+ only connects to one device at a time, requiring manual reconnection to switch devices.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro is significantly lighter at 5.4g per bud and designed for extended wear. The JBL Tour Pro+ is heavier at 15g per bud, which some users might find noticeable during longer viewing sessions.
Both models work with any TV that supports Bluetooth audio output. However, you may need a Bluetooth transmitter for older TVs without built-in Bluetooth capability.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro offers more balanced sound ideal for all content types. The JBL Tour Pro+ emphasizes bass, which some prefer for action movies and modern music.
Neither is specifically designed for gaming due to Bluetooth latency. For serious gaming, wired headphones are recommended. However, both work adequately for casual gaming experiences.
Neither the Jabra Elite 7 Pro nor the JBL Tour Pro+ supports audio sharing between two sets of earbuds. You'll need separate audio solutions for shared viewing.
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro has superior IP57 water/dust resistance, making it more durable overall. The JBL Tour Pro+ has IPX4 rating, offering basic splash resistance only.
The JBL Tour Pro+ offers better value at $149.94 if you primarily want TV/movie watching capabilities. The Jabra Elite 7 Pro at $189.99 is worth the premium if you need better noise cancellation and durability.
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 - digitaltrends.com - harmanaudio.com - bestbuy.com - soundguys.com - tomsguide.com - jbl.com - bestbuy.com - seriousinsights.net - mm.jbl.com - support.jbl.com - bigapplebuddy.com
