When it comes to high-end wireless earbuds in 2024, two standout options are the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 at $229 and the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 at $399. Let's dive into what makes each special and who they're best suited for.
True wireless earbuds have come a long way since the first AirPods launched in 2016. Today's premium models pack impressive technology into tiny packages - from advanced noise cancellation to spatial audio processing and smart features that seemed impossible just a few years ago.
The key innovations we're seeing in 2024 include:
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 and B&W Pi8 represent two distinct philosophies in earbud design. Jabra focuses on versatility and durability, while B&W emphasizes premium audio quality and refined materials.
Released in late 2023, the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 builds on Jabra's reputation for robust, feature-rich earbuds. The most significant improvements over the previous generation include:
What's particularly impressive is how Jabra managed to pack all this into a reasonable price point while maintaining excellent sound quality.
The Pi8, released in early 2024, represents B&W's latest push into the premium wireless market. They've focused on:
The B&W Pi8 takes the lead here with noticeably better detail and separation. Its larger drivers and superior codec support make a real difference, especially when listening to high-resolution audio sources. The sound is more spacious and refined, with better instrument separation and a more natural timbre.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 still sounds excellent, with punchy bass and clear mids that work well for most popular music. For workouts or commuting, many users won't notice the difference in audio quality.
Both models excel here but in different ways:
Both support wireless charging and quick charging features.
Both offer companion apps with EQ adjustment and feature customization. The Jabras edge ahead with more workout-focused features and better integration with fitness apps. The B&Ws counter with their unique audio retransmission case, which is fantastic for travelers who want to use their earbuds with in-flight entertainment systems.
For home theater use, the B&W Pi8's aptX Lossless support and audio retransmission case make them more versatile. You can connect the case directly to your TV or receiver and enjoy low-latency, high-quality audio. The Jabras work fine for casual viewing but aren't specifically optimized for this use case.
At $229, the Jabras offer exceptional value with their durability, features, and performance. The $399 B&Ws justify their premium price through superior sound quality and unique features, but the value proposition depends entirely on how much you prioritize audio quality.
Choose the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 if:
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 if:
Both products excel in their intended use cases. The Jabras represent the pinnacle of versatile, durable wireless earbuds, while the B&Ws showcase what's possible when focusing purely on audio quality and premium features. Your choice should align with your primary use case and budget rather than trying to compromise between the two approaches.
For most users, the Jabras will be the smarter choice, offering 90% of the features at about 60% of the price. However, if you're an audio enthusiast who can appreciate (and afford) the difference in sound quality, the B&Ws won't disappoint.
Remember that both represent significant improvements over their predecessors and will serve well for years to come. The key is matching their strengths to your specific needs and use cases.
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 $229 |
Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 $399 |
|---|---|
| Driver Size - Larger drivers typically deliver fuller sound with better bass response | |
| 6mm drivers (good for size, typical for category) | 12mm carbon cone drivers (exceptional, matches premium over-ears) |
| Battery Life - Critical for all-day use without charging anxiety | |
| 8 hrs (ANC on), up to 14 hrs (ANC off), 32-56 hrs with case | 6.5 hrs (ANC on), 20 hrs total with case |
| Water/Dust Resistance - Important for durability and workout use | |
| IP68 (fully waterproof, dustproof) | IP54 (splash resistant only) |
| Codec Support - Determines maximum audio quality possible | |
| AAC, SBC (standard, good for most users) | aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive (superior for audiophiles) |
| Special Features - Unique capabilities that may justify price premium | |
| Dolby Audio spatial sound, ShakeGrip secure fit | Audio retransmission case, premium materials, multipoint connection |
| Noise Cancellation - Critical for commuting and office use | |
| Adaptive hybrid ANC with 6 mics (2x stronger than previous gen) | Advanced ANC with customizable settings, 3 mics per bud |
| Fit & Comfort - Essential for long-term wear | |
| Sports-focused design with secure fit technology | Premium comfort design, not specifically for active use |
| Use Case Focus - Most important factor in making your choice | |
| Active lifestyle, sports, everyday versatility | Audiophile listening, travel, premium experience |
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 offers superior sound quality with its 12mm carbon cone drivers and aptX Lossless support. While the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 sounds great for its price, the B&W Pi8 provides noticeably better detail and soundstage.
The B&W Pi8 is better for home theater use thanks to its audio retransmission case and low-latency codecs. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 works fine for casual viewing but isn't optimized for this purpose.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 offers superior battery life with up to 8 hours with ANC on (14 hours without) and up to 56 hours total with the case. The B&W Pi8 provides 6.5 hours per charge and 20 hours total with the case.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 is specifically designed for workouts with IP68 waterproofing and ShakeGrip technology. The B&W Pi8 has basic IP54 splash resistance but isn't intended for intense physical activity.
Both offer excellent ANC, but the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 edges ahead with its adaptive hybrid system using 6 microphones. The B&W Pi8 still provides very good noise cancellation but focuses more on sound quality.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 at $229 offers excellent value for its features and durability. The B&W Pi8 at $399 is worth it if you prioritize sound quality and premium features.
The B&W Pi8 offers better TV connectivity through its audio retransmission case. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 can connect via Bluetooth but may experience more latency.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 performs better for calls with its 6-microphone array and specialized call optimization. The B&W Pi8 is good but prioritizes music performance.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 features Dolby Audio spatial sound. The B&W Pi8 focuses on traditional stereo performance rather than spatial audio effects.
Both support multiple device connections, but the B&W Pi8 offers more seamless multipoint switching. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 requires using the app to switch devices.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 offers more comprehensive app features including EQ, workout tracking, and customizable controls. The B&W Pi8 app is simpler but elegant.
Neither is ideal for gaming due to Bluetooth latency, but the B&W Pi8 performs better with its lower-latency codecs. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 is fine for casual mobile gaming but not competitive gaming.
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 - youtube.com - runnersworld.com - bestbuy.com - soundguys.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - techradar.com - thetechnovore.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - audioadvice.com - audioholics.com - avnirvana.com - bowerswilkins.com - audioholics.com - digitaltrends.com
