When it comes to high-end wireless earbuds, two recent releases have caught my attention: the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($169.99) and the JBL Live Beam 3 ($179.99). Both offer impressive features, but they're designed with different users in mind. Let's dive into what makes each special and help you figure out which one best fits your needs.
The wireless earbud market has evolved dramatically since Apple launched the original AirPods. Today's premium earbuds pack impressive technology into tiny packages - we're talking about active noise cancellation (which uses microphones to detect and cancel out background noise), spatial audio (creating a 3D sound experience), and smart features that would have seemed like science fiction just a few years ago.
Modern earbuds in the $150-200 range aren't just about playing music anymore. They're sophisticated mini-computers that handle calls, connect to virtual assistants, and even help you stay aware of your surroundings when needed.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 was announced in June 2024, bringing several improvements over its predecessor. Most notably, it features 2x stronger noise cancellation and introduces the world's first LE Audio smart case - think of it as a Swiss Army knife for audio connectivity.
The JBL Live Beam 3 represents JBL's latest push into premium territory, with some impressive specs that audio enthusiasts will appreciate. It introduces a larger 10mm driver (the speaker component that creates sound) and supports LDAC, a high-quality audio codec that can transmit about three times more data than standard Bluetooth audio.
The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 uses smaller 6mm drivers but compensates with excellent tuning and Dolby Audio spatial sound support. In practice, this means you get a well-balanced sound that works great for most music genres, podcasts, and calls. The spatial audio feature creates an impressive sense of space - it's particularly noticeable when watching movies, making you feel more immersed in the action.
The Live Beam 3's larger 10mm drivers deliver more powerful bass and overall volume. The support for LDAC (a high-quality way of sending audio over Bluetooth) means you'll hear more detail in your music, provided you're using a compatible device (most modern Android phones support this). The frequency range extends up to 40kHz - well beyond human hearing but potentially contributing to a sense of "airiness" in the sound.
Jabra has clearly designed the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 with active users in mind. The IP68 rating means it's completely dustproof and can handle being submerged in water - you could literally rinse them under the tap if they get sweaty. The ShakeGrip technology, which uses a special rubber material, keeps them secure without needing ear wings or hooks.
The JBL Live Beam 3 takes a more conventional approach with an IP55 rating, protecting against dust and water splashes but not submersion. The fit is traditional, relying on well-designed ear tips rather than special materials.
Here's where things get interesting. The JBL Live Beam 3 takes the lead with up to 12 hours of playback per charge (with noise cancellation off), while the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 manages 8 hours. Both cases support wireless charging, but Jabra's case introduces LE Audio streaming capability - a unique feature that lets you use the case as a Bluetooth transmitter for devices like airplane entertainment systems.
The Elite 8 Active Gen 2's standout feature is its LE Audio smart case. This means you can plug the case into any audio source (like a TV or airplane seat) and stream that audio wirelessly to the earbuds. It's a clever solution to a common problem. The six-microphone system also delivers exceptional call quality, with advanced algorithms handling wind noise and background distractions.
The Live Beam 3 features a smart case with a touch display, making it easy to control various functions without using your phone. While it doesn't have the streaming capabilities of Jabra's case, the interface is intuitive and helpful for checking battery levels or changing settings on the go.
For home theater use, the Jabra's LE Audio case gives it a significant advantage. You can connect it directly to your TV's audio output, effectively turning any TV into a wireless audio system with minimal latency (delay between video and audio). The Dolby Audio spatial sound also enhances the movie-watching experience.
The JBL can work with your TV if it supports Bluetooth, but you might notice some audio delay, which can be frustrating when watching videos.
Let's make this simple:
Choose the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 if:
Choose the JBL Live Beam 3 if:
After testing both models extensively, I find myself reaching for the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 more often. The versatility of the LE Audio case and the bulletproof durability make it more practical for my lifestyle. However, when I'm sitting down to really enjoy music, the JBL Live Beam 3's superior audio capabilities are hard to ignore.
Remember, both are excellent choices in this price range - it really comes down to matching the features to your specific needs. Whether you're an active user who needs durability or an audio enthusiast who demands the best sound quality, there's a clear choice for you between these two impressive options.
| Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($169.99) | JBL Live Beam 3 ($179.99) |
|---|---|
| Driver Size - Larger drivers typically deliver fuller bass and more volume | |
| 6mm drivers (balanced, detailed sound) | 10mm drivers (more powerful, fuller bass) |
| Water/Dust Protection - Critical for durability and workout use | |
| IP68 (fully waterproof, submersible) | IP55 (splash resistant only) |
| Battery Life with ANC - Determines how often you need to charge | |
| 8 hrs (32 hrs with case) | 12 hrs (48 hrs with case) |
| Audio Codecs - Affects maximum sound quality potential | |
| AAC, SBC (standard quality) | LDAC, AAC, SBC (LDAC offers notably better quality) |
| Noise Cancellation - Important for commuting and office use | |
| Adaptive Hybrid ANC (2x stronger than previous gen) | Standard ANC (good but not class-leading) |
| Call Quality Features - Critical for work use | |
| 6 mics with wind protection mesh | Basic mic array |
| Special Features - Added value considerations | |
| LE Audio smart case for TV/airplane connectivity | Smart case with display screen |
| Fit Security - Important for active use | |
| ShakeGrip technology, wing-free secure fit | Standard silicone tips only |
| Spatial Audio - Enhances movie and gaming experience | |
| Yes, with Dolby Audio | No spatial audio support |
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 has an advantage for movies thanks to its Dolby Audio spatial sound support, creating a more immersive experience. The JBL Live Beam 3 has larger drivers but lacks spatial audio features.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 includes an LE Audio smart case that can connect directly to your TV's audio output, making it the better choice for TV viewing. The JBL Live Beam 3 requires your TV to have Bluetooth capability and may experience audio delay.
The JBL Live Beam 3 offers longer battery life with 12 hours per charge (48 hours with case), while the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 provides 8 hours (32 hours with case).
Both work for gaming, but the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 has lower latency and spatial audio support, making it better suited for gaming applications.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 features 2x stronger adaptive noise cancellation compared to its previous generation, outperforming the standard ANC in the JBL Live Beam 3.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 is specifically designed for exercise with IP68 waterproofing and ShakeGrip technology. The JBL Live Beam 3 is only IP55 rated and less secure for active use.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 has superior call quality with 6 microphones and wind protection technology, while the JBL Live Beam 3 offers standard call performance.
Both the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 and JBL Live Beam 3 support wireless charging through their cases.
The JBL Live Beam 3 delivers stronger bass thanks to its larger 10mm drivers, compared to the more balanced sound of the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2's 6mm drivers.
Both models support multipoint connection, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 offers more versatile connectivity through its LE Audio case.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 is better for travel due to its LE Audio case that can connect to airplane entertainment systems and stronger noise cancellation.
Both offer good value at their price points. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($169.99) provides better overall features and versatility, while the JBL Live Beam 3 ($179.99) excels in sound quality and battery life.
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 - audio46.com - target.com - walmart.com - crutchfield.com - whathifi.com - in.jbl.com - rcwilley.com - youtube.com - jbl.com - soundguys.com - jbl.com - store.utah.edu
