The wireless earbud market has evolved significantly, with features like active noise cancellation (ANC) and spatial audio becoming standard rather than premium additions. When comparing the Jabra Elite 8 Active ($199.99) and Elite 8 Active Gen 2 ($229.99), we're looking at two generations of fitness-focused earbuds that showcase this evolution.
Released in September 2023, the original Elite 8 Active made waves with its robust build quality and impressive feature set. Just eight months later, Jabra launched the Gen 2 version, bringing several meaningful improvements to an already solid foundation.
Both models use 6mm drivers (the tiny speakers inside the earbuds), but the Gen 2 brings notable improvements in how they handle audio processing. The original Elite 8 Active delivers punchy bass and clear highs - perfect for workout motivation. However, the Gen 2 takes things further with enhanced Dolby spatial audio processing, creating a more immersive soundstage (the perceived space where sounds appear to come from).
Having tested both, I've noticed the Gen 2's more refined sound signature particularly shines when watching movies or listening to orchestral music. The original model still excels for workout playlists where that extra bass punch can be motivating.
Here's where things get interesting. The Gen 2 features what Jabra calls "2x stronger" ANC compared to the original. In practical terms, this means:
The original Elite 8 Active's ANC is still competitive, but the Gen 2's improvements are noticeable in challenging environments like busy gyms or during outdoor runs.
The Gen 2's standout addition is its LE Audio smart case - a first in the industry. This feature lets you:
Both models support:
Both generations feature:
The durability features remain unchanged because, frankly, the original design was already excellent. I've used the original Elite 8 Active for everything from running in rain to intense HIIT workouts without any issues.
Both models offer identical battery specifications:
The Elite 8 Active at $199.99 represents strong value for fitness enthusiasts who want reliable workout earbuds with good ANC. The Gen 2 at $229.99 asks for a $30 premium but justifies it with:
Both models excel during workouts, but the Gen 2's improved ANC might matter more in busy gym environments. The original's slightly bassier sound signature could be preferable for high-energy workout playlists.
The Gen 2 pulls ahead here thanks to:
Both perform well, but the Gen 2's enhanced ANC and wind noise reduction make it the superior choice for regular commuters.
Consider your primary use case. If you're mainly looking for workout earbuds, the original Elite 8 Active remains an excellent choice. The improvements in the Gen 2 are meaningful but might not be essential for pure fitness use.
However, if you're looking for versatile earbuds that excel in multiple scenarios - from workouts to travel to home theater use - the Gen 2's improvements and smart case functionality make it worth the extra investment.
As someone who uses wireless earbuds daily, I appreciate both models for different reasons. The original Elite 8 Active's straightforward approach and slightly lower price point make it a compelling choice for fitness enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Gen 2's refinements and innovative features make it the more future-proof option for tech-savvy users who want maximum versatility.
Remember, both models represent high-quality choices in the premium wireless earbud market. Your decision should ultimately align with your specific needs and use cases rather than simply choosing the newest option.
| Jabra Elite 8 Active | Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 |
|---|---|
| Price - Base consideration for value assessment | |
| $199.99 | $229.99 ($30 premium for newer features) |
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) - Critical for blocking external noise | |
| Standard adaptive ANC | 2x stronger ANC, better at low frequencies |
| Spatial Audio - Impacts immersion for movies and music | |
| Basic spatial processing | Enhanced Dolby Audio processing |
| Smart Case Features - Important for travel and connectivity | |
| Standard charging case | LE Audio smart case (can connect to airplane screens, gym equipment) |
| Battery Life with ANC - Determines usage between charges | |
| 8 hours (32 with case) | 8 hours (32 with case) |
| Water/Dust Protection - Critical for workout durability | |
| IP68 rated | IP68 rated |
| Fit Security - Essential for workout stability | |
| ShakeGrip technology | ShakeGrip technology (unchanged) |
| HearThrough Mode - Important for situational awareness | |
| Standard ambient sound | Enhanced with 3x transparency range |
| Microphone Quality - Affects call clarity | |
| 6-mic array | 6-mic array with improved wind noise reduction |
| Connectivity - Important for device switching | |
| Bluetooth Multipoint, Fast Pair | Bluetooth Multipoint, Fast Pair, plus LE Audio |
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 is notably better for movie watching thanks to its enhanced Dolby Audio processing and LE Audio smart case that can connect directly to TV systems. The Elite 8 Active still provides good movie audio, but lacks these home theater-focused improvements.
The Elite 8 Active costs $199.99, while the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 is priced at $229.99, a $30 difference.
The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 offers superior TV connectivity through its LE Audio smart case, which can connect to any TV with USB-C or 3.5mm outputs. The Elite 8 Active requires your TV to have Bluetooth capability.
The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 features 2x stronger ANC compared to the original model, making it better at blocking out ambient noise during movies or music listening.
No, both the Elite 8 Active and Gen 2 offer identical battery life: 8 hours with ANC on, and 32 hours total with the charging case.
Yes, both models are IP68 rated and workout-ready, but the Gen 2 offers better versatility with its enhanced audio features and smart case connectivity compared to the original model.
The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 provides better overall sound quality with enhanced spatial audio and Dolby processing, while the original model has a more bass-focused sound signature.
Yes, both the Elite 8 Active and Gen 2 support Siri and Google Assistant, with identical voice control capabilities.
The Elite 8 Active Gen 2 is superior for bedroom TV viewing due to its improved spatial audio and direct TV connection capabilities compared to the original model.
Both the Elite 8 Active and Gen 2 support Bluetooth Multipoint for connecting to two devices simultaneously.
Yes, the Elite 8 Active Gen 2's enhanced spatial audio and smart case connectivity make it worth the $30 premium over the original model for home theater users.
If budget allows, choose the Elite 8 Active Gen 2 for its better versatility. If primarily for workouts with occasional movie watching, the original Elite 8 Active remains a solid choice at a lower price point.
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: techradar.com - soundguys.com - bestbuy.com - rtings.com - youtube.com - soundguys.com - rtings.com - runnersworld.com - target.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - jabra.com - youtube.com - jabra.com - tomsguide.com - youtube.com - runnersworld.com - bestbuy.com - soundguys.com
