Jabra Elite 10 Gen 1 vs 2: Is the Noise Cancellation Upgrade Noticeable?
By Elisabeth Christ
Published June 2024
Jabra Elite 10 earbuds made a splash with their premium sound quality and comfortable fit. Now, whispers of a Gen 2 model with improved Adaptive Hybrid ANC have sparked curiosity among audiophiles and frequent travelers. While official details are still scarce, we'll examine what we know about the potential upgrades, compare them to the Gen 1's already impressive noise cancellation, and speculate on whether the difference will be worth the upgrade.
Key Takeaways
While both generations of Jabra Elite 10 earbuds offer a comparable feature set, including Bluetooth Multipoint and Google Fast Pair, the Gen 2 is proved to elevate convenience with a new LE Audio-enabled charging case. Featuring upgraded 10mm dynamic drivers, the Gen 2 offers a broader frequency response, delivering richer bass and more detailed highs. The advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology in the Gen 2 is a significant upgrade, utilizing sophisticated algorithms to achieve superior ambient noise reduction, creating a serene listening environment even in bustling settings. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a more stable and efficient connection, while the improved battery life offers up to 37 hours of battery life with the charging case, which is exactly the same with the previous original Elite 10.
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 1
Better Choice for Casual Listener in Comfort Zone
✓ 10 mm drivers
✓ 5.3 with Bluetooth Low Energy (LE audio)
✓ Up to 37 hours of battery lfe
✓ Intuitive controls
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2
Better Choice for Latest Technology
✓ Advanced 10mm drivers
✓ Effective and enhanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
✓ Up to 37 hours of battery life
✓ Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
#1 Price & Design
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 1
With a $249 price tag, the original Jabra Elite 10 debuted as a premium choice for audio enthusiasts, combining robust performance with an attractive price point. These earbuds feature a sleek, ergonomic design crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring both comfort and durability. Available in a range of colors, they cater to diverse aesthetic preferences while maintaining a sophisticated look. The Gen 1's compact form factor and secure fit make them ideal for active use, whether at the gym or on the go.
The Gen 2 model, while priced slightly higher at $279, brings substantial improvements that justify the additional cost. Its design has been refined to enhance comfort and usability, featuring an even more ergonomic shape that fits snugly in the ear. The material quality has been upgraded, making the Gen 2 lighter yet more durable. The aesthetic appeal has also been elevated with new color options and a more streamlined appearance, ensuring that these earbuds not only perform exceptionally well but also make a stylish statement. The incremental price increase is a small trade-off for the significant advancements in design and functionality.
#2 Sound Quality
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2
When choosing the right earbuds for you, the sound quality is the most important aspect to consider. In terms of that, the sound quality of the Gen 1 is driven by its 10mm dynamic drivers, delivering a well-balanced audio profile. Users can expect clear mids, punchy bass, and crisp highs, making these earbuds versatile across different music genres. The passive noise isolation provided by the snug fit helps to minimize external noise, allowing for an immersive listening experience even in moderately noisy environments.
With the Gen 2, Jabra has pushed the boundaries of sound excellence. Equipped with upgraded 10mm dynamic drivers, the Gen 2 offers a richer and more detailed audio experience. The bass response is deeper, providing a more satisfying thump, while the mids and highs are clearer and more precise. This makes the Gen 2 ideal for audiophiles seeking superior sound quality. Additionally, the enhanced passive noise isolation combined with the advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology significantly reduces ambient noise, allowing users to enjoy their music without distractions.
#3 Sound+ App & Buds’ Performances
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 1
The Jabra Sound+ app is a critical component for both generations, offering users the ability to customize their audio experience. In Gen 1, the app provides access to an equalizer for sound profile adjustments, ensuring users can tailor the audio to their liking. Firmware updates are also managed through the app, keeping the earbuds up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. Performance-wise, the Gen 1 earbuds deliver consistent audio quality and reliable connectivity, making them a solid choice for everyday use.
For Gen 2, the Sound+ app introduces several new features that enhance the user experience. MySound technology uses a hearing test to create a personalized sound profile based on the user's unique hearing characteristics, ensuring optimal audio quality. MyControls allows for customizable earbud controls, offering users greater flexibility in managing their listening experience. The app also features advanced ANC settings, giving users precise control over noise cancellation levels.
#4 Controls and Connectivity
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2
Moving on to the controls, the OG Jabra Elite 10 offers intuitive touch controls that allow users to manage calls, music playback, and voice assistants with simple taps. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection with minimal latency, providing a seamless audio experience. The earbuds also support a reliable range, enabling users to move freely without losing connection to their devices. The inclusion of aptX codec support further enhances audio quality by ensuring high-fidelity sound transmission.
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2
The Gen 2 builds on this foundation with even more responsive and precise touch controls. Utilizing the same Bluetooth 5.3, the Gen 2 still offers improved connectivity, delivering a more stable and efficient link to your devices. One of the standout features of the Gen 2 is its multipoint connectivity, which allows users to connect to two devices simultaneously and switch between them effortlessly. This is particularly beneficial for professionals who need to transition between their smartphone and laptop throughout the day. Additionally, the inclusion of AAC and SBC codecs ensures high-quality audio streaming across a variety of devices.
#5 Battery Life
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 1
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 maintains the same battery life as its predecessor, offering a respectable 6 hours of playtime with ANC enabled and 8 hours with ANC turned off. The charging case provides an additional 21 hours of charge with ANC on or 29 hours with ANC off, bringing the total potential listening time to 27 hours and 37 hours respectively. While this might seem underwhelming compared to some competitors, Jabra's focus seems to have been on enhancing the case's functionality rather than extending battery life. The introduction of LE Audio to the charging case is a game-changer, allowing for direct audio streaming even when the earbuds are not in use, a feature that could potentially impact the overall battery drain of the entire package. However, real-world usage will ultimately determine if this new feature significantly affects the Elite 10 Gen 2's overall battery performance compared to its predecessor.
#6 Who is it suitable for?
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2
Firstly, the Gen 1 earbuds are designed for active individuals who require durable, high-performance audio equipment for a variety of activities. The robust design, excellent sound quality, and reliable battery life make them ideal for workouts, daily commutes, and casual listening. The customizable sound profiles and intuitive controls enhance their appeal, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of users. The Gen 2, however, with its advanced features and enhanced performance, caters to audiophiles and tech enthusiasts who demand the best and latest in audio quality and functionality. The improved sound drivers, ANC technology, and personalized audio settings offer a premium listening experience. The superior battery life and multipoint connectivity make them a top choice for professionals and frequent travelers who need reliable, long-lasting earbuds. Whether prioritizing sound quality, customization, or advanced features, the Gen 2 delivers an unparalleled audio experience tailored to meet diverse user needs.
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 1 vs 2
Final Thoughts
Jabra Elite 10 Gen 1 vs 2
As we have reviewed the comparison of Jabra Elite 10 Gen 1 vs 2 and their features, the proven enhanced noise cancellation is certainly enticing. While the Gen 1's ANC is already commendable, the potential for further refinement with Adaptive Hybrid technology could elevate the listening experience to new heights. Ultimately, whether the upgrade is worth it will depend on your individual priorities and how much value you place on top-tier noise cancellation.
If you like to read more about Wireless Earbuds, check out our other relevant guides here:
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