Jabra Elite 4 vs Jabra Elite 4 Active: Is it worth the upgrade?
By Linus T.
Updated May 2023
Jabra has recently released their latest earbuds, the Elite 4. Many users are wondering how the new model compares to the rest of the range. It's important to note that the Elite 4 is considered to be the entry-level model within the selection. So, how does it compare to Jabra's previous release, the Elite 4 Active?
In this review, we compare the Jabra Elite 4 vs Jabra Elite 4 Active on price, design & specs, and sound performance.
On our list
#1 Price
#2 Design & Specs
#3 Sound & Performance
Jabra Elite 4
Great features for a fair price
A well-rounded pair of entry-level earbuds from Jabra
Jabra Elite 4 Active
Jabra's entry active earbuds
The great combination of sports fit and active-noise cancellation.
1. Price
Jabra Elite 4 vs Jabra Elite 4 Active
The new Jabra Elite 4 are priced reasonably at US$99, while the Elite 4 Active will set you back a little more at US$119.
2. Design & Specs
Jabra Elite 4 vs Jabra Elite 4 Active
The Jabra Elite 4 looks similar to the Elite 3, while the Elite 4 Active has a sports-fit design similar to the Elite 7 Active. This is one of the main differences in design between both models. The Elite 4 has an IP55 rating and offers basic protection against rain and splashes. On the other hand, the Elite 4 Active has an IP57 rating, which makes it dust, water, and sweat proof, allowing you to weather all kinds of situations when you work out.
On the topic of battery, the Jabra Elite 4 offers a battery life of 5.5 hours in the earbuds and up to 22 hours with the charging case. While this is a newer model, it falls slightly behind the Elite 4 Active, which provides 7 hours of battery life in the earbuds and up to 28 hours with the charging case.
One key upgrade in the Jabra Elite 4 is that is now features Bluetooth Multipoint. This feature allows you to connect to two devices at once, making it easier to switch between devices without having to disconnect and reconnect. This feature is not available in the Elite 4 Active, which can be inconvenient for users who frequently switch between multiple devices.
Jabra Elite 4
Great features for a fair price
A well-rounded pair of entry-level earbuds from Jabra
Jabra Elite 4 Active
Jabra's entry active earbuds
The great combination of sports fit and active-noise cancellation.
3. Sound & Performance
Jabra Elite 4 vs Jabra Elite 4 Active
When it comes to performance, Jabra doesn't provide much detail on the differences between the two models. Both offer basic active noise cancellation (ANC), Hear-Through functionality, and similar customisation options through the Jabra Sound+ app.
If our focus is on sound quality, there are some subtle differences that the most sensitive people might be able to detect. The Elite 4 generally performs slightly better in terms of bass, but other than that, it is rather comparable to the Elite 4 Active.
Compare Jabra Elite 4 vs Jabra Elite 4 Active
Final Thoughts
The Jabra Elite 4’s are definitely a more well-rounded pair of entry-level earbuds from Jabra. At a more affordable price point than the Elite 4 Active, it will be our go-to pick between the two.
Yet, if you consider yourself to have a more active lifestyle, the Elite 4 Active would be a safer option here for a more secure and comfortable fit during your workouts.
If you like to read more on Jabra earbuds, check out our other relevant guides here:
Jabra Elite 7 Pro vs Jabra Elite 7 Active
Jabra Elite 7 Pro vs Jabra Elite 75t
Jabra Elite 5 vs Jabra Elite 7 Pro
Jabra Elite 4 Active vs Jabra Elite 7 Active
Explore the full collection for Jabra on Amazon.com or visit the Official Jabra Singapore Store.
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