The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 earbuds have made a notable entrance into the crowded market of true wireless earbuds. Building on the success of their predecessors, these earbuds aim to provide a premium audio experience with a variety of features tailored to both casual listeners and audiophiles. Here's a balanced review that delves into their design, sound quality, features, battery life, and overall performance.
Design and Comfort
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 earbuds maintain a sleek and modern design, echoing the aesthetic of previous models but with subtle refinements. The matte finish gives them a premium feel, and the earbuds are available in a variety of colors to suit different tastes. They are lightweight and ergonomically shaped, ensuring a comfortable fit for extended periods of use. Multiple ear tip sizes included in the box help in achieving a snug fit, which is crucial for both comfort and sound isolation.
However, while the earbuds are generally comfortable, users with smaller ears might find them slightly bulky. This can lead to some discomfort during prolonged use. Additionally, while the charging case is compact and pocket-friendly, it feels slightly less sturdy compared to competitors in the same price range.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is impressive. They feature custom 12mm drivers that deliver a rich, balanced sound profile. The bass is punchy but not overwhelming, the mids are clear and present, and the highs are crisp without being harsh. This makes them suitable for a wide range of music genres, from bass-heavy tracks to acoustic pieces.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a standout feature, effectively minimizing ambient noise and enhancing the listening experience. The transparency mode, which allows outside sound in, works seamlessly and is handy for quick conversations or when you need to be aware of your surroundings.
On the downside, audiophiles may notice that the soundstage is not as wide as some high-end competitors, which can affect the immersive experience in certain types of music. Moreover, while the default sound profile is well-balanced, the EQ customization through the Jabra Sound+ app can feel a bit limited for those who like to fine-tune their audio settings meticulously.
Features
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 earbuds are packed with features. They support multipoint connectivity, allowing users to connect to two devices simultaneously—a boon for those who juggle between phone calls and laptop audio. The touch controls are intuitive and responsive, providing easy access to playback, calls, and voice assistants.
Integration with voice assistants like Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant is smooth, making hands-free operation convenient. The earbuds also have an IP57 rating, making them resistant to dust and water, suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.
However, some users have reported occasional connectivity issues, particularly when switching between devices. This can be frustrating, especially in a professional setting where seamless connectivity is crucial. Additionally, the touch controls, while generally effective, can sometimes be overly sensitive, leading to accidental commands.
Battery Life
Battery life is another strong point of the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2. They offer up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge with ANC on, and the charging case provides an additional 24 hours of battery life. Quick charging is also supported, giving you an hour of playback with just a 10-minute charge.
While the battery life is commendable, it falls slightly short compared to some competitors that offer longer playback times. Furthermore, heavy use of features like ANC and transparency mode can drain the battery faster than advertised.
Overall Performance
Overall, the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 earbuds offer a compelling package for their price. They deliver excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a robust set of features that cater to a wide range of users. Their comfortable design and solid battery life make them a reliable choice for daily use.
However, they are not without their flaws. Some minor issues with connectivity and touch sensitivity can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, while the sound quality is generally impressive, audiophiles might find the soundstage lacking compared to more expensive alternatives.
In conclusion, the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 earbuds are a strong contender in the true wireless market, providing great value for money. They are ideal for users looking for high-quality audio, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit, albeit with a few minor caveats.
£259.99