Jabra Elite 4 Active review | Engadget

Over the last few years, smaller sizes, better battery life and hands-free features have become the norm, but there’s only so much you can do on such a tiny device.In 2021, Jabra set the new standard for affordable wireless earbuds with the Elite 3. This $120 model delivers a lot of options that we typically see on earbuds that go for $150-$180.The Elite 4 Active carries Jabra’s new design that debuted on the Elite 3, Elite 7 Active and Elite 7 Pro last year. Over time I might get used to this, but after a couple weeks of testing, I’m still not nailing it consistently.Like every other Jabra model, you can tailor the Elite 4 Active to your needs via the company’s Sound+ app. Jabra will allow you to repeat this process if you need to, but there’s no easily accessible slider like the Elite 7 models.The company’s transparency mode, HearThrough, can be controlled in the app via a slider. Background noise is reduced when you’re talking, but any environmental roar is distracting when you’re not.Jabra says you can expect up to seven hours of battery life on the Elite 4 Active, with three additional charges in the case for a total of 28 hours. And if you’re good with passive noise isolation, Jabra’s own Elite 3 can get the job done for $60.If Jabra’s new mission is to deliver the same overall quality as its previous earbuds at more affordable prices, I’m here for it.