Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen) vs Jabra Elite 4 Active
The Verdict
Apple's AirPods Max deliver premium over-ear comfort with industry-leading spatial audio, dual H1 chips enabling computational audio processing, and an impressive 20-hour battery life with ANC enabled. However, they lack multipoint connectivity and water resistance, making them less versatile for active use. Jabra Elite 4 Active offers true portability as compact in-ears with IP57 durability, 28 hours total battery via case, and secure ActiveGrip coating designed specifically for workouts. At $119 versus $549, the Jabra provides exceptional value for fitness enthusiasts and commuters who prioritize durability and convenience. Choose AirPods Max for immersive listening in controlled environments and seamless Apple ecosystem integration; select Jabra Elite 4 Active if you need workout-ready earbuds with practical everyday features at a fraction of the price.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen) if…
- →Exceptional sound quality with rich, detailed, balanced audio
- →Best-in-class ANC that rivals top over-ear headphones
- →Spatial Audio with head tracking is immersive and seamless
Buy the Jabra Elite 4 Active if…
- →ANC and IP57 at $119 is remarkable value for gym-goers
- →Secure fit with ActiveGrip coating stays put during intense workouts
- →7-hour battery with ANC matches more expensive earbuds
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen)
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with rich, detailed, balanced audio
- Best-in-class ANC that rivals top over-ear headphones
- Spatial Audio with head tracking is immersive and seamless
- Premium aluminium and steel build quality feels genuinely luxurious
- Seamless and instant switching within the Apple ecosystem
Cons
- Very heavy at 385 g — can cause fatigue during long listening sessions
- Lightning charging is outdated (1st gen)
- No Bluetooth multipoint and limited functionality outside Apple ecosystem
- No hard case included — soft Smart Case does not protect well
- Premium price is hard to justify over cheaper alternatives
Jabra Elite 4 Active
Pros
- ANC and IP57 at $119 is remarkable value for gym-goers
- Secure fit with ActiveGrip coating stays put during intense workouts
- 7-hour battery with ANC matches more expensive earbuds
- Compact and lightweight at 5 g per earbud
- Google Fast Pair for instant Android setup
Cons
- No multipoint Bluetooth — connects to one device at a time
- No wireless charging on the case
- ANC is functional but not deep — best for light noise reduction
- Call quality drops in windy conditions
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen) | Jabra Elite 4 Active |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 385 g | 5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hrs (ANC and Spatial Audio on) | 7 hrs ANC on (28 hrs total with case) |
| Charging | Lightning | USB-C (no wireless charging) |
| Drivers | 40 mm Apple-designed dynamic driver | 6mm dynamic driver |
| Features | Apple H1 chip per earcup (two chips total), Computational audio for dynamic EQ and ANC, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Seamless Apple device switching, Aluminum earcups and stainless steel headband, Smart Case | Active Noise Cancellation, HearThrough mode, Secure ActiveGrip coating for workouts, Jabra Sound+ app, Google Fast Pair and Spotify Tap, IP57 dust and waterproof |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IP57 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Apple products or all Jabra products. View full details for the Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen) or the Jabra Elite 4 Active.