Bose QuietComfort 35 II vs Jabra Elite 8 Active
The Verdict
Bose QuietComfort 35 II and Jabra Elite 8 Active serve different needs with meaningful tradeoffs. The Bose delivers superior ANC with three tuneable levels, larger 40mm drivers producing deeper bass, and a comfortable over-ear design ideal for long listening sessions (20 hours wireless ANC). Its Google Assistant integration and foldable form factor suit commuters and travelers. However, at 235g it's heavier and lacks water resistance. The Jabra Elite 8 Active costs $100 less while offering true wireless portability, IP68 waterproofing, dual connectivity via Bluetooth 5.3, and spatial audio via Dolby Atmos with head tracking. Its 8-hour battery with ANC suits active users and gym sessions, plus the case extends total endurance to 32 hours. Call quality edges ahead with 6-mic array versus Bose's standard setup. Neither plays wired, though Bose maintains that option. Choose Bose for stationary comfort and maximum ANC control; pick Jabra for active lifestyles, water resistance, and portability at better value.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Bose QuietComfort 35 II if…
- →Legendary Bose noise cancellation that set the industry standard
- →Extremely comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- →20-hour battery life is solid for travel and commuting
Buy the Jabra Elite 8 Active if…
- →IP68 rating — the most durable wireless earbuds available
- →ShakeGrip coating keeps buds locked in during intense exercise
- →8-hour battery with ANC is excellent
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Pros
- Legendary Bose noise cancellation that set the industry standard
- Extremely comfortable for all-day wear with plush ear cushions
- 20-hour battery life is solid for travel and commuting
- Dedicated Google Assistant button for quick voice commands
- Foldable design and included hard case for portability
Cons
- Bluetooth 4.2 lacks modern codecs like aptX and LDAC
- Micro-USB charging port is outdated — not USB-C
- Sound quality is beaten by newer XM4 and XM5 models
- No multipoint Bluetooth for connecting two devices simultaneously
- Plastic build shows wear over time
Jabra Elite 8 Active
Pros
- IP68 rating — the most durable wireless earbuds available
- ShakeGrip coating keeps buds locked in during intense exercise
- 8-hour battery with ANC is excellent
- Multipoint Bluetooth and aptX codec support
- Outstanding call quality with 6-mic system and wind protection
Cons
- Sound signature is tuned for clarity over bass — may disappoint bass lovers
- No LDAC codec for true hi-res wireless
- Jabra app requires account creation for full features
- $199 puts it against AirPods Pro 2 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro
Full Specifications
| Spec | Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Jabra Elite 8 Active |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 235 g | 5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 20 hrs (wireless with ANC), 40 hrs (wired with ANC) | 8 hrs (ANC on), 32 hrs total with case |
| Charging | Micro-USB, 2.25 hrs for full charge, 15 min = 2.5 hrs playback | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) |
| Drivers | 40mm Bose custom drivers | 6 mm custom driver |
| Features | Three levels of ANC (High, Low, Off), Google Assistant built-in (dedicated button), Bose AR (augmented reality) compatible, Volume-optimized EQ, Foldable design with carry case | Jabra ShakeGrip coating for secure active fit, Adaptive ANC and HearThrough mode, Dolby Atmos spatial audio via Dolby Head Tracking, 6-mic call technology for wind and noise isolation, Spotify Tap for instant music playback, IP68 — fully submersible and dustproof |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | aptX, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 with NFC pairing | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | IP68 |
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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.
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