Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) vs Jabra Elite 8 Active
The Verdict
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) and Jabra Elite 8 Active sit in the same category and end up appealing to slightly different buyers. The Jabra Elite 8 Active is the cheaper of the two at $199 versus $449, a difference of about $250. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) is the newer release, which usually means a faster chipset and longer software support. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) stands out for 30 hours battery with anc, 45 hours without, while Jabra Elite 8 Active is praised for ip68 rating — the most durable wireless earbuds available. Use the side-by-side spec table below to compare cameras, displays, battery life and connectivity in detail and decide which one fits your priorities.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) if…
- →30 hours battery with ANC, 45 hours without
- →USB-C lossless digital audio support
- →Improved adaptive ANC algorithm
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
Pros & Cons
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Pros
- 30 hours battery with ANC, 45 hours without
- USB-C lossless digital audio support
- Improved adaptive ANC algorithm
- Multipoint Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity
- New Cinema Mode for spatial video audio
Cons
- Price increased to $449
- 250g is heavier than some competitors
- No aptX Lossless codec support
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 Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) | Jabra Elite 8 Active |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 250 g | 5 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 30 hours (ANC on), 45 hours (ANC off) | 8 hrs (ANC on), 32 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) |
| Features | Immersive Audio (spatial audio), Cinema Mode for video, USB-C lossless digital audio, Adaptive ANC algorithm, Google Fast Pair, Spotify Tap | 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 | SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive | aptX, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth | 5.4 | 5.3 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Drivers | — | 6 mm custom driver |
| Water Resistance | — | 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.
Explore more in headphones, see all Bose products or all Jabra products. View full details for the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) or the Jabra Elite 8 Active.