Jabra Elite 8 Active vs Samsung Galaxy Buds Live
The Verdict
Jabra Elite 8 Active edges ahead with superior durability, battery endurance, and call quality for active users. Both deliver solid ANC, but Jabra's adaptive system and IP68 rating handle demanding conditions far better than Galaxy Buds Live's IPX2 splash resistance. Samsung counters with a larger 12mm driver tuned by AKG, offering warmer bass character that some may prefer for casual listening. Jabra's 8-hour ANC runtime and 32-hour case capacity versus Samsung's 6 hours and 21 hours total reveal meaningful stamina differences. Multipoint connectivity exists only on Jabra, enabling seamless device switching. For gym sessions, workouts, or travel where durability matters, Jabra wins decisively. Galaxy Buds Live suit stationary listeners seeking warm, bass-forward sound at a $30 discount. Jabra Elite 8 Active is the stronger all-rounder.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live if…
- →Unique bean-shaped design is eye-catching and comfortable
- →Open design allows situational awareness while listening
- →AKG-tuned sound with impressive bass for an open design
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Samsung Galaxy Buds Live
Pros
- Unique bean-shaped design is eye-catching and comfortable
- Open design allows situational awareness while listening
- AKG-tuned sound with impressive bass for an open design
- 6-hour battery with ANC is decent for the form factor
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Open design means ANC effectiveness is very limited
- Sound leakage at higher volumes is noticeable to others
- IPX2 is barely splash-proof — not workout-friendly
- Fit can be insecure without ear tips — prone to falling out
- No wing tips or ear hooks for active use
Full Specifications
| Spec | Jabra Elite 8 Active | Samsung Galaxy Buds Live |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | in-ear | in-ear |
| Weight | 5 g (each) | 5.6 g (each) |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 8 hrs (ANC on), 32 hrs total with case | 6 hrs ANC on (8 hrs off), 21 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C, wireless charging (Qi) | USB-C or Qi wireless |
| Drivers | 6 mm custom driver | 12mm driver with Bass Duct |
| Features | 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 | Open-type Active Noise Cancellation, 12mm speaker with AKG tuning, Bass Duct for deep low-end, 3 microphones per bud for calls, Qi wireless charging case |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | aptX, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, Samsung Scalable Codec |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IPX2 |
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 Jabra products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Jabra Elite 8 Active or the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live.