Looking for a true wireless earbud that won’t let you down in the gym or on the go? Fans of audio gear have been buzzing about two models in particular: the Jabra Elite 4 Active and the Jabra Elite 5. Whether you’re powering through a sweat-filled workout or need crystal-clear calls on a subway ride, chances are you’re considering these two heavyweights — and with top mentions in jabra elite 4 active vs jabra elite 5 reviews reddit threads, it’s clear you’re not alone.
As a seasoned tech reviewer and everyday listener sharing insights on RatedByMia, I’ve tested both of these earbuds in real-world situations. This guide is your go-to breakdown for design, sound, comfort, features, and value, all in one place. We’ll not only compare their features head-to-head but also help you decide which pair is the better fit for your lifestyle in 2025.
Let’s jump right in.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Key Features | Release Date | Star Rating | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jabra Elite 4 Active | Active Noise Cancellation, Secure Fit, IP57 Water Rating | December 2021 | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3/5) | Check the product box below for the most up-to-date pricing. |
| Jabra Elite 5 | Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, Multipoint Connectivity, aptX Audio | September 2022 | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5/5) | Check the product box below for the most up-to-date pricing. |
Design & Build
Both earbuds stay true to Jabra’s strong Scandinavian design ethos, but they differ subtly in intent and materials. The Elite 4 Active is built for movement, boasting a soft-touch, matte exterior with an IP57 water and sweat resistance rating. It’s clearly tailored for fitness enthusiasts. The earbud design ensures a snug, secure fit that won’t budge during high-intensity workouts.
The Elite 5, while similarly compact, leans more toward everyday elegance. With a refined case and sleeker polish, these earbuds are lifestyle-focused. You still get excellent comfort, but the IP55 rating is just a step down from the Elite 4 Active’s athletic resilience. In terms of build quality, both deliver for their target audiences. Where Elite 4 Active feels rugged and ready, Elite 5 aims for stylish sophistication without compromising durability.
Features & Functionality
This is where we start seeing sharper differences. The Jabra Elite 4 Active comes with active noise cancellation (ANC), HearThrough mode, a customizable equalizer through the Jabra Sound+ app, and native support for music assistants like Spotify Tap. It supports SBC and aptX codecs, offering high-quality streaming.
The Elite 5, however, steps it up with hybrid ANC — meaning both inward and outward microphones are used to cancel noise more effectively. It also includes Qualcomm aptX technology, AAC support, and Bluetooth multipoint connection, allowing it to connect to two devices simultaneously — a serious productivity win. Voice assistant integration is also tighter here thanks to built-in support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. If you’re looking for professional-level control and multitasking, the Elite 5 gets the upper hand.
Ease of Use
Comfort and setup are essential when choosing wireless earbuds. The Elite 4 Active emphasizes simplicity: take them out of the box and pair them within seconds. The fit is intuitive, and navigating the touch controls is a breeze, especially for beginners or workout warriors who just want to plug and play.
The Elite 5, while slightly more complex due to its additional features, retains user-friendly controls. The learning curve is steeper because of multipoint connectivity and a broader settings panel, but once dialed in, it delivers a seamless experience. If you’re used to smart tech, the Elite 5 becomes second nature quickly.
Performance / Effectiveness
When it comes to audio and call performance, both models perform admirably, but with clear differences in strength. The Elite 4 Active is energetic and bass-driven — ideal for powering you through workouts or commutes. Its ANC filters out most mid-frequency environmental noise, helpful in gyms or coffee shops, yet it may struggle slightly in louder conditions.
The Elite 5 offers a more balanced, immersive audio experience with enhanced clarity and improved call quality. Thanks to its hybrid ANC and upgraded driver system, sound feels richer and more controlled across all genres. Call performance also shines due to a refined mic setup that handles background noise effectively. It’s no surprise that jabra elite 4 active vs jabra elite 5 reviews reddit threads favor the Elite 5 for everyday audio clarity.
Value for Money
This is a close call. The Elite 4 Active gives you tons of features for its category — ANC, waterproofing, secure fit — all packed in a budget-smart workout companion. It’s arguably one of the best fitness earbuds under its range.
On the other hand, the Elite 5 brings premium features like multipoint, hybrid ANC, better audio codecs, and compatibility with virtual assistants, effectively squaring off against top-tier competitors. You get more advanced tech and polish for a corresponding bump in cost. Pricing varies, so be sure to consult the product boxes for the latest information:
jabra elite 4 active Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- IP57 rating — excellent for workouts, dust and sweat resistant
- Secure, comfortable fit tuned for active movement
- Great battery life (up to 28 hours with case)
- Good ANC and HearThrough mode for fitness contexts
- AptX support for richer streaming sound
- Cons:
- Limited to basic ANC (not hybrid)
- No multipoint connectivity
- Mic clarity during calls can be average in noisy areas
jabra elite 5 Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- Hybrid ANC — excellent noise cancellation in most environments
- Multipoint connectivity for switching between devices
- Superior call and audio quality
- Supports aptX and AAC codecs
- More customizable via Jabra Sound+ app
- Cons:
- IP55 is slightly less durable for workouts than IP57
- Slightly bulkier charging case design
- Premium features come with a learning curve
Final Verdict
Both the Jabra Elite 4 Active and Elite 5 are impressive, but they shine in different arenas. The Elite 4 Active is a no-fuss, durable performer for movement-driven lifestyles. If jogging, HIIT sessions, or the occasional rainstorm are part of your daily routine, this is the durable choice that won’t break the bank.
The Elite 5, meanwhile, is more refined and smarter in every way. Its richer sound, advanced ANC, and seamless device-switching make it ideal for commuters, professionals, and multitaskers who want premium features in an elegant form.
Still unsure? Scroll through any jabra elite 4 active vs jabra elite 5 reviews reddit comparison and you’ll see — users value what matters most to them. And now, so can you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better noise cancellation: Jabra Elite 4 Active or Elite 5?
The Elite 5 outperforms here with hybrid ANC, offering better ambient sound control than the standard ANC on the Elite 4 Active.
Can I use the Jabra Elite 5 for phone calls in noisy environments?
Yes, the improved mic array and hybrid ANC make the Elite 5 excellent for call clarity in busy areas.
Are both earbuds compatible with iPhone and Android?
Absolutely. Both work seamlessly with iOS and Android, and the Sound+ app is available on both platforms.
Which one is better for workouts?
The Elite 4 Active wins here with a slightly higher IP57 water resistance rating and a more secure fit designed for movement.
Do either support multipoint connectivity?
The Jabra Elite 5 supports multipoint, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously. The Elite 4 Active does not.