Jabra Elite 5 review – TWS headphones with aptX and long runtimes

The Jabra Elite 5 is a pair of True Wireless Stereo (TWS) headphones that aim to provide users with an immersive audio experience, advanced features, and extended battery life. With the inclusion of the aptX audio codec, hybrid active noise cancellation, and a host of other functionalities, the Elite 5 is positioned as a premium offering in the TWS headphone market.

Design and Build Quality:

The Jabra Elite 5 headphones feature a sleek and minimalist design, with both the earbuds and the charging case made of matte plastic. The choice of materials not only contributes to the overall aesthetics but also ensures a lightweight and comfortable fit. The headphones are available in black, gold-beige, and titanium-black color options, catering to different style preferences.

The charging case of the Elite 5 is compact and pocket-friendly, with a magnetic closure that securely holds the earbuds in place. Additionally, the case supports wireless charging (Qi), allowing for convenient and cable-free charging. The inclusion of USB-C charging port further adds to the versatility of the headphones.

Comfort and Fit:

Jabra has paid significant attention to the ergonomics of the Elite 5, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for prolonged usage. The package includes three sets of ear tips, allowing users to customize the fit according to their preferences. The earbuds are designed to snugly fit in the ear canal, providing excellent passive noise isolation and preventing them from falling out during physical activities. Users will find that the Elite 5 strikes a good balance between comfort and stability.

Features and Functionality:

Setting up the Jabra Elite 5 headphones is a breeze, particularly for Android users who can take advantage of the Android Fast Pair feature. However, the headphones can be easily paired with any device using the integrated buttons. Jabra also offers a dedicated mobile app called Jabra Sound+, which allows users to access additional features and customize their audio experience. The app provides firmware updates, active noise cancellation (ANC) controls, HearThrough mode, and an equalizer.

The Elite 5 incorporates wear detection technology, which automatically pauses media playback when one or both earbuds are removed from the ears. This feature enhances convenience and power efficiency. Additionally, users can answer calls automatically by inserting an earbud, eliminating the need to manually interact with the headphones. The physical buttons on each earbud offer tactile feedback and can be customized to control media playback, manage calls, and activate voice assistants.

Sound Quality:

The Jabra Elite 5 utilizes 6mm drivers to deliver sound output. The inclusion of the aptX audio codec ensures high-quality audio transmission, especially for Android users. The sound signature of the Elite 5 leans towards a balanced profile, with emphasis on the mid and high frequencies. While the bass response is not as pronounced, the headphones excel in reproducing clear and detailed vocals and instrumentals. The treble is crisp and well-defined, enhancing the overall listening experience.

One notable feature of the Elite 5 is the inclusion of hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC). The ANC technology effectively reduces external noise, allowing users to immerse themselves in their music or podcasts. However, it is important to note that the noise cancellation performance may not be as effective in extremely noisy environments. Jabra has also implemented a HearThrough mode, which utilizes the built-in microphones to capture ambient sounds and provide users with situational awareness without removing the headphones.

Battery Life:

The Jabra Elite 5 boasts impressive battery life, making it an ideal companion for long listening sessions. On a single charge, the headphones can last over six and a half hours, which is significantly longer than many other TWS headphones on the market. Moreover, the charging case provides multiple additional charges, extending the total battery life to meet the needs of daily use. With just a 10-minute quick charge, users can enjoy up to an hour of playback time. However, it should be noted that the full charging time for the headphones and the case is relatively longer, taking around three hours.

The Jabra Elite 5 TWS headphones offer a compelling package for audio enthusiasts. With its premium design, comfortable fit, and advanced features, the Elite 5 aims to provide an immersive and convenient listening experience. The inclusion of the aptX audio codec ensures high-quality audio transmission, and the hybrid ANC technology effectively reduces external noise. The long battery life and the availability of wireless charging add to the overall appeal of the headphones.

While the Elite 5 may not deliver the deepest bass response, it excels in producing clear vocals and detailed instrumentals. The Jabra Sound+ app offers additional customization options and firmware updates, enhancing the overall functionality of the headphones. The wear detection and auto-answer features further improve the user experience.

With its combination of design, sound quality, and functionality, the Elite 5 stands out as a worthy contender in the competitive TWS headphone market.