Jabra Elite 5: Striking a Balance Between Quality and Performance in the Mid-Range Arena

The app provides extensive customization options for the Jabra Elite 5, allowing users to configure controls, audio, call settings, and additional functionalities based on their preferences. Firmware can also be updated, preferred voice assistants can be selected (native Google Assistant, Alexa, or the default assistant of the smartphone), and Spotify Tap can be enabled for quick access to the app through headset controls. All of this is presented in an organized and efficient manner, making this one of the best apps for true wireless earbuds that I’ve had the opportunity to use.

The Jabra Elite 5 is equipped with 6mm dynamic drivers, offering a frequency response range of 20-20,000Hz. The headset utilizes Bluetooth 5.2 for connectivity, supporting the SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm aptX Bluetooth codecs. This provides an advantage in sound quality when paired with an Android smartphone, although all features operate similarly on both Android and iOS devices.

Jabra Elite 5 performance and battery life

In a market filled with commendable true wireless headsets in the upper mid-range price tier, many popular options tend to limit certain capabilities within their proprietary ‘ecosystem.’ There aren’t as many high-profile options that offer fully device-agnostic performance, which has been a key aspect that Jabra has consistently highlighted.

That said, as previously mentioned, the Jabra Elite 5’s support for the Qualcomm aptX codec means there is a noticeable improvement in sound quality when paired with an Android device as opposed to iOS. However, such differences are minor, thanks to well-executed tuning and hardware, as well as the aptX codec being one of the older formats among advanced Bluetooth codecs.

The sonic character of the Jabra Elite 5 is distinct compared to many other offerings in this price range. The sound is less aggressive than that of the OnePlus Buds Pro 2, yet possesses an intriguing sharpness that gives it a unique edge. Listening to the Punjabi track «Bijlee Bijlee» by Harrdy Sandhu, the Elite 5 delivered pleasantly emphatic vocals and striking highs, which were able to shine through due to the relatively subdued lows.

While the sound quality on the Jabra Elite 5 is commendable, competing alternatives in this price bracket may offer slightly superior performance

The sound is agile and cohesive, allowing the earphones to adapt to varying tempos and diverse elements in tracks. The Elite 5’s unique acoustic profile fits well with vocal-centric mid-tempo songs. In “So Am I” by Ty Dolla Sign, Damian Marley, and Skrillex, the deep bass element came across a bit underwhelming, while the melody and reggae-style vocals were given ample space to shine.

This indicates that the Jabra Elite 5 may not cater to bass enthusiasts or anyone who generally favors electronic music that relies heavily on low-end frequencies. Conversely, softer, more measured tracks tend to benefit from the Elite 5’s tonal clarity and intricate details. Although it might not match the dual-driver Oppo Enco X2 in terms of detail, the Jabra Elite 5 provides improved tonal accuracy and sharpness.

The active noise cancellation functionality on the Jabra Elite 5 falls short of expectations, even when factoring in its mid-range pricing. While the ANC offers a fair level of adjustability, with discernible differences at various intensity levels, the highest setting still does not adequately diminish ambient sound as anticipated.

Background noises such as construction activities were still too pronounced for my preference, and even quieter indoor environments felt a bit too audible. While it is sufficient to enhance music, dialogue, and calls, it does not reach the level of efficacy one would hope for, suggesting that Jabra still has work ahead to elevate their non-flagship ANC to more competitive performance levels.

As is typical with Jabra headphones, call quality on the Jabra Elite 5 is excellent. This largely results from the six microphones in each earpiece, working in tandem with the ANC and environmental noise-canceling technology. My voice was clearly transmitted on calls, and the precise tuning made it easy to hear the speaker on the other end as well.

Battery performance on the Jabra Elite 5 is impressive for true wireless earbuds at this price point. With active noise cancellation activated, the earphones delivered just over six hours of playtime at moderate volumes, while the charging case provides an additional three full charges, resulting in approximately 25 hours of playback per charge cycle. With ANC deactivated, users can expect an extra hour of use on the earpieces.

Verdict

The Jabra Elite 5 distinguishes itself from many competitors in the mid-range market with its unique sound profile and performance. Like other Jabra products, it serves as an all-around earphone that caters to the needs of phone calls just as effectively as it does for music and conversations. Its compatibility with various source devices is commendable, even if it holds a slight advantage in sound quality when connected to an Android smartphone. Battery life is also commendable. However, all these features do not quite elevate it enough to stand out, despite successfully covering almost all bases.

If your primary use for earphones revolves around making calls and you prefer slower, detail-oriented music, the Jabra Elite 5 could be a suitable choice. However, remember that ANC performance doesn’t quite hit all the right notes. Alternatively, options such as the Oppo Enco X2 or OnePlus Buds Pro 2 may be worth exploring, especially if your smartphone supports the LHDC codec.