Jabra's Elite 65e has Bose's QuietControl 30 in its sights
The Elite 65e wireless headphone has active noise-cancelling and promises great call quality and strong music performance.
- Maggie Award for Best Regularly Featured Web Column/Consumer
The Jabra Elite 65e ships in April for $199.
Jabra continues to add to its line of Elite wireless headphones with a new premium noise-cancelling neckband-style headphone that features three microphones and promises top-of-the-line call quality. Designed to compete with Bose's QuietControl 30, the Jabra Elite 65e is set to ship in April 15 for $199. (That's roughly £140 or AU$260, with official UK and Australian prices TBA.)
At the time I reviewed it, I called the Bose QC 30 "the ultimate neckband-style Bluetooth headphone," but this Jabra may have what it takes to stake a similar claim.
I liked Jabra's more affordable neckband-style Elite 25e and gave high marks to the new Elite 65t totally wireless earbuds. The Elite line will soon include the 65t Sport as well as the Elite 45e, a more traditional neckband-style wireless headphone that will cost $100.
While I haven't tested this model yet -- we'll be getting a review sample in April -- I expect it to easily earn a spot on our list of best wireless headphones for making calls.
The Bose QuietControl 30.
While Jabra is highlighting the noise-cancelling and communication features, the headphone is also designed for music listening and is sweat-resistant (IP54-rated) so you can use it at the gym or for running. It's also worth mentioning that it's one of the first headphones to feature Bluetooth 5.0, though you'll need a compatible Bluetooth 5.0 device to take advantage of it.
The only drawback to the headphones is that you can't use them in a wired mode and plug them into an in-flight entertainment system. Ideally, that's a feature these headphones should have.
Here are the Elite 65e's key feature, according to Jabra:
- Active noise cancellation: Two outer microphones in each earbud deliver noise cancelling "that meets business standards."
- Battery life is rated at up to 8 hours when using active noise cancellation and 13 hours with ANC turned off.
- IP54 splash-resistant
- Two-year warranty against water and dust
- Jabra Sound+ app allows you to personalize your music with bass and treble adjustment
- Available in mid-April for $199.
