With so many wireless earbuds on the market, it can be tough to decide between popular models like the Beats Flex and Jabra Elite 3. Both offer compelling features at an affordable price point.
But how do these two wireless earbuds stack up for sound, comfort, battery life, and other factors? We’ll compare the Beats Flex vs Jabra Elite 3 in-depth so you can determine the better option.
Beats Flex vs Jabra Elite 3: Overview
Here’s a quick look at the key specs and features of the Beats Flex and Jabra Elite 3:
| Specs | Beats Flex | Jabra Elite 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 12 hrs | 7 hrs |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IP55 |
| Connectivity | Apple W1, Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Onboard Controls | Multi-function button | Configurable buttons |
| Audio Driver | Proprietary | 6mm dynamic |
| Sound Profile | Balanced with punchy bass | V-shaped with extra bass and treble |
| Special Features | Hey Siri access | 4-mic call technology |
Now let’s dive into the details of how these affordable wireless earbuds compare.
Sound Quality Comparison
When choosing earbuds, sound quality is likely the most important factor. Here’s how the audio performance of the Beats Flex and Jabra Elite 3 earbuds stacks up:
The Beats Flex utilizes an optimized driver and passive noise isolation to generate immersive sound with punchy, well-defined bass, smooth mids, and bright highs.
The flexible neckband provides a secure in-ear fit to enhance the listening experience. You get energetic, lively audio that’s fun to listen to.
With the Jabra Elite 3, 6mm drivers deliver a robust, powerful sound profile with deep bass response and crisp treble.
The earbuds recreate audio with a slight boost in the lows and highs for an exciting V-shaped sound. Passive noise isolation blocks out ambient noise. Overall, the Jabra Elite 3 produces dynamic, lively audio.
Both earbuds deliver energetic sound quality with solid bass and clarity. The Jabra Elite 3 may have a slight edge when it comes to audio performance thanks to its larger 6mm drivers. But the Beats Flex still provides immersive, balanced sound in a smaller package. For most listeners, either earbud will provide pleasing audio quality, especially at this affordable price point.
Battery Life
Listening time is another key consideration when purchasing wireless earbuds. Let’s examine the battery life you can expect from the Beats Flex and Jabra Elite 3.
The Beats Flex is the clear winner when it comes to battery life, providing up to 12 hours of listening time per charge. This is nearly double the battery life of most competing wireless earbuds. Have a look on the wireless charging of Beats Flex.
Even at high volume, you’ll get around 10 hours of playtime. The Flex neckband houses a larger battery to enable such exceptional battery performance. Beats Flex can be charged by USB-C charging.
With the Jabra Elite 3, you can expect around 7 hours of listening time at moderate volume levels. While not as long-lasting as the Beats Flex, this still has decent battery life for fully wireless earbuds at this price. The charging case provides an extra 21 hours.
Both models offer quick charge capability – 10 minutes in the case gives you 1.5 hours on the Beats Flex and 60 minutes on the Jabra Elite 3.
If you want marathon battery life, the Beats Flex is the way to go. But the Jabra Elite 3 still provides adequate battery life for most users.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is essential for the long-term wearability of earbuds. Here’s how the Beats Flex and Jabra Elite 3 compare:
The Beats Flex features a lightweight, flexible neckband crafted from smooth silicone that feels gentle on the skin. The flex-form design contours around your neck securely. Angled ear tips nestle into the ear canal for a stable in-ear fit. Three ear tip sizes are included. The neckband prevents dislodging.
With the Jabra Elite 3, a secure fit is achieved through the ergonomic shape and liquid silicone rubber ear gels that conform to your ear. An optimized angular design helps the earbuds stay put. You get four sizes of ear tips for a personalized fit. The earbuds feel very light and comfortable.
Both models are designed for comfort and stability during wear. The Beats Flex offers more flexibility while the Jabra Elite 3 has a customizable, secure feel. For comfort and fit, it’s a draw.
Durability
For active lifestyles, sweat and water resistance is key. Here’s how the Beats Flex and Jabra Elite 3 compare:
The Beats Flex earbuds feature an IPX4 rating, making them sweat and water-resistant. They can easily handle your workouts and runs in the rain. The durable neckband design also adds protection.
With an IP55 rating, the Jabra Elite 3 provides protection from dust, rain, and water. The earbuds exceed the IPX4 sweat resistance of the Beats Flex. The charging case is also dust and water-resistant.
Both models can withstand sweat and splashes. But with a higher IP55 rating, the Jabra Elite 3 takes the win for durability.
Features and Controls
Operating your earbuds should be simple and intuitive. Here are the key features and controls of the Beats Flex and Jabra Elite 3:
The Beats Flex is equipped with the Apple W1 chip for fast, seamless pairing with Apple devices. Just open the case near your iPhone or iPad or press the power button to pair. You also get always-on “Hey Siri” access. A multi-function button on the right neckband controls music, calls, and Siri. An LED fuel gauge indicates the battery level.
With the Jabra Elite 3, Bluetooth 5.2 provides reliable connectivity to mobile devices. You can customize controls via the Jabra Sound+ app. Buttons on each earbud control music, calls, volume, and voice assistants. Dual microphones in each earbud enhance call quality.
Both models have useful features, but the Beats Flex offers better integration for iOS users while the Jabra Elite 3 has more customizable controls.
Verdict: Beats Flex vs Jabra Elite 3
So which of these affordable wireless earbuds comes out on top in this comparison? Here’s a quick recap:
- Sound quality
The Jabra Elite 3 delivers slightly better audio performance but both models provide immersive, lively sound. - Battery life
With 12 hours of playtime, the Beats Flex vastly outlasts the 7-hour Jabra Elite 3. - Comfort/fit
Both earbuds offer a secure, comfortable fit suitable for extended wear. - Durability
The Jabra Elite 3 earbuds have a higher IP55 rating compared to the IPX4 Beats Flex. - Features
Beats Flex integrates seamlessly with iOS while the Jabra Elite 3 has more customizable controls.
Overall, the Beats Flex stands out for its marathon battery life while the Jabra Elite 3 wins on audio performance and durability. The Beats Flex is ideal for iPhone users who want long battery life while the Jabra Elite 3 is better for Android users who prefer robust sound and customization. Both deliver quality sound at an affordable price point.
Hopefully, this detailed comparison has helped you decide between the Beats Flex and Jabra Elite 3 wireless earbuds!
There are whole categories for in-ear headphones including Beats Flex and earbuds including Jabra Elite 3 for your detailed information.
For any kind of information regarding headphones or any earbuds, HeadphonesTalk will always provide answers.
FAQs
Which is better Jabra or Beats?
For iPhone users who prioritize long battery life, the Beats Flex is likely the better option. But for Android users who want robust audio and customization, the Jabra Elite 3 has an edge.
Does Jabra Elite 3 have good bass?
Yes, the Jabra Elite 3 delivers punchy, deep bass response thanks to its 6mm dynamic drivers and V-shaped sound profile. The earbuds have a slight boost in the low frequencies for a lively, exciting sound.
Does Jabra Elite 3 have noise cancellation?
No, the Jabra Elite 3 does not have active noise cancellation. It relies on a secure in-ear fit to passively block out ambient noise. For budget earbuds under $100, active noise cancellation is rare.
Are Jabra better than JBL?
Jabra and JBL both make quality earbuds. Jabra tends to edge out JBL when it comes to call quality and noise isolation thanks to technologies like 4-microphone call systems. But JBL earbuds often have a bit more bass oomph. Overall they are fairly evenly matched brands.