The Jabra Evolve2 Buds are a solid contender in the enterprise-focused true wireless earbud market, offering a compelling blend of portability, professional-grade audio, and robust connectivity designed specifically for hybrid work environments.
If you’re constantly jumping between video calls, needing crystal-clear audio, and demanding reliable connectivity across multiple devices, these buds hit a lot of the right notes.
They’re built for productivity, prioritizing features like advanced noise cancellation and excellent microphone performance over audiophile-grade podcast reproduction, making them a specialized tool rather than an all-around entertainment device.
Think of them as your portable, pocket-sized office—a far cry from your typical consumer earbuds.
However, the question isn’t just about the Evolve2 Buds in isolation.
While Jabra excels in its niche, other products might offer a different balance of features, comfort, or price that better suits individual preferences.
For instance, some might prioritize ultimate sound quality for podcast, while others might need the deepest active noise cancellation for open-plan offices.
Here’s a quick rundown of how the Jabra Evolve2 Buds compare to some other prominent players in the market:
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- Key Features: USB-A/C dongle for enhanced connectivity, Microsoft Teams/Zoom certified, advanced ANC, 6-microphone call technology, HearThrough, wireless charging case.
- Average Price: Around $269-$289
- Pros: Exceptional call quality, highly reliable multipoint connectivity with dongle, excellent portability, comfortable for long wear, robust ANC for office noise.
- Cons: Podcast sound quality is decent but not exceptional, premium price, touch controls can be sensitive.
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- Key Features: World-class active noise cancellation, CustomTune technology for personalized sound and ANC, comfortable fit, aware mode with ActiveSense.
- Average Price: Around $279
- Pros: Unrivaled ANC, superb podcast sound quality, comfortable fit.
- Cons: Call quality is good but not professional-grade like Jabra, no dedicated dongle for PC, multipoint connectivity can be finicky.
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- Key Features: Industry-leading noise cancellation, exceptional audio quality LDAC support, bone conduction sensor for calls, comfortable new design, DSEE Extreme upscaling.
- Average Price: Around $299
- Pros: Fantastic sound for podcast, excellent ANC, good call quality for consumer buds, smaller and lighter than previous models.
- Cons: No dedicated dongle for PC, multipoint limited to two devices, not enterprise-certified.
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- Key Features: H2 chip for advanced audio, superior ANC, Adaptive Transparency, personalized Spatial Audio, MagSafe charging case with speaker.
- Average Price: Around $249
- Pros: Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem, excellent ANC and transparency, good call quality, comfortable.
- Cons: Limited features on Android, no dedicated dongle, less suited for multi-platform business use.
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Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
- Key Features: Sennheiser Signature Sound, Adaptive Noise Cancellation, IPX4 splash resistance, customizable sound via app.
- Average Price: Around $199
- Pros: Excellent audiophile-grade sound quality, good ANC, comfortable fit.
- Cons: Call quality is decent but not a standout, no dongle, less focus on business features.
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- Key Features: Adaptive ANC 2.0, Hi-Res audio wireless, 11mm custom drivers, 10-hour battery life, multi-point connection.
- Average Price: Around $99
- Pros: Incredible value for money, very good ANC for the price, solid sound quality, long battery life.
- Cons: Call quality is acceptable but not outstanding for professional use, no dongle, build quality is good but not premium.
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- Key Features: Designed for hybrid work, advanced ANC, certified for leading platforms, customizable sound, Bluetooth and Logi Bolt USB receiver.
- Pros: Excellent for hybrid work, strong multipoint with Logi Bolt, good call quality and ANC, comfortable over-ear design.
- Cons: Over-ear design is less portable than earbuds, higher price point.
Understanding the Jabra Evolve2 Buds: A Hybrid Work Essential
Design and Comfort: Built for Long Hours
Jabra knows that if you’re wearing earbuds for hours on end, comfort is paramount.
The Evolve2 Buds are designed with this in mind, aiming for a secure yet unobtrusive fit that can withstand prolonged use during calls, focused work, or even light movement.
- Ergonomic Fit: The earbuds feature a compact and lightweight design. Jabra has refined the shape to sit snugly within the ear canal without protruding excessively, reducing pressure points.
- Multiple EarGel Sizes: They come with a variety of Jabra EarGel sizes typically three to four to ensure a personalized and effective seal. A proper seal is crucial not only for comfort but also for passive noise isolation and optimal audio performance, especially for ANC.
- Weight Distribution: The weight of each earbud is well-balanced, contributing to their stability. This prevents them from feeling heavy or prone to falling out, which is a common concern with true wireless earbuds, particularly during active moments or when simply shifting positions.
- Discreet Profile: Their low-profile design means they don’t stick out much from your ears. This is beneficial for professional settings, where a less conspicuous appearance might be preferred, and also makes them comfortable to wear under headwear.
Connectivity and Performance: The Power of the Dongle
One of the most significant differentiating factors of the Jabra Evolve2 Buds, and a key reason for their “professional” designation, is the inclusion of a USB Bluetooth adapter either USB-A or USB-C, depending on the variant. This isn’t just a fancy add-on.
It fundamentally transforms the connectivity experience, especially for PC-based communication.
- Enhanced Reliability with Dongle: While the Evolve2 Buds support standard Bluetooth for mobile devices, the bundled USB dongle provides a dedicated, optimized Bluetooth connection specifically for your computer.
- Reduced Interference: This creates a more stable and robust connection, less susceptible to interference from other wireless devices in a busy office or home environment.
- Seamless Switching: It allows for instant, reliable switching between applications on your PC, ensuring your audio is always routed correctly for video calls, presentations, or dictation.
- Superior Multipoint Connectivity: The Evolve2 Buds support true multipoint connectivity, meaning they can be simultaneously connected to two devices—for example, your laptop via the dongle and your smartphone via standard Bluetooth.
- Fluid Workflow: This enables you to answer a call on your phone while still being connected to your computer for notifications or to switch back to a video conference without manually re-pairing. It’s a must for professionals who constantly juggle multiple devices.
- Microsoft Teams and Zoom Certification: This certification isn’t just a marketing gimmick. It means the earbuds have been tested and optimized to work seamlessly with these leading communication platforms.
- Dedicated Controls: This often translates to dedicated buttons or intuitive integration for answering/ending calls, muting, and adjusting volume directly from the earbuds, ensuring a consistent user experience.
- Optimized Audio Profiles: The audio processing is tailored to deliver the best voice clarity for these specific applications, reducing latency and improving synchronization.
- Bluetooth Version and Range: They utilize a modern Bluetooth standard likely Bluetooth 5.2 or newer which contributes to energy efficiency, faster pairing, and an extended range, typically up to 10 meters 33 feet from the connected device. This freedom of movement is critical for hybrid work, allowing you to grab a coffee or stretch without losing your connection.
Audio Quality: Optimized for Voice, Competent for Podcast
Jabra designs its professional headsets with a clear priority: voice clarity. This means that while the Evolve2 Buds deliver a competent audio experience for podcast, their true strength lies in how well they handle calls and virtual meetings.
- Exceptional Microphone Performance: This is arguably the strongest selling point for the Evolve2 Buds. They feature a sophisticated multi-microphone array typically 6 microphones coupled with advanced digital signal processing DSP.
- Noise Reduction Algorithms: These algorithms are specifically tuned to distinguish your voice from background noise. Whether it’s the chatter of an open office, the hum of an air conditioner, or outdoor ambient sounds, the earbuds actively work to filter these out, ensuring your voice comes through clear and crisp to the listener.
- Beamforming Technology: The microphones use beamforming to focus on your voice, further isolating it from your surroundings. This is critical for professional calls where clear communication is paramount.
- Voice Audio Fidelity: For incoming call audio, the Evolve2 Buds reproduce voices with excellent clarity and natural tonality. This minimizes listening fatigue during long conference calls and ensures you catch every word.
- Podcast Playback: While not audiophile-grade like some dedicated podcast-focused earbuds, the Evolve2 Buds offer a balanced and pleasant sound profile for podcast.
- Balanced EQ: The sound signature is generally neutral, with decent bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. It’s suitable for background podcast during work or casual listening.
- Jabra Sound+ App Customization: Users can often fine-tune the sound profile using the Jabra Sound+ app, which provides equalizer settings to adjust bass, treble, and mid-range to personal preference. This allows for some personalization beyond the default tuning.
Active Noise Cancellation ANC and HearThrough
Effective noise management is crucial in hybrid work environments, which can be unpredictable.
The Evolve2 Buds offer both Active Noise Cancellation ANC to help you focus and HearThrough to keep you aware of your surroundings.
- Active Noise Cancellation ANC: The ANC in the Evolve2 Buds is particularly effective at cancelling out consistent low-frequency noises, which are common in office environments.
- Focus on Office/Commute Noise: Think of sounds like air conditioning hums, computer fan noise, distant chatter, or the drone of an airplane engine. The ANC significantly dampens these distractions, creating a quieter personal workspace.
- Hybrid ANC Technology: They likely employ a hybrid ANC system, using both feedforward and feedback microphones to capture and counter a broader spectrum of noise.
- Adaptive ANC if applicable: Some advanced Jabra models feature adaptive ANC that adjusts the level of noise cancellation based on your surroundings, ensuring optimal performance without over-processing.
- Passive Noise Isolation: Beyond active cancellation, the physical design and snug fit of the EarGels provide a good degree of passive noise isolation. This blocks out higher-frequency sounds like nearby conversations or keyboard clicks. The combination of active and passive isolation is key to their effectiveness.
- HearThrough Transparency Mode: This feature is indispensable for situational awareness. With a tap, the microphones amplify ambient sounds, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds.
- Safety and Convenience: This is ideal for listening to public transport announcements, engaging in quick conversations with colleagues, or staying aware of traffic when walking outdoors.
- Natural Sound Passthrough: Jabra aims for a natural-sounding passthrough, avoiding an overly artificial or tinny quality often found in lesser transparency modes.
Battery Life and Charging
For a professional tool, reliable battery life is non-negotiable.
The Jabra Evolve2 Buds are designed to last through extensive workdays and provide convenient charging options.
- Earbud Battery Life: The earbuds themselves typically offer a solid listening time on a single charge. For the Evolve2 Buds, you can expect around 8-10 hours of playback with ANC off and slightly less e.g., 6-8 hours with ANC engaged.
- Call Time: Call time is usually slightly lower than podcast playback due to the continuous use of microphones and more intensive processing, but still very respectable for professional use.
- Charging Case: The accompanying charging case extends the total battery life significantly.
- Multiple Recharges: The case usually holds enough power for multiple full recharges of the earbuds, bringing the total listening time to well over 30 hours. This means you can go for days without needing to find a power outlet for the case.
- Rapid Charging: A quick charge feature is often included, where a short period of charging e.g., 5 minutes can provide an hour or more of playback, perfect for last-minute emergencies.
- Wireless Charging: The Evolve2 Buds case supports Qi wireless charging, offering a convenient way to top up the battery without fumbling with cables. Simply place the case on any compatible wireless charging pad.
- USB-C Charging: For wired charging, the case uses the ubiquitous USB-C port, ensuring compatibility with most modern chargers and cables. This universality is a huge plus for professionals who travel or use multiple devices.
- Intelligent Power Management: The earbuds often feature intelligent power management, automatically turning off or entering a low-power mode when not in use or placed back in the case to conserve battery.
Software and Customization: The Jabra Sound+ App
The hardware is only part of the equation. Genially Review
The software experience significantly enhances usability and personalization.
The Jabra Sound+ app is the central hub for managing your Evolve2 Buds.
- Jabra Sound+ App Features: This companion app, available for iOS and Android, unlocks the full potential of your earbuds.
- Firmware Updates: Crucial for receiving performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features. Keeping firmware updated ensures optimal functionality and security.
- Sound Customization:
- Equalizer EQ: Allows users to fine-tune the audio output to their preference. Whether you prefer more bass, clearer vocals, or a brighter sound, the EQ lets you adjust it.
- Preset Sound Modes: Often includes optimized presets for different content types, such as “Speech,” “Bass Boost,” or “Relax.”
- ANC/HearThrough Adjustment: Provides granular control over the noise cancellation levels and the amount of ambient sound passthrough. Some models might allow for personalized ANC testing to find the best fit.
- Customizable Controls: The app typically allows remapping of the physical touch controls on the earbuds. For example, you might change a single tap to activate voice assistant instead of play/pause.
- Find My Jabra: A useful feature that helps locate misplaced earbuds by showing their last known location on a map or by playing a loud tone.
- Battery Status: Provides a clear indication of the battery levels for both individual earbuds and the charging case.
- MySound Feature: Some Jabra devices include “MySound,” a personalized audio calibration feature. This involves a quick hearing test within the app to create a unique sound profile tailored to your individual hearing, optimizing the audio experience specifically for you.
- OneTouch Integration: For business users, the integration with communication platforms like Microsoft Teams or Zoom is a significant advantage. The app often facilitates this setup and allows for direct access to call controls.
- User Profiles and Settings: The app often allows saving custom profiles, which can be useful for different scenarios e.g., one profile for office work, another for gym.
Durability and Build Quality
Given that these are professional tools, durability is an important consideration.
You want earbuds that can withstand the rigors of daily use and occasional mishaps.
- IP Rating: The Jabra Evolve2 Buds typically come with an IP Ingress Protection rating, such as IP57.
- IP57 Explained: The “5” indicates protection against dust ingress, meaning dust won’t interfere with operation, though it’s not entirely dust-tight. The “7” signifies protection against temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This makes them highly resistant to sweat and rain, ideal for commutes, workouts, or accidental spills, but not designed for swimming.
- Materials: Jabra uses high-quality, durable materials for both the earbuds and the charging case. This usually involves robust plastics and silicone EarGels that are designed for longevity and resilience against drops and scratches.
- Case Construction: The charging case is designed to protect the earbuds when not in use. It often features a strong magnetic closure to keep the earbuds securely in place and a sturdy exterior to withstand daily bumps and knocks.
- Stress Testing: Jabra, as a professional audio brand, subjects its products to rigorous stress testing, including drop tests, temperature tests, and cycle tests for buttons and hinges, to ensure they meet their high standards for reliability and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of the Jabra Evolve2 Buds for hybrid work?
The main benefits of the Jabra Evolve2 Buds for hybrid work are their superior call quality, robust and reliable multipoint connectivity via the included USB dongle, effective active noise cancellation, and comfortable, discreet design built for long wear.
They are specifically certified for leading communication platforms like Microsoft Teams and Zoom, ensuring seamless integration and optimized audio.
Do the Jabra Evolve2 Buds come with a USB dongle?
Yes, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds come with a USB dongle either USB-A or USB-C, depending on the variant which provides a dedicated and highly reliable Bluetooth connection to your PC, essential for professional communication.
How is the call quality on the Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
The call quality on the Jabra Evolve2 Buds is exceptional.
They feature a multi-microphone array and advanced noise reduction algorithms that effectively filter out background noise, ensuring your voice comes through clear and crisp to the listener, even in noisy environments.
Are the Jabra Evolve2 Buds good for listening to podcast?
While optimized for voice and professional communication, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds offer competent and balanced audio quality for podcast listening. Msi Cubi 5 12M Review
They are not audiophile-grade, but they provide a pleasant experience for background podcast during work or casual listening, and the sound can be customized via the Jabra Sound+ app.
Do the Jabra Evolve2 Buds have Active Noise Cancellation ANC?
Yes, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds feature powerful Active Noise Cancellation ANC that is particularly effective at dampening consistent low-frequency noises common in office environments, such as air conditioning hums and distant chatter, helping you focus.
What is HearThrough mode on the Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
HearThrough mode, also known as transparency mode, allows you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds.
The microphones amplify ambient sounds, which is ideal for situational awareness, listening to announcements, or engaging in quick conversations.
What is the battery life of the Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
The Jabra Evolve2 Buds typically offer around 8-10 hours of battery life on a single charge with ANC off, and slightly less with ANC on.
The charging case provides multiple additional charges, extending the total listening time to well over 30 hours.
Do the Jabra Evolve2 Buds support wireless charging?
Yes, the charging case for the Jabra Evolve2 Buds supports Qi wireless charging, providing a convenient way to power up the case without cables.
Are the Jabra Evolve2 Buds comfortable for long periods?
Yes, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds are designed for long-wearing comfort.
They are compact, lightweight, and come with multiple sizes of Jabra EarGels to ensure a secure and comfortable fit, even during extended use throughout the workday.
Can I connect the Jabra Evolve2 Buds to multiple devices simultaneously?
Yes, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds support multipoint connectivity, allowing them to be simultaneously connected to two devices, such as your laptop via the dongle and your smartphone via Bluetooth. This enables seamless switching between devices. Sigma 17Mm F4 Dg Dn Contemporary Review
Are the Jabra Evolve2 Buds certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom?
Yes, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds are certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom, meaning they are optimized to work seamlessly with these platforms, often including dedicated controls and enhanced audio performance for calls.
What is the IP rating of the Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
The Jabra Evolve2 Buds typically have an IP57 rating, which means they are resistant to dust ingress and can withstand temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, making them sweat and rain resistant.
How do I update the firmware on my Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
Firmware updates for the Jabra Evolve2 Buds are managed through the Jabra Sound+ app on your smartphone.
The app will notify you when updates are available and guide you through the process.
Can I customize the sound of the Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
Yes, you can customize the sound of the Jabra Evolve2 Buds using the Jabra Sound+ app.
It provides an equalizer EQ to fine-tune the audio to your preference and often includes preset sound modes.
What is the range of the Bluetooth connection for the Evolve2 Buds?
The Jabra Evolve2 Buds typically offer a Bluetooth range of up to 10 meters 33 feet from the connected device, whether it’s your smartphone or PC via the dongle.
How do the Jabra Evolve2 Buds compare to consumer earbuds for calls?
The Jabra Evolve2 Buds generally offer superior call quality compared to most consumer-focused earbuds.
Their professional-grade microphones and noise reduction technology are specifically engineered for clear voice transmission in diverse environments, a priority not always found in general-purpose earbuds.
Can I use the Jabra Evolve2 Buds without the USB dongle?
Yes, you can use the Jabra Evolve2 Buds via standard Bluetooth connectivity with any Bluetooth-enabled device, such as your smartphone or tablet, without the dongle. Fujifilm X S20 Review
However, the dongle provides a more stable and optimized connection for PC use.
Are there touch controls on the Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
Yes, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds feature touch controls on each earbud for managing calls, podcast playback, ANC/HearThrough modes, and activating voice assistants.
These controls can often be customized via the Jabra Sound+ app.
What’s the difference between the USB-A and USB-C dongle variants?
The difference lies only in the type of USB connector on the dongle.
The USB-A variant is for older computers with standard USB ports, while the USB-C variant is for newer laptops and devices with USB-C ports. The functionality of the earbuds remains the same.
Is there a “Find My Earbuds” feature for the Evolve2 Buds?
Yes, the Jabra Sound+ app usually includes a “Find My Jabra” feature that can help you locate misplaced earbuds by showing their last known location on a map or by playing a loud tone.
How do the Jabra Evolve2 Buds handle background noise during calls?
The Jabra Evolve2 Buds excel at handling background noise during calls.
Their advanced 6-microphone technology combined with sophisticated noise-reduction algorithms actively identifies and filters out distracting sounds, ensuring your voice is isolated and transmitted clearly.
Can I use just one earbud at a time with the Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
Yes, you can typically use either the left or right earbud independently for calls or listening, which is useful for staying aware of your surroundings or extending battery life.
What kind of charging port does the Evolve2 Buds case have?
The Jabra Evolve2 Buds charging case features a USB-C port for wired charging, ensuring compatibility with most modern chargers. Hp Sprocket Studio Plus Review
Are the Jabra Evolve2 Buds good for exercise?
With their secure fit and IP57 rating resistance to sweat and splashes, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds are suitable for light exercise and commutes, but they are not specifically designed as dedicated sports earbuds.
Do the Jabra Evolve2 Buds have a low-latency mode for video?
While not explicitly advertised as a “low-latency mode” for gaming, the optimized Bluetooth connection via the USB dongle significantly reduces audio-visual delay on PCs, making them highly suitable for video conferencing where lip-sync is crucial.
How do I pair the Jabra Evolve2 Buds with my computer using the dongle?
Typically, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds and the dongle are pre-paired out of the box.
You just plug the dongle into your computer, and the earbuds should connect automatically once taken out of the case.
What is the MySound feature in the Jabra Sound+ app?
MySound is a personalized audio calibration feature within the Jabra Sound+ app that performs a short hearing test to create a unique sound profile tailored to your individual hearing, optimizing the audio experience for you.
Can the Jabra Evolve2 Buds connect to older Bluetooth devices?
Yes, as long as the older device supports a compatible Bluetooth standard typically Bluetooth 4.0 or newer, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds should be able to connect via standard Bluetooth.
However, full functionality and stability are best with modern Bluetooth versions and the included dongle.
Are the Jabra Evolve2 Buds durable?
Yes, the Jabra Evolve2 Buds are built with durability in mind, featuring robust materials and an IP57 rating, making them resistant to dust, sweat, and temporary water immersion, suitable for daily professional use.
What is the price point of the Jabra Evolve2 Buds?
The Jabra Evolve2 Buds typically fall into the premium price segment for true wireless earbuds, often ranging around $269-$289, reflecting their professional-grade features and performance.
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