Wired vs. wired headphones? That is the question. In the recent past, we here at GearGuide moved away from those wireless mono Bluetooth headsets for use with mobile phones ’cause we’re actually not talking on the phone anymore. Instead, we’re texting and listening to music preferring the stereophonic sound of traditional wired headphones. Now, there’s a range of wireless stereo headphones from which to choose. And when we got a pair of the Jabra Sport Wireless+ to try, we couldn’t wait.
The Jabra Sport Wireless+ headphones come in a small — yet surprisingly dense — gloss black and yellow package. Pretty cool.
Features
Inside the box, Jabra places the headphones along with a host of customizing earbuds and accessories. Mine came with no fewer than six different sets of buds in various sizes and configurations. There is the basic round version along with two oblong options that lock the Jabra Sport Wireless+ into the ear. Three other hooked and vented versions also aid in getting the correct fit. I chose one of the more basic and found that it worked well, keeping the Jabra Sport Wireless+ locked in on my runs and rides.
The Jabra Sport Wireless+ uses Bluetooth 3.0 to connect wirelessly to Apple and Android devices. I was able to pair it easily with products in both categories. I used it for both calls and straight-up music listening. For the most part, the wireless connection was solid. I was able to separate from the phone by about 20-30 feet before the headphones disconnected. That’s pretty darn good in my book. However, I did also experience numerous drops and reconnects while running with the iPod only an arm’s length away.
Specs
Wear style: Behind the ear
Connectivity: Bluetooth 3.0
Weight: 0.875 oz
Sound quality was good although it didn’t quite live up to the “powerful bass” claim in its marketing material. The Jabra Wireless Sport+ didn’t quite get up to the volume that’s easily reachable via a standard wired set of headphones.
Jabra designed the controls for easy access. A small power button is located on the right earpiece, along with multi-use volume up/down and track advance/repeat toggles.
Battery life is a reasonable four hours of talk/listening time. And the audible “low battery” indicator leaves you with 20 or so minutes of usage before shutting down completely.
Fit
The Jabra Sport Wireless+ weighs in at just under an ounce and is designed to be worn behind the ear. That behind-the-ear portion of the product looks fairly bulky but easily disappears from sight once on. The headphones deliver surprising comfort too. They never felt too heavy or awkward.
Final Verdict
So wired or wireless? I’d say the Jabra Sport Wireless+ makes a pretty good case for dumping those old wired headphones. There are compromises in sound quality and limited battery life. But it’s truly hard to beat the convenience of wireless. If you’re convinced wireless is the way forward for you, the Jabra Sport Wireless+ is a solid choice.