Jabra Bluetooth headset lighter, sleeker — pity about the battery
SINGAPORE — Consumers looking to get a Bluetooth headset are spoilt for choice these days with the slew of models released by players such as Sony, Plantronics, Jawbone and Jabra. And now, Jabra’s latest Jabra Eclipse has provided consumers with another option worthy of consideration.
Black Jabra Eclipse. Photo: Jabra
SINGAPORE — Consumers looking to get a Bluetooth headset are spoilt for choice these days with the slew of models released by players such as Sony, Plantronics, Jawbone and Jabra. And now, Jabra’s latest Jabra Eclipse has provided consumers with another option worthy of consideration.
This is definitely Jabra’s sleekest piece yet. It feels well-built and is the brand’s lightest model at just 5.5g. It is barely noticeable on the ear and does not require any awkward in-ear loops that leave a dull sore in the ear after a long day’s use. I used it during an hour-long conversation, and call-quality on both ends was excellent, even in noisy conditions.
You switch on the device by removing the earpiece from the oval charging case, and return it to the case to switch it off. Pairing the device to your mobile is simple and users can do so via Bluetooth or NFC. Once inserted in one’s ear, double tapping invokes voice operations and call answering.
A downside of the Eclipse, though, is battery life. Under heavy use, a full charge will only last for three hours. The charging case will offer an extra seven hours, according to Jabra, but that means having to take it with you when you are on the go.
And while the lack of in-ear loops gives additional comfort, it also means you have to ensure the earbuds are really snug around the opening of the auditory canal to prevent it from dislodging. To this end, Jabra provides users with three different sizes of ear gels in the box.
However, because of its design, the Eclipse is only for right-ear use.
If users want more functionality, such as controlling the device’s battery management and to read out text messages, they can download the Jabra Assist app available on Apple iTunes and Google Play. The Eclipse can also be connected to the smartphone’s voice-activated assistant Google Now or Siri.
The Jabra Eclipse can be purchased at all major electrical and PC stores for S$219.