Holiday Gift Guide: Wireless Earbuds and Charger

Each day has its own rhythm. Choose between these two options and set your own pace with the sounds that motivate, calm or energize your life. And charge up while protecting your investment with our third selection.

Jabra Sport Coach: Coach in your cochlea

Jabra Sport Coach $112.80 - $147.00

Yes, that’s part of the ear’s complex workings. As in, a spiral-shaped structure than funnels sound waves toward the point of neural connection. Likewise, Sport Coach from field-proven Jabra does, by design, insert itself into your training without getting in your face. And makes it comfortable to get audible instructions into your brain utilizing 40 training programs. Built upon a solid, Dolby-driven acoustic platform that produces a full, well-balanced sound profile, these Bluetooth earbuds show up right on time. The integral TrackFit motion sensor generates performance data as it monitors distance, pace, cadence, steps and calories. Active Junky found the level of intrusiveness was reasonable and effective during trail running and gym workouts. Water resistant, Jabra Sport Coach stays put to pump up the volume. Of your training, that is.

Best For: Multi-sport athletes, general fitness and event training

Outdoor Tech Orcas 2.0 Wireless Earbuds: All gain on any terrain

Outdoor Tech Orcas 2.0 Wireless Earbuds $75.96 - $76.36

“They stay put.” Says a lot in this category in which the ability to gain – and hold – a reasonable ear fit is difficult. At less than half an ounce, Outdoor Tech has a head start on success. Charging is simple, sure, fast and provides up to 5 hours of on-the-move music. Volume adjustment and microphone use are among the easiest to use, with Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity ranging easily up to 30ft. Frequency response is better than testers anticipated while the wireless earbud tips and secure fit wings (we’ll call them “fins” for the Orca) added to a sense of security on foot or on the bike. Active Junky’s had consistently-positive experiences with Outdoor Tech so the Orcas are in the same proven pod now. Yes, we like word plays here. Almost as much as we favor gear that excels in the real world.

Best For: Outside and active pursuits, travel and backup for more expensive headphone

Mophie Power Capsule Wireless Headphone Charger: New essential

Cord wars are nothing new, even with (or particularly because of) cordless device chargers. Ironic, but then phone-obsessed Mophie showed up with a way to revive our listening devices with a high degree of reliability, along with enough power for high frequency use: USB charging port inside carrying case complete with LED power indicator lights. Frequent listeners are the target here, as are travelers needing fewer reasons to stay put. Fitness trackers and other wearables benefit from the 1,400mAh integrated battery shielded by a zipped, armadillo-like exterior as well. Testers quickly learned how to employ the Power Capsule for each specific device (as in, how to coil and store them) to get the most from this under-$40 wonder. Ideal to use, this portable power pack is a flawless gift for nearly anyone paying attention.

Best For: Home, office and travel no matter what brand listenables or wearables inhabit your life

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