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Jaybird X4, worth the upgrade?
Yes, the Jaybird X4 is worth the upgrade from the Jaybird X3, at least if you’re a swimmer.
With the IPX7 certification, the updated model can withstand submersion up to one meter for 30 minutes. Aside from the improved certification, there’s nothing compelling listeners to abandon the perfectly fine — even adored — X3 workout earbuds.
If you don’t have either handset and have been considering making the move to Jaybird headphones, we recommend picking up the Jaybird X3 on discount if you don’t care about waterproofing.
Does the Jaybird X4 add anything else aside from waterproofing?
Honestly, there’s not much else new. Aesthetically, few things have changed with the X4 upgrade; the control module remains slim and still requires the proprietary Jaybird cradle for charging. Plastic still predominates the build of the earbuds, which makes sense since they are workout earbuds.
Rather than redefining workout earbuds, Jaybird opted to refine its product.
Minor design changes were made, one of the most notable being the wing tips. They no longer sport a multi-hole design; rather, the silicone modifiers outline the shape of a wing tip.
Bottom-line, there isn’t a lot new here and it’s not the biggest upgrade if you don’t care about waterproofing. The debate between the Jaybird X4 and Jaybird Tarah, however, is a completely different beast.