QUESTION
Should I buy a used Jabra Elite 85h or a new Soundcore Q45?
For most buyers, the new Soundcore Q45 is the safer buy. You get a fresh battery, a full warranty, and no unknown wear from previous use. It’s also the better pick if you want the simplest ownership experience.
The used Jabra Elite 85h can still make sense if it’s much cheaper and you specifically want its fit, controls, or call-focused design. But with used headphones, the big downside is battery wear: even if the headphones still work well, the battery may not hold a charge like it used to.
My take:
- Buy the new Q45 if the prices are reasonably close.
- Buy the used Elite 85h only if the discount is substantial and the seller gives you a good return window.
When buying used, check battery health, physical wear, and whether the seller will accept a return if the battery life is poor.