OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Jabra Evolve 20 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£35
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Jabra Evolve 20 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.5

Good

4.5

Poor

9.1

Exceptional

3.2
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
1.6
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
7.3
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
5.2
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
4.3
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
7.3
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The Jabra Evolve 20 is an entry-level professional wired headset featuring a noise-cancelling unidirectional microphone and 28mm dynamic drivers with a 32-ohm impedance. It is available in mono and stereo configurations, connecting via a 2.15m USB-A or USB-C cable that includes an inline control unit for volume, mute, and call management. Key technical pros include a frequency response ranging from 150Hz to 7kHz for calls and up to 20kHz for music, integrated PeakStop hearing protection, and a lightweight build (132g for stereo) with foam ear cushions for all-day comfort. Main characteristics include plug-and-play setup and certification for Microsoft Teams and other UC platforms. However, its primary cons include the absence of active noise cancellation (relying only on passive isolation) and a build material consisting largely of plastic and foam, which may lack a premium feel compared to higher-end leatherette models.

Technical Specifications of Jabra Evolve 20

Overall score

5.5

Show more

Hide

Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

4.4

Show more

Hide

Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

Show more

Calls & Controls

7.8

Show more

Hide

Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?

Show more

Connectivity

2.9

Show more

Hide

Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Show more

Features

2.7

Show more

Hide

Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

Show more

Battery

7.8

Show more

Hide

Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

Show more

Design

6.9

Show more

Hide

Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Jabra

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

on-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Show more

Jabra Evolve 20 vs the average headphone

Why is Jabra Evolve 20 better than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

Clear call microphone
Jabra Evolve 20 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.
Importance: MEDIUM
Jabra Evolve 20 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
39.4% lower weight
Jabra Evolve 20 is lighter than the average headphone (132 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Jabra Evolve 20 is lighter than the average headphone (132 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.132 g vs 218 g
In-line controls
Jabra Evolve 20 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Jabra Evolve 20 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
USB-C charging
Jabra Evolve 20 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
What it is: Uses USB-C connector for charging or data
When it matters: When you want to charge with the same cable family used by your phone, tablet, laptop, or other daily devices.
Importance: LOW
Jabra Evolve 20 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Sidetone support
Jabra Evolve 20 supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
What it is: Lets users hear their own voice during calls
When it matters: When long calls matter and you do not want to sound unnaturally loud in your own ears while speaking.
Importance: LOW
Jabra Evolve 20 supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
Quick mic mute
Jabra Evolve 20 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
Jabra Evolve 20 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
0.95 m more useful cable length
Jabra Evolve 20 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (2.2 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
What it is: Length of the supplied audio cable
When it matters: When your desk, TV, or audio setup needs more or less movement range.
Importance: LOW
Jabra Evolve 20 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (2.2 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.2.15 m vs 1.2 m
13.9% higher user score
Jabra Evolve 20 has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.11 vs 8).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Jabra Evolve 20 has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.11 vs 8).9.11 vs 8
39.4% lower weight
Jabra Evolve 20 is lighter than the average headphone (132 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
0.95 m more useful cable length
Jabra Evolve 20 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (2.2 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
USB-C charging
Jabra Evolve 20 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Clear call microphone
Jabra Evolve 20 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
In-line controls
Jabra Evolve 20 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Sidetone support
Jabra Evolve 20 supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
Quick mic mute
Jabra Evolve 20 includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.

Calls & Controls

Why is Jabra Evolve 20 worse than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

Fixed cable
Jabra Evolve 20 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
Jabra Evolve 20 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
12 mm smaller driver size
Jabra Evolve 20 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (28 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
8.4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Jabra Evolve 20 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (93.6 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Jabra Evolve 20 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
9.4 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Jabra Evolve 20 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (93.6 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
No voice assistant support
Jabra Evolve 20 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
12 mm smaller driver size
Jabra Evolve 20 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (28 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
Jabra Evolve 20 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (28 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.28 mm vs 40 mm
No voice assistant support
Jabra Evolve 20 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
Jabra Evolve 20 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Jabra Evolve 20 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Jabra Evolve 20 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
8.4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Jabra Evolve 20 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (93.6 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Jabra Evolve 20 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (93.6 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.93.6 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Jabra Evolve 20 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Jabra Evolve 20 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
No travel bag
Jabra Evolve 20 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
Jabra Evolve 20 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
9.4 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Jabra Evolve 20 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (93.6 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
Jabra Evolve 20 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (93.6 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.93.6 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL

Graphic comparison of Jabra Evolve 20 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Jabra Evolve 20?

Excellent value for money as an entry-level professional headset
Clear microphone quality with effective background noise reduction for calls
Lightweight design suitable for all-day wear during long shifts
Simple plug-and-play setup via USB-A or USB-C without needing drivers
Convenient inline control unit for quick mute, volume, and call management
Certified for Microsoft Teams and compatible with Zoom and Google Meet

What customers dislike about Jabra Evolve 20?

Lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC); relies only on passive isolation
Foam ear cushions can feel basic or 'scratchy' compared to leatherette versions
Audio profile is optimized for voice and lacks the bass/richness for music
Headband can feel tight or uncomfortable on larger head sizes over time
Wired-only connection limits mobility to the desk area
Microphone can still pick up very loud, close-range ambient noises

Expert reviews

supersimple365.com

25/04/2021

Summary of the review

Unboxing, first impressions and review – Jabra Evolve 20 headset

The Super Simple 365 review of the Jabra Evolve 20 headsetGo covers the unboxing, first impressions, and user experience of this budget-friendly, wired audio solution. It is evaluated from the perspective of a remote professional who needs a standard, reliable tool for daily virtual collaboration using platforms like Microsoft Teams. Written by Mark Thompson, the evaluation focuses heavily on everyday utility rather than music fidelity, giving the hardware an exceptional overall score of 4.7 out of 5 based on specific key metrics. The primary pros of the headset include its outstanding voice and sound clarity, making it ideal for remote communication, along with a high-performing microphone. It scores very well for packaging simplicity, look, and long-term wearing comfort. On the cons side, the reviewer notes that the device lacks active noise cancellation (ANC) and does not feature Bluetooth connectivity, which limits its wireless versatility. Additionally, potential drawbacks highlighted include the cable length and flexibility, which might feel slightly restrictive depending on your specific desk configuration.

newreviews.co.uk

19/05/2025

Summary of the review

Jabra Evolve 20 Stereo Headset Review

The Jabra Evolve 20 is an affordable, wired, entry-level headset highly recommended for work environments due to its strong value for money and ease of use. It features a plug-and-play USB-A connection, an external sound controller for quick audio adjustments, and foam ear cushions paired with an adjustable headband for comfortable, all-day wear. The headset is sold in both mono and stereo configurations and comes in two software versions: one strictly certified for Microsoft Teams and a UC version designed for platform flexibility across Zoom, RingCentral, and Cisco Webex. The review highlights several specific pros, including clear sound quality for calls or music, passive noise cancellation that blocks external office and neighborhood distractions, and a noise-canceling microphone. It also benefits from Peakstop technology to shield the user's ears from sudden, harmful noise spikes. However, prominent cons include its lack of a 3.5mm audio jack—meaning it cannot connect to smartphones—and the fact that it is completely wired, making it unsuitable for buyers looking for a wireless headset option.

headon.at

12/02/2026

Summary of the review

USB Headsets - Test Winner 2025

The provided business review highlights several entry-level and premium wired USB headsets from top brands like Jabra and Poly, emphasizing their reliability, cost-effectiveness, and plug-and-play simplicity for call centers and home offices. In the budget-friendly category, the Jabra Evolve 20/20SE (€58.30) stands out for its high comfort, effective noise-canceling microphone, and fair pricing, though it serves as a basic entry-level solution. Its direct competitor, the Poly Blackwire C32XX (€42.00), offers an even lighter, very comfortable frame and adds an inline control unit for call management, with an optional 3.5mm jack on specific sub-models. In the premium category, the Jabra Evolve2 40 SE (€144.00) earns the highest overall rating (9.4/10) due to its excellent passive noise cancellation, three powerful microphones, 40mm musical speakers, and a built-in red LED busylight. However, it lacks the broader connectivity found in the Poly Blackwire C5220 (€122.95), which features a 3.5mm jack for smartphones alongside its USB connection. While the Poly C5220 offers comfortable all-day use and broadband audio, its main drawback compared to the premium Jabra model is the lack of an integrated busylight indicator.

officeeasy.fr

26/05/2024

Summary of the review

Jabra Evolve Headphones Review and Verdict

The OfficeEasy Jabra Evolve Range Guide reviews Jabra's enterprise audio lineup, highlighting the core differences between the traditional Evolve and modernized Evolve2 series. Major pros across the lineup include widespread options for both 1-ear (mono) or 2-ear (stereo) configurations, instant plug-and-play USB dongle connectivity for wireless models, and the inclusion of integrated "Busylight" status indicators to prevent office interruptions. Top-tier variants like the Evolve2 75 are highly praised for incorporating advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and "HearThrough" environmental awareness technologies, while the upgraded Evolve2 tier provides significantly improved battery autonomy and ergonomic comfort over legacy generations. Conversely, the review exposes notable cons, particularly surrounding the connectivity constraints and scaling costs of lower-end models. For instance, the best-selling wireless Evolve 65 is criticized for its complete lack of a 3.5mm wired jack backup and the high added expense of its proprietary charging base. Meanwhile, budget wired solutions like the entry-level Evolve 20 lack 3.5mm mobility entirely, forcing a trade-off where users must step up to the Evolve 30 or Evolve 40 just to secure mobile compatibility. Additionally, opting for the premium...

spraakherkenning.nl

15/01/2024

Summary of the review

Jabra Evolve 20 mono – comfortable headset with a great microphone

The Jabra Evolve 20 Mono is a wired, single-earpiece USB-A headset explicitly tested and optimized by AVT for use with Dragon speech recognition software and Voice-Over-IP (VoIP) applications. Priced at €55 (including VAT), it features a comfortable headband, soft foam ear cushions, and a plug-and-play inline control unit for quick volume adjustments and call handling without needing extra drivers. The headset incorporates Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology to eliminate echoes and digitally optimize voice clarity, making it an upgraded, more comfortable alternative to standard bundled headsets. The main advantages of this headset include its seamless integration with speech recognition software, premium audio quality for calls, and an inline remote control. Its mono design allows users to keep one ear free to remain aware of their office surroundings or take phone calls without removing the device. However, a notable disadvantage is its foam earpads and single-ear configuration, which fail to block out significant background noise. The review explicitly notes that it is not recommended for dictation in noisy environments like open-plan offices, recommending step-up models like the Jabra Evolve 40 or...

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Sony WH 1000XM4

Headphones

JBL Tour One M3

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM6

Headphones

Headphones

Headphones

Sony WH ULT900N

Headphones

Nothing Headphone 1

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM5

Headphones

Headphones

Huawei Freebuds Studio

Headphones

Sennheiser Momentum

Headphones

JBL Tour One M2

Headphones

Compare Jabra Evolve 20 with

Compare