When I see something with a 4 star rating it usually means it's a solid product, but something (or something) is holding it back from the 5 star range. For me this is a great example of that. They're small (good), not overly intrusive (sticking out of the ears just a little, although your experience may vary), there's solid bass in the sound, which is useful for the gym (which is where I tested them). , the audio is generally clear (download a few equalizer apps to play around with the audio yourself), and they held up well in my ear. I don't know much about the soundstage or anything, but the sound itself is clear, the bass is nice and strong, and you can hear even subtle nuances like hand movements across guitar strings clearly enough without distraction. To me, that's a sign of a good listener. Transparency mode and noise reduction modes were fine. But that's the way it is, they're fine. Of course, AirPod Pros have a higher price tag, so they work much better with ANC and transparency modes. So it is clear that they will do the same, but at a slightly lower level. I'm also spoiled because the Airpod Pro charges wirelessly. They have USB-C, but the lack of wireless charging is really a small thing. It has something to do with dropping them onto a charging pad and leaving them there to charge, which is so satisfying. Also, I wasn't a fan of the fact that the case just didn't have that "premium" feel. The matte finish is nice, although I wish the case back was a bit heavier, but these are such small (and I mean SMALL) things at the moment that it's not really a deal breaker. The only thing that worries me is the amount they stick out. I'm sorry, but they look a bit... weird because they stick out a bit, so the "b" logo stands upright. They don't protrude MUCH, but it's enough that when you look in the mirror you see a vertical line where the physical button (which I accidentally pressed a couple of times while adjusting the earcup) is sticking out. Also, I had a bit of trouble getting her to stay, but it's almost out of anyone's control. They get that 4th star because they are a reasonably reliable product that is worth buying. They don't do anything particularly well, but there are enough little things that I wouldn't say are the best I've ever used. (In comparison, the Jabra 75t gets a 4.3 equivalent rating... the audibility is amazing, and their app really helps improve functionality.) To me, these are RELIABLE gym headphones. They play music loud enough, clear enough and the bass is strong enough for me to drown out any distracting other music playing outside. They fit and hold up fairly well. You get a good result for the price. You could do worse, but depending on if you want to add a few more, you can do more on this track.
SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds Live: True Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancelling & Wireless Charging Case - Mystic Bronze (US Version)
252 Review
π§ Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise-Canceling Wireless Headphones with Alexa & Mic, Blue
330 Review
Sennheiser HD280PRO: π§ Next-Generation Pro Audio Headphones
260 Review
π« Renewed SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds Pro R190: True Wireless, Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Earbuds
208 Review