Hunting for budget-friendly wireless earbuds that don’t feel “budget” in day-to-day use? These Bluetooth in-ear headphones promise a modern spec sheet—Bluetooth 5.x class connectivity, 13 mm graphene drivers, ENC microphones for clearer calls, IP7 waterproofing, a pocketable USB-C case with an LED battery display, and up to 48 hours of total listening. In this hands-on style review, we unpack sound, comfort, battery life, call quality, and who should buy them in the UK. Let’s dive in! 🚀
Key Takeaways ✅
- Best for: everyday commuters, gym-goers, students, and anyone who wants long battery life without paying premium prices.
- Standout features: 13 mm graphene drivers for lively sound, ENC mics for clearer speech, LED case readout, and true pocket portability.
- Value score: 9/10 for features-per-pound if you don’t need advanced app EQ or premium ANC.
Core Specifications 📊
| Bluetooth | 5.x class (marketed 5.4); ~15 m range; low-latency mode ~100 ms |
| Driver | 13 mm graphene diaphragm |
| Audio Codecs | AAC, SBC |
| Microphones | 4 mics total with ENC beamforming |
| Battery Life | Up to ~8 hrs per charge; up to ~48 hrs total with case |
| Charging | USB-C; ~1 hr to full (earbuds); LED case display (0–100%) |
| Water Resistance | IP7 (sweat/rain-ready) |
| Fit | 45° semi-in-ear; S/M/L ear tips |
| Weight | ~3.7 g per earbud (ultra-light) |
| Controls | Touch gestures: volume, tracks, calls, voice assistant |
Design & Comfort 🎧
The design is clean and purposeful: slim stems, compact case, and an LED readout that tells you—at a glance—how much power is left. The 45° semi-in-ear shape distributes pressure more evenly than straight-down designs, while the 3.7 g weight keeps fatigue at bay during long playlists or podcasts. With three ear-tip sizes (S/M/L), most listeners will find a stable seal that helps bass bloom and keeps the buds steady during runs.
In daily use, comfort is the quiet hero here. The shells feel smooth, and the low weight makes them “disappear” after a few tracks. If you normally struggle with heavier buds falling out at the gym, this lightweight build is a real win. 🏃♂️
Setup & Pairing 🔗
Initial pairing is straightforward: open the case, put the buds in pairing mode, and select them from your phone’s Bluetooth menu. After that, the buds auto-reconnect in seconds whenever you open the lid. Range is quoted up to ~15 metres in open areas; indoors you can comfortably walk across a typical room or two without dropouts. Latency is reduced in the game/video mode (~100 ms), enough to keep lip-sync convincing in most streaming apps.
Sound Quality (Hi-Fi Tilt) 🎵
The 13 mm graphene drivers are unusually large for the price bracket and help deliver a fun, energetic tuning. Expect a bass response with real presence—particularly when you’ve got the right tip size for a snug seal. Mids carry vocals nicely, and treble detail has a clean edge without becoming piercing at moderate volumes.
With AAC/SBC codec support, iOS devices and many Android phones get efficient, stable playback. The overall signature leans “modern”: slightly elevated lows for punchy beats, clear mids so vocals don’t hide, and enough sparkle to keep cymbals crisp. For the best results, nudge your phone’s EQ a touch if you prefer a flatter studio presentation.
Call Quality & ENC ☎️
There are four microphones onboard with ENC beamforming designed to reduce ambient noise. In quiet and moderate environments (home, office, cafés), your voice cuts through clearly. On windy streets or near traffic, ENC helps tame constant noise, though like most buds at this level, extremely chaotic backgrounds can still creep in. For Zoom/Teams and hands-free calls on the move, performance is reliably usable.
Latency & Video/Gaming 🎮
Engage the low-latency mode for mobile games or fast-cut videos. The quoted ~100 ms makes footsteps and effects feel tighter than standard Bluetooth modes, improving immersion without crushing battery life. Competitive esports players may still prefer wired or specialized ultra-low-latency sets, but for casual gaming and binge-watching, these buds hold their own.
Battery Life & Charging 🔋
Battery life is a highlight: up to 8 hours per charge, with the case stretching total playtime to roughly 48 hours (about five extra top-ups). That’s a full workweek of commuting plus gym sessions before you even think about USB-C. A swift top-up gets you back to full in around an hour for the earbuds, and the LED readout on the case removes battery guesswork—no more surprise dead buds on the train.
Water Resistance & Sports 🏋️
With an IP7 rating, these earbuds shrug off sweat and rain, making them a dependable pick for workouts, outdoor runs, and British drizzle. The light shell and grippy tips keep them put during HIIT or a sprint finish. Just remember to wipe them down before snapping them back into the case to keep the charge pins clean.
Touch Controls & Everyday Usability ✨
Touch controls cover the essentials: volume up/down, track skip, play/pause, call answer/end, and voice assistant. Sensitivity lands in the “just right” zone—responsive enough without accidental triggers when adjusting fit. There’s no heavy companion app to learn, which many users will appreciate. If you love deep EQ tinkering and multipoint tricks, look to pricier buds; if you want simple and reliable, these deliver.
Pros & Cons ⚖️
Pros ✅
- Big 13 mm graphene drivers bring engaging, bass-friendly sound.
- Up to ~48 hrs total battery with clear LED case readout.
- ENC mics improve speech clarity for calls and meetings.
- IP7 rating: sweat/rain-ready for gym and commute.
- Ultra-light (~3.7 g) and comfy 45° semi-in-ear fit.
- USB-C fast top-ups; no proprietary cables.
Cons ❌
- No advanced app with granular EQ or firmware features.
- ENC reduces noise but can’t mute chaotic environments entirely.
- Low-latency mode is good, not esports-grade.
Compared to Alternatives 🔄
| Model Type | Best For | Main Advantage | Where It Falls Short |
|---|---|---|---|
| This Pair (BT 5.x, 13 mm, ENC) | Value hunters, students, gym-goers | Strong features per £; punchy sound; IP7; LED display | No deep app/EQ; ENC not equal to premium ANC |
| Premium ANC earbuds | Frequent flyers, open-plan offices | World-class noise cancelling, multipoint, rich apps | Much higher price; shorter battery per charge |
| Ultra-budget no-name buds | Backup/throw-in-the-bag use | Cheapest entry point | Weak mics, basic tuning, questionable durability |
Who Should Buy It? 🧭
Pick these if you want a set-and-forget pair for commuting, workouts, lectures, podcasts, and casual music with a surprising amount of punch. UK buyers who prioritise battery life, water resistance, simple controls, and clear everyday calls will find excellent value. If your top priority is class-leading active noise cancelling or deep app customisation, step up to a premium tier—otherwise this set nails the essentials at an easy price.
Setup Tips & Best Practices 🧰
- Seal first: Try all three tip sizes. A proper seal lifts bass and blocks external noise naturally.
- EQ smartly: Use your phone’s built-in EQ to tame bass or lift vocals; small tweaks go a long way.
- Keep them dry: IP7 helps, but always wipe buds before docking to protect the charge pins.
- Use game mode when needed: Toggle low-latency for gaming/streaming, switch back for maximum battery life.
- Mind the case: The LED readout is your friend—charge the case when it dips under ~20% to avoid surprises.
FAQs ❓
Do they work with both Android and iOS?
Yes. They pair like any standard Bluetooth headphones and support common codecs (AAC/SBC), making them a great match for iPhones and a wide range of Android phones.
Can I use them for the gym or running?
Absolutely. The IP7 rating and lightweight build make them well-suited to sweaty workouts and outdoor runs. Secure the right tip size for extra stability.
How accurate is the LED battery display?
It provides a clear percentage-style readout for quick checks. Treat it as a practical guide to when you should top up via USB-C.
Do they support voice assistants?
Yes. Use the touch controls to summon your phone’s voice assistant for hands-free commands.
Final Verdict 🏁
Verdict: These Bluetooth in-ear headphones deliver a compelling blend of engaging 13 mm sound, sturdy everyday call clarity, LED-guided battery management, and rain-resistant portability. If you value long runtimes and hassle-free usability over premium ANC extras, they’re a standout pick. Overall, it’s a solid 9/10 for UK listeners who want maximum utility per pound. 👍
