As the audio landscape evolves, there’s a growing demand for headphones that merge cutting-edge tech with affordability. Enter the Soundpeats RunFree: wireless open-ear sports headphones that employ innovative ‘air conduction’ to provide clear audio while keeping you connected to your surroundings.
Let’s check out if the Soundpeats RunFree could be your next workout-friendly, open-ear sports headphones.
Design and comfort
While Soundpeats RunFree steers away from bone conduction, it confidently adopts a design resembling premium bone-conduction headphones. Featuring a neckband style, they weigh a mere 1.1 ounces (31g). Soundpeats intelligently transitioned from the plastic frame of the RunFree Lite to a softer silicone-based build, which provides an enhanced tactile experience.
Visually, they may not win beauty contests, but their lightweight design assures a snug fit during rigorous activities. Functionally, they’re equipped with three closely-packed buttons on the right, which might require a little finger dexterity.
Thankfully, a universal USB-C port eliminates the need for proprietary charging, and its dual microphones and IPX4 rating make them sweat and light rain resistant.
Overall performance
Soundpeats champions an air conduction method for the RunFree, boasting a 16.2mm-sized driver that does not obstruct the ear. The result? A harmonious blend of immersive audio and environmental awareness. In terms of connectivity, the headphones seamlessly pair with various devices, supporting multiple connections simultaneously.
Testing across a spectrum of music genres, podcasts, and environments demonstrated that the RunFree does indeed shine, offering a bright and expansive sound. Their companion app might seem basic but proves invaluable by offering custom EQ modes, volume controls, and even a game mode.
Ambient awareness
While they are perfect for bustling environments, one downside is the sound leakage in quieter settings. This means that when using them in environments like an office or a quiet MRT train, even at a moderate volume, the audio can be heard by those around you.
However, for those who prioritize situational awareness, especially during outdoor activities, this might be a worthy trade-off.
Call quality
One of the noticeable drawbacks of the Soundpeats RunFree headphones when used for calls is the echoey nature of the voice transmission. This can make conversations feel less intimate and more challenging to comprehend, especially when dealing with important details or in professional settings.
If your day-to-day activities involve hopping from one work call or meeting to another, the Soundpeats RunFree headphones might not be your best companion. Their compromised call quality could prove to be a hindrance, especially when clarity and precision are paramount.
Battery life
Equipped with a 140mAh battery, the RunFree claims a 14-hour life at 60% volume. Real-world testing reveals this claim to be fairly accurate, but heavy bass and high volume can slightly diminish battery performance. Thankfully, the ubiquity of USB-C charging means you aren’t left searching for specific charging cables, although a fast charge feature is notably absent.
Pricing and availability
The Soundpeats RunFree is available here at just about $50 USD.
Verdict
Soundpeats, originating from China, positions itself as a brand delivering quality audio without the hefty price tag. With the RunFree, they cater to an audience that desires both open-aired audio and awareness of their surroundings – be it runners, gym enthusiasts, or regular commuters.
One cannot ignore the slight drawbacks, such as the design not turning heads and the call clarity being mediocre. However, when pitted against the backdrop of its price, these issues seem minor.
Overall, the Soundpeats RunFree still stands out as a compelling choice for open-ear headphones, delivering robust sound quality without breaking the bank. While they might not be the go-to for design aficionados or frequent callers, their strength in battery life, audio balance, and workout compatibility makes them a worthy contender in the market. If bone conduction headphones left you wanting more, the Soundpeats RunFree might just be the upgrade you need.
