Fairphone Fairbuds TWS

Fairphone Fairbuds Review

Pros:

• User-replaceable batteries

Cons:

• Poor sound quality
• Disappointing ANC performance
• Bulky design
• Poor microphone quality
• Frustrating app experience

Summary:

• Environmental Benefit: User-replaceable batteries in earbuds and case.
• Sound: Thin, hollow, weak low-end, and uninspiring mid-range.
• Microphone: Distorted and choppy audio.
• Fit: Bulky and prone to falling out.
• Controls: Overly sensitive touch controls.
• ANC: Ineffective noise-canceling.
• App Issues: Difficulties in connecting, updating, and limited functionality.
• Price: Should cost ~$75, not double.

Fairbuds prioritize repairability but fail in audio performance, ANC, and usability. Despite eco-friendly intentions, their poor overall performance makes them hard to recommend.

Fairphone Fairbuds

• Repairability: World's most repairable earbuds; replaceable parts include battery, silicone ring, ear tips, charging case components, and the actual earbud.
• Longevity: Potentially the last earbuds you'll buy; three-year warranty; single replacement option for lost earbuds.
• Sound Quality: 11mm titanium-coated drivers, 3 microphones per earbud, active noise-cancellation, Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint, IP54 rating.
• Battery Life: 5 hours with ANC, up to 26 hours with charging case.
• Availability: Not available in the U.S.; launched in Europe for €149 and in the U.K. for £140; available in white and black.

My Fairbuds XL arrived and I want to cry

• Date: November 23, 2023
• Reviewer: VA1DER
• Rating: 1/5

Pros:

• Recycled materials
• Fair wages
• Repairability

Cons:

• Poor sound quality: Lacks crispness, fidelity, and high-end harmonics.
• Comparison: Worse than cheap in-ear headphones from AliExpress and the broken Bose QC35 II.
• EQ issues: Ineffective EQ settings, app limitations, EQ reset issues.
• Build quality: Headband broke on both sides shortly after purchase.

Recommendation: Not suitable for audiophiles or anyone seeking high sound quality. Good for podcasts but not music. Consider alternatives for better audio performance. Return if unsatisfied.