Introducing the Huawei FreeArc
As the market for headphones and earbuds continues to evolve, Huawei has taken a step forward with the release of its FreeArc earbuds. Priced at £99 in the UK, these innovative open-ear earbuds are designed for those who value awareness of their surroundings while enjoying their favorite tunes. Let's delve into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of the FreeArc to see if they truly stand out among competitors.
Overview of Huawei FreeArc
- Driver size: 17 mm × 12 mm
- Touch controls for easy operation
- Open-ear design for ambient listening
- Ultra-lightweight for all-day comfort
- Compatible with glasses and other eyewear
- Wobbly charging case design
- IP57 water-resistant rated for earbuds
Technical Specifications
| Color options | Green, Black, Gray |
|---|---|
| Audio | Bluetooth 5.2, AAC & SBC |
| Noise Cancellation | No Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth multipoint (dual device) |
| Battery life | 7 hours from earbuds, +21 hours with charging case |
| Wireless charging case | No |
| Water resistance | IP57 for earbuds only |
Design & Comfort
Weighing next to nothing, the FreeArc earbuds feature soft silicone hooks that provide a comfortable fit and ensure stability, even during vigorous activities. The placement of the battery at the end of the hooks helps maintain balance while wearing them. They are also designed to be used with glasses without discomfort.
Sound Performance
The sound quality of the FreeArc earbuds strikes a balance between functional and satisfactory. With a focused effort on enhancing bass frequencies, these earbuds perform well in that regard. However, moving into higher frequencies reveals a lack of clarity and airiness, leaving the music feeling somewhat constrained. They excel for background listening, proving adequate for podcasts or soft music, while keeping the surrounding sounds easily perceptible.
Conclusion
Overall, the Huawei FreeArc earbuds hold their own in the £99 category. While their audio quality may not be overwhelmingly impressive, they fulfill their purpose for individuals who prefer to remain alert to their environment. For those seeking a practical solution that melds casual use with essential features, the FreeArc might just be the right choice.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and Comfortable
- Open-ear design allows external sound awareness
- Stable fit during movement
- IP57 rated for water resistance
Cons
- Sound quality may lack depth and clarity
- Charging case design may feel unstable
- No ANC available
PhoneArena Rating
7.0