Huawei FreeClip 2 Review: Redefining Comfort and Sound in Open Earbuds

Huawei is no stranger to experimenting with device form factors, and the FreeClip 2 is a prime example. These earbuds are the successors to the original Huawei FreeClip, which introduced a C-bridge design that "clips" around your ear and delivers sound without contact with your ear canal.

The second-generation FreeClip earbuds come with a noticeably smaller footprint for both the earbuds and the charging case, along with improved sound quality. Huawei proudly claims they offer 100% stronger volume output. Despite the more compact size, Huawei asserts that users can enjoy up to 9 hours of usage from the earbuds on a single charge, and up to 38 hours when including the charging case.

While open earbuds aren’t suitable for everyone due to potential audio quality issues, Huawei claims the FreeClip 2 achieves a balance of sound quality, spatial awareness, and excellent call performance.

Table of Contents:

• Design
• Features
• Sound Quality
• Battery Life
• Verdict

Design

The FreeClip 2 adopts an “earring style” approach, making them compatible with various ear shapes. Despite their name, these buds do not clip onto your ears but instead rest around your earlobe.

Additionally, the FreeClip 2 earbuds are interchangeable, eliminating the need to distinguish between the left and right earbuds. This ambidextrous design highlights Huawei’s commitment to extensive research and development in hearables.

The main objective of open-ear wireless earbuds is to provide users with spatial awareness while enabling audio playback, calls, and quick access to digital assistants.

In terms of comfort, the FreeClip 2 are among the most comfortable wireless earbuds tested so far. The reviewer was able to wear them throughout long workdays without discomfort—a rarity among competing products. There is no pressure build-up inside the ear canal, a significant advantage over typical in-ear designs.

While opinions may vary on their appearance, the comfort of the FreeClip 2 is undeniably a compelling reason to overlook any styling concerns.

Huawei FreeClip 2 do not resemble conventional earbuds

The review unit of the FreeClip 2 comes in a trendy blue color, featuring a stylish micro-molding plastic charging case that has a denim-like finish. The earpiece that sits atop the ear canal has a glossy treatment, similar to the bean-shaped piece that rests behind the ear helix.

Huawei FreeClip 2 with charging case

The retail box is minimal, containing only the earbuds, charging case, a manual, and a warranty leaflet. The earbuds are rated IP57, protecting them against splashes and dust, while the case holds an IP54 rating.

Features

The FreeClip 2 connects via Bluetooth 6.0 and includes a range of sensors, such as infrared, gyroscope, and accelerometer. Six microphones are distributed across the earbuds, providing dedicated call noise cancellation.

Users can control the earbuds through standard touch controls that register taps on various parts of the buds. Tapping the bean shape behind the ear, the C-bridge, or the driver unit all work for commands. There are options for double and triple tap gestures, as well as tap-and-hold and swipe actions, which can be reprogrammed via the Huawei AI Life app available on Android, iOS, and Harmony OS.

Huawei also includes head controls, similar to those found on the FreeBuds 7i, allowing users to answer or reject calls by nodding or shaking their heads. While this feature may seem gimmicky, it is a beneficial option if touch gestures are not feasible.

However, the review unit could not simultaneously connect to both an iPhone 17 Pro and a MacBook Pro 14. Although the FreeClip 2 supports multi-point pairing on other devices, connectivity was generally smooth with quick pairing and a strong connection.

Sound Quality

Equipped with 10.8 mm dual-diaphragm drivers, the FreeClip 2 also features Huawei’s third-generation audio chip and a dedicated NPU AI processor, enabling adaptive volume and voice enhancements.

Huawei claims these earbuds offer up to 100% more volume and air displacement compared to their predecessors. While marketing claims can sometimes fall short, the FreeClip 2 succeeded in impressing from the outset.

The default audio profile delivers warm sound, detailed clarity in the mids and treble, and distinct instrument separation, alongside surprisingly robust bass for open earbuds.

Compared to in-ear earbuds like the FreeBuds 7i, which provide more detailed audio and better bass, the FreeClip 2 offers an immersive listening experience while preserving a sense of openness and awareness of surroundings.

Four default EQ profiles and a custom 10-band equalizer option are available through the AI Life app, allowing users to tailor their sound experience according to personal preferences. The Elevate preset, in particular, was found enjoyable, but customizations are encouraged.

Call quality met expectations for open earbuds, performing well in quieter settings but struggling in noisier environments with increased background noise.

Battery Life

Huawei claims the FreeClip 2 provides up to 9 hours of playtime and 38 hours of total battery life. Testing yielded around 8 hours and 30 minutes of use before a recharge was necessary.

Recharging can be done via the USB-C port on the case, taking about an hour to bring the buds and case from 0 to 100%. A wireless charging option is also available at speeds of up to 3W, although this method takes over 2.5 hours for a complete charge.

Verdict

Overall, the Huawei FreeClip 2 are arguably the best open earbuds tested thus far. Their compact and lightweight design, leading comfort, and audio performance that exceeds expectations for this type of product make them stand out. These unique earbuds exemplify how the open wireless sound (OWS) market continues to evolve.

Not long ago, open earbuds were mostly suitable for activities like jogging, prioritizing spatial awareness over audio quality. The FreeClip 2 demonstrates that it is possible to achieve quality sound without the need for silicone tips inserted into the ears.

Huawei successfully delivers impactful bass, impressive battery life, and customizable EQ settings. The ambidextrous design that does not distinguish between left and right earbuds is another notable feature.

However, we hope to see improved microphone performance in future iterations. Despite enjoying the FreeClip 2, their distinctive design may not appeal to everyone.

Although Huawei’s pricing is comparable to certain flagship in-ear models that offer active noise cancellation (ANC) and superior microphone performance, the FreeClip 2 are a compelling option for those who prioritize all-day comfort combined with good sound quality and do not require ANC.

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