Amazon Echo Buds Reiew: Premium Sound, Alexa, and All-Day Battery Life

Description

Amazon Echo Buds (newest model) Review: True Wireless Bluetooth 5.2 Earbuds with Alexa

Testing out the Amazon Echo Buds (newest model) was quite an adventure, and let’s just say, it was an experience filled with highs and a few quirks. As someone who has tried a fair share of earbuds, these had a mix of surprises, especially with the integration of Alexa and its audio personalization features.

Picture this: I’m on a morning jog, with the wind brushing against my face, and these Echo Buds securely nestled in my ears. The semi-in-ear design struck me as unique. Unlike those earbuds that feel like they’re trying to reach your soul, these sit comfortably and let you stay aware of your surroundings. It’s not noise-canceling, but that’s the intention—it keeps you connected to the world.

Sound Quality: A Mixed Bag of Crispness and Bass

The 12mm dynamic drivers really shine when you’re listening to your favorite track. The bass is full-bodied, and the highs are crystal clear. I decided to test this with some classic rock followed by an audiobook, and both experiences were satisfying. However, audiophiles might notice it lacks the depth and precision of higher-end earbuds. Still, for the price, it’s a winner. The dual microphones and voice accelerometer ensure calls are clear as day, but don’t expect studio-level recording quality.

Alexa Integration: A Hands-Free Marvel

Having Alexa on-the-go is an absolute game-changer. I found myself setting reminders, controlling smart devices, and even ordering coffee—all hands-free. The multipoint pairing feature was another gem, allowing seamless switching between my laptop and smartphone. One moment, I’m on a Zoom call, and the next, I’m grooving to my playlist—all without lifting a finger.

Comfort and Fit: Love and Hate

Comfort is subjective, but these earbuds lean on the lighter side, thanks to their 5.0g weight per bud. The pre-installed silicone covers add a snug feeling, though I noticed after extended use (around 2 hours), my ears needed a break. Oh, and removing those silicone covers? A bit of a struggle. Pro tip: patience is key.

Battery Life: Reliable, Yet Limited

With 5 hours of playback on a single charge (6 hours without Alexa) and up to 20 hours with the charging case, these hold up well for daily activities. The fast-charging feature saved me on more than one occasion—15 minutes in the case gives 2 hours of playback. That said, if you’re a marathon listener, you might find yourself reaching for the charger more often than you’d like.

Comparison to Competitors

When lined up against Apple AirPods 2nd Gen, the Echo Buds offer better sound quality and Alexa integration, but lack the prestige and ultra-sleek design of Apple’s offering. Against Jabra Elite 3, the Echo Buds fall short on noise isolation but win with their semi-in-ear comfort and smart features.

Value for Money

Considering the features—Bluetooth 5.2, personalized audio settings, and voice assistant integration—these buds pack a punch for their price range. While they may not compete with premium options, they offer a variety of features that justify the investment.

Pros

• Multipoint pairing allows effortless switching between devices.
• Alexa integration brings voice control to an entirely new level.
• Fast charging ensures you’re never out of juice for too long.
• Lightweight and semi-in-ear design offers comfort for short durations.
• Audio personalization tailors sound to your preferences.

Cons

• No noise cancellation, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
• Silicone covers are tricky to remove and reattach.
• Case design could use an upgrade for easier opening.
• Battery life falls short for heavy users.
• Not ideal for audiophiles seeking top-notch sound fidelity.

What Comes With the Product

• Echo Buds (newest model)
• Charging case
• Two pairs of silicone earbud covers
• Quick Start Guide

How to Use Guide

1. Charge the Buds: Before anything, plug the USB-C charging case into a power source and let it charge fully.
2. Download Alexa App: Install the Alexa app on your mobile device (compatible with Android 8.0+ and iOS 14+).
3. Pair the Buds: Open the case, wait for the pairing light, and follow the app instructions to connect via Bluetooth 5.2.
4. Customize Tap Controls: Use the app to configure tap gestures for music controls, calls, or muting mics.
5. Switch Between Devices: Utilize multipoint pairing to connect two devices simultaneously.
6. Use Alexa Hands-Free: Just say “Alexa” for voice commands, or disable it to conserve battery.
7. Clean and Maintain: Gently wipe the buds and case to keep them sweat-free and clean.

Expert Tips & Recommendations

• Turn off Alexa Hands-Free if you’re not using it to extend battery life.
• Experiment with audio personalization in the app for a more customized listening experience.
• Use the semi-in-ear design for outdoor activities where staying aware of your surroundings is crucial.
• Avoid removing the silicone covers repeatedly to prevent wear and tear.
• Consider a protective case for the charging unit to avoid accidental drops.

Warranty & Support Information

The Echo Buds come with a 1-year limited warranty, but customers can opt for extended warranties (1, 2, or 3 years) for additional coverage. Amazon provides extensive support through the Alexa app, the Amazon Help Center, and even live customer service. For issues like pairing or firmware updates, the Alexa app offers step-by-step solutions.

Additional information