SoundPEATS Clip1

So, we have had over ear, in ear, on ear headphones and now we have ear clips. Rather than sealing the ear canal like traditional buds, these use a clip-on, open ear design that sits around your ear. This allows you to hear what is happening around you while listening to music or podcasts making them well suited for busy commutes, outdoor exercise and remaining aware of your environment.

These earbuds are super light at just about 5g whilst the N-Flex Arch memory wire gently conforms to the shape of your ear, so they stay in place even if you are moving around a lot. They are also compatible with glasses, helmets or masks without feeling bulky.

Sound quality is good this type of open format, it hasn’t been designed to compete with more immersive headphones but allows you to hear the detail in your audio AND your environment. The Clip1 use 12 mm dual-magnet drivers and support LDAC and Dolby Audio, which helps deliver a fuller sound across different genres. Together with SoundPEATS’ DynamicEQ Pro technology there is a reasonable balance however as might be expected the bass is quite reserved. You can personalise the sound via the PeatsAudio app, choosing EQ settings and switching between different audio modes.

Battery life is respectable, offering around 8 hours of playtime on a single charge and up to roughly 40 hours with the charging case. A quick 10-minute charge can add a couple of hours of playback, which is handy if you forget to top them up before heading out.

Smart features include AutoSense detection that automatically adjusts left and right channels based on which ear they are clipped to, and wear detection that pauses playback when you take them off. The IPX5 water resistance rating gives peace of mind in light rain or sweaty workouts too.

They do have a few limits common to open earbuds. There is no active noise cancellation, so in loud settings the sound can feel thin, and you may need to raise volume more than you would with sealed buds. Also, the charging case is slightly larger than some rivals. The fit maybe a deal breaker for some, my ears are on the smaller side, and they became uncomfortable after an hour. I did enjoy the open ear experience without the neckband and they were comfortable enough for a jog around the countryside. The touch controls are a little temperamental which can be frustrating but is easy to avoid by using your phone to control the volume.

Overall, the Clip1 offer a safe and versatile listening experience, ideal for everyday wear and outdoor use, with plenty of features not usually found at this price, although the fit might not be suitable for every earshape. RRP £67.03

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