While I’m far from an audio geek, I’m pretty curious about headphones. I rarely stray from a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, but I’ve been surprised at how much I enjoy using open-ear headphones after trialling the new AeroFit range from Soundcore.
Functioning like wireless earbuds, the Soundcore AeroFit open-ear headphones (both standard and pro versions) have a charging case that affords them extra battery life, and a standardised fit that feels comfortable on the ears. So, what makes them better than in-ear headphones, aside from my personal preference? Here’s what I thought about the two pairs.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
Soundcore AeroFit Open-Ear Headphones
Soundcore AeroFit Pro Open-Ear Headphones
What are open-ear headphones?
Open-ear headphones work two ways, with the AeroFit pairs falling under ‘air conduction’. Music plays through tiny speakers that generate sound waves. Given they’re not a sealed-off device, you can still hear everything going on around you, which makes them perfect for those who want to remain situationally aware.
How are the pairs different?
The two AeroFit pairs are very similar, although the AeroFit standard pair is lighter and really feels like you’re not wearing headphones at all. The pro set is geared towards sport, with a detachable neckband to keep them extra secure in case they get jostled during a workout. However, both pairs offer clear calls, a good listening experience and a comfortable design.
What were the best features?
Situational awareness
Air conduction works best for those who need to hear their surroundings. I’ve had entire conversations while wearing the AeroFit headphones, and have walked home equally aware of the music in my ears and everything happening around me. This has made me feel safer, as I can hear oncoming traffic, and recognise footsteps behind me so that no one can sneak up on me when I’m walking or exercising in the dark.
Battery life
You’ll have to forgive me if this is common knowledge but having a charging case for your headphones changes everything. The Aero FitPro pair offers 14 hours of play on a single charge, but this can be extended to 46 hours with the charging case. The AeroFit standard pair have 42 hours with their charging case. And given it’s a storage case, it feels like the battery never runs out.
Both the headphones and the case are also very compact – another slightly obvious trait, but one I care a lot about. I love that these slide into an internal pocket like it’s nothing.
Excellent for calls
The Soundcore AeroFit headphones also work perfectly for phone chats. Whenever I’m trialling headphones, I always use them for calls because hands-free calling is a major part of how I spend my evenings – yapping while I clean, cook, or potter. Also, the comfortable design means I often forget I’m wearing them. I’ve now walked out of my house twice while mid-phone conversation with my mum, only to remember halfway up the street that I’m wearing the headphones and have left the charging case in my room.
How’s the sound?
My one issue with the Soundcore AeroFit open-ear headphones is that it can be hard to hear music or podcasts as soon as you enter loud spaces. I can’t hear anything if I’m wandering through the shops, or walking along a busy road unless I crank the volume on my phone. While this would work for some, I prefer to switch to my noise-cancelling headphones when I need to alleviate background noise and actually enjoy whatever it is I’m listening to.
However, whenever I need to make a call, or remain aware of my surroundings, or pick a pair of headphones to wear in an Uber, the Soundcore AeroFit models are now top of my list.
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