smackdown
Ah, true wireless earbuds... How you tease us with promises of epic sound and cable freedom. We pit two sub-£100 contenders against one another to see if they really do deliver
Urbanista Tokyo £99.99, uk.urbanista.com
Audio Quality
With clear, well-articulated mid-range and bass levels that feel natural and unforced, the sound quality is excellent on the Tokyo set. The quality drops a little on voice calling, though, where it can sound like your caller is living under water.
Design
A selection of earbuds means even the most awkward ears are catered for, and noise isolation is plenty good for catching up on podcasts. The case isn’t the best, but it does use plug-and-play connect and disconnect tech for easy pairing.
Features
On the outside of each bud is a button that acts as an easy-access pause. Each is responsive, but it’s strange that each button serves the same purpose. Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity is almost always top notch, but there was an occasional crackle. Batt ery Life We managed to get two hours out of the Tokyo buds. That’s plenty if you’re just using them for the commute, but journeys further afield may throw up battery life issues. Thankfully the charging only takes about 20 minutes for an extra boost. verdicT WE’RE IMPRESSED The audio quality on the Tokyo buds are on par with higher-end options. WE’D IMPROVE The battery life could be improved, and the case could feel a little more premium.
Anker Zolo Liberty+ £149.99, zoloaudio.com
Audio Quality
Although the Zolo buds are great for pumping tunes, when something more subtle is required they’re a little bass heavy. Detail in the mid- and high-range can get lost, and the audio passthrough to let in sounds from outside destroys quality.
Design
The dinky hooks on the Liberty+ buds ensure that they stay put, regardless of how physical you are. The case is excellently designed, if a little heavy. Bluetooth pairing is easy, and you just take them out of the case to connect and dock to disconnect.
Features
Bluetooth 5 connectivity makes a world of difference to reliability, as these earbuds never lost connection, though they’re not as responsive as you’d like. Sweat and water resistance work a treat, whether you’re in the gym or out in the rain. Batt ery Life With three hours of battery life, they won’t get you through a long-haul flight without a break, but the carry case is backed with up to two full days of extra charge. Pop the buds in the box to enjoy an hour’s more juice in just 15 minutes. verdicT WE’RE IMPRESSED Battery life and connectivity are by far the best qualities.
WE’D IMPROVE The bass could do with a tone down to balance out the audio quality.