Echo Buds Gen 2 Review

The most recent product from Amazon is the brand-new Echo Buds (2nd Gen), an upgrade over the previous model Echo Buds (1st Gen). While the first version of Echo Buds had a few drawbacks, the second iteration has enhanced capabilities that make them competitive earbuds. It boasts a 20% size reduction, a sealed fit, and Active Noise Cancellation to suppress outside noise. High-fidelity sound that is balanced and clear is delivered by good 5.7 mm dynamic driver speakers.

The Echo Buds Gen 2 also have an ergonomic design for a comfortable fit, thanks to Amazon. To make sure the earbuds fit precisely and provide a good seal that adds to noise cancellation, they come with 4 sets of ear tips and 2 pairs of wing tips. Additionally, the Alexa app offers an ear fit test to make sure your earbuds are the greatest fit possible. These Echo Buds are a good option for many purchasers because of the capabilities listed above and the smart functions enabled by the built-in Alexa. The earphones do have a drawback, though. The listening period is shorter than with the earlier model of echo buds. Find out if these earbuds are worthwhile by reading on.

Best Deal Today

New Echo Buds (2nd Gen), $157.98 on Amazon

Echo Buds (2nd Gen), $175.99 (NewEgg

Best Buy sells Echo Buds Gen 2 for $139.99.

Echo Buds Gen 2 Overview

Release Date and Price

The Echo Buds Gen 2 were made available by Amazon on April 15, 2021, and they have been part of their business line ever since. The earphones cost $139.99 and are available at most retail stores, including Best Buy. Given that the earphones cost $175.99, the price on NewEgg is a little bit more. Additionally, you can purchase the All-new Echo Buds (2nd Gen) earphones along with a wireless charging set on Amazon for $157.98. The earphones are $139.99 on their own, without the wireless charging kit.

Different Models

An almost identical type of earbuds known as the echo buds was released on October 30, 2019, before the second generation of echo buds.The first generation, they were. Although they could appear identical at first glance, the two are really distinct. Starting with the appearance, the second generation echo buds have Amazon’s branding on each earbud, as opposed to the original generation’s lack of branding. Furthermore, the size of the second generation has been reduced by 20%.

Instead of ANC, the Echo Buds Gen 1 include noise reduction, which is less effective because it doesn’t completely block out background noise. Additionally, the second version now features a wireless charging case that is a little more expensive.

Features

Because of their smaller size, lighter weight, and improved noise cancelling characteristics, the Echo Buds Gen 2 appear to be higher quality. Once they’ve been registered with the Alexa App, the earbuds perform at their peak. To begin with, there are four rubber tips in the package, all of varying sizes, so you can select a pair that will fit you properly. The Alexa App also walks you through the setup procedure. To make sure the earbuds fit precisely after setup, Amazon suggests you to run through the fit test in the app.

They also have a battery that allows you to use Siri and ANC for up to 5 hours. The earphones last for 6.5 hours when not in use. With the case, you can listen for up to 15 hours while Siri and ANC are on and 19.5 hours when they are not. Additionally, they support quick charging. A 15-minute charge provides 2 hours of listening time.

Additionally, they boast 5.7 mm drivers that deliver high-quality sound while yet using ANC to block out outside noise. The Bluetooth 5.0 connection guarantees a solid connection and optimal audio delivery to your ears for whatever you’re listening to.The earbuds can also support Siri and Google Assistant. Alexa can be called up hands-free using voice or touch controls, whereas Google Assistant can only be accessed by tapping the controls. Additionally, you may find your missing earbud by telling the Alexa app to look for it using the earbuds’ convenient Alexa app. The last known location of the earbud will then be marked on the app.

Specifications

Manufacturer	Amazon
Release date	15th April 2021
Headphone type	Earphones
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.0
Battery (With ANC and Alexa)	5 hours per charge and 15 hours with the charging case.
Battery (Without ANC and Alexa)	6.5 hours per charge and 19.5 hours with the charging case
In the box	Echo Buds, charging case, 2 pairs of wing tips, 4 pairs of ear tips, USB-C cable, and Quick Start Guide.
Sensors	Accelerometer, touch, proximity, hall (case)
Feature	Audio personalization
Microphones	Total of 6; 3 in each earbud
Weight	Earbud: 5.7 grams/ 0.20 ounces (without ear tips or ear wings)Case: 44.4 grams/ 1.56 ounces Charging case 47.6 grams/ 1.67 ounces
Hands-free voice assistant	Alexa
Tap-To-Access Voice Assistant	Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant
Size	Earbud: 20.0 x 19.1 x 19.1 mm (without ear tip or ear tip) Case: 66.8 x 28.6 x 39.1 mm
Speakers	5.7 mm dynamic driver
Colors	Black and Glacier white
IP Rating	IPX4

Echo Buds Gen 2 Review

The Echo Buds Gen 2 have enough functions to keep you entertained while providing you with the highest audio quality.

Design

The earphones are packaged in a compact, stylish container that fits effortlessly in a purse or your pockets. The earbuds’ comfort and lightweight are remarkable because they allow one to wear them for extended periods of time without developing ear fatigue. The bottom of the cover has Amazon’s branding, unlike the Echo Buds 1.

Additionally, they contain a built-in vent that balances the pressure within and outside of the ear to lessen the suction effect that comes from wearing them for an extended period of time.

Touch Controls

These earphones have touch controls that are simple to use and don’t take much force to utilize. While tapping the earbuds twice answers or ends a call and goes to the next song, tapping them once plays or pauses music. The preceding song is played by three taps on the headphones. The ANC and passthrough modes are switched by long pressing the earphones. Long pressing is another method for denying a call. However, the Alexa app allows for customization of these features.

Sound

Overall, the earphones sound good. They might not be the ideal choice for an audiophile, though. This is because they don’t produce clear highs, making it difficult to hear other important notes in some tunes. However, the app’s audio customisation feature allows users to customize the audio output.

IP Rating

The earphones have an IPX4 rating, which means they can withstand perspiration and water splashes without becoming damaged.

Battery

The battery life of the Echo Buds Gen 2 is average. They can go for up to 5 hours without recharging with ANC and Siri activated. When Siri and ANC are both turned on, you will receive 15 hours of battery life. The earbuds can last up to 6.5 hours of listening time without Siri and the ANC, and 19.5 hours with the case. The earbuds also allow quick charging, and a 15-minute charge will give you up to 2 hours of playback time.

These earbuds also contain a casing that can be wirelessly charged with a certain Anker. The earbuds charge more slowly when using the Anker than when using a USB-C cable because the Anker can only handle 5W of power.

Voice Assistant

Alexa is practical since you can use her to execute activities rather than having to do them yourself. You may use Alexa in a smart home to carry out simple activities like turning on the TV. Additionally, you can accept and respond to calls without taking your phone out of your pocket.

Alexa, however, only functions when there is a strong Wi-Fi or mobile data connection and when the app has acknowledged the headphones. Additionally, the earphones are compatible with Siri and Google Assistant.

Connectivity

The SBC and AAC codecs, which are excellent for use with Apple devices, are supported by Bluetooth 5.0 technology found in the Echo Buds Gen 2. However, because they do not support the aptX codec, there may be some lag between the audio and video when utilizing them with Android smartphones.

Additionally, compared to the standard 32 feet, the Bluetooth connection range for these headphones is just about 19 feet.

Price

Before the release of the Echo Buds Gen 2, consumers had to decide between paying a high price for ANC-enabled earphones and a lower price for ANC-deficient models. This is no longer a concern thanks to the Echo Buds Gen 2’s inexpensive alternative.

Pros and Cons of The Echo Buds Gen 2

Pros

• Small and light hence are comfortable
• Affordable
• Upgraded Active Noise Cancellation
• Have wireless charging capabilities
• Works with Alexa and other voice assistants
• Have fast charging capabilities
• Different-sized wing tips and ear tips are included to ensure you get the perfect fit
• Good sound considering the low price

Cons

• The touch controls are overly sensitive
• Moderate battery charge
• Low IPX4 rating
• They don t offer clear highs
• The ANC is not the best

Echo BudsGen 2: Is It a Buy?

The crucial question is: Are the Echo Buds (2nd Generation) worth purchasing?

Buy it if

You’re seeking for an excellent pair of earbuds that have premium features seen in more pricey models. Additionally, the Echo Buds Gen 2 are the ideal choice for you if you’re seeking for a pair of earphones that you may use every day while engaging in strenuous activities like working out.

Do Not Buy it if

If you’re seeking for earphones to utilize while duplicating the sound from particular tracks, these are not the ideal option. Therefore, audiophiles would be better off somewhere else. The earbuds are also not the greatest to bring on a trip if you won’t be near a power source. This is due to the fact that these earphones, when used with the case, won’t keep their charge for very long.