Soundcore Frames — is a product that turns glasses into high-quality wearable speakers. The audio sunglasses category is not new, and products like Huawei Gentle Monster Eyewear or Bose Frames, This concept has already been successfully used. However, Soundcore Frames benefits from the market's learnings from these initial experiments and was developed to offer a more practical and cost-effective product. Does it live up to expectations?
Design
In terms of design, Soundcore Frames have a huge advantage over most competitors: the frames are interchangeable . Users can switch between sunglasses and clear glasses or change the style depending on their mood or outfit.
Sizing is determined by the width of the front part of the frame, and not all frames are created equal. On the one hand, this is great because it allows more people to find the right size. On the other hand, there's no easy way to try them on in a store.
If you look closely, you'll notice that the temples are quite thick, a key clue that this is a wearable device. The battery and electronics are located inside, and it's hard to imagine how this device could be made much smaller using modern technology.
As sunglasses, this product is ideal for outdoor use and is even comfortable in areas where water may be present, such as pools or beaches, as it offers some water resistance. When worn with regular glasses, it is possible prescription lens fitting at a third-party clinic , but I haven't checked it myself.
Possibility of replacing the frame significantly expands the possibilities of use Soundcore Frames, as they can now be used at home or at work. In most situations, you'll likely wear Soundcore Frames (with clear lenses) instead of headphones and, more importantly, in-ear monitors.
Some people can wear headphones all day, but many others experience discomfort and even itching with prolonged use. Soundcore Frames are much more comfortable because there's nothing covering or penetrating the ear.
Sound quality
These small speakers deliver powerful, clear sound in an office environment with moderate ambient noise. While they're not loud enough for everyone to hear your audio stream, if someone is close enough and the volume is high enough, they might theoretically be able to hear something.
I think that quality for this type of product Excellent. I tried using the glasses in the car for voice prompts and during Zoom calls at work. I also used them as a replacement for regular headphones, and everything worked fine except when the surroundings got too noisy.
It won't surprise anyone, but such an audio device isn't designed for maximum immersion and audio fidelity. Traditional headphones or earbuds are better suited for this purpose. However, it exceptionally well suited for maximum ear comfort and ambient sound .
The microphone tends to pick up quiet or distant noises unrelated to the phone or video call. Headphones from reputable brands usually perform better in this regard. Comparing microphone sound quality is difficult, but suffice it to say that many people have complained to me about background noise.
I use a USB microphone at work, so this isn't an issue, but for spontaneous phone calls it would be great to have more effective background noise suppression.
Gestures and controls
Some functions can be controlled using temple gestures, including:
Play/Pause : Click on the area with the logo. Adjustment volume or switch between the following and previous tracks: swipe your finger over the logo area. Manual on/off : Press and hold where the temples bend.
Please note that the headphones feature voice control, similar to other smart headphones. To activate it, you'll need to install the Soundcore app.
Battery life
Theoretically, a fully charged battery can provide about 5.5 hours of playback . It depends on the volume, but the manufacturer seems to be giving a realistic estimate. I've never used it for that long, although I usually take it with me for a few hours on days when I have a lot of video conferences.
When you need to recharge your device, 10 minutes of charging will provide approximately 90 minutes of playback . You can charge it between meetings or during a short break if needed. I like it. an easy way to charge with a cable . There is an additional charging box, but when I travel I need the bare minimum.
Soundcore app
I initially used Souncore Frames without installing the Souncore app, and this is possible if you prefer. However, software updates and other improvements are provided through the app, so installing it at some point may be helpful.
However, I find it annoying that I have to "register" and create an account to use the app. Within the app, you can adjust the equalizer, enable Open Surround sound, update the firmware, change control settings, and much more.
Conclusion
Soundcore Frames are a superior product designed to overcome the limitations of first-generation audio glasses. This ensures the best possible listening experience in a wide range of environments, both indoors and outdoors.
A variety of sizes allows us to reach a wider audience, as more people are likely to find something to suit their taste. Furthermore, changing the style or replacing scratched or broken lenses is very easy if you're unlucky enough to damage them.
If you find the right size and style, and if you understand that this audio device is optimized for ear comfort rather than maximum immersion, it should work well. I found it fantastic for long days filled with Zoom calls or long drives with voice prompts (and sunglasses!). It's better than the bone conduction alternatives I've tried so far.
High performance
- Good sound quality
- Comfortable to wear
- Folding and replaceable glasses
- Prescription glasses can be fitted by third party professionals.
Low performance
- The sound is not as good as with headphones.
- Noise cancellation could be better.
Rating + Price
- Rating : 9,1/10
- Price : ~149 dollars.