Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones: The Ultimate Multi-Purpose Outdoor Companion

Tired of wearing restrictive headphones that block out ambient noise while exercising or commuting outdoors? The revolutionary Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones may be the solution you’ve been looking for. These clever headphones use bone conduction technology to deliver great stereo sound directly to your inner ear while still allowing you to hear your surroundings. Packed with useful features like Bluetooth connectivity, built-in MP3 player, and IP68 waterproofing, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones aims to be the ultimate multi-purpose outdoor companion.

Overview

Priced at a very reasonable $32, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones offer great value for money. They connect wirelessly via Bluetooth and can also play MP3 files directly from the built-in 8GB memory. The open-ear bone conduction design allows you to stay aware of ambient sounds, making them ideal for running, cycling, driving etc. An IP68 rating also means they are dustproof and waterproof.

Design

Weighing just 36g, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones have a lightweight and comfortable design. The flexible headband securely fits most head sizes. The headphones come in a stylish black colorway with neon blue accents that give them an athletic look. The compact charging case makes them easy to store and carry.

Sound Quality

The Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones produces surprisingly good stereo audio with emphasized bass reproduction. While fine details in the mids and highs are lacking compared to premium headphones, the sound is pleasing for everyday listening and workouts. Volume may not be loud enough for some users.

Microphone

It includes a built-in microphone for taking calls. Call quality is decent though the mic picks up a lot of ambient noise. Voices transmit clearly in quiet environments but sound muffled on noisier streets.

Noise Isolation

Designed as open ear headphones, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones does not block ambient noise. This allows situational awareness good for outdoor safety but prevents noise cancellation. External noises like traffic can intrude on your audio experience.

Battery Life

Battery life is rated for 6 hours of continuous playback on a full 1.5 hour charge. Real-world performance depends on volume levels. Enabling the MP3 player function rather than streaming via Bluetooth can help extend battery life a bit longer before needing to charge again in the case.

Connectivity

The Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones pairs to devices via Bluetooth 5.0 up to 15 feet away. Connection is quick and stable during everyday use. The headphones can also play MP3 audio files directly from the built-in 8GB storage without needing a separate device.

Controls

A single multi-function button on the right earpiece controls power, play/pause, track skipping, call answer/end, and digital assistant access. Volume control requires adjusting your connected smartphone device. Lack of onboard buttons makes volume adjustment less convenient.

Waterproofing

With an IP68 rating, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones are dustproof, sweatproof, and can survive being submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes - making them ideal for intense workouts and use in the rain.

Usage Scenarios

With their unique bone conduction design, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones excels in outdoor scenarios where hearing your surroundings is beneficial. Use them when running or biking outside, allowing you to listen to your workout playlist while staying aware of traffic. The open ear design also makes them great for everyday use like walking the dog or commuting, so you can hear conversations. The waterproofing also means you can wear them worry-free during intense workouts or in the rain.

Customer Feedback Analysis

With an average rating of 3 out of 5 stars based on 15 global reviews, customer opinions of the Smedz X9 bone conduction headphones seem quite divided. Looking closely at the written reviews reveals some insightful nuances.

The most enthusiastic 5-star reviews praise the surprising sound quality and innovative bone conduction technology that allows you to listen to music while still hearing ambient noises around you. Several users were pleasantly surprised by the warm, robust stereo sound produced by the compact headphones. Hearing outside traffic and conversations while biking, walking, or working out gave them a heightened sense of safety and awareness.

However, the most common complaints in critical 1- and 2-star reviews centered around hardware issues and fit instability. Multiple users reported problems with the included charger failing to function properly right out of the box, rendering the headphones unusable without a way to recharge them. Others struggled to get the flexible silicone headband to fit securely on their head during exercise, with the loose headphones bouncing around uncomfortably. A few reviewers also complained about muffled, low-volume sound despite trying different eartip adjustments.

Critical reviewers warn interested buyers to temper their expectations for the super budget-friendly price point. While the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones can deliver decent bone conduction audio and handy features like built-in MP3 playback and waterproofing when they work properly, the quality control issues around defective chargers and finicky fit mean inconsistent performance straight out of the box. Furthermore, the long-term durability of the all-plastic construction remains uncertain.

In summary, customers satisfied with the core bone conduction technology praise the situational awareness and surprising sound given the price tag. However, hardware defects and comfort issues reported by several users highlight that with cheaper electronics, you take more of gamble on whether your specific unit will work as advertised. Carefully consider whether the innovative features outweigh the quality control gamble before purchase.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Bone conduction technology allows situational awareness
• Good stereo sound with emphasis on bass
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
• Built-in MP3 player with 8GB storage
• IP68 waterproof and dustproof rating
• Secure and comfortable fit for most users
• Very affordable price point

Cons:

• Charging issues reported
• Fit stability varies for some users
• Durability concerns over long term use

Value for Money

Priced at only $32, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones offer excellent value compared to similar bone conduction headphones which can cost over $100. For less than half the price of premium brands, you still get useful features like Bluetooth connectivity, onboard storage, waterproofing and an open ear design. While the cheaper price does come with some quality tradeoffs like the reported issues with charging and fit, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones punches well above its weight class for features and performance if you get a unit without defects. For budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts, these affordable headphones check a lot of boxes.

Conclusion

For their very wallet-friendly price point, the Smedz X9 bone conduction headphones pack some really useful features for outdoor activities. The open ear design allows situational awareness while the sound quality keeps your music enjoyable. If you want an affordable pair of headphones for running, biking, exercising that won’t isolate you, the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones is a great choice! Just keep in mind some users have experienced issues with the charger and fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main concerns users have about the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones?

1. Fit and Comfort: Some users express concerns about the headphones staying securely on their head during use, as well as potential discomfort over extended periods of wear.

2. Charger Quality: There are complaints about the charger’s flimsiness and its tendency to disconnect easily, leading to potential issues with charging the headphones.

3. Sound Quality: Mixed reviews regarding sound quality, with some users praising it while others find it lacking, particularly when compared to other bone conduction headphones.

4. Durability and Longevity: Several users report issues with the headphones breaking or malfunctioning after limited use, raising concerns about their overall durability and lifespan.

5. Battery Life: There are discrepancies between the advertised and actual battery life, with some users experiencing shorter usage times than expected.

How do the Smedz X9 Bone Conduction Headphones address these concerns?

1. Fit and Comfort: Despite some users experiencing fit issues, the headphones feature a lightweight and adjustable design aimed at providing a comfortable wearing experience for most users.

2. Charger Quality: While there are complaints about the charger, the headphones themselves are designed to be waterproof (IP68), which could mitigate concerns about durability and functionality in various conditions.

3. Sound Quality: Although opinions vary, the headphones boast premium stereo surround sound and an ergonomic design that aims to maintain situational awareness while delivering satisfactory audio performance.

4. Durability and Longevity: While some users report durability issues, others have found the headphones to be durable and reliable. It’s worth noting that individual experiences may vary, and proper care and usage could influence longevity.

5. Battery Life: Despite reported discrepancies in battery performance, the headphones offer a built-in MP3 player with 8GB of memory, providing users with the option for standalone music playback in addition to Bluetooth connectivity.

Tips

• Ensure Proper Fit: Experiment with the adjustable headband to find the most comfortable and secure fit for your head size and shape.

• Handle Charger Carefully: Take care when handling the charger to avoid damage and ensure a reliable connection for charging the headphones.

• Optimize Sound Settings: Adjust sound settings and headphone positioning to maximize audio quality and situational awareness during use.

• Follow Maintenance Guidelines: Adhere to maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer to prolong the lifespan of the headphones and optimize performance.

• Utilize Built-in Features: Take advantage of features such as the built-in MP3 player and waterproof design for added convenience and versatility in various activities.

Knowledge

1. Bone Conduction Technology: These headphones utilize bone conduction technology, allowing users to hear audio through vibrations transmitted directly to the cheekbones, leaving the ears open to ambient sound.

2. Waterproof Rating (IP68): The headphones boast an IP68 waterproof rating, indicating resistance to dust ingress and protection against continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter depth.

3. Situational Awareness: With their open-ear design, the headphones prioritize situational awareness, making them suitable for activities such as running, cycling, driving, and workouts where awareness of surroundings is essential.

4. Adjustable Headband: The flexible and adjustable headband ensures a comfortable and secure fit for most head sizes, enhancing the overall wearing experience.

5. Built-in Memory: Featuring 8GB of built-in memory, the headphones allow users to store and play music directly from the device without the need for a separate audio source, providing added convenience during outdoor and active pursuits.

Specifications

• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
• Battery Life: Up to 6 hours (unknown charge time)
• Waterproof Rating: IP68
• Weight: 36g
• Storage: 8GB built-in memory
• Color: Black with neon blue accents
• Materials: Plastic (unknown specific type)
• Driver Type: Bone conduction transducer (specific mm size unknown)
• Frequency Response Range: Unknown
• Noise Cancellation: None

What’s in the Box

The Smedz X9 bone conduction headphones come packaged in a compact charging case. The box includes:

• Smedz X9 headphone unit
• Charging case
• Short USB charging cable
• Extra eartips
• User manual

How to Use

1. Charge the headphones fully before first use by placing them in the charging case connected to a power source with the included USB cable.

2. Power on the headphones by long pressing the multifunction button. The LED indicator will flash to indicate pairing mode.

3. On your phone, activate Bluetooth and select “Smedz X9” from the list of available devices. Successful pairing will be indicated by a beep.

4. Adjust the flexible headband to fit snugly on your cheekbones while keeping your ear canals open. Experiment with the fit until the sound is clear.

5. Press the multifunction button to play/pause music or skip tracks. Adjust volume on your connected device.

6. When finished, power off the headphones by long pressing the button. Place them back in the charging case for storage and charging.