Vounel X5 Pro Lightweight Open-Ear Headphones with Disappointing Sound

Bone conduction headphones have become increasingly popular for their open-ear design that allows you to listen to audio while still hearing ambient sounds around you. The Vounel X5 Pro aims to deliver premium sound in a lightweight and comfortable open-ear headset. But does it live up to the claims? This review takes an in-depth look at the design, features, audio quality, and overall performance of the Vounel X5 Pro bone conduction Bluetooth headphones.

Overview

The Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones feature a patented memory titanium skeleton design intended to keep the headphones securely in place during workouts. With an IPX5 waterproof rating, 150mAh battery for 6+ hours of playtime, and weighing just 16 grams, these headphones seem ideal for active lifestyles. However, poor sound quality severely limits their appeal.

Key Features:

• Open-ear design allows ambient sound passthrough
• IPX5 waterproof and sweat-resistant
• 150mAh battery provides up to 6 hours of playtime
• Lightweight at only 16 grams
• Bone conduction audio transmission
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
• On-ear controls for volume, tracks, calls

Design & Fit

The lightweight open-ear design of the Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones is the main highlight. The memory titanium band conforms nicely to the shape of your head without putting pressure on your ears like traditional headphones. This makes them comfortable for all-day wear. The IPX5 waterproofing holds up well during sweaty workouts.

Unfortunately, the Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones feel rather cheap and plasticky. The fit is also not very secure, with the headphones sliding around easily if you turn your head too quickly. For the price, the build quality leaves much to be desired.

Features & Connectivity

Connecting to your device via Bluetooth is quick and easy. The Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones will audibly announce when it has paired successfully in a pleasant female voice.

Battery life delivers about 5-6 hours of continuous playback, right in line with claims. The touch controls on the side allow you to adjust volume, change tracks, and take calls.

The Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones maintain a stable Bluetooth connection within about 8 feet. After that, signal drops and stuttering occurs frequently. For workout headphones, the short wireless range is disappointing.

Audio Quality

Here is where the Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones falls painfully short of expectations. The sound quality is mediocre at best and downright poor at higher volumes. Music sounds thin, tinny, and lacks any bass impact or depth. Maximum volume is also not very loud, making these a poor choice for listening during workouts or while outdoors. The hollow sound makes even audiobooks difficult to listen to for long periods of time.

For bone conduction headphones, the audio has no punchiness or resonance. You mostly hear unpleasant direct vibration rather than clear stereo sound. The audio experience simply makes them not worth using, especially at this price point.

Use Cases:

• Workouts like running or cycling
• Outdoor activities where hearing surroundings is important
• Casual listening while keeping ears unobstructed
• Taking calls while multi-tasking

User Feedback Analysis

The Vounel X5 Pro headphones have received mostly negative reviews from users regarding sound quality and fit.

The most common complaint is that the audio is disappointingly tinny, hollow, and lacking in bass, especially at higher volumes. Many describe the sound as “unlistenable” for enjoyable music listening. This is likely due to the bone conduction drivers failing to produce adequate stereo resonance.

In terms of fit, multiple users report issues with the Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones slipping and sliding around even during light activity. The titanium band does not seem to provide a secure enough grip to keep the headphones firmly in place. This makes them unsuited for vigorous workouts or runs where constant adjustment would be required.

Several users also highlight the plasticky, cheap feel and construction of the headphones. For the price point, higher quality materials and finishes were expected.

Positive feedback is scarce, with some users reporting acceptable sound only at very low volumes. The open-ear design is highlighted as a plus by some, allowing situational awareness during outdoor use. However, the core audio experience renders this advantage moot.

Pros:
- Comfortable open-ear design
- Good battery life
- Sweat/water resistant rating

Cons:
- Very poor audio quality
- Unstable fit
- Short wireless range
- Cheap build quality

Value

Given the near universally negative takes on sound quality and fit, the Vounel X5 Pro headphones provide extremely poor value for the asking price. Once factored together with the lackluster build quality, connectivity range issues, and subpar battery life reported by some users, the headphones become impossible to recommend at their typical pricing.

For the same amount or barely more, consumers have many alternatives that outperform the Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones on key metrics like sound, comfort, stability, and construction. Unless found at a steep discount, buyers are better off looking to reputable brands of bone conduction headphones like AfterShokz or opting for standard Bluetooth earbuds that deliver a more complete audio experience.

At their typical MSRP, the Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones could only be recommended to someone looking for basic headset functionality for voice calls or audiobooks in a lightweight open-ear design. Even then, many comparable options exist without the user-reported drawbacks. For music, exercise, or general listening, the Vounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones provide extremely lackluster value compared to the competition.

Verdict

On paper, the Vounel X5 Pro bone conduction headphones seem like compelling open-ear headphones designed for active lifestyles. However, the disappointingly poor audio quality makes them difficult to recommend. For not much more money, you can get open-ear headphones from brands like AfterShokz that deliver far better sound in a secure sporty package.

Unless you get them at a heavily discounted price, look elsewhere for bone conduction Bluetooth headphones. The sound quality here simply does not deliver an enjoyable listening experience. For phone calls they are passable, but music sounds almost unlistenable. Overall, the XVounel X5 Pro open-ear Bluetooth headphones fails to live up to its promises.

Specifications

• Driver: Bone conduction open-ear
• Transduction Principle: Bone conduction
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Wireless Range: Up to 8 feet (2.4 meters)
• Battery Capacity: 150mAh
• Playtime: Up to 6 hours (varies by volume)
• Standby Time: 120 hours
• Charging Time: 1.5 hours
• Waterproof Rating: IPX5
• Weight: 16 grams
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Impedance: 32 ohms
• Sensitivity: 110dB +/- 3dB
• Distortion: ≤1% at 1kHz
• Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP v1.3, AVRCP v1.6
• Bluetooth Codecs: SBC
• Voice Prompt Languages: English

What’s in the box:

• Vounel X5 Pro headphones
• USB charging cable
• Carrying pouch
• User manual

How to Use:

1. Charge the headphones fully before first use
2. Turn on the headphones and pair to your Bluetooth device
3. Position the open earpieces comfortably on your cheekbones
4. Use the touch controls to adjust volume and tracks
5. Make sure the headphones fit securely during workouts
6. Charge the headphones for 2 hours after 5-6 hours of use

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Vounel X5 Pro Premium Bone Conduction Open-Ear Bluetooth Headphones?

The Vounel X5 Pro Premium Bone Conduction Open-Ear Bluetooth Headphones boast several key features:

1. Wireless Connectivity: These headphones utilize Bluetooth technology for seamless wireless connection to your devices, providing convenience and freedom of movement.

2. Bone Conduction Technology: With open-ear placement, these headphones utilize bone conduction technology, transmitting sound through the cheekbones directly to the inner ears. This design allows users to remain aware of their surroundings while enjoying audio playback.

3. Sweat Resistance: Designed for sports and active use, these headphones are sweat-resistant, ensuring durability and reliability during workouts or outdoor activities.

4. Long Battery Life: Users can enjoy extended listening sessions with over 6 hours of playtime on a single charge, providing uninterrupted enjoyment during various activities.

5. Media Control: The headphones feature convenient media controls, allowing users to adjust volume, skip tracks, or answer calls without reaching for their device.

How does bone conduction technology work in the Vounel X5 Pro headphones?

Bone conduction technology in the Vounel X5 Pro headphones works by bypassing the eardrum and transmitting sound vibrations through the cheekbones directly to the cochlea. This process allows users to perceive sound while still being aware of ambient noises, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities where situational awareness is crucial.

Are the Vounel X5 Pro headphones suitable for all ages?

Yes, the headphones are suitable for adults of all ages. The age range description specifies “Adult,” indicating that these headphones are designed to meet the needs and preferences of adult users.

Can the Vounel X5 Pro headphones be used for gaming?

While primarily designed for music listening, running, and working out, the Vounel X5 Pro headphones can be used for gaming, thanks to their Bluetooth connectivity and media controls. However, users should note that these headphones may not offer the same immersive experience as traditional gaming headsets.

What colors are available for the Vounel X5 Pro headphones?

The product listing mentions the headphones in grey color. However, it’s unclear if other color options are available.

Tips

• Ensure Proper Fit: For optimal performance and comfort, ensure that the headphones fit securely and comfortably around the cheekbones.

• Regular Cleaning: Sweat-resistant design notwithstanding, it’s advisable to regularly clean the headphones to maintain hygiene and longevity.

• Stay Aware: Take advantage of the open-ear placement and bone conduction technology to remain aware of your surroundings, especially when using the headphones during outdoor activities or workouts.