50% Discount: The Best Affordable Alternative to Original AirPods
Wireless earbuds today prioritize snug fits, compactness, and features like active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency mode. However, the concept of totally wireless earbuds (TWS) initially revolved around convenience. The original AirPods and even today's basic models aim to deliver quality audio in a convenient, user-friendly form factor. With advancing technology, basic TWS are becoming increasingly scarce, especially in budget segments where accommodating additional features can be a luxury. While the latest AirPods (3rd Generation) offer a rich audio experience, their price of nearly Rs 18,000 might deter some, pushing consumers to explore alternatives.
Enter the Nothing Ear (Stick), released by Carl Pei's Nothing venture in late 2022. These TWS bear striking resemblance to the OG AirPods in design and functionality, emphasizing convenience and ease of use. Initially criticized for their price of Rs 8,499, the Ear (Stick) TWS have now become available for less than half that amount, selling at around Rs 3,999. At this price, they offer a compelling option for those seeking good, basic TWS with decent audio quality, without unnecessary bells and whistles.
The Ear (Stick) TWS boasts an eye-catching design that won the RedDot design award in 2023. Encased in a transparent cylindrical case resembling a lipstick, the buds feature transparent stems with visible circuitry and white bulbous tops. Designed to hang from the ears rather than fit inside them, they prioritize comfort. Weighing just over four grams each, the buds and their 46-gram case are highly portable.
With IP54 dust and water resistance, the Ear (Stick) TWS offer protection from splashes of water. Their on-ear design, which allows some sound to pass through, ensures comfortable wear, making them suitable for various activities, including exercise. Performance-wise, these TWS connect via Bluetooth and work seamlessly with both iPhones and Android devices. Powered by 12.6 mm drivers, they deliver good sound quality, with a slightly bass-heavy output. The Nothing X app offers an excellent equalizer, allowing users to customize the audio according to their preferences.
Simple controls, centered around pinching and holding the stems of the buds, make operation intuitive. Each bud's stem features pinch controls, with the left bud controlling volume and the right bud handling playback and call functions. The absence of controls on the buds themselves minimizes displacement during use.
While the Ear (Stick) TWS allow some external sound to pass through, they excel in call quality and Bluetooth connectivity. With reliable ear detection, the buds pause and resume audio playback when removed and reinserted. They also boast impressive battery life, offering around seven hours of playback on a single charge and up to 28 hours with the case.
Despite lacking ANC and additional features found in higher-priced TWS, the Ear (Stick) TWS offer a blend of smart features and solid performance at an attractive price point. Their recent price reduction enhances their value proposition, making them a compelling choice for consumers seeking hassle-free calls and reliable performance. As rumors circulate about their impending discontinuation, interested buyers may want to act swiftly to secure a pair before they're gone.