Logitech Zone Wired Earbuds review exploring top-notch audio for video calls

Description

Personal First Impressions of the Logitech Zone Wired Earbuds

Having tested out the Logitech Zone Wired Earbuds (981001134) for work and casual use, I quickly realized that they are more than just a standard pair of wired earbuds. Their sleek design, professional-grade sound quality, and ability to deliver clear audio for calls and music stood out immediately. I use earbuds daily for video calls, music streaming, and occasional gaming, so I was curious to see how these earbuds would perform under constant multitasking. Spoiler alert: they did a great job, but there are some quirks to point out.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of these earbuds is their premium yet understated design. The metallic accents on the side plates give them a polished look, while the overall black finish adds a professional vibe. I love the little details, like the magnetic earbud surfaces that snap together neatly when not in use—no more fumbling to untangle wires!

They come with four sizes of ear gels (XS, S, M, L), which is a lifesaver for someone like me, whose ears seem to reject most generic earbud shapes. Finding the perfect fit was easy, and the adjustable cable clip above the Y-joint helped keep everything snug and out of the way. The included portable neoprene pouch is another thoughtful touch that keeps the earbuds safe and the cables tangle-free.

Audio Performance: Crystal Clear Sound

The audio quality on these is impressive. The dual EQ settings—optimized for voice clarity and music—really cater to different scenarios. During video calls, the voice clarity setting enhances speech, and I found I didn’t have to ask people to repeat themselves anymore. Switching to the music mode, the bass was punchy without being overwhelming, and the 20 Hz-16 kHz frequency range ensures crisp and detailed sound.

The PET+PU driver material reduces distortion, while the neodymium magnets crank up the loudness without sacrificing quality. Whether I was listening to podcasts or jamming to my favorite playlists, these earbuds delivered studio-quality sound consistently.

Noise-Canceling Microphone: A Boon for Video Calls

As someone who spends a lot of time on video calls in noisy environments, I appreciated the advanced noise-canceling microphone technology. The beamforming mics on the left earbud are a game-changer. They focus solely on my voice, suppressing all the background chaos from cafes or open offices. I tested this feature during a call while my dog was barking in the background, and to my amazement, the other person couldn’t hear a thing except my voice. That said, I wish the earbuds themselves had active noise cancellation for audio playback, as it would have been a great complement to the mic’s performance.

Ease of Connectivity and Controls

These earbuds make connecting to devices a breeze. I tried them with my laptop, smartphone, and tablet, and the plug-and-play simplicity stood out. Whether using the 3.5mm jack, USB-C, or USB-A adapter, I didn’t experience any hiccups.

The in-line control is intuitive and convenient. The volume adjustments, play/pause button, and answer/reject call functions worked like a charm. There’s even a dedicated Teams button if you pick the Microsoft Teams version, which integrates seamlessly for remote work setups. I didn’t have to fumble around to mute myself during a meeting anymore, thanks to the LED indicators on the controller that provide clear confirmation of key functions.

Positives

After using these earbuds extensively, I can confidently say they have several key benefits that make them stand out:

• Professional-grade audio for both calls and music, thanks to dual EQ settings.
• Noise-canceling microphone technology that suppresses background noise effectively.
• Customizable fit with four ear gel sizes and adjustable cable length.
• Stylish and practical design, with a magnetic surface and tangle-free cable.
• Multiple connectivity options (3.5mm jack, USB-C, USB-A), ensuring compatibility with most devices.

Caveats

Of course, no product is perfect, and I did encounter a few areas for improvement:

• The earbuds lack active noise cancellation for playback, which would have been a great addition.
• While the sound quality is fantastic for calls and music, audiophiles might find the bass lacking compared to premium headphones.
• The in-line control unit adds bulk to the cable, which can be slightly annoying during workouts or while walking.

Competing Products

In the crowded world of earbuds, these wired ones face stiff competition from brands like Bose, Sony, and Jabra. Compared to Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, which excel in active noise cancellation, these Logitech earbuds fall short in completely isolating external noise during playback. However, Bose’s offerings are significantly more expensive and might not justify the cost for casual users.

The Sony LinkBuds, on the other hand, offer a more immersive soundstage but lack the level of microphone clarity that the Logitech Zone Wired Earbuds provide for calls. For business professionals who prioritize clear communication, Logitech is the better choice.

Jabra Elite 4 Active earbuds provide a better fit for fitness enthusiasts and include sweat resistance, but they miss out on the plug-and-play simplicity and customizable EQ settings that Logitech offers. If you’re looking for something business-focused with a professional finish, these wired earbuds are a unique contender.

Quality for Price

When it comes to the value proposition, these earbuds hit the sweet spot. They offer high-end features like noise-canceling mics, studio-quality sound, and versatile connectivity without the hefty price tag of many wireless alternatives. While they’re not the cheapest option out there, the combination of professional-grade performance and thoughtful design makes them worth every penny for someone who works remotely or takes calls on the go.

Would I recommend these? Absolutely, but with the caveat that if active noise cancellation is a dealbreaker for you, you might want to explore other options. For everything else—calls, music, and day-to-day usability—these earbuds deliver consistently and reliably.

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