Run Plus bone conduction headphones review IP68 waterproof MP3 player for swimming and gym

Description

A Unique Listening Experience with the Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones

Testing out the Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones has been an intriguing experience, to say the least. As someone who spends a lot of time running, working out, and occasionally swimming, I put these headphones through their paces to see how they stack up. From their open-ear design to the 32GB MP3 storage mode and IP68 waterproof rating, these headphones bring a lot to the table. That said, no product is perfect, and I found both standout features and a few quirks worth mentioning.

Open-Ear Design Brings Comfort and Safety

The open-ear design is probably the first thing I noticed. Unlike traditional headphones or earbuds, these sit just outside your ears, making use of bone conduction technology to transmit sound. I loved how comfortable this was—no ear fatigue or discomfort, even during long sessions. Plus, being able to hear my surroundings while running or cycling was a game-changer. Whether it’s a car approaching or just the rhythm of my own breathing, the added awareness of my environment felt incredibly reassuring. However, keep in mind that this design does let in ambient noise, which might not be ideal in very noisy areas.

Dual Modes: Bluetooth Connectivity and Built-In MP3 Player

One of the features I was most excited to try was the dual-mode functionality. The Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity worked seamlessly with my phone, delivering a stable connection and no noticeable lag during audio playback. But what really stood out was the 32GB MP3 storage mode, allowing me to store up to 8000 songs. This was a blessing during my swimming sessions where Bluetooth doesn’t work underwater. Having my favorite playlists readily accessible without needing a separate device was incredibly convenient. Switching between modes was straightforward—just a couple of taps on the multifunction button.

IP68 Waterproof Rating: A True Swimming Companion

With an IP68 waterproof rating, these headphones are built to survive just about anything. I tested them while swimming laps, and they performed beautifully. Fully submerged for the better part of an hour, the sound quality remained clear, and there were no connectivity issues in MP3 mode. For runners who brave the rain or swimmers looking for reliable audio gear, these headphones are a fantastic option. Just make sure to dry them thoroughly after use to maintain longevity.

Battery Life That Keeps Up with Your Day

Battery life is always a concern for me, especially during longer workouts. The 8-hour battery life at 75% volume was more than enough to last through a full day of activities. I also appreciated the quick charge feature, which gave me an extra 80 minutes of playback after just 5 minutes of charging. This saved me on more than one occasion when I forgot to charge them overnight. However, it’s worth noting that battery life may vary depending on usage and whether you’re using Bluetooth or MP3 mode.

Enhanced Sound Quality: A Surprising Performer

When I first read about the Original Physical Bass Strengthen Technology and the Dual Suspension Anchor System, I was skeptical. Bone conduction headphones often compromise on sound quality, especially bass, but these surprised me. The deep bass was punchy, while the mids and highs were balanced and clear. While these headphones won’t replace high-end over-ear models for true audiophiles, they’re more than adequate for workouts and casual listening. The endorsement by five Grammy-winning audio producers seems well-deserved.

Key Benefits

• Open-ear design ensures comfort and situational awareness.
• 32GB MP3 storage provides offline listening for up to 8000 songs.
• IP68 waterproof rating makes them perfect for swimming or rainy runs.
• Quick charge feature adds convenience for busy users.
• Impressive sound quality for bone conduction headphones.

Areas of Concern

• Ambient noise can interfere with sound clarity in noisy environments.
• May not fit securely for individuals with smaller head sizes.
• Lacks advanced noise-canceling features found in traditional headphones.

Product Rivals

Comparing these to other bone conduction headphones on the market, the AfterShokz OpenRun and the H2O Audio Sonar come to mind. The AfterShokz model offers a slightly more compact design and a lighter frame, making them a bit more comfortable for all-day wear. However, they lack the 32GB MP3 storage, which is a strong advantage for swimmers or anyone wanting offline playback. The H2O Audio Sonar, on the other hand, is more swimming-focused and offers similar waterproof capabilities but doesn’t match the balanced sound quality of the Run Plus.

Where these headphones truly excel is their versatility. They’re not just for one activity, and the combination of Bluetooth and MP3 modes makes them more adaptable than many competitors. The sound quality also sets them apart, especially for bone conduction technology.

Bang for the Buck

Considering the features packed into these headphones, they offer great value for their price point. Compared to other bone conduction models, the inclusion of MP3 storage, IP68 waterproofing, and enhanced audio technology makes them a strong contender. That said, if you’re someone who prioritizes noise cancellation or top-tier sound fidelity, you might find better options in traditional over-ear or in-ear headphones. For active users who value versatility and durability, though, these are hard to beat.

In conclusion, the Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones deliver an impressive mix of features that cater to a wide range of needs. While they’re not without their quirks, they’ve become a reliable companion for my workouts and daily activities. Whether you’re running, swimming, or just enjoying some tunes on the go, these headphones are worth a look!