Belkin’s attempt to keep the wired tradition alive with their SoundForm USB-C Earbuds reveals the challenges of delivering quality at an ultra-budget price point. Priced at a modest $24.99 in the US, £14.99 in the UK, and AU$29.95 in Australia, these earbuds promise the convenience of USB-C connectivity but ultimately demonstrate that some corners simply can’t be cut in the pursuit of affordable audio.
Released in 2019 and still available across major markets, the Belkin SoundForm USB-C earbuds arrive at a time when many smartphone manufacturers have abandoned the traditional headphone jack, creating a need for USB-C audio solutions. While Belkin positions these earbuds as offering “superior sound quality,” extensive testing reveals a different story that might give pause to even the most budget-conscious consumers.
The audio performance of these earbuds presents significant compromises that are difficult to overlook, even considering their entry-level pricing. Users will immediately notice a tinny sound signature that pervades most musical genres. When put through its paces with complex arrangements, the earbuds struggle to maintain clarity and instrumental separation. For instance, during testing with Geordie Greep’s “Holy, Holy,” the bass reproduction proved muddy, while the guitar work lost its essential sharp edge. Perhaps most disappointingly, vocal performances that should command attention in the mix often get lost in a narrow, confined soundstage.
The treble frequency response proves particularly problematic at higher volumes, where percussion elements can become harsh and grating. This limitation significantly impacts the overall listening experience, making these earbuds less suitable for extended listening sessions or for users who prefer their music with any degree of volume. The issue becomes even more apparent with high-pitched vocals, as demonstrated during testing with Solji’s “Rains Again,” where the higher notes emerged with an uncomfortable brashness.
Not all news is negative, however. The earbuds do offer some practical advantages that might appeal to certain users. Their IPX5 waterproof rating provides genuine protection against rain and sweat, making them a viable option for outdoor use. The in-ear fit proves surprisingly comfortable, with multiple ear tip sizes included to ensure a proper seal. This attention to fit contributes to above-average passive noise isolation for the price point, effectively dulling external sounds even with music playing at moderate volumes.
The physical design and control implementation show signs of thoughtful engineering, despite some aesthetic shortcomings. The inline controller, while somewhat bulky, provides responsive controls for volume adjustment, play/pause functionality, and call management. The USB-C connector itself is well-proportioned, sitting flush with devices without creating awkward protrusions. However, the earbuds’ overall appearance suffers from an overtly plastic look, enhanced rather than masked by their glossy finish. The flat cable design, while intended to prevent tangling, tends to kink easily and doesn’t fully deliver on its “tangle-free” promise.
One of the more significant disappointments comes from the built-in microphone performance. Despite Belkin’s claims of “clear” call quality, testing revealed consistent issues with voice reproduction. Recordings demonstrated notable tinny characteristics and an persistent background hiss. While voice calls remain intelligible, the audio quality falls short of even basic expectations, with static noise being a regular companion during conversations.
The product’s color options vary by region, with US and Australian customers having access to more vibrant Pink and Blue variants alongside the standard Black and White options available in the UK. However, these cosmetic choices do little to address the fundamental performance limitations of the earbuds.
Cable noise presents another significant challenge during use, particularly noticeable during movement. While this issue isn’t unique to these earbuds, it does impact their practicality for activities like walking or working out. More premium wired options have found ways to minimize this effect, but at this price point, such refinements are notably absent.
When considering the broader market context, the Belkin SoundForm USB-C earbuds face stiff competition even within their budget category. Alternatives like the Skullcandy Set USB-C offer improved audio quality without a significant price premium, while stepping up to slightly more expensive options like the SoundMAGIC E80D provides a dramatic improvement in overall audio performance.
For consumers seeking basic functionality in a USB-C earbud solution, the Belkin SoundForm does deliver the bare essentials. They connect reliably, provide adequate volume levels, and offer basic playback controls. However, in an age where even budget audio options have raised the bar for performance expectations, these earbuds struggle to make a compelling case for themselves beyond their minimal price point.
The verdict becomes clear: while the Belkin SoundForm USB-C earbuds might serve as an emergency backup or temporary solution, they fall short of being a recommended primary audio device, even at their budget-friendly price point. In today’s market, where quality audio options exist at various price points, consumers would be better served by exploring alternatives that offer more refined sound reproduction and better overall value, even if it means investing slightly more in their audio experience.
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