Amazon Echo Buds (2023) Review: A Worthy Upgrade

The Rapid Evolution of Wireless Earbuds

The maturation of the fully wireless earbud market has been remarkably swift. Within a year or two, the landscape shifted from a niche populated by emerging startups to a highly competitive arena involving nearly all major hardware manufacturers. Amazon’s entry into this already crowded sector presented a unique challenge.

When arriving late to a competitive market, a crucial question arises: what unique value are you offering? The initial Echo Buds struggled to provide a compelling answer, particularly when compared to alternatives like Anker’s offerings at a $40 price point. Several other shortcomings contributed to a rather unenthusiastic reception.

A Significant Improvement with the New Echo Buds

Over a year later, Amazon has reintroduced the Echo Buds, demonstrating a commitment to addressing previous concerns and delivering a substantial upgrade. Notably, the company has incorporated features typically reserved for premium “Pro” models, all while maintaining a competitive price of $129.

Having used the Echo Buds as my primary headphones for several days, I’ve found the experience to be generally positive. These earbuds occupy a middle ground in the market; while I would still recommend higher-end options for those prioritizing performance above all else, the Buds are not inexpensive enough to compete at the very low end of the price spectrum.

Competitive Features and Value

The new Echo Buds are priced similarly to the Samsung Galaxy Buds Plus and, in many respects, offer a favorable comparison. A key addition is active noise canceling (ANC), a feature previously found primarily in more expensive models. While Amazon’s ANC isn’t the best available, it contributes to a well-rounded package for the price.

Amazon, like other tech giants, faces a disadvantage when competing with companies like Apple, Google, and Samsung, who can seamlessly integrate their devices with their respective smartphone ecosystems. Amazon’s attempts to create its own smartphones have not been successful, necessitating a different approach to differentiation.

Alexa Integration: A Core Differentiator

This differentiation strategy has largely centered around Alexa. Ultimately, the Echo Buds serve as another avenue for Amazon to deliver its smart assistant. Built-in Alexa is most valuable for users already invested in the Alexa ecosystem. While I personally prefer Google Assistant due to its broader software integration, the two assistants are often interchangeable for many users.

Design and Comfort Considerations

The new Buds are noticeably smaller than their predecessors, though they are not exceptionally compact. They are still somewhat bulky, and while they remained secure during indoor use, I experienced occasional loosening during a five-mile walk. In such cases, utilizing the included silicone covers with wings is recommended for a more secure fit, especially during exercise.

However, a design oversight exists: the charging case does not fully close when the silicone covers are attached. The case doesn’t snap shut completely, and I discovered that charging can be unreliable. I even received a low battery warning for the right earbud while the left was nearly fully charged. Removing the wings after workouts is advisable, as they can become uncomfortable with prolonged use.

Charging Case Design and Aesthetics

As noted by Matt, the case design is strongly reminiscent of Apple’s AirPods case. While subtle differences are apparent upon close inspection, the similarity is undeniable.

The case is longer and feels slightly less premium to the touch. Its unique shape allows it to stand upright. Consequently, the USB-C charging port is located on the rear of the case, rather than the bottom. A wireless charging case is available for an additional $20, a worthwhile investment for those with Qi chargers. A subtle Amazon logo adorns the bottom of the case, and a corresponding arrow is present on one of the earbuds.

The review unit received is “glacier white,” which appears more like a light gray. This difference is more pronounced when compared to the AirPods. Perhaps this is a deliberate attempt to visually distinguish the design from Apple’s?

Setup and App Integration

Pairing the Echo Buds is relatively straightforward, though not as seamless as with AirPods and iPhones or Galaxy Buds and Samsung devices. It involves a few quick taps within the Alexa app, which serves as the central hub for all Echo Buds functionality and other Alexa-enabled devices.

However, the Alexa app’s increasing complexity may warrant consideration for restructuring. While no one desires additional apps, the current app has become somewhat cluttered and overwhelming.

Once paired, the app provides easy access to toggling between ANC and Pass-Through modes (though it occasionally defaults to the incorrect mode upon initial use), controlling the microphone, and activating Workout mode. For consistent workout tracking, a dedicated wearable device is still recommended.

Sound Quality and Connectivity

The sound quality represents a noticeable improvement over the previous generation. While superior audio can be achieved with more expensive systems, the Echo Buds deliver solid sound for music, podcasts, and calls within their price range. The default sound profile leans towards heavy bass, but equalizer adjustments are readily available.

The Bluetooth connection is generally stable. I was able to move around my apartment while leaving my iPhone stationary, a test that many earbuds fail. However, I occasionally experienced synchronization issues between the left and right earbuds during outdoor walks, resulting in an echoing effect. A slight feedback sound can also occur when the earbuds are held near each other, as they don’t always instantly deactivate when removed from the ear.

Battery Life Performance

Amazon states that the Echo Buds offer up to five hours of battery life (6.5 hours with ANC off), with a total of 15 hours when combined with the charging case. This compares to the AirPods’ listed 4.5 to five hours (24 hours with case) and AirPods Pro’s 4.5 and 5 hours (24 hours with case). I found that I could easily get through a full day of use with occasional charging via the case.

Final Thoughts

The new Echo Buds represent a significant upgrade over their predecessors in nearly every aspect, making them a solid choice in the mid-price earbud category. However, they don’t fully address the fundamental question of why the original Echo Buds failed to resonate with consumers. For Amazon, the goal is to expand the reach of Alexa. For consumers, the answer remains less clear.