I’ve never been a huge fan of in-ear audio for a number of reasons, primarily though it’s comfort. So when companies like Shokz released their OpenFit and OpenRun units, naturally, I was interested, but what about something a bit more budget-friendly that’s not reliant on bone conduction, which a lot of users struggle to adjust to?
Enter the Belkin SoundForm ClearFit Open-Ear wireless earbuds.
Yeah, the name is a mouthful, but the product is quite the delight. The earbuds are lightweight, comfortable, carry solid battery life, and deliver decent sound without going in your ears, or completely removing your awareness of your surroundings. The open-ear design ensures that ambient sounds can be heard, making them ideal for outdoor activities and workouts. These earbuds feature a secure fit with silicone ear hooks, which enhances stability during movement and ensures they stay in place during vigorous activities.
In terms of performance, the earbuds deliver clear and balanced audio using 14.2mm drivers. For calls, they include technology to reduce background noise, ensuring clear voice transmission. I’ve found these a pretty effective hybrid between work and play, being a clear physical barrier that you’re either on a call or listening to music; either way, wanting or needing to focus.
Battery life is a strong point of the ClearFit Open ear earbugs. The earbuds provide up to eight hours of continuous playback on a single charge. With the charging case, you get an additional 18 hours, bringing the total usage time to 26 hours. Fast charging is another advantage; a quick 10-minute charge can provide approximately 90 minutes of listening time, so even if you’re caught short, you can top up for your commute home.
The connectivity is robust, utilising Bluetooth 5.3, which offers a stable connection within a 30-foot range which I tested both line of sight and through walls with reasonably consistent, and pleasing results. The earbuds also support multipoint technology, allowing users to easily and seamlessly switch between two connected devices.
Durability should be pretty reasonable with an IPX5 water resistance rating, making them sweat and splash-resistant—suitable for workouts and outdoor use, provided you’re not in a torrential downpour. Additionally, the product emphasises sustainability by incorporating recycled plastics and plastic-free packaging. For added peace of mind, Belkin provides a two-year warranty.
The user experience: Simplicity, affordability, versatility and reliability
Someone looking for an audiophile experience isn’t going to be shopping in the sub-$100 price range. The users who are going to be looking in this realm are going to be really happy with their purchase.
You’re getting everything you can reasonably expect, and more for AU$89.95 and it’s just so easy to use. The setup is quick and simple; with the option to pair to two devices (I’ve had the review unit connected to my phone and tablet) at a time.
With that open-ear design, you’re getting a couple of bonuses; the continued awareness of your surroundings and the fitting means that you’re going to be able to be extremely active without losing your earbuds. I’ve had the experience (as many have) of losing an earbud while out riding or running, so the security of the fit is really welcome.
No, they’re not noise cancelling but that’s just physically not possible in a unit that’s open like this. You need to have an in-ear or over-ear solution to allow the system to work its ANC magic.
When you put all this together with the solid battery life — including fast charging via USB C — and audio quality, you’ve got a really solid investment for users who need to be active, maintain awareness of their surroundings and still enjoy solid audio quality. It just feels like a win all around for anyone seeking an open-ear audio solution.
Picking up a pair is as easy as heading to Belkin online, Amazon or JB Hi-Fi if you prefer a bricks and mortar store.
