Jaybird - X4 Wireless Headphones - Storm Metallic/Glacier

==== Summary ==== The Jaybird X4 earphones blew me away with its quality build, supreme comfort, and excellent audio quality. It does so many things right - light & durable, super comfortable in the ears, water resistant, excellent control over sound through the custom EQ app, great audio, and long battery life. Athletes will love the Jaybird X4 as well as casual users who value sound quality and water resistance flexibility. Jaybird has lived up to the hype and has created a very good and compelling product. These are fantastic earphones. **Pros: -Light and comfortable design. -Secure fit with soft ear fins/hooks. -Both the silicone & Comply foam ear tips are comfortable. -Comfly foam ear tips provide great natural/passive sound isolation. -Fantastic audio quality (with in-app EQ adjustment). -Good phone call quality. -Excellent battery life. -Earphone control buttons work well. -Excellent Jaybird app (custom EQ, battery status, Find my buds). -IPX7 water resistance. -Quick charge. -Tangle-resistant cord. -Cord cinch is useful. **Cons: -Very short (~3") & propriety charge cradle cable with no wall charger. ==== Design & Comfort ==== The Jaybird X4 earphones are designed very well - for both athletes and casual earphone users. It is light, made with durable materials and quality plastic, very comfortable for extended usage during normal & physical activities, and come with both soft silicone and Comply foam ear tips (in different sizes). Between the two types of ear tips, I prefer the Comply foam tips (size small). They are more comfortable to wear and they also offer better passive sound isolation than the silicone ones. In addition, sound quality gets a boost, especially in bass-heavy songs. The ear fins come in two different sizes as well and they're soft and compliant and fit inside the ears snugly and securely. I'm a jogger and the X4 was an excellent running companion with its secure fitment, outside noise isolation, and comfort. During my usual 5 to 6 miles run, I sweat profusely so it was good to know that the X4 is IP7X water resistant. I also appreciate being able to quickly clean the earphones with water without fear of damaging them. The Jaybird X4 is controlled with a 3-button remote module located near the right earpiece - volume up, volume down, and the middle multi-function button. The middle button is used for Power On, Power Off, Bluetooth pairing, answering/ending phone calls, and launching Google Assistant (with my Samsung Galaxy S9+). Everything worked smoothly and perfectly. The X4's battery is replenished by a charge cradle with a cable. One side of the charge cradle snaps onto the body of the remote module of the X4 and you then plug the other end of the cable into a charger or device that accepts USB Type A. I successfully charged the X4 by plugging it in to my laptop, my desktop PC, and one of my smartphone chargers. It took a little while for me to get used to snapping on the charge cradle to the X4. It was kind of annoying trying to align the pins on the charge cradle to the remote module despite the four small guiding tabs on the charge cradle that help with the alignment. I'm sure muscle memory will kick in soon, though, and the process will become easier and faster through time and repetition. With that said, I prefer this charge cradle method over having to using my fingernail to pull back a rubber or plastic flap before inserting a charging cable. I believe Jaybird is using this method to meet its water resistance and durability requirements. All in all, Jaybird has created some awesome hardware with lots of thoughtful and useful features. 10 out of 10 from me~! ==== Sound Quality ===== Out of the box, I found the sound to be just so-so though it was still better than my other two wired Bluetooth earphones - some $30 earphones from Amazon and a $100 JLab earphones. Once I opened the Jaybird app and played around with the EQ settings, however, the sound quality became FANTASTIC and AWESOME. I started with the "Warmth" preset profile and made sound quality my own by adjusting the Low, Mid, and High ranges within the "Customize" option. After saving & applying my custom preset, my enjoyment of music from the Jaybird X4 went from a 7 to 10 out of 10. I highly recommend everyone to invest some time and play around inside the EQ settings to tailor the music to one's personal tastes. It really does make a HUGE difference. I am not what you call an audiophile but the X4 - after EQ tuning - has really impressed me with its sound quality. The sound is crisp and clear, the bass is pretty decent (for Bluetooth earphones), sound separation and dynamic range are well-presented, and it delivers very well-balanced audio. I love it. Is it as good or better than over-the-ear headphones such as the Sony 1000XM3 or Bose QC35 Series II? Of course not. But for wired Bluetooth earphones that offer easy portability, lightness, and durability during physical activities, I don't think one can do better than the Jaybird X4. 10 out of 10~! ==== Battery life ==== The X4 offers very good battery life. 8 to 9 hours of playtime is higher than most other similar competing products and you won't have to charge it midday like you do with those small wire-free Bluetooth earphones. 10 out of 10. ==== Conclusion ==== Jaybird has created an excellent product in the Jaybird X4. It is stylish, light, well-built, super comfortable, durable, easy to use, and provides fantastic sound quality. The icing on the cake is its IPX7 water resistance and long battery life. For anyone that asks me to recommend a good pair of wireless Bluetooth earphones, I'll tell them to get the Jaybird X4. It is some good stuff.

---- Summary ---- Pros: - Great audio quality - Water and sweat proof - Secure fit - Comfortable during workouts Cons: - Prefer the cable management system of the Jaybird X3 headphones ---- Review ---- Design: As a previous owner of the Jaybird X3 headphones, I am happy that the design of the new X4 model is very similar. I like having the ability to wear the headphones under or over my ears, and the small control module is nonobtrusive and easy to use. What I miss about the X3 headphones is their cable management system that allowed users custom fit the cable behind the neck so that there was minimal to no bouncing while running or working out. While I do like how quick and easy it is to adjust the cable with the speed cinch system of the Jaybird X4 headphones, I preferred the previous model’s cable system. Jaybird made a significant improvement over the X3 headphones by adding IPX7 waterproof certification to this model. While sweatproof coatings often suffice, it is nice knowing that the Jaybird X4 headphones can weather the elements and handle accidental drops into water. Overall, I like the design. My only wish is that clips were included so that the cable management system of the X3 headphones could be used instead of the speed cinch system, if desired. Performance: The Jaybird X4 headphones deliver crisp audio with powerful bass. The default setting is great, but there is also an EQ app that allows for customized sound. I enjoyed the ease of testing different sound settings and found the perfect fit for me. Thanks to the Jaybird EQ app, I have a renewed love for some of my favorite songs to run or workout to because of the audio quality these headphones produce. In addition, the audio has never cut out or distorted, even during strenuous workouts, so they perform very well. Features: After fully charging the headphones, I got a little less than eight hours of music playback. I am satisfied with that battery life and appreciate how quickly the headphones charge back up. Taking calls is easy with the control module, and I have been told that my voice sounds clear on the other end when I am on a call with someone. The control module also allows users to activate Siri or Google Assistant, and I have found that my questions or requests get picked up by the mic accurately. Verdict: If you own the Jaybird X3 headphones and are wondering if upgrading to the X4 model is worth it, I personally do not think it is. There is not quite enough improvement over the X3 headphones. However, if you are looking for a great new pair of headphones for your active lifestyle, I would highly recommend the Jaybird X4 headphones. Along with other admirable qualities, they are well designed, produce great audio, have a long-lasting battery, and they are IPX7 waterproof certified. These headphones do not disappoint.

INITIAL IMPRESSIONS: As with most Jaybird products, packaging is, essentially, the same…fairly small, but still too large for what’s contained within; fairly basic in what’s printed on the box, but providing the necessary information; easy to open, and easy to access contents. Design of the new X4 is straight-forward, with an easy-to-use 3-button in-line control (volume up/forward, play/pause/voice assist, & volume down/back). While most companies provide three ear tip sizes (Sml, Med, Lrg), Jaybird has, for some unknown reason, chosen to only include two (Size 1 & Size 2). As for what “actual” sizes these corollate to, I have no clue. I can tell you that, with the typical 3-size offerings, I wear the medium, and with the Jaybird offerings I’m wearing Size 2. Thankfully, instead of just two pair of silicone ear tips, as included by most manufacturers, Jaybird has “partnered” with Comply, to include two pair of their “Ultra” memory-foam ear tips (which I’m using, and, as with all Comply ear tips, they are fantastic). However, that being said, the ear fins do come in three sizes (I’m using Size 2 (which I’m assuming equates to ‘Medium’). Speaking of ear fins, these are a better design than the ear fins that came with the X3. Lastly, there’s Jaybird’s new “Speed Cinch” system, for (so-called) “perfect adjustment”…more on this, later. BATTERY, AND WATER RESISTANCE: Jaybird claims an 8-hour battery life, and, with my use so far, I’ve gotten anywhere from slightly below, to slightly above. I can’t say how long it takes to fully charge them (Jaybird claims 2hrs), as I have not actually timed a full charge. At the same time, I can tell you that Jaybird’s claim of 10 minutes charging providing 1hr of playback is accurate. As for the earphone’s water resistance, I haven’t “taken them for a swim”, and I don’t plan to, but they claim an IPX7 certification, meaning that they should be able to be submerged for up to 30 minutes, at a maximum depth of one meter. If you buy these, and want to test this out, go ahead, but, as I said, I’m not planning any such test…I’ll just ‘believe’ their claim. SOUND QUALITY: These have a really great, albeit a neutral & flat, sound. For audio purists, this will be considered a huge “plus”, but, for those who prefer the (faked) “boom” sound of Beats, Skull Candy, etc, you might be somewhat disappointed. At the same time, for those who want to increase the base (as well as the rest of the spectrum), Jaybird has an app (iOS & Android), similar to apps being offered by other manufacturers, available, with the simplistic name of Jaybird MySound. In addition to preset & customizable EQ settings, you can also download additional presets, through the “Discover presets” section of the app. Regarding the EQ, it’s somewhat different than what most people expect. Instead of the usual pre-defined Hz settings, the EQ is divided into three sections (LLOW, MID, & HIGH). The EQ is, essentially, a 5-band EQ, and there are Hz points (20Hz, 128Hz, 500Hz, 4kHz & 20kHz) shown at the bottom of the EQ, but the five “bands” are not assigned to any particular Hz point – just as you can slide any point up/down, to increase/decrease volume within that band (or, to be more accurate, a band range), you can also slide the points right/left, to change the Hz point that band (band range) has control over. While I’d appreciate a ‘higher band’ EQ (ie. 7-band, 9-band, or, better yet, 11-band), giving users the ability to change the bands/band ranges each “band” is associated with is a nice touch. One final point about the app – in the lower-right corner, your earphone’s battery life remaining is shown, so you have a simple way of determining how much remaining battery they have. ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS: One thing I REALLY like about the X4’s is how they charge. I’ve had two iterations of Plantronics “Backbeat” series, and, while not a “problem”, charging them has always required multiple steps, as the charging port was covered by a rubber ‘flap’. With the Jaybird X4, charging is as simple as “snapping” the 3-button control into the charging cradle, which plugs into any USB charger, or computer USB-A port. NOTE: Do NOT plug into anything supplying more than 5V, as it WILL damage the earphones. The recommended output is 500mA, although my 1A charger hasn’t caused any problems (probably because it’s still a 5V). firmware updates (when released) will also be performed through the charging cradle. FINAL VERDICT: This isn’t as easy to answer as I was hoping. First, compared to the X3, there’s not much improved, in terms of sound quality. Second, both utilize the same app, so both have the same “adjustment” ability. However, the inclusion of Comply ear tips, as well as the redesigned ear wings, does show improvements in other areas. Complicating the matter ever further is the fact that, shortly after Jaybird released the X4, they released an almost-identical pair called ‘Tarah’. As far as I’m able to tell, the only difference between these two is that the X4 provides 8hrs of playback, while the Tarah ‘only’ provides 6hrs. if that additional 2hrs is worth an extra $30, then, by all means, go out and get yourself the X4. On the other hand, if two additional hours doesn’t mean all that much to you, save yourself $30, and buy the equally-good Tarah. If you are “on the fence” between these three, here’s the primary points of what you need to know: 1) The X3 & X4 provide 8hrs playback, the Tarah provides 6hrs 2) The X4 & Tarah provide IPX7 protection, the X3 provides no water protection 3) The X4 & Tarah take 2hrs to fully charge, the X3 takes 3hrs 4) The X4 sells for $130, the Tarah & X3 are $100 Beyond these four key points, the X4, Tarah, and X3 are (essentially) identical in terms of performance. The only other “differences” are in design. So, whichever you decide to get, you’ll be getting a great pair of wireless earphones. Personally, while I don’t plan of wearing them in the rain, I do tend to “overheat” easily, thus the IPX7 rating of the X4 & Tarah is a huge benefit, as is the 2hr full-charge time. As for the 8hr vs 6hr playback, as a professional chauffeur, longer playback time is always better, as I can have long wait times when picking up clients at the airport (especially when it comes to international flights), not to mention long “wait” periods while on a Roadshow, and extended periods between clients. While I like saving money whenever possible ($30 saved on earphones can buy quite a few cups of coffee at Starbucks), the additional 2hrs of playtime is still worth it to me. Disclaimer: This product was provided free, or at reduced cost, for the purpose of reviewing the product. Nevertheless, the above review, be it positive, negative, or anywhere in-between, is a 100% honest review, and the price paid played absolutely no part in my review.

I’ve been on a quest to find the perfect Bluetooth headphones, and my latest foray is the Jay Bird X4 model that just came out. A friend has been raving about the X3s, so I was very excited to learn that the X4s were coming onto the market. I jumped at the chance to get them for myself. Did they live up to my expectations? Read on... The X4s come with 3 sets of silicone fins that help the X4s stay put in your ears, as well as 2 different sizes of comply foam tips (a nice touch) and 2 sizes of silicone tips. These are necessary to get the right fit, since the fit is critical to fully enjoying these earbuds. It’s important to take the time to try out the different tips and sizes of fins so that you truly get a good fit. This was an area that I didn’t fully appreciate, as I’m accustomed to buying lower-quality earbuds and just going with the default setup. The X4s are designed to be used in one of two different ways: with the cord going over your ears, or with the cords hanging down below your ears/behind your neck. The over the ear configuration is great for running. With the innovative cord tightener, the cord is tight against the back of your head and doesn’t restrict your ability to turn your head to either side. This is something I really loved, and is one of the reasons that these are such good earbuds. The other configuration, with the cord going around the back of your neck, is much easier to pop into your ears and go, but it can be annoying when the cord drags against your skin while turning your head. In my opinion, this is partially due to the fact that the cord is flat, and a smaller diameter round cord would alleviate this. Either way, the X4s are not going to move while using them during exercise. They’re sweat and waterproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about them during a workout, and they can just be rinsed off afterward. The sound quality of the X4s is outstanding! One of the reasons for this is that Jay Bird has included an app that allows you to customize the EQ settings and send them to the earbuds, making them available for all your listening, no matter the source. Getting the right fit in the ear canal is important to getting the right sound quality. Call quality is also excellent, probably better than any other Bluetooth headset I’ve used, including those dedicated to phone calls. There was one area where I thought the X4s were disappointing, and unfortunately, it’s a big one. The area is Bluetooth connectivity. The X4s were especially sensitive to the location of the phone on my body while walking or running. If I put it in a back pocket on the side of my body opposite the controls, the signal would drop out frequently. During an audiobook, this would cause me to miss out on words. Using the over-ear configuration made this problem even worse, rendering them basically unusable. To me, this is a critical flaw, since there’s not much point to wireless earbuds if they can’t maintain a connection. If not for the Bluetooth issue, I would have rated these higher, but that is a deal-breaker for me. For comparison, I used some of my other Bluetooth headphones, and subjected them to the same positioning of the phone that I used with the X4s, but none of my other models exhibited the same problem. Perhaps this is something that can be improved through updated firmware (if that’s even possible), but for now it prevents me from liking these as much as I wish. The excellent audio quality, good fit and high quality build make these something I want to love, but can’t quite get there due to the Bluetooth issue. Maybe I got a bad unit. I will definitely increase my rating if this can be fixed.

This is my first time owning a pair of Jaybird Bluetooth wireless headphones. I have previously owned a Powerbeats3, but do currently own a Powerbeats X. This somewhat reminds me of the Powerbeats 3, though not entirely (and had a great plague of problems with the Powerbeats 3 due to supposedly not really sweatproof, and I sweat a lot). I have tried these so far only one time at the gym doing sweaty cardio, and so far they still are functional. They somewhat remained stuck inside during the duration of my workout (you have to push them back in sometimes, which has been the same with any type of earbuds for me). Asides from that, the Jay birds X4 came in a nicely packaged box, with a compartment “door” that shows the other accessories such as your different size earbuds/tips, carrying case, along with a USB charger. When I first put them on, the ear tips that were already on them stock, didn’t seem to stick well. They would slip out. Fortunately as I was going through the bag of different ear tips, I have found one that are supposedly mushy like, or memory foam like, but they do stick and creates a great seal of isolation. As I played some music, it sounded pretty well. Though I understand that there is a companion app for this. Of course first you would have to pair your Jaybirds, and then launch the app. Sometimes in the app, it will show that no devices are connected, but it only takes about a few seconds or a bit so and then you are all set showing your connected. The companion app is a must have to use these. The “bring the bass” preset is ideal for alternative rock music or heavy metal. However, in my case with the iPhone, it does have an equalizer in the music settings. For the most part, pretty much from owning the first iphone, that setting has been mostly off. I have not tried listening to these with the equalizer settings onto a different preset, and at the same time having a preset on the Jaybird’s app. I can imagine that it may cause some over modulating or some distortion. I would pretty much say to leave the equalizer off in the music settings of the iPhone, or any other smart phone (that supports the companion app.) The Bluetooth range is good, as I tested this from going from one room in the house (leaving my phone behind), down the hallway, and right entering the kitchen there’s some hiccups or disconnect. But my phone will be always in close range. I find the charger to be something different, rather than a common mini usb plug or anything else, there’s metal contacts that you align with to the Jaybirds’ contacs, to charge. I believe that will be easy to get used to. I often have the loop under my chin that around/over my neck (the same with the powerbeats 3), that appears the only good way for me to wear them. But I’ll definitely start using these more from time to time, and will try them next when it comes to swimming. I believe these are a great alternative to AirPods or powerbeats, and reasonably priced too.

Out the box, the Jaybird X4 is aesthetically pleasing and lightweight with a really quick user-friendly and intuitive set up. You match the charging dots on the earbuds to the charging dots on the cord unit then plug the USB tip into your pc or any other USB plug to mount into a wall outlet or hub. An hour should get you to fully charged. Download the Jaybird X4 for set up assistance and to tailor your listening experience with the Equalizer tool. I like a lot of bass to raise my energy when dancing, walking, running or lifting. But, while relaxing I go higher on the treble side. You can get up to 8 hours of battery; but, I think battery longevity can depend on how many devices are connected. High volume might also shorten battery life. Still trying to test battery duration in the context of varying demands. If my suspicions are true, the X4 manual could outline a basis for comparison relative to battery life. Other units on the market like Jabra at $169 only give you 5 hours. So, off the bat, with or without lab analysis, the ROI is higher with Jaybird X4 at ~ $129. Moreover, most other units are still touting sweat and water “resistance” while the Jaybird x4 has raised the roof with IPX7 waterproofing that affords these earbuds the tolerance to be submerged to 1 meter of H20 for 30 minutes. Though I swim regularly, I am not going to do that test because the manual says the buds are not for swimming or showers. I am just happy to have the extra protection from inadvertent exposure to my sweaty neck, rain or an accidental drop in the toilet. So far, also really happy with the robust audio for phone chats, you tube and the privacy of watching my flat screen while my partner reads. As noticed with another brand that loses synchronization of the audio with the visual, I found no trouble with the Jaybird X4 in the synching department. Moreover, while viewing a documentary on my phone, when a segment of classical violin broadcasted over the earbuds, I was stunned by the symphonic level of clarity. Though I don’t have a basis for comparison with the previous generations of Jaybird, the lows, mids and highs were crisp in a manner that I had not experienced in other earbuds. (Even the audio of the greeter when you turn on or shut down your phone delivers a more robust tonal quality than heard via the competition.) And, with all of the jostling of my indoor/outdoor sports routines, I give the earbuds high marks for a snug fit. At first installation, I thought the fins and tips were the right fit then found I had to do the exploration of all options to find it right. In my experience, the foam tips were a new option; and, as it turns out, they are the best for getting the grip I need to prevent incessant earbud fidgeting while working out or doing lawn care chores. Nonetheless, I leave one bud out while driving and/or using GPS; but, I find my tip selection, when placed in both ears, gives me excellent sound isolation when I am in a secure location NOT requiring hyper-vigilance. In addition to warnings about the damage high volume can do to the ear drum, the manual editor may want to warn consumers to consider leaving one ear open while moving through high risk locations to prevent unforeseen boundary violations. The X4 manual alerts us that some ears require two different sizes for left and right ear canals. Turns out, it’s a worthwhile effort to take the time to run through all potential combinations. In the past, I may have blamed the buds for a wonky fit when I really didn’t do the work to exhaust all options. BTW, don’t freak out like I did and think that the unit doesn’t come with a security clip for the earbud cord. After initially berating Jaybird for forgetting the clip, I found the clip packaged with the fins and tips. Adjusting the cord length is simple enough with the pre-attached slider. And, the multi function raised buttons are easily manipulated to raise/lower volume, fast forward, rewind, skip tracks, pause and/or play. As well, easily deliver inquiries to your Alexa or Siri by holding down the center node. Like most other units, the range reception drops off more or less at ~30ft. Another cool feature is that I got a prompt to set the buds to keep the phone unlocked when the devices are within range of one another. All in all, the X4 is a solid investment though, in light of all the years of this technology with only minimal generational upgrades, I would expect price reductions as new generations are introduced rather than price hikes, especially since the 99% are not experiencing increases in annual income commensurate with the rising cost of living.

Pro -Comes with many ear tips and fins to fit many ear sizes and shapes -Can be worn reversible -Decent battery life -Excellent sound and EQ control with the companion app -Practically sweat/water proof Con -Storage case is small, not very protective, and doesn't stay closed well -Sound EQ control and stereo reversal requires app on your device to be constantly running -Customized EQ is limited to five control points -Controls are a little sluggish -No hi-res audio support -Proprietary charging cable Overall Physics demands earbuds have a drawback: tiny driver size. Small drivers can't replicate a natural balance of audio on their own, particularly in the lower bands. To combat this, most earbud manufacturers use software EQs to enhance the areas their drivers are normally weak. The problem with this is the end user is at the mercy of the synthesized soundstage the manufacturer set. Jaybird changes that up a little with the X4s and the latest version of their sound control app. Instead of a few EQ presets, you get almost complete control over the entire EQ to make your music sound the way you want. More, you can share your prefer presets and download those of others ( and sample the many strange ways others prefer listening to their tunes ). You are limited to using only five control inflection points along the entire EQ curve, but it's usually sufficient for your needs. Jaybird's app can also reverse the stereo since the earbuds are can flip around and be worn either hanging under your neck or over your ears and around the back of your head. I didn't find this alternate configuration very usable since it puts the control pod right against your head. The controls themselves are okay, but could be better. It uses the typical three buttons for volume up, down, and power that also double for next/prev track and other things. I found them overall to be slow since instead of using quick double- and triple- clicks, you have to press and hold them for the alternate commands. The control pod also serves as the charging point, but instead of using a standard type-C or micro USB cable, it uses a proprietary magnetic connector. Hope you never lose the charging cable. However the storage case in the box is a small bag with a spring loaded mouth that doesn't stay tightly shut. The bag is barely big enough to hold the cabled earbuds, charging cable, and the various ear tips and sizing fins, and doesn't offer much protection. In the end, the X4 has great promise, but fails in a lot of little things. The EQ control is great, they're practically water proof, the battery life is decent, and you get a lot of ear tips and fins to fit your ears ( if you're the type that finds this style of buds comfortable ). But I find the controls slow, the storage bag severely lacking, the proprietary charging cable easily lost, and the lack of any hi-res audio support ( apt-X, LDAC, etc ) disappointing. I can probably excuse the charging cable, since water proofing electrical connections can be difficult. And I have to have one more app running on my phone to get the sound I want. It would be very nice if the earbuds had the ability to store one or two EQ curves onboard, so they would sound the same without needing the Jaybird app on every device. Overall they're a good way to listen to music and I don't think many people would be disappointed with them. Personally, I think I prefer the JLab Epics a little more.

On paper, there’s a lot to like about these Jaybirds X4. They have a long battery life and lots of fit options. In practice, they have good sound quality, wind resistance, and connection. Your fit may vary, but I found it lacking. Pro: The controls on these buds are very easy to use, including with bike gloves on. The headphones have good audio feedback about turning on, connecting, battery life, etc. In the package are several sets of silicon tips, along with 2 sets of Comply foam tips. This should give most people enough options to choose from. They stay in very well. Wearing these outside, there are no dropouts due to wind or Bluetooth issues. Battery life is great! I put these on a loop of various music to help burn them in for 8 hours. They were still playing and had ~ 10% battery life left. Extra plus: Whenever you turn these on, it will tell you the battery life remaining. If you plug them in on the day you’re starting at 10% or 15%, you should be golden. The sound isolation is decent. It blocks most outside noise when there’s music playing but still allows you to hear sirens and other important things. They wouldn’t replace active noise cancelling cans on an airplane, but that’s not the market. Jaybird has a reputation for fairly good build quality and water resistance. While I didn’t drop them in a pool, I expect they’ll hold up well in that regard. Cons: Bluetooth is an imperfect method for transferring sound information. These buds make use of AAC compression for delivering above average sound, but it falls short of bandwidth needed for classical music. It should be fine for pop music. AptX is the best, but it has to be paired with good drivers. Compared to the 1More Be Free (which use AptX), these sound a little tight. Compared to the 1More wired earbuds I have, these do not sound as nice. They are also not as comfortable for long-term wear than either of the other pairs I have. The charging port is not standard and requires a unique plugin. Lose that, your X4 is worthless unless you find the plug in or get a new one. I just leave mine in the USB outlet at home. It’s fine since I don’t run out of battery unexpectedly! I’d prefer a slightly larger nub on the wire in favor of a standard micro USB. Value: At their list price these buds are on par with other “not cheap” bluetooth earbuds. These are not priced in the category of Bose, nor do they perform like them. They’re better than the cheap Sony & Skull Candy buds. The value goes beyond the sound to the usefulness in not falling out and in working in all weather conditions. For that reason alone, these buds are worth the price. Just know what you’re getting into.