EarFun Free Pro 3 Review: Good headphones, but not perfect!
EarFun has consistently impressed us with their budget-friendly audio offerings, particularly with entries like the Air and Air Pro 3, which we regard as among the best budget earbuds in the market. Now, the company is back with its latest feature-packed release, the EarFun Free Pro 3.
Packed with high-end specifications, the Free Pro 3 stands out with its active noise cancellation (ANC), Bluetooth 5.3 featuring multipoint technology, customizable sound settings, hi-fi audio support, and the convenience of wireless charging. While not every aspect may hit the premium mark, it’s important to note that these earbuds come at an impressively affordable $79 price point.
As an added bonus, for those looking to make a purchase, there’s an exclusive offer available. Until November 19, customers can enjoy a 30% discount on the EarFun Free Pro 3 by using the exclusive code EFP3CNN1 on Amazon.
EarFun Free Pro 3: Video Review
| Specs | EarFun Free Pro 3 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Bluetooth frequency | 2.402Ghz - 2.480GHz |
| Bluetooth profile | A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP |
| Bluetooth codec | aptX adaptive, AAC, LC3, SBC |
| Maximum working range | 15m (without obstacles) |
| Sound | 7mm dual dynamic drivers |
| Calls | 6-mic cVc 8.0 calls |
| Waterproof | IPX5 |
| ANC | 43dB |
| Battery | 40mAh x 2(earbuds); 420mAh(charging case) |
| Charging time | 1.5 hour(for earbuds); 2 hours(for charging case via USB-C); |
| 3.5 hours(for charging case via wireless charger) | |
| Playtime | ANC OFF - Up to 7.5 hours, Totally 33 hours with the charging case; |
| ANC ON - Up to 6 hours, Totally 27 hours with the charging case | |
| Dimensions | 67 x 50 x 31 mm |
| Weight | 41.5g |
Unboxing
Beyond the earbuds themselves, the EarFun Free Pro 3 offers users a comprehensive package of accessories, enhancing the overall user experience.
The accessory bundle consists of four pairs of ear cushions, pair of foam tips, USB-C charging cable and multilingual operating manual.
Recognizing the importance of stability during activities such as sports or workouts, EarFun thoughtfully includes three pairs of ear hooks.
EarFun Free Pro 3: Design
The EarFun Free Pro 3 wireless earbuds exhibit a distinctive square shape, reminiscent of their predecessors. The design language is maintained with an anthracite tone on the outer surfaces of both the charging case and the earbuds, creating a sleek and cohesive look. The inner surfaces are kept simple in black. A shiny EarFun description adorns the back of the headphones, adding a touch of elegance.
Crafted from lightweight plastic, the Free Pro 3 earbuds showcases commendable workmanship, free from material or manufacturing defects. The earbuds themselves continue the theme of being feather-light, ensuring a comfortable listening experience without feeling burdensome on the ears. However, despite the addition of small rubber loops on top of the buds to secure them in the ears, some users might find them prone to slipping or feeling loose during certain movements.
The buds carry an IPX5 rating, providing protection against small particles but not water, urging users to exercise caution in wet conditions. This limitation, while common among many wireless earbuds, is worth noting for those who prioritize water resistance in their audio devices.
One notable feature of the EarFun Free Pro 3 is it’s incredibly compact charging case, making it one of the smallest on the market. The EarFun logo on the lid receives a brighter finish, departing from the imprinted style of the Free Pro 2, adding a touch of sophistication. Measuring just 67 x 50 x 31mm and weighing a mere 41.5g, the case achieves an impressive balance between portability and functionality.
The battery capacity of the charging case remains at 420 mAh, consistent with the previous generation, and introduces the convenience of Qi wireless charging, offering users flexibility in powering up their earbuds.
Features
The EarFun Free Pro 3 boasts Bluetooth 5.3 and supports multi-point connection, allowing seamless connectivity to multiple devices simultaneously. One standout feature is its support for Snapdragon Sound, promising a lossless audio experience for users with compatible devices. The inclusion of aptX Adaptive playback, a dynamic Bluetooth codec, ensures optimized audio quality for an immersive listening experience. Gamers will appreciate the built-in gaming mode, eliminating concerns about audio lag during gameplay.
The Free Pro 3 features a hybrid active noise cancellation system, which is not typically found in the sub-$100 price range. Additionally, the earbuds support EarFun’s app, providing firmware updates, customizable EQ options, and a pin-band equalizer for personalized audio tuning. The “Find My Earbuds” feature adds a practical touch for those prone to misplacing their gadgets.
Touch controls out of the box are comprehensive, offering command over playback, track navigation, volume adjustments, and the ability to toggle between noise-canceling, ambient mode, or turning off altogether—providing users with versatile control at their fingertips.
ANC
The EarFun Free Pro 3 boasts the integration of the company’s proprietary QuietSmart 2.0 active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, elevating the listening experience by reducing ambient noise levels with an impressive capability of up to 43 dB.
In real-world testing, the Free Pro 3 demonstrates commendable active noise cancellation performance, excelling particularly in environments with low and consistent ambient noise. However, in certain situations, such as higher tones, some ambient sounds may remain perceptible. EarFun acknowledges this and addresses it by providing various ANC modes through software updates accessible in the dedicated app.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of ANC is not solely reliant on the technology itself but is also contingent on the earbuds’ secure fit in the user’s ears. Even the most advanced ANC technology may not deliver optimal results if the earbuds are not properly seated. Recognizing this, EarFun includes a pair of foam tips in the package, offering users the opportunity to achieve the best possible fit and, consequently, maximize the effectiveness of the ANC feature.
Sound and microphone quality
The Free Pro 3 is armed with 7 mm wool composite dynamic drivers, delivering a dynamic and engaging sound profile. If you’ve had previous experience with EarFun earbuds, you’ll likely recognize their signature sound. Expect punchy bass, clean and bright treble, and a balanced midrange—a representation of the Harmon curve. This design philosophy enhances the overall listening experience, ensuring that vocalists stand out while maintaining an enjoyable blend of thumping low-end and vibrant treble.
Remarkably, the Free Pro 3 manages to avoid common pitfalls. The treble remains bright without veering into harshness or sibilance, and the bass is controlled without becoming overly bloated or loose. This balance ensures a pleasant listening experience across various music genres.
One of EarFun’s consistent strengths lies in the soundstage and sound imaging. Despite their dynamic sound profile, the Free Pro 3 creates a sense of spaciousness, making you feel like you’re in a large room. The accuracy in sound imaging further enhances the listening experience, allowing you to pinpoint the direction of different sounds.
If you’re considering the EarFun Free Pro 3 for taking phone calls, you’ll be pleased to know that this pair is equipped with a total of six microphones and utilizes CVC 8.0 technology. This combination works effectively to block out surrounding noise and prioritize your voice during calls.
Autonomy
The EarFun Free Pro 3 headphones feature a thoughtful battery configuration, with each earbud equipped with a 40 mAh battery, complemented by a 420 mAh battery housed in the charging box.
EarFun provides estimated battery life figures, stating that the earbuds can run for up to 7.5 hours with ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) switched off and up to 6 hours with ANC activated. In practical terms, during a test with mixed volume levels, ANC, and aptX Adaptive engaged, a runtime of approximately 5.5 hours was achieved.
The accompanying charging box adds an extra layer of convenience, capable of recharging the earbuds approximately 3.5 times before requiring its own recharge. Whether charging wirelessly or via the provided USB-C cable, users can conveniently replenish the battery box.
EarFun Free Pro 3: Conclusion
When comparing the EarFun Free Pro 3 to the Air Pro 3, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities. The Air Pro 3 may boast better battery life and larger drivers, providing a potentially more robust audio experience. However, it’s crucial to note that these enhancements come with a trade-off—the Air Pro 3 is larger, both in terms of earbuds and case, and features the distinctive stem-style design that might not appeal to everyone.
This is where the EarFun Free Pro 3 steps in, offering a compelling alternative for those who prefer a more traditional earbud design. Despite lacking the stem, the Free Pro 3 doesn’t compromise on essential features. It still delivers the impressive Snapdragon audio, Apex adaptive playback, Qi wireless charging, and a commendable battery life. The absence of a stem not only contributes to a sleeker aesthetic but also caters to individuals who find the traditional earbud style more comfortable and visually appealing.
Moreover, the Free Pro 3 stands out with its app support, allowing users to further customize their audio experience. The flexibility to switch between different EQ options enhances the earbuds’ versatility, enabling users to tailor the sound profile to their preferences.
Considering the comprehensive features packed into the EarFun Free Pro 3 and its current price tag of just $59, it becomes an easy recommendation. This pair strikes a harmonious balance between performance, design, and affordability.
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