Review of Suunto Sonic Open-Ear Headphones
Suunto, primarily recognized for its rugged sports watches, has ventured into the audio sector with the Suunto Sonic open-ear headphones, catering specifically to running enthusiasts.
Design Overview
The Suunto Sonic headphones are classified as open-ear headphones, utilizing bone conduction technology. This design allows sound to be transmitted without completely obstructing ambient noise, ensuring runners can remain aware of their surroundings.
Similar in design to Shokz headphones, the Sonic features a flexible frame that comfortably wraps around the head. It provides a secure fit that remains comfortable throughout extended workouts. The exterior, made of soft silicone, is engineered to prevent discomfort despite the robust titanium structure underneath.
With an IP55 water resistance rating, the headphones are effective against sweat and light rain, making them suitable for various weather conditions during workouts. The product package includes a dedicated charging cable, a storage bag, and a set of earplugs for those preferring isolation from external sounds.
Performance Analysis
Users engaging with bone conduction technology must balance sound quality with environmental awareness. The sound performance of the Suunto Sonic is comparable to the Shokz Openrun, recognized for exemplary open-ear audio. The headphones come with two distinct sound modes accessible via the Suunto companion app:
- Indoor Mode: Tailored for quiet environments.
- Outdoor Mode: Optimized for louder settings, boosting volume to mitigate external noise.
While audio clarity is commendable with a warm bass response, it is essential to note that bone conduction designs often experience some sound leakage. The Sonic is no exception; users in quieter spaces may inadvertently share their audio experience.
The battery life is a notable feature, providing up to 10 hours of use. For urgent situations, a quick charge option allows for 3 hours of listening time from a mere 10 minutes of charging. During testing at higher volumes, the battery performance aligned well with its advertised lifespan.
Feature Set
The Suunto Sonic headphones are equipped with physical buttons for easy access while on the move, enhancing usability. Key features include:
- Dedicated volume and control buttons for music and calls
- Two microphones with noise-canceling capabilities for clearer calls, even in wind conditions up to 15 km/h
- Dany-dual connection functionality allowing pairing with two devices, such as a smartphone and a laptop
User Experience
Throughout rigorous training sessions for the 2024 London Marathon, the Suunto Sonic headphones demonstrated exceptional comfort and stability. Controls are strategically positioned, facilitating ease of use during fast-paced runs. Connectivity is seamless across various devices, including iPhones, Android phones, and smartwatches like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Garmin Forerunner 965.
The headphones provide a balanced sound experience, effectively merging the audible environment with the desired audio. It’s advisable to enable the outdoor sound mode for optimal utility when transitioning from treadmill exercises to outdoor running.
Moreover, being mindful of volume levels can enhance battery longevity, with the quick charge feature being particularly useful for those who may overlook regular charging rituals.
Testing Procedure
The reviewer, Mike Sawh, assessed the Suunto Sonic headphones during his preparation for the London Marathon. The evaluation focused on factors including build quality, comfort during various exercise intensities, sound fidelity in different environments, battery performance through regular workouts, and connectivity with multiple devices.