In an era where the allure of premium brands like Apple often clashes with the practical limitations of budget constraints, the market for clones of popular gadgets like AirPods has flourished. Today, let’s delve into the world of a particular AirPods clone priced around Rs. 2900—a figure that piques interest due to its affordability compared to the genuine product’s heftier tag.

Aesthetics and First Impressions

Upon first glance, these AirPods clones pack a visual punch with a design closely mimicking Apple’s sleek aesthetics. The product arrives in packaging that cleverly echoes Apple’s minimalist style, complete with a hologram that might deceive the untrained eye into believing it’s a genuine Apple product. However, a closer examination reveals the discrepancies. The finish and build quality, although impressive for the price, don’t quite meet the high standards set by the original AirPods Pro.

What’s in the Box?

Inside the box, the clone maintains its charade with packaging almost identical to Apple’s. It includes a Type-C to Type-C cable, mirroring Apple’s current accessories suite. User manuals and extra plug caps are also included, enhancing the unboxing experience to make it feel more premium than the price tag suggests.

Functionality and User Experience

Turning to functionality, these clones are more than just a pretty facade. They come equipped with a touch-sensitive display that adds a modern twist to device interaction. Users can control various settings directly from the AirPods themselves, a feature that Apple has yet to implement in its own products. This includes adjusting volume, switching noise cancellation modes, and even accessing a flashlight—a quirky addition to a pair of earbuds.

The inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) at this price point is particularly noteworthy. While the effectiveness of the ANC can’t rival that of high-end models, it’s a commendable feature that adds value to the listening experience. The clones also support transparency mode, allowing ambient sound to filter through when needed.

Sound Quality and Performance

In terms of sound, the clones surprisingly hold their own. They are obviously not on par with the original AirPods Pro, but for casual listening, they offer clear audio and a balanced sound profile. The bass is adequate, and the highs are crisp enough to enjoy a variety of music genres without noticeable distortion.

Durability and Build Quality

Despite their budget-friendly nature, the clones do not feel cheap. The build quality is robust enough to handle daily use, though the longevity of the product remains a question that only time can answer. The IP68 rating claimed by the product suggests a level of dust and water resistance, which is a significant plus if true.

Final Thoughts

For Rs. 2900, these AirPods clones present an intriguing proposition for those who crave the style and some features of Apple’s iconic product but without the financial stretch. While they can’t replicate the complete AirPods experience, they offer enough to satisfy budget-conscious consumers looking for a taste of luxury tech.

By Rajeev Rana

Founder and Chief Editor - gogi.in