HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 3 Review


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The HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 3 are touted as the perfect companion for work, travel, or any daily needs – promising a battery life that won’t let you down. With just a 10-minute charge, you can enjoy up to 3 hours of listening time, or go for a full charge and get up to 9 hours of music playback. Each earbud is impressively lightweight at 3.7 grams, designed meticulously for a comfortable fit based on analysis of thousands of ear canals.

One of the major selling points is the impressive 42-hour battery life, offering great flexibility for those always on the move. The headphones are not only lightweight but compact, ensuring a snug fit for users with various ear shapes and sizes. Pairing is made easy with a simple long press, and the headphones boast a robust Bluetooth 5.4 connection for seamless audio-visual synchronization.

For added convenience, the HUAWEI AI Life app allows users to explore additional features and get the most out of their headphones. The headphones are also IP54 dust and splash resistant, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities. However, it’s worth noting that the water resistance only applies to the earphones themselves, not the charging case.

Key Technical Specifications

  • 42 Hour Battery Life
  • Lightweight & Compact
  • Easy to Pair
  • Robust Bluetooth 5.4 Connection
  • Convenient AI Life App
  • IP54 Dust & Splash Protection

Introducing the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 3: A New Contender in Wireless Earbuds

The HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 3 has finally made its debut in the crowded realm of wireless earbuds, boasting a myriad of features aimed squarely at the busy professional, the frequent traveller, or the fitness enthusiast. But how does it stack up against established heavyweights like Apple’s AirPods Pro, Samsung’s Galaxy Buds2, and Sony’s WF-1000XM4? Let’s dive deeper into its core attributes and potential drawbacks.

A Marathon Performer with Sprinter’s Speed Battery Life

One of the standout features of the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 3 is undeniably its impressive battery performance. With a quick 10-minute charge delivering up to three hours of playback, and a full charge yielding nine hours, it positions itself favourably alongside premium competitors. Comparatively, while the AirPods Pro offers around four and a half hours on a full charge, Apple’s industry-standard fast charging bridges part of the gap—offering over an hour of use from a five-minute charge. Nonetheless, for audiophiles prioritizing longevity between charges, the HUAWEI option wins hands down.

Featherweight Champions in Design

Weighing in at a mere 3.7 grams, these earbuds are lighter than most contenders in their category. They achieve a comfortable and natural fit through a rigorous ergonomic design process, potentially giving them an edge over bulkier variants like the Sony WF-1000XM4, which has faced criticism for its substantial size. However, while this lightness aids comfort and discreetness, users might ponder durability—could the lightweight build imply a sacrifice in robust construction?

Seamless Connectivity and Usability

With Bluetooth 5.4 ensuring smooth audio-visual synchronization, the FreeBuds SE 3 promises a seamless experience whether you’re streaming, gaming, or on a call. Yet, it’s worth noting that Bluetooth 5.4 technology, albeit advanced, has only recently made an entrance compared to its more proven predecessors like 5.0 and 5.2 approved by competitors. Thus, some users may wish to await more user data on its stability.

Pairing is a breeze, too. A simple press of a button on the case promotes a hitch-free connection, unlike some convoluted connectivity processes of others in the market. This convenience could make it particularly appealing to less tech-savvy individuals or those who value simplicity.

Exercise-Friendly Protection with an asterisk

Sporting IP54 dust and splash resistance assures users of its resilience in light of perspiration or spontaneous rain, a feature often downplayed by accessories not designed for physical exertion. It holds its own against the Galaxy Buds2 in this respect, but it’s crucial to highlight that the charging case does not possess the same waterproof credentials, presenting a minor flaw for the perpetually active user.

Who Should Consider the FreeBuds SE 3?

The HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 3 positions itself as an excellent choice for pragmatic consumers who appreciate extended battery life, lightweight design, and easy connectivity without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for commuters, active users, or anyone seeking uncomplicated tech with reliable performance. Yet, the cautious buyer might halt at the relatively untested waters of Bluetooth 5.4 or the non-waterproof charging case. Nonetheless, this fresh entrant from HUAWEI likely deserves a place on your shortlist in 2023.

Price: 93.98

Posted by Matthew Miller

Matthew Miller is a Brisbane-based Consumer Technology Editor at Techbest covering breaking Australia tech news.