Clicksmashstuff

Things that click, can be smashed on and other stuff

Jabra Elite 10 earbuds review

Introduction

At home, when I want to shut myself off for a while, I use Noice Canceling headphones. I don’t like this on the road. Like many other people, I prefer to have a box of earbuds in my pants or jacket pocket that I can take out when I need them. Read on to find out how I ended up with the Jabra Elite 10 earbuds.

Because I have a mild form of autism, it is important for me to be able to disconnect myself from external stimuli every now and then. I specifically want to have the option of having a good noise canceling option in my earbuds.

I also have another problem that I always encounter when I try a set of earbuds; fit. To date, I have not found in-ear earbuds to be comfortable. My right ear in particular quickly feels clogged, my ears physically hurt or I always have the feeling that my earplugs are falling out.

I have tried quite a few earplugs and have always been disappointed.

Open-ear?

After many disappointments, I finally found a set of earbuds where I was less bothered by the disadvantages I experienced in terms of comfort. I settled on so-called open-ear buds, specifically the Galaxy Buds Live from Samsung. Finally I could wear something in my ears for a longer period of time. The big difference with regular earplugs is that they rest on the ear instead of in the ear canal. Unfortunately, I recently dropped these in a puddle of water and one of the earbuds stopped working properly. There was also another disadvantage, due to the lack of passive isolation that you get with plug-ins, the available noise canceling was actually only interesting on paper.

I started reading and looking and looking everywhere again and considered various open-ear alternatives (if there are any). Still, I kept reading about compromises such as poor sound quality and lack of ANC.

Note: open ear is not the same as open back.

Jabra Elite 10

Some time ago I tried a set from Jabra, the elite 4 active. I really liked these for in-ear standards. The shape was slightly different. However, the ANC was not great and there was no multipoint, something that I also find important.

I noticed Jabra released two new models in their upper segment of earbuds and this Elite 10 in came to my attention. In particular, the focus on even better ANC, improved comfort and good sound quality appealed to me. Reason enough to give them a chance.

Technical specs provided by Jabra for the Elite 10

Jabra elite 10 Packaging

The earbuds come in a compact box with some branding and a picture of the earbuds on the front. The earbuds, the various eartips and the case are shown on the back. Here you can also see that the Elite 10 supports both Google and Apple. There is Fast Pair for Google and Spotify tap. Dolby Atmos support is included as well.

Using the Jabra Elite 10 earbuds

Comfort

After the unboxing it is time to try on the earbuds. I immediately notice that these are earphones that do not have to go too far into my ear. They rest with the flat side against my ear and slope towards my ear canal. This ensures that the pressure is well distributed. It probably also helps that the silicone eartips are more oval shaped. Furthermore, a small amount of a soft, rubbery coating has been applied to the earbuds that seems to improve comfort. Jabra claims to have examined more than 62,000 different ears to achieve the perfect fit.

The Jabra Elite 10 fit in my left ear
Left is fine
My right ear is, as always a different story

After a day I noticed that the bud in my right ear in particular was prone to falling out (but this did not happen). Ears are of course never the same and upon closer inspection I also saw that the earpiece cannot rest perfectly on my ear. To be on the safe side, I installed a smaller size of the silicone tips and since then the earbuds have an almost perfect fit for me.

Jabra adjusted the design to fit most ears
They fit me very well compared to most other earbuds

Sound

The Jabra Elite 10 has large 10mm drivers and you can hear that.
The sound is fantastic in my opinion. There is sufficient soundstage and sufficient bass. By sufficient I mean not too much bass. If you are looking for a bass-heavy set, you better look further. I personally think the standard setting sounds fine.

I listened to different types of music. Quiet jazz, the C&C soundtrack, classical, 80’s pop, some lo-fi beats, the Blade Runner soundtrack, podcasts, basically everything. Nothing has bothered me. No treble too high, no exaggerated bass, nice soundstage, just enjoy.

The earbuds currently support AAC and SBC, with LC3 and LC3+ lossless audio in the future.

ANC and Hearthrough

The ANC is really, really good on these earbuds. Irritating sounds in the house such as mechanical ventilation or the ticking clock van no longer be heard. But I was also able to relax while waiting in the busy canteen of the swimming pool until my daughter had finished her lesson. The screaming baby, the tapping spoons and screaming children were wonderfully filtered away. Certainly not yet at the level of the Bose QC45 here, but on par with the Sennheiser Momentum 4.

The Heartrough function can be useful while on the road to let your surroundings in. This works fine. While the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro2 sometimes let through a very shrill high tone, this does not happen with these earbuds.

Wind Noise reduction quality of the Jabra Elite 10

The earbuds also offer an option to automatically apply wind noise reduction. This works very well. I was able to enjoy both music and podcasts while cycling without any difficulty. Something that is not pleasant with the Galaxy Buds live, but also with the Bose QC45.

Atmos/Spatial audio

The earbuds also offer an option to automatically apply wind noise reduction. This works very well. I was able to enjoy both music and podcasts while cycling without any difficulty. Something that is not pleasant with the Galaxy Buds live or the Bose QC45.

Jabra Elite 10 Call quality

Call quality has generally been good, but not always. Sometimes I had people complain to me about hearing wind noise when I was having a call outside. Apparantly the wind noise reduction isn’t working so well for others as it is for me. When making calls inside there didn’t seem to be any problems.

Controls

The Jabra Elite 10 earbuds use physical buttons. I was a bit hesitant about this, but in practice it works very well. The buttons are easy to press and the earbuds are not pressed hard into my ear. The big advantage is that the earbuds can also be operated with gloves.
You can choose to receive feedback while pressing by means of an acoustic signal or a voice that confirms the input. I personally like the latter, it uses a calm feminine voice. Don’t want to hear any feedback at all? That is also possible.

Software

The Jabra app is one of the better ones I have experienced so far with wireless audio products. There are clear uncluttered segments in the menu without poor translation. There is a 5-point equalizer, the ANC and hearthrough settings can be tweaked here and the functions of the buttons on the earbuds can be adjusted.

Soundscapes in the Jabra Elite 10 app

One of the options in the menu are the soundscapes. These are sounds to help you shut down completely. There is the sound of a babbling brook, a fan, songbirds, the sea, pink noise and many others. I have come to really appreciate this feature and have fallen asleep a few times with one of these sounds on.

The Jabra elite 10 has a very good app
I really enjoy some of the soundscapes

Software updates

Jabra recently released a software update that further improved the ANC. In the near future the intention is to add LC3 and LC3+. As far as I have read on various forums, Jabra usually supports the earbuds with a number of software updates.

Batterylife of the Jabra elite 10

Jabra claims a talk time of 8 hours on a single charge without ANC on. I have noticed that I can usually squeeze out just a little more. Without ANC, Jabra promises 6 hours. The case holds approximately 3 charges. Fully charging the case takes 3 hours via a USB-C connection. It is also possible to charge the case wirelessly.

The Jabra elite 10 has a case that can be charged by wire or on a wireless pad
The case can be charged by USB-C or wireless

Conclusion

With the Elite 10, Jabra has really put a very good set of earbuds on the market. The sound is very good and the earbuds offer an ergonomic design. There is less pressure on the ear and a total of 4 pairs of oval-shaped eargels are supplied. It is nice to know that if purchased from Jarba itself, you can return the earbuds within 30 days if they do not fit properly. Many other web shops also offer this option. There is plenty to adjust in the app and the battery life is excellent.

They are not cheap, with a suggested retail price of €249, I don’t think they are good enough for this price. I recommend that you shop around carefully because if you are patient they sometimes drop towards €170 and in my opinion they are certainly wort it at that price.

disclaimer

I purchased these earbuds with my own money. This review was first published in Dutch on tweakers.net and can be found here.

Akko MOD007B HE PC Santorini review

Introduction

I have been able to test a number of keyboards from Akko and sister company Monsgeek. This time I get to try out a model with a technique that is new for the company. Akko has introduced two keyboards with magnetic switches. They gave me the MOD007B HE PC Santorini version and I would like to share my experiences about it with you.

Santorini

In recent years, Akko has released several keyboards that were based on a special place in the world. For example, the London, Tokyo and Beijing keyboards have been released. These keyboards are distinguished by implementing various details and colors of the cities they are inspired by. This is of course wonderful if you have a special connection with such a city or are a keyboard collector. This time Akko has chosen an island in the Aegean Sea, in this case the picturesque Santorini, the southernmost island of the Cyclades that belongs to Greece. Santorini is a beautiful island that is mainly characterized by world-famous white churches and buildings with blue roofs and beautiful beaches.

Specifications

Structure: 
Gasket Mount 
Connection: 
Wireless/Bluetooth/USB Type C 
Backlight: 
South-facing RGB 
Hot Swappable: 
3-Pin 
N-Key Rollover: 
Support 
Rapid Trigger (RT): 
Yes 
Dynamic Keystrokes (DKS): 
Yes 
Macro: 
Akko Macro V1.0 
Battery: 
3600mAh 
Magnetic Switch: 
Akko Cream Yellow Magnetic Switch 
Kaih Sakura Pink Magnetic Switch 
Materials: 
PBT Keycaps + PC Case 
Legends Printing: 
Dye-Sublimation 
Keycap Profile: 
Cherry 
Product Weight: 
Approximately 1KG 
Dimensions: 
333*147*32mm 

Unboxing the MOD007 HE PC Santorini

The unboxing experience is quite similar to previous Akko Keyboards I have tested. The keyboard comes in a black cardboard box with the typical Akko branding. It is wrapped in a sleeve with some very nice looking box-art of the Santorini coastline on one side, on the other side the layout of the keyboard can be seen. By using the same packaging for most keyboards Akko can shave some costs which helps keep pricing affordable.

Inside we find the keyboard protected by a plastic cover. It comes with a keycap puller, switch puller, USB receiver for the wireless 2.4ghz mode, and a manual. While most keyboards I have had from Akko came with extra keycaps to mix things up, this time however there are no extra key caps.

Build

The case of the MOD007B HE PC Santorini is made of poly-carbonate. While I personally prefer an aluminum made keyboard, it is not to say this board isn’t sturdy. There are no cracks and the board feels solid all around. The layout is typical for a 75% keyboard we have come to expect. There is a knob included to easily adjust volume or brightness of the optional backlight. On top is a USB C output and a pair of adjustable feet can be find at the back of the board.

Akko presents the exploded view as having a PC plate, this is incorrect, it comes with a metal plate

Autopsy of the MOD007B HE PC Santorini

The plate is made of metal and has 8 silicon gaskets to add some flex
The plate form and switch pad as included. As can be seen here the switch pad has cut-outs for mechanical switches as well, should you decide to go that route
The main board has south facing LED’s and is compatible with 3-pin mechanical switches
The plate foam is dense and thick which helps with dampening the sound
The 3600mAh battery

Keycaps and switches included with the MOD007B Santorini

The included keycaps are in the so called Cherry layout. This is a classic layout which is preferred by the majority of keyboard enthusiasts. The font used isn’t typical for cherry style keyboards though. It’s a font with the Greek style complements the Santorini theme very well.

If I were to give it a name I’d call it “Feta”.

The feel nice to type on and are made with dye-sublimated legends. While not as resistant as Double-shot legends, these come pretty close in durability. The included RGB effects of the keyboard will not shine through them but will illuminate the south side of the keycaps. The switches that come with the keyboard are either the Akko Cream Yellow Magnetic or Kailh Sakura Pink Magnetic switch. My review unit came with the latter. These feel really smooth to type on and having less friction by design, I don’t think lubing them will make a real difference, hence I didn’t bother. The specs of both switches seem to be more or less identical. The keyboard is compatible with other magnetic switches however, you will need to make sure these have a horizontal magnet layout. Additionally the MOD007B Santorini is also compatible with 3 pin mechanical switches.

The Cherry layout is one the most used and loved layouts among enthusiasts
The stabilizers come pre-lubed and are of nice quality, the board supports screw in models as well

Magnetic switches

Here we come to the star of the show, the thing setting this keyboard apart from previous models. Mechanical keyboards have many fans, and rightfully so. A mechanical keyboard has many benefits compared to a membrane model. There is the feedback of the switches, the durability, the sound profile and of course the variety in switches. Since more and more keyboards offer the convenience of hot-swappable sockets it is very easy to customize your keyboard with switches that provide the feedback you want. Gamers might like faster switches that respond immediately, while people that work on their PC will want to have a bit less sensitivity to avoid making mistakes.

What are Magnetic switches?

Magnetic Hall Effect (HE) keyboard switches represent a cutting-edge innovation in the realm of mechanical keyboards, offering a unique and advanced typing experience. Unlike traditional mechanical switches that rely on physical contacts to register key presses, magnetic HE switches leverage the principles of the Hall Effect to detect key actuation.

At the heart of these switches is a tiny semiconductor known as a Hall Effect sensor. This sensor is sensitive to changes in the surrounding magnetic field. Pressing a key makes sure a magnet, embedded within the switch moves closer to the Hall Effect sensor, causing a change in the magnetic field. The sensor detects this change and sends a signal to register the key press.

The included Kailh magnetic switches don’t have stems on them

Benefits of HE switches

One of the primary advantages of magnetic HE switches is their durability. Since there are no physical contacts that rub against each other during key presses, there is minimal wear and tear, resulting in a longer lifespan for the switches. This can be particularly appealing to users who demand a reliable and long-lasting keyboard for both gaming and professional use.

Furthermore, the lack of physical contact in magnetic HE switches translates to a smoother and more consistent keystroke feel. Users can enjoy a tactile response without the worry of switches degrading over time. The absence of mechanical friction also contributes to a quieter typing experience, making these switches an attractive option for those who prefer a more discreet keyboard in shared environments.

Customization is another area where magnetic HE switches shine. Manufacturers can fine-tune the actuation force and travel distance of each switch, catering to a wide range of user preferences. This level of customization allows for a personalized typing experience that enhances comfort and performance.

Gaming with magnetic HE switches

In terms of gaming, magnetic HE switches offer fast and precise actuation, making them well-suited for rapid key presses often required in gaming scenarios. The absence of de-bounce delay, a common issue in some mechanical switches, ensures that every key press is registered with accuracy, providing a competitive edge to gamers.

Important: Calibrating the switches on the MOD007B HE PC Santorini

One thing to keep in mind that it is important to calibrate the keyboard in the software before use. This is because the magnetic field of the keyboard can be influenced during shipment. Hall sensors are sensitive to temperature changes. Akko recommends updating their Akko Cloud software to its latest version and calibrate the keyboard in the software. Inside the software navigate to ‘About – Maximum Key Travel Calibration – Start Calibration’ by gently pressing every key. You can download the software here.

Akko wants you to calibrate the keyboard before use to get the best experience

Software

Speaking of the software and the magnetic switches; lets dive a bit deeper. Previous Akko Keyboards came with the optional Akko Cloud software. With these keyboards the software’s primary goal was to set macro’s, change layouts, add layers and customize the RGB effect. With the MOD007B HE PC Santorini things are a bit different. While you can still use the software for the other stuff, there is a lot more to adjust with this keyboard.

Rapid Trigger (RT)

One of the benefits of Magnetic Switches is the ability to change actuation on the fly and even per switch. This can be really beneficial for FPS fanatics and give them that extra edge on the virtual battlefield. Casual gamers or people with general usage can disable the rapid trigger function of course and instead customize their own preference in actuation point or choose one of the presets; Comfort, sensitive or game.

Rapid Trigger can be a real benefit for FPS gamers

Dynamic Keystrokes (DKS)

Dynamic Keystrokes or DKS let’s you bind different operations to keys depending on how you activate them. You can set different actions to be triggered by the amount of force you use, this can be both be set for pressing and releasing keys.

While magnetic HE keyboard switches are relatively new to the market, their potential for transforming the typing and gaming experience is evident. So as technology continues to evolve, we can expect further refinements and innovations in keyboard switch design, with magnetic Hall Effect switches poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of mechanical keyboards.

Using the keyboard and thoughts about it

Having used the keyboards over a week I can say the HALL effect is pretty cool. I tried some different settings. The Rapid Trigger option really is instant, I can see this being beneficial for gamers, but that’s not me. Still was happy to be able to adjust the actuation to my preference and even being able to differentiate this per key. In the past I used Akko Black switches alongside their Jelly Purple ones for example to get a heavier feeling on my F-keys for example.

It is cool to experience these kind of differences with one type of switch. The sound of the keyboard while typing was also very satisfactory, I felt no need for mods, but this can be different from person to person of course. I did encounter some issues with the software shutting down initially. However after resetting the board It didn’t occur anymore. Altogether the keyboard is great to type on and I personally can’t wait for more options within the magnetic switch line-up. Maybe something with a more tactile kind of style of silent switches?

Final thoughts

I think the Santorini is a very nice board from a technical standpoint. The magnetic switches feel very nice to type on. Users should take care to calibrate them first though. Overall being able to set actuation points on a per switch level is really cool and something that will definitely become more and more popular as the technique around it evolves. It is great the keyboard is backwards compatible with mechanical switches as well.

The layout is like we have seen a lot lately. It’s a bold move for Akko to bring their first magnetic boards with such a love it or hate it theme though. For such a standout feature I would have personally liked if Akko would have gone with a “safer” design with just a single color and a more common font on the keycaps. I think the Santorini style is a “love it or Hate it” thing. Unfortunately I will keep using my black Monsgeek M1 (review) for now with the MARRS keycaps. However I am really looking forward to an aluminum board with options like black with HE switches though. I think that would be on my desk permanently!

The Akko MOD007B HE PC Santorini can be bought directly on Akkogear.eu using this link or on Amazon. If you purchase on Akkogear.eu you can use the coupon HELLOAKKO to get 10% your first purchase. We might get a commission by doing so.

Monsgeek M1W SP ISO Review: No more wires

Monsgeek is a sub-brand of Akko that focuses on high quality for a low price. Monsgeek’s first keyboard was the M1, a 75% aluminum model. Now there is the M1W SP where the W stands for Wireless. I will share with you my experience, the similarities and the differences between these two Monsgeek keyboards.

Size comparison between the 75% M1W and a full size keyboard

Complete package

Unlike the regular M1, the M1W SP comes as a complete keyboard. The keyboard comes assembled with switches, keycaps and stabilizers. Of course you can replace or adjust these parts yourself if desired. This has been made as easy as possible. For example, 5-pin sockets are used and the keyboard is easy to open with the supplied Allen key.

Specifications

Structure:
Gasket Mount

Connection:
Bluetooth5.0 / 2.4GHz / USB Type-C

Backlight:
South-facing RGB

Hot Swappable:
3-Pin / 5-Pin Support

N-Key Rollover:
Support

Battery Capacity:
6000mAh

Polling Rate:
1000Hz In wired and 2.4G mode, 125Hz in Bluetooth mode.

Macro:
MonsGeek Cloud Driver

Stabilizer:
1. Pre-installed Purple Plate Mount Stabilizer

2. Separate TPU Double-shot Stabilizers

Switches:
Akko V3 Piano Pro

Materials:
PBT Keycaps + Aluminum Case

Legends Printing:
Double-shot Side-printed Gradient Shine-through

Keycap Profile:
OEM

Product Weight:
Approx. 2.2kg

Dimensions:
33.3cm*14.6cm*3.26cm

Operating Systems:
Windows / macOS / iOS / Android

Package List:
Keyboard×1, Manual×1, Coiled Cable×1, Keycap Puller×1, Switch Puller×1, Teflon Pads (not pre-installed), Separate TPU Double-shot Stabilizers

The included accessories

Small changes from M1 to M1W SP

Compared to the regular M1, a number of improvements have been made. For example, the rotatable encoder has been slightly improved. It has an improved interior so that it gives even less friction and has become slightly higher. In addition, the poron case foam has become more elastic and the optional teflon stickers have recesses for the screw holes. These teflon stickers are intended for a so-called Force-break mod. As a result, there is less metal-to-metal contact, resulting in less ping. Furthermore, a dip switch has been added next to the caps lock switch. This allows you to choose Mac, Windows or wireless. Furthermore, unlike the regular M1, there are no screw-in stabilizers provided. However, plate mounted stabilizers (pre-lubed) are pre-installed and there is an extra set made with a different material to experiment with. The device still supports screw-in stabilizers however,

The M1 and M1W SP look have the same dimensions
Above my Monsgeek M1 (review) paired with the MARRS keycaps the Monsgeek M1W ISO is identical in dimensions.

Opening the Monster like a Geek

Although the keyboard is basically ready for use, I still wanted to take a look at the inside of the M1W SP and immediately apply a force-break mod. The keyboard can be easily opened by means of 6 screws, which can be removed using the supplied Allen key. However, it is important to be careful when removing the mainboard because there are two cables attached to it that need to be unplugged.

The mainboard is very similar to that of the Monsgeek M1. Here too I notice that there seems to be room for RGB LEDs on the sides. I wonder if they want to release a variant with LEDs on the sides in the future. The sockets again come from Kailh.

Regular M1 on top, M1W below

Some small mods

I did a little bit of modding myself. For example, I used the supplied teflon stickers around the screw holes of the frame to eliminate the slight ping. I also placed the supplied tape mod on the back of the mainboard. I left out the bottom foam layer and put a layer of cotton wool in the bottom. This gives a slightly different sound.

It’s time for switches B……

The included switches are Akko’s recently released Piano Switches. These are linear switches that operate very smoothly. They have a slightly higher pitch or “clack”. They come well tuned from the factory and I have seen no need to lube them myself. This is also nice with a complete plate. I personally prefer to type with the cream yellows. these feel just a bit more smooth. So many people, so many wishes. Fortunately, there is a lot of choice when it comes to switches.

You can see the dip switch here
The Piano switches are pre-lubed and have a dust-proof stem
Lovely, aren’t they?

Ninja Keycaps

The keycaps that come with the M1W SP are of the so-called stealth type. The fonts are on the front instead of on top. Normally they are not visible, but if you turn on the RGB lighting, they come to life thanks to a small cut-out. There is no glow through the switches, which makes the whole look neat. The encoder does not transmit light. This feels sturdy and has a slightly different interior than the regular M1. It should be a bit more stable, although I’ve never had any problems with the regular M1. They are also interchangeable with each other. If you want to use some other keycaps you can take a look at the collection from Akko here.

Almost invisible
Until the lights come on

Wireless connectivity

The big difference with the regular M1 is of course the wireless functionality. The past few days I have used the 2.4ghz connection through the supplied dongle. I experienced no problems and enjoyed the extra space on my desk. I was also curious if there wouldn’t be any problems with the signal between the keyboard and my wireless mouse (Logitech). I had seen a single user write about this online but I did not experience any problem with this. The connection with bluetooth also worked without problems. You connect the device by holding down the FN button in combination with the E R or T key. When it starts flashing you enter pairing mode. the next time you switch to the desired device by short pressing FN together with one of these buttons. The 2.4Ghz is the most stable connection after USB-C. Working with the wireless connection is excellent, just like casual gaming. However, if you want to play competitively in shooters, for example, the USB-C connection is of course recommended if you want the best possible connection.

Software

Unlike the regular M1, the M1W SP version does not come with QMK/VIA support. Instead, a proprietary suite is available called Monsgeek Driver. The interface is simply designed and offers various options to personalize the keyboard. For example, it is possible to move keys, create macros and FN layers and adjust the lighting. It is also possible to import custom profiles from other users. However, the encoder cannot be adjusted in terms of functionality. This controls volume or the intensity of the lighting.

Monsgeek driver

Verdict of the Monsgeek M1W SP

The M1W ISO is an excellent variation on the standard M1. However, in addition to advantages, there are also potential disadvantages. This mainly depends on your own wishes / requirements. The wireless convenience is of course a big plus. The fact that both a 2.4Ghz and 3 different Bluetooth connections are possible is a big plus. In addition, the wired option will of course still be present.
Small quality of life improvements such as the improved Teflon stickers with cutouts for the screw holes, better material for the included optional sound-reducing mat and the improved encoder are welcome. The lack of VIA support can be a drawback for people who tweak their keyboard to their own liking. For many people, however, the included software will be sufficient. I do miss the integration of a key tester in the software.

The model I tested is the ISO version. I could easily get used to this layout. Although we in the Netherlands are mainly used to ANSI, this is not the case in other parts of Europe. Logitech also supplies mainly in the ISO layout in the Benelux, so there are quite a few people who prefer this layout. This kit is ideal for people who want to get started right away. The keyboard comes with good, smooth switches that don’t need work and high-quality keycaps in a stealthy look.

If all this appeals to you but you prefer an ANSI layout, this is also available and you can also choose from two other colors. They can all be viewed on the product page of the M1W series.

For this review I tested the M1W SP version which comes complete with switches and keycaps. For the DIY version you can check this link.

Coupon for first time orders

If this is your first order on Akkogear.eu and there is no current discount on the website you can use coupon HELLOAKKO to get 10% your first order!

This review was first post in Dutch on Tweakers.net link here

Akko send me this product for review, the links in this article may be affiliate links which help me maintain this website.

Monsgeek M2 review: M1’s Bigger brother

The Monsgeek M1 which was launched recently has been very well received and has gotten a lot of positive reviews. Offering a solid set of features like a premium build quality, south-facing switches and QMK/VIA support for a competitive price. Now the sister brand of Akko is releasing it’s second keyboard; the Monsgeek M2. The M2 is a 1800 style, or 96% keyboard.

The Monsgeek M1 has proven to be a success among enthousiasts. Now it is time for the Monsgeek M2 to prove itself
The Monsgeek M1 with the Akko MARRS keycap set.

Why choose a DIY mechanical keyboard?

Mechanical keyboards, in general, have many advantages over commonly seen “standard” keyboards which use rubber dome switches or scissor switches. Among these advantages are a longer lifespan, responsive feeling and overall a better typing and gaming experience. The downsides of a mechanical keyboard will mostly be their price and sound which is often a bit louder then you get with a traditional rubber dome keyboard.

Monsgeek is one of the brands that aims to give more people acces to highly adjustable and customizable mechanical keyboards. So if you want a mechanical keyboard without a loud sound, you can put in some extra sound dampening foam in your keyboard and choose some silent switches like the Akko Silent Pink. You cand the review of these silent switches here. If you are a person on the other hand who likes to let the world know they are typing you can get some loud, clicky switches like Cherry Blue or Box White’s from Kailh.

Luckily as mechanical keyboards are becoming more mainstream, prices are coming down as well. The goal of Monsgeek is exactly this; providing more people acces to affordable, high quality and highly customizable keyboards. They let you choose your switches and keycaps, change the sound profile by adding or removing sound dampening material without the need of soldering.

Almost Full-size

The Monsgeek M2 is a keyboard which has an almost full size layout while being a roughly as wide as a TKL keyboard. This is great for people who like to use a numpad but don’t want a keyboard to take up all the desk-space. You will have to sacrifice some keys ofcourse but being a VIA compatible keyboard this won’t be a big problem since you can always move keys and functions. With a compact form factor that eliminates unnecessary keys, a 96% keyboard can help minimize desk clutter and reduce strain on the wrists and hands during extended typing sessions. Another benefit regarding ergonomics is that the reduce width will also keep your mouse arm from over stretching.

One of positives of Monsgeek’s keyboards is the inclusion of VIA support

What you get when buying the Monsgeek M2

The Monsgeek M2 comes in a similar package as the Monsgeek M1 did. The Packaging is mostly black with some branding. Inside the pre-assembled keyboard is covered by packaging foam, a plastic cover and a protective cover. Also included are a manual and an optional sheet of tape for modding the sound profile. Next to the keyboard a cutout has been made where you will find the accessories like a coiled cable, screws, sound dampening teflon stickers and screw-in stabs. The keyboard comes assembled together but you will need to open it in order to put in the screw in stabs. These come pre-clipped and can be lubed by the user to bring out the best feeling. While the Monsgeek M1 models all had golden colored side bars, only the silver edition has kept this color, all the others have silver colored sidebars now. The Monsgeek Logo has also been engraved inside the bottom casing now, a very nice touch.

Building the board

Before opening up the keyboard I lubed the housing of the screw-in stabs with Krytox 205g0 and used dielectric grease on the wires. I disassembled the keyboard, put the teflon stickers under on the pcb where the stabs go, placed and screwed them and put the keyboard back together. I chose to use all, the provided foam layers and to not include the optional sheet of painters tape. You can check out some tips for lubing here.

Switches

For my build I used the Akko Snow blue grey switches together with the Jelly Purple‘s for the Numpad. I liked the idea of having some tactile feedback when using the numpad. I lubed both the switches, the Snow Blue Grey‘s with Krytox 205g0 and the Jelly purple‘s with Trybosis 3203, which is less thick. The Jelly purples tend to have a bit less wobble thanks to the dust covers they use. Both switches are semi-loud in use.

The Snow Blue Grey Switch

Monsgeek M2 and keycap compatibility

The Monsgeek M2 requires two functions keys on R1 in 1.5u size. It is important to check if your keycap set includes these. If you order keycaps from the Akko website you can choose MDA or SAL keycap sets which include the needed keycaps. I used the Ocean Star keycaps for this keyboard which uses the SAL profile. The SAL profile is a bit larger then the ASA profile most Akko keycaps have and the standard rows are all flattened out apart from the F and J keys which are slightly curved to help your fingers find their way. Personally though I think a different set of keycaps would have fit the silver option better like a white on black keycap set.

The Monsgeek M2 fully assembled

Impressions and conclusion

Like the Monsgeek M1, the Monsgeek M2 makes a solid impression. Building the board was, again easy enough. There are no squeaks or rattling sounds. There is a ping when not using the teflon stickers, but adding this between the two halves removes this issue. The board is, even without the addition of foam a bit on the stiffer side. For me this is fine, I don’t care that much for the overly bouncy gasket-style. Personally I used all the foam because I like a more dampened board. What I like less is the limitation in keycap compatibility because of the need of the 1.5 function keys in R1. Ofcourse most respectable premium keycap sets from brands like GMMK come with these keys and Akko also has the SAL and MDA keycap sets which offer these. I was told though that that a successor in the future will not have this limitation.

Would I recommend this keyboard? If you are looking for a 1800 or 96% style keyboard, then yes this is a very solid option. You get a premium build keyboard, great software and lots of customizability. Just make sure you buy the international version if you want VIA/QMK. You can order this version directly from Akkogear.eu

Be sure to use coupon HELLOAKKO and get 10% off (Limited time offer).

What I liked about the Monsgeek M2

  • Solid build quality
  • Screw in stabs included
  • QMK/VIA support
  • Coiled cable included
  • Engraved logo on the back is a nice premium addition

What I didn’t like

  • Somewhat limited keycap compatibility
  • Price difference in Europe vs US (but no import and custom fees)

Switch review: Akko V3 Cream yellow

Akko kicks of the 3rd series of their switches with the release of the V3 Cream Yellow and V3 Cream Blue. As those familiar with switches probadly guessed; the blue ones are tactile and the yellow of the linear kind. We are taking a look at the linear version today, provided for review by Akkogear.de.

Packaging

Just like the Snow Blue Grey switches these come with a new art style on the box wrapper. In the box it is still the same trusted and nice packaging Akko has provided with their other switches in. Every switch is individually placed in a plastic box which can easily be opened. The benefit of this packaging is that the risk of getting bend pins is reduced to almost zero. Storage and sortage of switches is also easy with these boxes as they are small and colored differently for each type of switch.

V3 Cream Yellow up close

You might have guessed the switches have a mostly yellow color to them, they remind me of these sweet banana candys. The bottom is made of PA, the housing a semi-transparant PC material and the stem is made out of POM. All of these parts have a yellow color scheme. Akko has used one of their extension springs here which is 18mm in lenght.

  • Type: Linear
  • Operating Force: 50 ± 5gf
  • Total Travel: 3.5±0.3mm
  • Pre-Travel: 1.9±0.3mm
  • Tactile Position: N/A
  • End Force: 58gf ± 5gf

Testing time!

I used the switches in a Monsgeek M1 keyboard, which was reviewed as well, and paired these with the MARRS keycaps from Akko. These keycaps have a cherry profile and had no compatiblity issues with these switches thanks to the extended pole used on the stem. I used the switches together with the Akko Jelly blacks which have a comparible operating force.

The V3 Cream yellow switches fit with cherry style keycaps like the new Akko MARRS set
Feeling right at home in the Monsgeek M1

Typing experience

The Cream Yellow switches are pretty similair to Gateron Yellow in specs and are in the same ball park of Akko’s Jelly Blacks when it comes to the operating force of the switch. They do feel different to type on compared to the blacks though. The feeling is indeed buttery creamy mainly thanks to the different housing material. There is just a little bit amount of scratching when you listen up close but overall they are very consistent. Wobbling is minimal to none. From what I have heard from others, these are an improved Matcha Green feeling wise. I personally haven’t used the Matcha Greens though. Compared to the Gateron Yellow the Cream Yellows feel more consistant.

Sound

The Cream Yellow’s provide a nice creamy, clacky sound which appeals to me personally. Like feeling and feedback of switches this tends to be a personal thing. The material of the keyboard used is also a factor in this.

Gaming with the V3 Cream Yellow

The V3 cream yellow is a pleasant switch to use for gaming. It is a bit heavier then something like a Cherry Red which a lot of gamers use. I wouldn’t recommend these for people who want the fastest response while playing CS-GO. However If you are looking for a good overall switch with a smooth feedback and a little bit of resistance this might be a very balanced switch for you. I am not a heavy e-sports FPS gamer and I personally had a very good time using these switches while playing Hitman 3 and Atomic heart among other games.

Switch tester

Having a hard time deciding which type of switch you would like to use or compare some type of switches against one another? One option is to use a switch tester. The Akko x Monsgeek switch tester lets you try out 16 different switches from Akko, TTC and Cherry. The include the V3 creal Yellow and V3 Cream blue but also the Classic Cherry Red and the poplair Jelly Black and Purple switches. You can order the switch tester directly from Akkogear.de for €7,99 (ex.VAT). It’s a cost effective way to try out some of the most popular Akko switches without having to buy a whole package.

Akko X Monsgeek switch tester which includes the V3 Cream Yellow
The Akko X Monsgeek switch tester let’s you try out different switches

Value and conclusion

The price of these switches are very competitive at €8,99/$8,99 (ex. tax) for 45 switches. For this price you are getting very smooth switches straight out of the box which get even better after lubing. I can recommend these switches to people looking for a nice, smooth switch for mixed usage. These strike a nice balance between price and performance. They are not the heaviest, not the lightest switch and will probably appeal to most people sound-wise. These are perfect for people who use their keyboard for mixed usage like gaming and other everyday tasks.

Haze pink switch review: Akko Linear with a silencer

Once again it is time to test a linear switch from Akko. This time Akko send over their new Haze pink switches.

Haze Pink is Akko’s first silent switch

Akko keeps pouring out switches like there is no tomorrow. Lineair, tactile, light, heavy, POM, Jelly, all sorts of switches. There is one thing they still didn’t have; a silent switch. Well boys and girls, the wait is over. While most people like there keyboards make clicky, clacky, poppy, dooby, daby sounds, not everybody can appreciate this. This is especially true for co-workers and spouses. While there are options like 0-rings available these don’t always provide the best result and can significantly alter the typing experience. So Akko decided it was time to put out a silent switch.

A closer look

Opening up the Haze pink switches we can see that the top and bottom are both made out of PC whilst the stem is made of POM material. The spring is roughly 15mm in length. So far nothing unlike we have seen before. When looking closer though, there are some very small silicon cushions on the sides of the stem. These are positioned on the top and bottom of the stem’s flanks.

At first glance the Haze pink is not so different from other linear switches from Akko
But when opened up and looking closely you can see the transparant silicone sound dampeners on the sides of the switch


Specifications

Switch name: Akko Haze Pink(Silent)
Type: Linear
Operating Force: 43 ± 5gf
Bottom-Out Force: 58 ± 5gf
Pre-Travel: 2.0 ± 0.3mm
Total Travel: 4.0 ± 0.3mm
Tactile Position: N/A
Housing bottom: PC
Housing top: PC
Stem: POM

Lubing the Haze pink switches

My first impression of the switch was that they felt pretty snappy straight out of the box but I wanted to give them the lube treatment anyway. So as per usual I lubed the housing and stem with Krytox G205g0. I didn’t lube the springs as I didn’t have a thin enough solution handy. Still the end result got me satisfied.
If you wan to know how to lube your switches or wonder what you need, I have made an article about the topic, which you can find here.

I lubed the Akko Haze Pink switches with Krytox G205g0
Lubing switches brings out the best in them

Typing experience and ofcourse soundtest

Typing on the Haze pink switches was a pleasant experience. They felt snappy, smooth and light, but not too light. I still love the heavy Jelly black switches (review) but these are special in their own right. The sound, or rather lack of sound is very nice. The only thing making any sound now is my spacebar. Ofcourse you can cut some packing foam to size to fill this up if you want total silence. Since I sometimes do my typing at night and my desk in in the same room as we sleep, these switches proved to be a nice addition. I used the switches in the Monsgeek M1 keyboard (review).

@riez1984

Check out the new Akko Haze Pink silent switches! at Akkogear.de review soon on clicksmashstuff.com @AKKO DE @Akko #akkogear #clicksmashstuff

♬ Original Miami Vice Theme – Jan Hammer

Final thoughts

The Akko Haze Pink switches are nice smooth switches which are incredibly silent. I hope Akko will continue to expend the silent treatment to other switches as well. I would love to see a nice tactile switch like the Jelly Purple without the sound for example. The Haze Pink switches are perfect for people who want to use a mechanical keyboard in an office or other environment where silence is preferred. You can order the switches directly from akkogear.eu. Akkogear.eu is the official European website for Akko products and ships worldwide. By using one of the links provided you help us getting review samples.

MonsGeek M1 review: meet the new budget King!

I have covered various Akko keyboards on this website and have been mostly satisfied with them. Akko offers keyboards in various price ranges and designs. The top of the line products are their DIY models which offer premium materials. There were two things missing from these boards though; a south-facing layout and the compatibility with VIA/QMK software. Akko introduced a south-facing layout in their latest version of the MOD series, the MOD007s V2 (review). Well the last hurdle is finally taken. Meet the MonsGeek M1.

Akko or MonsGeek?

MonsGeek is a new company launched as a sister brand to Akko. MonsGeek intends to provide high quality products at an affordable price. The name is combination of the word Monster and Geek. With the experience and expertise of Akko behind it MonsGeek is able to offer high quality materials and focus more on a select range of products for enthusiasts. My guess is Akko will keep focusing more on its colorful products and collaborations with populair anime shows and themed keycaps whereas MonsGeek will keep things more simple and focus on materials vs price. The MonsGeek M1 is the first of a range of upcoming products.

Inspired by a combination of the sheer power of a Monster and the technological prowess of a Geek; MonsGeek has shaped its own way by connecting our streamlined supply chains, which has allowed us to reduce manufacturing costs and be able to offer quality products at an accessible price for everyone.

Quality peripherals should be accessible to all, not only to a select few…

Monsgeek invests in innovation in order to propel the future of peripherals, while filling a gap in the industry and raising the bar for all.

Letting the Monster out

The Keyboard comes in a nice bog black box which a carton wrapper around it. Inside the Keyboard is covered by protective material and a dustcover while sitting nice and firm in a thick foam package. Next to the keyboard a coiled USB-C to USB-A cable can be found. This Cabe is rubberized and gets the job done. Ofcourse there are nice looking cables around but to be honest one should not expect a premium aviator style cable in this price-range. The keyboard is pre-assembled but cannot be used yet. You will first need to add some stabilizers. The keyboard supports plate mounted as well as screw-in stabilizers, the latter being included. These don’t come pre-assembled because most enthusiasts will want to lube these first. There are also some stabilizer pads and a sheet of painters tape included for optional mods. The board itself is very heavy and sturdy and has some nice details with the gold colored metal bars on both sides.

The Monsgeek M1 comes in a big Box which looks simple but classy
The MonsGeek M1 comes with a matching cable
You will get a hex key, screw in stabilizers and screws, stabilizer pads (you can use these for the stabs but also for a force break mod) and a sheet of painters tape.

Assembling the Monsgeek M1

The first thing I did after taking the board apart was lubing the stabilizers. I used some G205g0 for the housing and Dielectric grease for the wires. I didn’t do a Holee Mod though. I figured I could always do this later if I would experience any serious rattling. I did use the included stabilizer pads. After assembling the stabilizers I decided to use the included foams and let the sheet of painters tape for what it is. This is all personal and you might like to include or discard these parts as you like. I ended up using some of the stabilizer pads near the screw holes of the keyboard to avoid that annoying ping that metal on metal can cause. An optional sheet of transparent plastic material is included which should help avoid any risks of damage by shortcuts. You can see it in the image below. It is already pre-cut so the connection wire will have no issues getting where it needs to go.

Akko includes a pre-cut pcb foam which saves a lot of time and effort.
Here you can see the force break mod I made with the included stabilizer pads.

Switches

Akko send me their new custom made Snow Blue Grey switch. This switch is a linear switch with an operating force of 43 grams, a total travel distance of around 4 mm and a pre travel of around 1.9 mm. These switches are made of a POM stem, a PC top and PA bottom. The spring is an 18mm extended spring. These switches feel very nice out of the box but would benefit from lubing. The thing that gives these switches the most appeal is the colorway. They will not be a replacement for my beloved Jelly Black switches though, which feel smoother to me. Switches are very personal though. I can definitely recommend these switches if you are looking for a nice linear switch to complement your themed build. Lubing will get the most of these though.

The Snow Blue Grey switches are a nice visual match with the Monsgeek M1 white and Ocean star keycaps

Putting some keycaps in the Monsgeek M1

What is a keyboard without keycaps? This time I used a set of ABS keycaps. I usually go with double shot PBT keycaps but I wanted to try out some of Akko’s double shot ABS kits for a while. These Ocean Star keycaps look very nice in a white casing. The first thing I noticed was that these ABS keys don’t come in the same premium box with magnets like their more expensive PBT brothers and sisters. But they still come well packed in plastic covers and each layer comes with a protective sheet of foam. The keycaps feel a bit lighter then the PBT caps but not flimsy or cheap. I could not find any faults in the paintjob or shape and the package is really complete. You get all the standard keycaps but the set also comes with various types of spacebar sizes, mac-keys and ofcourse some nice novelty keycaps.

The Ocean star keycaps are made with the SAL profile which is a bit larger then the ASA profile most Akko keycaps have and the standard rows are all flattened out apart from the F and J keys which are slightly curved in to help your fingers find their way. The keycaps felt pleasant and adjusting wasn’t hard for me.

You get a lot of keycaps for your money here

Software

One of the things people complained about with the Akko brand was the lack of VIA/QMK support. Luckily the first keyboard from their sister company MonsGeek comes with VIA support! I downloaded the via software for the board (here) and the board was instantly recognized. While the Akko cloud software was not the worst I have experienced this is definitely a step up. With VIA its incredibly easy to tune the keyboard to your own liking. You can assign keys, macro’s, change to split keyboards and ISO layout and test your keys. You can also tune the RGB settings of your keyboard in VIA and I noticed the RGB looked a bit better then it does on my MOD007 keyboard. The latter seemed to have a bit of a strobing effect sometimes which isn’t present here.

The MonsGeek M1 supports VIA
VIA software is officially supported

Final thoughts

The MonsGeek M1 is a solid debut for the brand. It is build like a tank and borrows a lot of its design from the popular MOD007 series. Small improvements have been made like finetuning the knob and adding some extra’s like screw in stabs, stabilizer pads and a sheet for tape mods. Ofcourse Monsgeek made sure the keyboard has a south-facing layout so compatibility is not an issue with any keycaps. The real game changer here is the inclusion of VIA support which was something people requested for a long time on Akko products. If MonsGeek is able to build forward from this solid entry and keep the price competitive brands like Keychron should be worried. While Keychron makes very nice and solid keyboards MonsGeek has the supply chains from Akko behind it with a lot of choice between keycaps and switches. If MonsGeek wants to really be competitive they would be wise to offer some complete kits as well for a small increase in price as an option.

Pricing and availability

The MonsGeek M1 retails for $99,- or €129,99 in Europe without taxes. Citizens in the U.S. can order from Monsgeek.com while people in Europe can order from Akkogear.eu

Get 10% off limited time only

For a limited time only you can get 10% off the Monsgeek M1 on Akkogear.de using the coupon HELLOAKKO on checkout or using this link. Akkogear.eu ships worldwide.

The Best? Sony WH-1000XM5 Review – Enjoy The Sound Of Silence

After having used my wife’s Bose QC45 occasionally I wanted to have my own pair of noise canceling headphones. At first I tried the Sennheiser Momentum 4, but unfortunately they turned out to be not my cup of coffee. Now it is time to see if the Sony WH-1000XM5 can give me enough satisfaction.

Why noise canceling?

I already have a very decent send of cans; the Sennheiser HD660s but these are open style headphones. I really love them as they are very neutral and let me enjoy my music at the fullest when i’m behind my pc. I mainly use these in combination with a Topping DX3 Pro+ dac.

But sometimes I just want to escape the world around me and don’t get distracted by the sounds of outside, the ventilation, the washing machine or whatever. Having a mild form of Autism, an ANC headphone can be a big relief.

Bose and my first Sony

Sony and Bose have been the champs of wireless headphones using ANC for quite some time now. They aren’t the only ones using Adaptive Noise Canceling but they are the brands that give the best results. Personally I didn’t try any of the Sony’s before but I do have experience with the Bose QC45 and QC35 II. The main reason choosing Bose over Sony was comfort; when trying these against former iterations of the Sony headphones at the store the Bose reigned supreme for me. The Bose also had a sound that my wife really likes, namely a rather warm and easy sound signature with just the right amount of bass. Since I didn’t want the exact same as her and both the Sennheiser and Bose 700 didn’t meet my expectations I decided to try my luck with Sony’s XM5’s.

Unlike the Bose QC45 the Sony WH-1000xm5 isn't foldable
The bose QC45 and Sony WH-1000XM5 next to each other

Specs of the Sony WH-1000XM5

Battery

BATTERY LIFE (CONTINUOUS COMMUNICATION TIME)

Max. 24 hrs (NC ON) , Max. 32 hrs (NC OFF)

Battery Charge Method

USB

Battery Charge Time

Approx. 3.5 hrs

Battery Life (continuous music playback time)

Max. 30 hrs (NC ON), Max. 40 hrs (NC OFF)

Bluetooth® Specification

Bluetooth® version

Bluetooth Specification Version 5.2

Effective Range

32.81 ft

FREQUENCY RANGE

2.4 GHz band (2.4000–2.4835 GHz)

Profile

A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP

Supported Audio Format(s)

SBC, AAC, LDAC

Supported Content Protection

SCMS-T

General Features

Cord Length

approx. 3.94 ft

Cord type

Single-sided (detachable)

Driver Unit

1.18 inches / 30mm

Frequency Response

4 Hz–40,000 Hz (JEITA)

Frequency Response (Active Operation)

4 Hz–40,000 Hz

Frequency Response (Bluetooth® Communication)

20 Hz–20,000 Hz (44.1 kHz Sampling) 20 Hz–40,000 Hz (LDAC 96 kHz Sampling 990 kbps)

Headphone Type

Closed, dynamic

Impedance (Ohm)

48 ohm (1 kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on), 16 ohm (1 kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)

Input(s)

Stereo Mini Jack

Magnet

Neodymium

Passive Operation

Yes

Plug

Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug

Sensitivities (dB/mW)

102 dB (1 kHz) / mW (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on), 100 dB (1 kHz) / mW (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)

Volume Control

Touch Sensor

Wearing Style

Over Ear

DSEE Extreme

Yes

Ambient Sound Mode

Yes

Noise Canceling

Ambient Sound Mode

Yes

Atmospheric Pressure Optimizing

Yes

Personal NC Optimizer

Auto NC Optimizer

Quick Attention

Yes

Size & Weight

Weight

Approx. 8.82 oz

Build

The build is mostly made of (recycled) plastic. Which is fine by me to be honest. Headsets like the Airpods pro definitely feel very premium but I’d rather have something more lightweight. The top and ear cushions are made of a (vegan) faux leather material. Thew materials feel nice and soft, though not as comfortable as the Bose QC45 does. The earcups aren’t as deep either but they are sufficient for me. Some people complained about the wear sensor of the previous model sticking out too much which could irritate people’s ears. No such thing here. Adjusting the headphones is easy with a sliding mechanism, it is smooth but doesn’t give that lock and click feeling. One thing you will need to consider is that the XM5’s aren’t foldable like its predecessors. I knew this beforehand so i’m fine with it. I do find it a bit of a downside that when you want to take them off and rest them around your neck, the open part of the cups is always up.

This it the way the cups will face when taking them off

Sound Quality

Sound-wise the Sony is a pleasant headphone with a good soundstage. Compared to my Sennheiser HD660S this is more of a “pleasure” style headphone. Bass is more pronounced but vocals are still nice but not the most natural. The sound out of the box wasn’t exactly what I like myself. Thankfully there is an equalizer to be found in the Sony headphones app. Just don’t expect the sound to get all natural. If you don’t want to trouble yourself with a custom equalizer, you can always choose one of the provided presets. After trying out some different combinations I settled on my own settings. I listen to all kinds of genres and got a pleasant experience overall. DSEE is also provided which should improve the overall quality of digital music.

Comfort

Despite the earcups not being as deep as the Bose QC45 I really enjoy wearing these cans. The earcups are nice and soft and while not being angular shaped inside they don’t give any discomfort to my ears. The headband is soft as well and clamping force is just right for me. Despite not being to slimmest person out there the Sony’s fit my dome just fine.

The white is more of a greyish white on the headset.

Call quality

Call quality has been amazing for me so far. I can clearly hear other persons and I have had nothing but positive feedback so far. People said my voice sounded natural and when I tried the Sony XM5’s in a coffee bar the person on the other end of the conversation said he could still hear me very well. The Sony was also very good at blocking out wind and car noise during my call walking outside next to a busy road.

ANC

Now this is the main thing for me. I have my open back headphones for when I want to listen to music in a natural way. But when I want to escape in a world without distraction I need a pair of ANC headphones. Up until now the Bose QC45 has been my favorite pair of headphones giving me absolute quiet when I need it. But Sony is even better. I wouldn’t say the ANC is that much better on itself though, they are quite evenly matched. It’s the passive isolation that is better with the Sony wh-1000XM5 for me. I also like the fact I am able to switch it off entirely while the Bose only gives me the option of ANC or Hearthrough.

Touch controls

When I tried to Sennheiser Momentum 4 I was immediately frustrated about the touch controls. They just didn’t work well. I said to my wife I would just buy another pair of Bose headphones for myself. I did want to give Sony a try thought because there must be a reason they still use touch controls on their XM series, right? Well turns out touch controls can work decently on a wireless headset. Weather its the double tap to pause or play, or holding my fingers or hand on the right cup for hearthrough, it just works! Same goes for swiping up and down for volume or left and right for back and forward! The only thing that worries me is how this will work when the weather outside will get colder or when rain starts to come down. For me personally this is not the biggest issue as I use earbuds outside.

Holding the right cup doesn’t do anything. When holding the left, hearthrough mode gets activated

Sony App

The Sony app has a lot of options, a bit too much if you ask me. There are things that are very welcome like the equalizer, presets, ANC and wear detection. But do we really need things like 3D sound where you need to connect to third party apps to even use it? To me this feels like more of a gimmick. A lot of people also complain about the Auto-ANC and the lack of customising this yourself. I get where people come from but I must say I didn’t have a very bad experience with it. I would like to see Sony shave a bit off its options like the 3D sound and keep the good stuff. There is still hope though as it seems Sony keeps updating the software.

Should you buy the Sony WH-1000XM5?

For me personally the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a fantastic headset. Whenever I want some peace and quiet I tend to grab them. Weather it’s some ambience music for relaxing, an audiobook, some loud rock music or easy pop songs, the Sony delivers. I even use them at night in my bed. They feel very comfortable and reliable to me. For me they have been worth the price I paid, I did get them during a sale though. Normally the Bose QC45 was around €130,- cheaper and to me they aren’t €130,- better. for the price difference of about €70,- they were worth it for me. I do recommend picking up the white/grey version though because the black one shows all your skin oils.