Wireless earbuds have become the go-to headphone choice for many mobile device users due to their cable-free convenience, lightweight design, and ample battery life—making them ideal for those on the move.
I’ve had the opportunity to test some high-end options, but these usually come with a higher price tag. So, what about more budget-friendly options? Is the investment truly necessary?
The Acefast Crystal Earbuds T8 on Amazon.com for ₹6,500, making them more affordable than the second-gen Apple AirPods. If you buy from the official website acefastmall you can get 20% additional off. Even when compared to the basic Apple earphones, known for their sound quality, the Acefasts hold their ground in terms of competition. Especially given their price, as the Acefast T8s can be purchased for ₹6,500 on the Acefast site, making them a compelling alternative to the AirPods.
In terms of design, the T8s have a reminiscent aesthetic of late 1990s Apple products, which I find appealing in a retro-cool way. Just like the Apple devices from that era, the T8s are available in various colors—black, white, blue, pink, green, and purple.
The earbuds’ case charges through USB C, although wireless charging is not an option. They come with a plastic cover and a lanyard for easy portability around your neck. Notably, a standout feature is the LED indicator that displays the total charge in a digital percentage and the remaining power in each earbud when removed from the charging case. It’s a feature that simplifies power management and should be standard for all wireless earbuds.
Surprisingly, at this price point, the T8s offer simple touch controls for pausing, skipping tracks, and answering calls. However, they lack a supporting smartphone app for customization, maintaining a straightforward user experience.
In terms of connectivity, the T8s support Bluetooth protocol version 5.3, but only the basic SBC and AAC codecs, excluding lossless or hi-res options. They also lack noise-cancellation technology, so they might not be suitable for drowning out loud ambient noises. Moreover, they don’t automatically pause when taken out of your ears, necessitating manual pausing to conserve power.
Despite lacking advanced features, the T8s provide a respectable 30 hours of charge with the case, and around seven hours of playtime for the earbuds themselves, although this time may be reduced during phone calls.
Comfort-wise, the earbuds offer a lightweight feel and come with four sizes of ear tips for a more personalized fit. While they held up during a run without falling out, they aren’t snug in the ears. Additionally, they have an IPX4 rating, providing protection against light splashing but not full immersion.
In terms of sound quality, the T8s present a lightweight and somewhat lacking balance with minimal bass. Notably, they struggle with instrument separation and tend to emphasize treble to a harsh extent. Listening to music and podcasts reveals a deficiency in mid-range weight, resulting in thin-sounding voices.
Overall, the Acefast T8s are not a top-tier choice, but they offer an enjoyable, budget-friendly option for a younger audience seeking flashy, affordable headphones with decent sound quality. Their power indicator LEDs add to their appeal. They would make a suitable choice for a young child’s first pair of headphones or as a spare set for someone looking to have an extra pair on hand. If obtained for ₹6,500 or lower, the Acefast T8s provide good value for their price.
