SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro Review (2023)
We are introducing the most powerful hybrid active noise cancelling wireless earbuds, SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro. These earbuds are priced at just $69.99 via Amazon; these earbuds offer a surprisingly extensive range of features. They boast hybrid active noise cancellation, support for LDAC to ensure high-resolution audio, a low latency gaming mode, commendable battery life, and the convenience of personalized sound customization through their dedicated app. With an impressive feature set and satisfying sound quality for the price, the Capsule 3 Pro is an excellent choice for budget-conscious listeners. Let’s dive into further details below.
I. Product Tech Specs
- Connectivity: Bluetooth version 5.3
- Profiles: A2DP/AVRCP/HFP/HSP
- Driver: 12mm
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 40kHz
- Microphone: Clear Call with 6 mics (FF+FB+CALL Mic)
- Chipset: WQ7033AR
- Supported Bluetooth Codec: LDAC, SBC, AAC
- Battery Capacity: 35*2 mAH(Earbuds) 500mAH (Case)
- Charging Time: ≤1 hour(Earbuds& Case)
- Charging Port: Type-C
- Battery life: 8 Hrs Single Playtime & 52 Hrs Full Playtime
- Single Earbud Weight: 5 g
- Waterproof Rating: IPX4
II. Design of SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro
Regarding build quality, SOUNDPEATS has executed a commendable job with its earbuds. They align well with the standards of most true wireless earbuds, even those with higher price tags. Despite their lightweight and plastic construction, they don’t give the impression of being more prone to breakage, even when subjected to significant pressure.
Additionally, they boast an IPX4 rating, rendering them suitable for workouts, although they are outperformed by the Earfun Air Pro 3 with their IPX5 rating regarding water resistance. Moreover, the rose accents on the stem and the subtle branding of SOUNDPEATS on the face add a touch of visual allure to the earbuds.
Control feature
The control of the earbuds is facilitated through capacitive touch, and they exhibit good responsiveness after an initial firmware update. However, I must admit that I am not particularly fond of the control scheme employed by SOUNDPEATS. It combines touch and holds gestures with taps, yet it falls short of delivering complete functionality. Although there is a decent blend of both input styles, there is no way to repeat or skip backward in tracks. Additionally, it is worth noting that the earbuds possess an unusual quirk where the volume control is only accessible when media is actively playing.
- Power On:
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- Auto: Open the case lid
- Manually: Press and hold the MFB for 1.5 second
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- Power Off:
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- Auto: Place earbuds back into the case and close the case
- Manually: Press and hold the MFB for 10 second
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- Play/Pause: Double-tap the lest MFB
- Volume (-): Single tap the lest MFB
- Volume (+): Single tap the right MFB
- Next Track: Press and hold the right MFB for 1.5 second
- Answer/Hang Up Phone Call: Double-tap the MFB
App Connection
In the app, you can customize the bass and improve the mid-range performance. I decreased the bass and achieved a more balanced sound. You can personalize the sound profile of these earbuds to suit your preferences.
While the app offers convenient equalization features, it’s not essential otherwise. It provides basic options such as adjusting the ANC setting or activating gaming mode, but it lacks other customization options like button control. Since all functionalities, except for the EQ, can be managed directly on the earbuds, you can “set it and forget it.”
Built-in Gaming Mode
These earbuds excel in their built-in gaming mode. With a triple-tap on the left earbud, you can activate a low latency mode, reducing audio delay to just 70ms. This feature practically eliminates lag when gaming on your phone or PC. I tested them while playing several rounds of Battlefield 2042 and experienced no synchronization issues, which is truly impressive.
Audio delay is virtually non-existent, even for slower-paced games like World of Warcraft. This makes them ideal for gaming on a laptop during breaks, eliminating the need to carry around a gaming headset. These earbuds offer a comprehensive portable audio solution that outperforms many pricier alternatives.
III. Performance of SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro
Equipped with LDAC™ High-resolution Codec Technology, the SOUNDPEATS Capsule3 Pro has earned certification from Hi-Res Audio Wireless, ensuring the transmission of pristine high-fidelity sound at a remarkable rate of up to 990 kbps. With this advanced feature, the earbuds deliver an immersive audio experience, capturing even the finest intricacies.
Thanks to the specially crafted 12mm biodynamic drivers and Bluetooth 5.3, the Capsule3 Pro effortlessly envelops you in a harmoniously balanced soundstage, covering an impressive frequency range from 20 Hz to 40 kHz. From enchanting trebles to resounding bass, every sonic element is flawlessly reproduced, allowing you to lose yourself in the captivating audio.
Sound Quality
The Capsule3 truly delivers admirable sound quality, particularly for bass enthusiasts. What immediately caught my attention was the audaciousness of their sound signature. They offer a resonant low-end response and a vibrant mid-bass presence, resulting in captivating and impactful listening sessions.
This characteristic is a significant advantage in gaming, movies, and genres like pop, hip-hop, or double-kick drum metal. It’s worth noting that the bass slightly blends into the midrange, giving the sound a warm and somewhat lush quality, especially regarding vocals. However, this blending is pleasing and not unpleasant to the ear.
Bass
The level of detail they can extract is decent for its price range. The bass texture is not as pronounced as what you would find in the top-tier wired IEMs within this price bracket. The intricacies in the middle and upper ranges are slightly more polished, although the impactful bass does sacrifice some detail in the mid-range. On the other hand, the treble detail is improved thanks to its increased volume.
Treble
In addition to the prominent bass, SOUNDPEATS has skillfully elevated the treble range to enhance clarity in the overall audio mix. This boost in treble brings forward elements like cymbals and acoustic guitars, infusing a delightful sparkle into the listening experience.
This treble elevation creates a classic V-shaped sound profile for these earbuds. However, it’s important to note that despite the treble emphasis, there is no harshness, ensuring a fatigue-free listening session.
Noise Cancellation
The active noise cancellation the earbuds offer is respectable, although it may not be the best in its class. It effectively tackles droning noises and reduces ambient sounds in the middle-frequency range, creating a quieter environment even in office settings where voices are present.
Compared to the Earfun Air Pro 3, which is positioned directly opposite in pricing, the active noise cancellation of the Soundpeats earbuds falls slightly behind. However, considering the affordable price range of these earbuds, the active noise cancellation still performs admirably. It significantly enhances the listening experience during commutes or in the presence of noisy HVAC units.
Microphone
The earbuds have six microphones, three on each side, strategically positioned to monitor various aspects. They effectively detect and analyze noise levels inside the ear, outside the ear, and even at the bottom of the stem to capture your voice accurately.
These microphones serve a dual purpose by contributing to active noise cancellation and effectively eliminating external noise during calls, thanks to the Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) feature. Consequently, you can communicate clearly with the other party. In my testing, I found that the call quality was generally good, with minimal compression noticeable when the ENC feature was activated.
Battery Life
The battery life of the earbuds is generally impressive. SOUNDPEATS claims a total playback time of 8 hours, complemented by an additional four and a half recharges facilitated by the charging case. In total, the quoted playtime reaches 52 hours. However, it’s important to note that play hours may differ depending on individual usage patterns.
When the active noise cancellation (ANC) feature is activated, the playtime reduces to approximately 5.5 hours, closely aligned with my listening experience at 50% volume. Furthermore, when LDAC is enabled alongside ANC, the playtime per recharge decreases to around four hours.
IV. The Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Decent active noise cancellation (ANC)
- In-app customization for EQ settings
- LDAC support for high-resolution audio
- Game mode enhances the gaming experience
Cons:
- Stock sound signature leans towards excessive bass
- ANC performance falls short compared to some competitors
- Intense competition poses challenges in terms of value
- Volume controls only function when media is playing
Conclusion
The SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro earbuds exhibit excellent build quality, making them reliable. Their sound profile caters to mainstream preferences, emphasizing strong bass and impactful audio. Whether used for music, gaming, or movies, these earbuds deliver a satisfying experience every time. While they may not offer the meticulous level of audio refinement that audiophiles seek, most individuals, especially considering their budget-friendly price, will find them more than satisfactory. The realm of true wireless technology has made remarkable progress in recent years, and the SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro earbuds exemplify the possibilities when you ditch the cords without compromising on affordability.
