In the competitive world of audio technology, two new earbud designs have entered the market, each with unique concepts that aim to redefine the user experience while keeping the awareness of surroundings intact. The Huawei FreeArc and Teufel Airy Open TWS are both 'open ear' types of earbuds, designed not to enter the ear canal or obstruct surroundings, which make them ideal for certain activities, yet with different features and price points.
The Huawei FreeArc earbuds stand out as a budget-friendly option, priced at just 99 euros. These earbuds feature a 'hook' design that allows them to stay snuggly attached to the ears without the need for an in-ear fit. This design not only gives users the freedom to hear their environment but also provides surprising sound quality for their price. A review of the FreeArc earbuds, published on March 21, 2025, highlighted their performance across both Android and iPhone devices. While Huawei's reputation has been marred by controversies, such as allegations of bribery in the European Parliament, the FreeArc earbuds seem unaffected by the geopolitical challenges that have impacted the company's smartphone offerings, which lack Google services due to U.S. sanctions.
Charging the earbuds is convenient, with their case providing a total battery life of 28 hours. However, user comfort is subjective; while some appreciate the earbud design, others find the open ear feeling annoying. Shifting during use may also degrade sound quality, prompting users to frequently adjust the earbuds in their ears. This issue highlights the importance of fit and stability but doesn’t deter enthusiastic users from considering them for daily life.
On the other end of the spectrum are the Teufel Airy Open TWS earbuds, which are also designed to sit on the ear without entering it. This new trend attracts users who may be keen to avoid the uncomfortable feeling sometimes experienced with in-ear designs. Although the Airy Open TWS are considered on-ear headphones in earbud form, they feature a relatively large 14.2-mm driver that delivers commendable sound quality, particularly for general listening. Priced similarly to the Huawei FreeArc, these earbuds also come with touch controls for easy operation.
The Teufel Airy Open has a playtime of up to 6 hours per charge, extending to 20 hours with the charging case. While pairing with devices like an iPhone or Mac is typically straightforward, the earbuds lack Apple’s H2 chip, so the connection speed may not be as instantaneous as with other AirPods models. They require a bit of practice to fit correctly on the ears—users have noted that this process can be cumbersome, especially for those who wear glasses. However, once secured, the Airy Open are reported to fit snugly and are suitable for active use.
Providing great situational awareness, these earbuds do let users hear ambient sounds—an advantage for those who are exercising outdoors or cycling. However, this feature comes with a downside: users seeking to immerse themselves in their music may find the experience lacking, particularly when it comes to bass. Both the FreeArc and Airy Open TWS earbuds offer a good sound experience, but the lack of deep bass is a common critique.
Touch controls on the Teufel earbuds allow for convenient playback, volume adjustment, and communication with virtual assistants like Siri. Featuring four microphones, users can enjoy clear call quality with minimal interruptions. The Huawei FreeArc also boasts good microphone quality, contributing positively to user experiences during calls.
Ultimately, both the Huawei FreeArc and Teufel Airy Open TWS products cater to distinct user preferences. Ideally suited for individuals who prefer being aware of their surroundings while enjoying audio, these earbuds represent a modern shift in headphone technologies. As various models continue to hit the market, the choice comes down to personal comfort and audio preference. Price remains a significant factor, but equally vital is how each design aligns with individuals' lifestyles and listening habits.
