When it comes to running with headphones, I have used some simple earbuds that have over-the-ear loops to keep them attached through all of the vibrations of running. Constantly pressing the headphones further into my ear throughout the run is common as is getting caught up in the cord. For those reasons, I was excited to review the Freedom F5 In-Ear wireless headphones from Jaybird.
The Jaybird Freedom headphones are the fifth generation and clearly show their refinement in this latest build. Leaps and bounds more advanced than my simple headphones, the Freedom headphones use BlueTooth to pair with your device and includes on-cord controls to allow volume adjustment, power on/off, answering calls, or activating assistants like Google Now. The controller also includes a microphone so that you can talk hands-free. I found the audio quality to be clear and had no problem searching and issuing commands to Google Now.
The packaging is well done and tells you the level of quality that was put in. The box is clean and informative while also being compact. The back of the box lists key features of the Freedom Wireless earbuds.
A magnetic flap allows you to open it up and see the headphones, held in with a clear cover that is attached with tape and see a colorful photo. Simply lift the tape on the bottom of the box to tilt up the plastic cover.
Inside the box, there are a surprising number of accessories but they were all neatly packaged and includes a pouch to carry them all.
The Freedom Wireless headphones are all about choices for your best experience. There are three different sizes of plastic ear tips, Conform sport foam tips, and the patented fins. The fins are able to hold onto the inside of your ear to secure the earbuds. I was surprised to find how well they held on between the tips and the fins. It took a bit of time to try the different combinations but I eventually found the best option for me.
In addition to those accessories, there is also a clip and two buttons that can be used to control the slack of any extra cord. This is handy for runners that don’t want the cable slapping them with every step. Last but not least you have the charging accessories. A really short USB to micro USB cable is provided as well as the charging clip, which connects to the controller on the headphone cord and adapts the USB cable to charge the headphones. It works with a standard micro USB charger and I was able to charge it alongside with a phone charger. By itself, the headphones offer four hours of battery life and you can keep the small charging clip that adapts the micro USB cable attached for an additional four hours of playtime without significant increase in weight.
Not being much of an audiophile, the default audio configuration has been great for me. If you would like to change things, you can use the My Sound app for Android and iOS to adjust the equalizer and carry the setting over to the headphones.
Overall, the Jaybird Freedom F5 have been high quality wireless headphones. The standard BlueTooth range applies and, personally, I have to figure out a more comfortable, secure way to carry my phone. Beyond that, I am looking forward to hitting the trails with some motivating music while getting less frustrated with the cords of my old headphones running through my shirt. As someone who has received electrical shocks to the ears from previous earbuds, the Freedom F5 are sweat-resistant and have a metal exterior for durability.
The Jaybird Freedom F5 is available for $199.99 at Best Buy. They are available in black (Carbon), white with gold accents (Gold), and blue with white accents (Ocean).
A review unit of the Jaybird Freedom F5 was provided to 404 Tech Support for the purpose of this review.