LG TONE Free FP9 Review Exploring Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds with UVnano Charging Case

Description

Design and Build Quality

The LG TONE Free FP9 earbuds caught my attention instantly with their sleek and compact design. These in-ear headphones are incredibly lightweight, weighing just 1.59 ounces, making them ideal for extended use without causing discomfort. I found the ergonomic contoured ear seal design to be a standout feature. The earbuds fit snugly in my ears, and the hypoallergenic medical-grade silicone ear gels felt soft and secure even during intense activities. They’ve clearly put thought into both style and practicality, as the rounded tip shape enhances comfort and ensures they stay in place.

The UVnano charging case is another highlight. Not only does it look modern and elegant, but it also has a unique hygienic function. The case uses UV LED technology that eliminates 99.9% of bacteria from the earbud speaker mesh in just five minutes while charging. I appreciated this feature more than I expected, especially since hygiene is a concern for something you wear so close to your ears daily.

Performance and Sound Quality

I was genuinely impressed by the audio quality of these earbuds. The Meridian Hi-Fi sound technology delivers crisp and immersive sound, with a great balance of bass and treble. Whether I was listening to podcasts, streaming music, or taking calls, the sound clarity was remarkable. The built-in equalizer allowed me to customize the audio settings to my liking, and I couldn’t help but notice how it enhanced the overall listening experience.

The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature works like a charm. With its dual microphones, one detecting external noise and the other canceling it out, I could focus entirely on my music or calls without distractions. The echo cancellation was also a pleasant surprise, ensuring that my voice came through clearly during phone calls, even in noisy environments. However, the ANC must be manually activated, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Key Benefits

• UVnano charging case for improved hygiene.
• Meridian Hi-Fi sound for lifelike audio clarity.
• Comfortable hypoallergenic ear gels for long wear.
• Active Noise Cancellation with dual-microphone technology.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery performance left me satisfied. The earbuds themselves offer 10 hours of playback, and the charging case provides an additional 24 hours. For someone who constantly uses wireless earbuds, this kind of battery life is a lifesaver. I tested out the fast-charging feature, and it genuinely came through when I needed a quick top-up before heading out.

The Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity was seamless, with a range of up to 10 meters. Pairing the earbuds with my devices was a breeze, and the Plug & Wireless feature stood out as a game-changer. Using the USB-C to 3.5mm audio jack adapter, I connected the case to non-Bluetooth devices like an in-flight entertainment system, and the earbuds worked flawlessly. This feature alone makes these earbuds incredibly versatile for travel and daily use.

Positives

• Exceptional battery life with fast-charging support.
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity offers a stable connection.
• Plug & Wireless function adds versatility.

Drawbacks

The LG TONE Free FP9 earbuds are impressive overall, but they’re not without their flaws.

• The ANC feature requires manual activation, which could be more intuitive.
• While the earbuds are IPX4 water-resistant, the charging case isn’t, making it less suitable for harsh outdoor use.
• The audio quality is fantastic, but audiophiles might notice that the bass isn’t as deep as some competing models.

Areas for Improvement

• The charging case could benefit from water resistance for added durability.
• Slightly deeper bass would make the sound profile more versatile.

Competing Products

Comparing these earbuds to Sony WF-1000XM4 and Apple AirPods Pro, I noticed some interesting differences. The Sony earbuds excel in ANC performance and sound depth, particularly the bass, but they’re bulkier and less comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, Apple’s AirPods Pro have a slightly more intuitive user interface and better integration with iOS devices, but they lack the UVnano hygiene feature and the Plug & Wireless capability.

Where the LG earbuds shine is their balance of features. The hygienic case and multi-device compatibility give them an edge, especially for users who prioritize cleanliness and versatility. However, for users who need the absolute best ANC or who are heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, the competitors might be a better fit.

Price Worthiness

Considering the features packed into the LG TONE Free FP9, I think they offer solid value for money. The UV LED charging case, Plug & Wireless function, and impressive battery life set them apart from many competitors in the same price range. While they’re not the cheapest option out there, the added benefits make them worth the investment for anyone looking for quality, hygiene, and versatility in their earbuds.

Additional information