Workflow
I tested Dell's new productivity earbuds, and they outperform my AirPods Pro on work calls
ZDNETยท2025-10-17 14:22

Core Insights - Dell has launched its first wireless earbuds, the Dell Pro Plus, targeting professional environments with features optimized for call clarity and productivity [2][20] - The earbuds are priced at $230 and are designed primarily for professional users, offering excellent audio quality and battery life [7][20] Audio Quality - The Dell Pro Plus earbuds excel in audio quality, particularly for voice calls, providing clear sound and effective noise cancellation through AI technology [4][5] - While they perform well for music, they are not as specialized as other models, resulting in a slightly unbalanced sound profile favoring bass over higher frequencies [8][20] - Users can customize the sound profile via the Dell Audio app, allowing adjustments to bass and treble [9] Battery Life and Charging - The charging case features a 5,000mAh battery, offering up to 33 hours of playback with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled, surpassing competitors like AirPods Pro 3 [12] - The earbuds can last several days with casual use, demonstrating strong battery performance [12] Design and Usability - The earbuds have a chunky charging case and utilize a USB-C port for charging, with a Bluetooth Multipoint feature allowing connection to two devices simultaneously [12][13] - The ANC feature adapts to the environment but is somewhat limited by the earbuds' design, which allows for some sound leakage [14][16] - Touch controls are described as finicky, relying on pinching motions rather than simple taps, which may hinder user experience [18][19] Recommendations - The Dell Pro Plus earbuds are recommended for users seeking reliable audio quality for video calls and meetings, with notable call clarity and impressive battery life [20] - Alternatives such as Sony's LinkBuds Fit are suggested for users prioritizing better ANC performance [21]