Introduction

Apple’s EarPods with USB-C connector have arrived, and I’ve spent the last few weeks putting them through their paces. This review covers the various models listed (MTJY3ZM / MTJY3ZE / MTJY3ZEA / MTJY3FE/A / MTJY3ZM/A / MYQY3ZE/A), as my experience was consistent across them. These wired earbuds offer a simple, yet effective listening experience, but do they justify their price point in today’s market brimming with wireless options? Let’s dive in.

Features

The EarPods with USB-C boast a straightforward design. They are simple, in-ear earbuds with a wired connection. Their minimalist approach is both a strength and a weakness; there are no fancy features like noise cancellation or customizable EQ settings. However, this simplicity translates to ease of use and a focus on core functionality – delivering clear audio. The cable is of decent length for most situations and feels relatively durable. The in-ear design provides a comfortable fit for extended use, although some might find they need time to adjust to the fit.

What they *do* offer is reliable audio playback control and call management via the inline remote, making them practical for both music and calls. The sweat and water resistance is a welcome addition for those who like to use them during workouts.

Performance

Sound quality is a key factor in any earbud review. The EarPods with USB-C deliver a surprisingly balanced audio experience. Bass is present but not overpowering; highs are clear, and mids are well-represented. While not as rich or detailed as some higher-end earbuds, they sound perfectly adequate for everyday listening – podcasts, music, and audiobooks all sound pleasing. The audio quality does hold up even at higher volumes, without significant distortion.

The call quality was also consistently good; the built-in microphone did a decent job of blocking out background noise and delivered a clear voice on the other end, in most environments. There were slight dips in quality in particularly noisy environments, but this was expected for an earbud without active noise cancellation.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Simple and effective design, good sound quality for the price, reliable call quality, sweat and water resistance, easy to use.
• Cons: Lacks advanced features like noise cancellation or a wireless connection, may not fit all ear shapes perfectly.

Final Verdict

The Apple EarPods with USB-C are a solid choice for anyone looking for a simple, reliable pair of wired earbuds. They deliver good sound quality, decent call clarity, and are comfortable enough for extended listening sessions. The lack of advanced features is notable, but this simplicity makes them easy to use and maintain. If you’re looking for a no-frills, functional earbud that connects directly to your device via USB-C, these may be for you. However, if you need wireless functionality or features like active noise cancellation, then you’ll want to look at other, more advanced options. Overall, I’d recommend them for their value and simplicity.