The Swift Summary
Pros
Cons
- Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 connection
- Customisable fit
- Waterproof and sweatproof
- Magnetic earbuds (helps you loop them around your neck when not in use)
- 10 hours battery life
- Excellent audio
- Designed specifically for audio and exercise
- Not really designed for watching video
Features list for the Anker SoundBuds Slim+ in-ear headphones
- Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Up to 10 hours battery life
- Customisable fit with additional EarTips and EarWings supplied
- Fully waterproof and sweat resistant (IPX7)
- Built-in microphone
- Inline remote with playback and call controls
- Noise isolation
- Comes with soft pouch bag
- 1 year manufacturers’ warranty
Swift Thoughts
Design
The Anker SoundBuds Slim + earphones are specifically designed for audio and exercising. The EarWings wrap around a portion of your ear to keep them firmly in place, likewise the SoundBuds come with five differently sized EarTips to make sure they fit your inner ear size firmly and comfortably.
So whilst aesthetically they aren’t as minimal as Apple’s AirPods they are neat and very functional.
Audio Performance
The audio quality is excellent. Easily comparable with more expensive wireless earphones. There is a nice balance across the entire frequency spectrum.
I particularly like the noise isolation which I’m sure is helped by the included form fitting EarTips.
The only downside is the lack of any low latency tech like AptX. This results is a small but noticeable audio lag when watching films or TV. This shouldn’t be a deal breaker if you largely listen to audio or are just looking for earphones suitable for running or exercising in.
Build Quality
Anker are well known for creating premium audio products and the SoundBuds are no exception. They are solidly made and the materials durable.
The earphones conform to IPX7 waterproof standards which makes them virtually impervious to sweat or unexpected downpours on your outdoor runs.
Comfort
The Anker SoundBuds are very comfortable largely thanks to the form fitting EarTips. These inner ear pieces come in five sizes: extra small, small, medium, large and extra large. This attention to detail with the included accessories really helps set the Anker SoundBuds apart from the competition.
Functionality
The inline remote feels a little technologically dated compared to more pricey alternatives, but it works very well.
A cleverest feature of the Anker SoundBuds Slim is that the earbuds themselves are magnetic. The earbuds snap together forming a short loop around your neck whilst they’re not in use – nice! Connecting them together after use also helps stop the frustration of wire tangles.
Swift Scores
Design
Audio Performance
Comfort
Build Quality
Functionality
Battery Life
FAQs
Q: What’s the wireless range like?
A: The Anker SoundsBuds Slim can connect to devices up to 10 metres away (approx. 33 feet).
Q: Can I connect them to multiple devices?
A: Yes, up to 8, but not at the same time.
Q: How quick do they charge?
A: They are fully charged in 1.5 hours.
Q: Do they work with the iPhone 11?
A: The original incarnation didn’t, but as long as you purchase the ‘upgraded’ SoundBuds Slim + they will work. Make sure your iPhone is on the latest version of iOS as well.
Q: Will they work with my FitBit Versa?
A: Yes.
Q: Do they support stereo sound?
A: Yes.
Q: Do they work with audio books?
A: Yes.
Q: Are they suitable for swimming in?
A: Whilst they are technically rated IPX7 which means they can be submerged under water for 30 mins (up to 1m deep), Bluetooth doesn’t work under water so Anker are officially not recommending this. This will be the same with all Bluetooth devices.
Q: Are they compatible with Samsung S9?
A: Yes.
Q: Can you pause the music with the remote?
A: The remote can play, pause, skip forward, skip backward and accept calls.
What’s in the box?
- Anker SoundBuds Slim + Earphones
- Alternate EarTips in four extra sizes
- Alternate EarWings in two extra sizes
- Cord management clip
- Shirt clip
- USB charging cable
- Protective case
- User manual
You want it? We’ve found it.
Anker SoundBuds Slim in-ear headphones are available in black.
Useful accessories for Anker SoundBuds Slim +
Running armbands for smartphones
This useful armband by Gritin will strap your phone to your arm and comes with useful reflective stickers and a slot for your door key.
Compatible with iPhone plus / max models including: iPhone 6 plus, 7 plus, 8 plus, XR, XS Max, 11, 11 Pro.
This similar running armband is suitable for regular sized smartphones and iPhone models including: iPhone 6, 7, 8, X, XS, SE 2020.
