Tozo NC9 Earbuds Review: A Budget-Friendly Alternative to Apple AirPods
Tozo NC9 Earbuds: A Budget Alternative to AirPods

Tozo NC9 Earbuds: A Surprising Contender in the Wireless Audio Market

As a dedicated Apple user with an iPhone, multiple Mac computers, and several generations of AirPods, I was firmly entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. I had heard the arguments for more affordable and feature-rich alternatives, but convenience and integration kept me loyal. That all changed when I impulsively purchased the Tozo NC9 noise-cancelling wireless earbuds during a Black Friday sale for just $40 on Amazon.

What Drew Me to the Tozo NC9 Earbuds

Several factors piqued my interest in these specific earbuds. With upcoming travel plans, I had been curious about active noise-cancelling (ANC) technology for some time. My previous AirPods, from the second and third generations, lacked this feature entirely. The Tozo NC9s also offered a vibrant selection of seven colors; I opted for a refreshing pale green. Additionally, positive coverage from colleagues and reviewers who praised their sound quality, battery life, and significantly lower cost compared to AirPods convinced me to give them a try.

Putting the Tozo NC9s to the Test

The moment I unboxed the earbuds, I was struck by the exceptional sound quality. The active noise-cancelling function proved effective during my daily commute and on crowded flights. While it doesn't create complete silence, it represents a monumental upgrade from my previous experience and has genuinely transformed how I listen in noisy environments. Mastering the touch controls for toggling ANC required a brief learning period due to their sensitivity, but I adapted quickly after a few attempts.

A standout feature is the customizable fit. The package includes multiple sizes of earcaps, allowing users to find the perfect seal. For my narrower ears, the extra-small tips provided an ideal, secure fit that enhanced both comfort and audio performance.

Battery Life and User Impressions

The battery performance has been nothing short of remarkable. I use the earbuds at least twice daily with ANC activated and have not needed to recharge the case for weeks. This is a substantial improvement over my AirPods and offers significant peace of mind, especially while traveling.

Other reviewers echo this enthusiasm, highlighting:

  • Waterproofing capabilities, with some users even wearing them in the shower.
  • Exceptional battery life, often described in glowing, superlative terms.
  • The ability to customize sound profiles via the Tozo app for a personalized listening experience.

Many express sheer amazement at the audio quality relative to the price, with one reviewer noting they "blew my mind!"

Comparing to AirPods and Final Verdict

Will I completely abandon my AirPods? Not entirely. I still appreciate their slimmer design for side-sleeping while listening to music. However, for everyday use and travel, the Tozo NC9 earbuds are highly recommended. The value proposition is astonishing, offering premium features at a fraction of the cost. I suspect their durability might even surpass that of my AirPods. For anyone seeking a secondary pair or wanting to experience ANC without a hefty investment, these earbuds are a formidable choice.

Don't just take my word for it. Numerous former AirPod users have shared their positive experiences:

  • Melanie praised the perfect fit for small ears and effective noise cancellation during household chores.
  • Lexa found them more comfortable than AirPods with comparable sound quality after a brief adjustment to the controls.
  • Chad was amazed by the sound and ANC performance at a fraction of the cost of AirPod Pro 2, emphasizing the importance of a good fit.
  • Michelle called the ANC, battery life, and sound "phenomenal," putting more expensive options to shame.
  • kc97421 highlighted the seamless connectivity, durable feel, and perfect fit achieved with the included earcap options.

Priced at $40 on Amazon, the Tozo NC9 noise-cancelling earbuds present a compelling case for budget-conscious audiophiles and tech enthusiasts alike, challenging the dominance of premium brands with impressive performance and affordability.