Two years in the past, Fairphone launched a pair of modular, fully-repairable headphones referred to as the Fairbuds XL. Now, the Dutch social enterprise is releasing an up to date model the place the main target isn’t simply on the standard of its {hardware}, however on the deserves of its uncooked supplies.
The 2025 Fairbuds XL ship with new “premium” 40mm dynamic drivers and stronger N52 rated magnets for “extra energy and enhanced bass response.” Listeners ought to count on to listen to “improved accuracy in mid and excessive frequencies” due to improved audio tuning. And there’s a brand new paper-based speaker membrane that’s extra refined than what went earlier than.
Sound-quality is definitely improved over the predecessor, with cleaner bass and sharper mid and excessive tones. You’ll be able to actually hear how clear the sound is, particularly while you’re listening to one thing lush and orchestral. Going by my reminiscence from two years in the past, the ANC appears to be unchanged, in a position to cope with undesirable sounds just like the tapping of my very own keyboard with ease.
Clearly, you shouldn’t go in anticipating the identical form of sensible sound you’d get from prime tier producers. Though I feel Fairphone has doubtless closed the hole so whilst you’re nonetheless a era or two behind the bleeding edge, it’s not by a shameful diploma. And, if we’re sincere, if you happen to’re in search of a pair of cans that’ll final you years and years, you’re doubtless in a position to forgive the absence of the shiniest bells and whistles.
Closeup picture of the Fairbuds XL (2025) (Daniel Cooper for Engadget)
It’s simple to note the design adjustments, too, with the extra austere Fairphone emblem and the usage of stable plastic rather than the unique speckled sample. Sadly, that extends to the little pop of copper discovered on the 4 approach joystick, which is now a unique shade of the identical colorway. I get it: Lots of people need their client electronics to mix in, however the lack of whimsy pains me a bit of.
There’s some pretty minor however welcome high quality of life enhancements, together with including automated energy off after half-hour. Plus, patrons get the good thing about a 3 yr guarantee, and might relaxation assured the XL are Longtime licensed. Longtime is a brand new European labeling customary for gear constructed to be long-lived, repairable and supported by a strong restore infrastructure. And, if you happen to already personal a pair of XLs, you should purchase the brand new drivers and slot them into your current cans.
Facet exhibiting emblem. (Daniel Cooper for Engadget)
However, in step with Fairphone’s founding ideas, the replace is equally centered on the uncooked supplies which have gone into making the 2025 XLs. The PU “leather-based” discovered within the ear cushions — hardly a local weather pleasant materials — has been ditched in favor of Hen’s Eye Cloth. That’s a cotton material produced with a collection of air holes for breathability extra generally present in athleisure merchandise. Equally the PU discovered within the headband will get changed with material that jogs my memory of loads of different excessive finish sport headphones.
Beneath the floor, the brand new mannequin comprises one hundred pc honest mined cobalt, copper and silver — by way of mining credit, not less than. The uncommon earth metals used within the speaker magnets are actually one hundred pc recycled, and so they have been assembled in a facility utilizing one hundred pc renewable power. You’ll additionally discover greater than 90 % recycled aluminum, and 80 % recycled plastics, with the corporate pledging to recycle an equal quantity of e-waste to each pair offered. Plus, as standard, Fairphone pays the individuals who assemble the {hardware} a dwelling wage bonus to make sure “employees can cowl their household’s wants.”
Fairbuds XL can be found to order at the moment in Europe each from the Fairphone web site and choose third social gathering retailers. For those who’re within the US, you’ll want to attend till “later” this month, however you’ll be capable to decide them up by way of Amazon for $229.
