EASYSMX 20 Review: 7-Month Problems & Honest Opinion

by Hugo van Dijk 53 views

Hey guys! So, I've been using the EASYSMX 20 headphones for about seven months now, and I thought it was time to share my honest experience. While there are definitely some things I love about them, I've also run into a few issues that I think potential buyers should be aware of. This isn't your typical glowing review – I'm diving deep into the nitty-gritty to give you a real-world perspective. If you're considering buying these headphones, or just curious about my experience, keep reading!

The Good Stuff: What I Initially Loved About the EASYSMX 20

Let's start with the positives because there are definitely some things that initially drew me to the EASYSMX 20. When I first unboxed them, I was immediately impressed with the sleek design and comfortable feel. The earcups are plush and fit snugly over my ears, providing a decent amount of noise isolation even without active noise cancellation. This was a big selling point for me, as I often use headphones in noisy environments like coffee shops or on public transport.

Sound quality was another major plus right out of the gate. The EASYSMX 20 boasts a balanced sound profile, with clear highs, rich mids, and a satisfyingly deep bass. I listen to a wide range of music genres, from classical to electronic, and these headphones handled everything with aplomb. The soundstage is surprisingly wide for closed-back headphones, making for an immersive listening experience. I particularly enjoyed using them for gaming, as the directional audio cues were accurate and helped me pinpoint enemy positions.

The battery life is also worth mentioning. EASYSMX claims up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge, and I found this to be pretty accurate in my testing. I could easily get through a full week of moderate use without needing to plug them in, which is a huge convenience. The included USB-C charging port is another nice touch, as it's a more modern and universal standard than micro-USB. Plus, a quick 15-minute charge gives you several hours of playback, perfect for those times when you're in a hurry.

Finally, the built-in microphone performed admirably for phone calls and online meetings. My voice came through clear and crisp, and I didn't experience any major issues with background noise. This made the EASYSMX 20 a great all-in-one solution for both music listening and communication.

The Dark Side: My Problems After 7 Months of Use

Okay, now for the not-so-good stuff. While my initial impressions of the EASYSMX 20 were largely positive, some issues have cropped up over the past seven months that have definitely impacted my overall satisfaction. These aren't necessarily deal-breakers, but they're definitely worth considering before you make a purchase.

1. Durability Concerns: The biggest issue I've encountered is the overall build quality. The plastic construction, while lightweight, feels a bit cheap and flimsy. I've noticed some creaking and flexing, especially in the headband, which doesn't inspire confidence in its long-term durability. I haven't been particularly rough with these headphones – I mostly use them at my desk or during my commute – but they definitely don't feel as robust as some other headphones I've owned in the past.

After using them daily for a few months, the earcups started to show wear and tear. The pleather material began to peel and crack, particularly around the edges. This not only looks unsightly but also affects the comfort, as the exposed foam can be irritating against the skin. I've tried cleaning and conditioning the earcups, but the damage seems to be irreversible. Considering the price point of these headphones, I would have expected a more durable material to be used.

The hinges that allow the earcups to swivel and fold have also become looser over time. This makes the headphones feel less secure on my head, and I sometimes worry that they might break if I accidentally put too much pressure on them. I've tried tightening the screws, but they seem to strip easily, which is another indication of the low-quality materials used.

2. Comfort Issues: While the EASYSMX 20 headphones were initially comfortable, I've started to experience some discomfort during longer listening sessions. The earcups, while plush, can get quite warm and sweaty after an hour or two, which can be unpleasant. This is especially noticeable during the summer months or in warm environments. The clamping force of the headphones is also a bit on the tighter side, which can cause pressure on my ears and temples, leading to headaches.

The headband padding is adequate, but it could definitely be improved. It's not particularly thick or plush, and I've found that it can sometimes create a pressure point on the top of my head. This is especially true if I'm wearing a hat or glasses. I've tried adjusting the headband, but I haven't been able to find a position that eliminates this issue completely.

3. Sound Quality Degradation: While the sound quality was impressive initially, I've noticed a slight degradation over time. The bass response seems to have weakened, and the overall soundstage feels less expansive. This could be due to the drivers breaking in, but it's still a noticeable difference. I've tried adjusting the EQ settings on my devices, but I haven't been able to completely restore the original sound quality.

Another issue I've encountered is some distortion at higher volumes. This is particularly noticeable in tracks with complex instrumentation or heavy bass. I've tried using different audio sources and cables, but the distortion persists. This suggests that the drivers may be struggling to handle high volumes, which is disappointing.

4. Connectivity Problems: The EASYSMX 20 uses Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity, which is generally reliable. However, I've experienced occasional dropouts and stuttering, especially in crowded areas or when my device is in my pocket. This can be frustrating, particularly when I'm listening to music on the go. I've tried troubleshooting the issue by restarting my devices and resetting the headphones, but the problem sometimes reappears.

The Bluetooth range is also not as good as I expected. I've found that the connection starts to break up if I move more than about 20 feet away from my device, even with a clear line of sight. This can be inconvenient if I'm moving around my house or office while listening to music.

Final Verdict: Are the EASYSMX 20 Headphones Worth It?

So, after seven months of use, what's my final verdict on the EASYSMX 20 headphones? Well, it's a mixed bag. On the one hand, they offer good sound quality, long battery life, and a comfortable fit (initially). On the other hand, the durability issues, comfort problems during extended use, sound quality degradation, and connectivity problems are definitely concerning.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly pair of headphones for casual listening, the EASYSMX 20 might be worth considering. However, if you're a serious audiophile or someone who needs headphones for heavy-duty use, I'd recommend looking elsewhere. There are other options in the same price range that offer better build quality and long-term reliability.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the EASYSMX 20 headphones is a personal one. I hope this detailed review has given you a better understanding of their pros and cons, so you can make an informed choice. Remember to weigh your priorities and consider your individual needs before making a purchase. Happy listening, guys!