- By Vikas Yadav
- Sun, 24 Sep 2023 08:14 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW TWS Review: The landscape for true wireless earbuds under Rs 8,000 lacks a fierce touch like the budget category, where a galaxy of choices awaits buyers. If you venture into the market, options from companies like Sony, Samsung, JBL, Nothing, and others will strike your eye. Amidst this handful of choices, one product that stands out is the Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW Wireless Earbuds.
We recently got our hands on the TWS from the Japanese audio accessory brand. After using them for about a month, I believe they offer excellent sound for the price. Through this review, I will share my observations about the TWS and answer whether you should invest in this premium accessory or not.
Build and Design:
ATH-SQ1TW have an ergonomic design for a comfortable fit and a small fin to provide grip inside the ears. The plastic case has a matte finish that looks premium inside out. Speaking of the buds, they are well-built with a blend of glossy and matte accents. But rough usage might attract scratches in the long run.
Subtle Audio-Technica branding is there on the buds and the case. These tiny buds have backlit left and right indications. The hinge has a satisfying feel, which might lure you into playing with it. However, it feels durable in the hands. Overall, the design is well-executed.
Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW Sound Quality:
The TWS boasts 5.8mm Dynamic drivers, which may seem surprising. But do not get disillusioned by the numbers - they are too good for crystal-clear music listening. I enjoyed my time with them and chimed for hours without any problems. The stereo separation is impeccable. They beautifully produce details in audio and offer a safe volume level that is loud enough to enjoy tracks and movies. You will surely explore unheard bits in your seasoned songs with them.
The sound stage is wide enough to deliver a 3D listening experience. As for the bass, it is deep and adequate when required. But bass lovers may crave more if they are into strong ear drum movements. The treble and vocals are mesmerising enough to melt your heart in favour of these TWS.
Speaking of the calling experience, I did not face problems with the buds indoors or outdoors. But, there were minor issues in supremely noisy surroundings (I missed ANC here). But otherwise, the feedback is positive. Plus, it has a 'Hear-Through Function' that cancels out noises from the surroundings. But the difference is not as pristine as you would expect on an ANC-enabled TWS. Also, it automatically turns on Hear-Through during calls, which feels unnecessary sometimes.
Gaming and Connectivity:
Low-Latency mode ensures you get a seamless response out of your action-packed sequences. The earpiece performs well in fast-action games and during quick dialogue delivery. But they are not as capable as other gaming-centric TWS you might discover at this price range. The IPX5-rated buds offer Google Fast Pair and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity. A prompt to pair the TWS swiftly pops up whenever you open the case and pull the buds out.
Battery and Touch Controls:
Audio-Technica claims a battery life of six hours with the buds. During my intensive testing, I extracted slightly over five hours from the buds in one go. The case can charge the TWS about two and a half times. Audio-Technica claims a battery backup of around 20 hours with the case. It can deliver well over 17 hours in real life. You can top up the percentage back to 100 via the USB-C port.
The touch controls on the TWS work fine. From changing tracks to enabling Hear-Through, they were on point. Once you put them on, these smart sensors get activated with the touch of the fingers. But the feedback time needs improvement. While it is not a major con, the delay makes them feel laggy sometimes.
Scope of Improvements:
While the earbuds offer amazing sound, the company can improve the Smart Touch sensor feedback time. Plus, ANC and app for better customisations can make the future offerings an all-round package for the device. Plus, high-quality codes can add even more zing to the sound.
Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW Price In India And Should You Buy?
As an unsaid rule - If it is a TWS, it must sound good. Scratch 'good' in this case because they sound awesome. If you are out in the market searching for a TWS that offers superb sound quality and excellent build, get the Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW without any second thought. I can vouch that this is one of the near-perfect TWS I have heard this year in this price range.
The TWS' mesmerising sound takes you into an unmatched musical ecstasy that is hard to match. But if you prioritise insane battery life, ANC, and customisations via the app, you might have to skip them and keep your TWS search active.
Priced at Rs 7,490 on Amazon, the TWS is listed in four colour options: Black, White, Mustard and Navy Red. They come with a standard one-year warranty.