TWS true wireless earphones - under $25
THREE STARS - The Syllable S105 is yet another robust offering between TWS true wireless earphones under $25. The size and sound quality are impressive, but not everything is.
Specs of the Syllable S105:
Bluetooth 5.0
3,5 hours listening on a full charge
Charging case can charge earpieces fully 2,5 times
Comes with 3 sizes ear tips, micro-USB cable
$20 on AliExpress or Amazon US (check current price!)
Below this review you will find comparisons between the Syllable S105 vs Haylou GT2, QCY QS2 and Tronsmart Spunky Beat.
Design, comfort and battery life
The great thing about the cheapest wireless earbuds, is that they tend to come in the smallest cases. The Syllable S105 can easily be worn in the smallest pockets and bags; it's that compact. Almost all of its space is taken in by the earpieces, which are little as well.
The earpieces have a smooth, rounded inside, nesting in your ears comfortably. As with other tiny earpieces, like the Tronsmart Spunky Beat and the Bomaker Sifi, they may be too small for some ears. The S105 comes with three sizes, transparent ear tips, but because they are so short, not everyone will find the perfect fit. In most ears, they will likely reside comfortably and tight enough, but you shouldn't use these for gym and workouts.
On the outside, each Syllable earpiece is oval-shaped, with the brand logo blinking in blue. Even when you're actively using them, the light is so bright, you probably won't use this one in bed. Manufacturers should stop this. Period.
Despite the small size, the earpieces still offer 3,5 hours of playtime on a single charge playing on medium to high volume, and the micro-USB powered case can recharge them around 2,5 times fully.
Connectivity and controls of Syllable S105
Within the earpieces, you can click the Syllable logo to activate the controls. A single press plays or pauses the music. Press twice on the right side to increase the volume, twice on the left bud, to decrease it. A longer press advances to the next track (right side) or the previous one (left side). Three clicks activates the voice assistant on your smartphone. The control scheme and the feedback couldn't have been better.
The full score here! Unfortunately, the connection quality isn't up to the same level. While the earpieces pair quickly once you take them out, they don't always shut off immediately when putting them back in the case.
Furthermore, different buyers on AliExpress and Amazon are reporting issues with the left or right side suddenly playing music much softer, or even an earpiece that stops entirely after two months. The same users also report that Syllable is willing to substitute for another, however, this is not a good sign.
Call quality and watching videos
You can watch videos on the Syllable S105 without noticeable delay from the audio, even in the always challenging YouTube-app on the iPhone. When you're gaming, there is still a delay in the sound, although it still performs quite smooth compared to many other wireless earbuds. If you want to have better synchronization for gaming, aim for the QCY T5.
Calling comes with connectivity problems as well on the Syllable S105, which your voice dropping at random when calling. If your voice comes through in the battle with the wind and the traffic, it sounds robot-like. Furthermore, the one you're talking to can seem tinny and full of crackles to you.
Rest assured, there are plenty of wireless earpieces in this price range with bad call quality. It may or may not be a dealbreaker to you.
Sound quality of Syllable S105
The Syllable S105 is one of the most fun, all-round sounding wireless earphones under $25. You can throw all genres at it, and it will sound pleasant.
The bass of the S105 delivers a nice slap, that isn't in-your-face thick like it is on the Tronsmart Spunky Beat, but it's more impactful than some of the other most popular models in this price range, such as the QCY QS2 or Haylou GT2. The Syllable also offers more weight in the lower-mids, giving darker electronic tones, drums, and bass-guitars more stage in the picture.
You get a sweet, warm sound out of the S105. The main reason for it is the restricted highs. Other, mentioned, models offer more emphasis on the higher frequencies. While added highs deliver a more complete sound, it's still easy to fall in love with the warm and smoother sound of the Syllable.
The Syllable S105 offers a solid soundstage, with the music coming in from around you. Instrument placement isn't the best, and instruments sound more natural and impactful on the Haylou GT2, for instance.
Still, the overall picture of the Syllable S105 just works. This is a pleasant listen.
Syllable S105 comparisons
Syllable S105 vs Haylou GT2
The Syllable S105 has more emphasis on the bass and the lower frequencies than the Haylou GT2 ($20). It sounds smoother and warmer. The Haylou offers a less full sound, but present more details within music and vocals. Instrument tonality is better.
Syllable S105 vs QCY QS1/ QS2
The QCY QS2 sounds a little flatter than the Syllable S105, with less emphasis on the bass and highs - and a more balanced presentation overall. The QS2 offers more nuances in vocals and details in the mids and highs; the Syllable has way more weight in the lower-mids.
Syllable S105 vs Tronsmart Spunky Beat
The Tronsmart Spunky Beat ($25) has a more prominent bass thump than the Syllable S105, and further extended highs. It can sound a little splashy, but also fuller next to the warmer sounding S105. The S105 controls way easier, but connectivity on the Tronsmart is better.
Verdict
The Syllable S105 has a great compact charging case and comfortable, tiny earpieces. It offers a smooth, warm sound, but is let down by connectivity and quality issues.
Three stars - worth considering
Buy Syllable S105 / check current price:
I bought the Syllable S105 myself to test and review. I test and review all audio products equally honest - read about it here.
Consider buying this earphone? I'd really appreciate it if you use the links in this article. It won't cost you extra, yet it will financially support me a bit in my ongoing quest for great affordable audio. <3
Also read:
Leaderboard: All rated wireless earphones
