Heavys H1E review finds metal-tuned earbuds strong on bass, weak on connectivity

TechRadar describes the H1E as punchy and bass-prominent, with high-quality dynamic drivers that it estimates at 10-14mm, a figure Heavys has not publicly disclosed. The review says the company promises a "concert-like experience" and that the earbuds largely deliver it across most metal sub-genres under the right conditions. Build quality drew praise, including a tactile case that can be customized with shells, and multiple silicone and memory foam ear tips in a range of sizes that the reviewer found comfortable over long sessions.

The earbuds carry a list price above several mainstream rivals and are positioned against mid-range models such as the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 and, arguably, the Apple AirPods Pro 3, rather than premium options like the Technics EAH-AZ100 or Bowers & Wilkins Pi8. TechRadar notes the H1E has been discounted to $169 in the United States and £150 in the United Kingdom. Where those competing brands aim for general listening, the review says the H1E is a situational, purpose-built purchase.

Connectivity was the main complaint. The earbuds use low-latency Bluetooth 5.4 with multi-point, which TechRadar says works well when it works at all. During months of testing, the reviewer said the earbuds repeatedly "forgot" a paired Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, forcing re-pairing and sometimes re-connection between charges, and that on occasion only one earbud would connect, requiring the pairing process to be restarted. The review states the reviewer had not experienced comparable problems with other earbuds or headphones.

Battery life is listed at seven hours per charge and 24 hours with the case, which TechRadar calls middling. The "Hellblocker" active noise cancellation is described as surprisingly mediocre for earbuds at this price, and the review adds that tonal balancing varies widely between tracks.

TechRadar concludes that the H1E is niche and flawed but stands out for its listening experience. It says the earbuds could be worthwhile for listeners who play almost nothing but heavy metal, and a poor choice for other music, adding that competition at this price is tougher than the H1E's specialism can offset. The review was written by a metal musician who said the earbuds were worthwhile despite their limits outside that genre.