Smart Product Reviews
Smart doorbells are starting to become an integral part of home security. Unlike before, wherein the only function of a doorbell is to alert the whole house that there is someone at the door, nowadays, doorbells can do a lot more; like inform you beforehand who’s at your doorsteps and notify you if there are any movements outside your home.
[Read more…] about Nest Hello VS Ring Pro: Pros & Cons and Verdict
Bluetooth headsets is another one of those devices that have become an integral part of our lives because of the convenience that comes with it. First off, there are no messy wires hanging out and you don’t have to hold the device or strap it in your arms all the time. Rather your device can be in your bag at the gym or at a table at home and you can continue doing your work and listen to music!
This convenience is what has made Bluetooth headsets so popular today.
Many companies are trying to hustle and bustle to enter this market because it is lucrative. One of the best companies that have already established themselves in this sphere is Jaybirds. They have a series of headsets that offer some of the best sounds and battery life, and they also look chic to go with your personality.
In this article, we will be reviewing two of their well-known products – Jaybird Bluebuds X and Jaybird X2 to see which is better.
Jaybird X2 is the next version of Jaybird Bluebuds, that is also called as Jaybird X. Here is a detailed comparison of the two products.
One of the prominent changes is in the name. The earlier version had the name “bluebuds” to it, while the subsequent version just says X2, and no mentioned of “bluebuds.”
Both the models look fairly the same in terms of design. In fact, if you keep both the models side by side, you’ll be surprised at how similar they look right down to the Jaybird logo embossed on the sides.
In both the models, the two earpieces are bridged by a flat cable about 21″ in length and the earpieces are cylindrical in shape. The whole weight of both these products average a mere 13 grams, making it ideal.
However, ensure that the wires do not get tangled at the back of your neck during a heavy workout. To ease this aspect, Jaybird has included a trio of cord-management clips with each product and using these clips you can shorten or lengthen the wire to match your preferences.
Probably the only difference is the finish. X2 are in a matte finish while its predecessor is glossy. Maybe the difference is just to show that these are two different models! Apart from that, there is no reason for any change considering that Jaybird bluebuds X were a hit among users. This change could also be due to reviews that pointed out the plastic finish of Bluebuds. So, to give it a more refined look, Jaybird could have given it a matte finish. Though it is definitely a refinement, it is not significant enough to make it a central point of difference.
Another area where there is a difference in terms of design is the choice of colours. The X2 comes in more colours than Bluebuds and this could make a difference to those who are specific about colour preferences.
Build quality is fairly similar too, as both the models are sweat-proof and come with a lifetime guarantee against water damage. This means you can sport them during your run, even if it rains outside as your headphones will not get damaged!
One more aspect is the carrying case. Though this is a good feature in both the model, the case in X2s is made of silicon when compared to the clamshell-style of Bluebuds. The advantage is the X2 case shuts down more tightly than Bluebuds and this means, the headphones get better protection from dirt and dust.
The verdict – Since the design changes are minor, both the models score well on this front. However, if you have been looking for a particular colour, the chances are you’ll find that in X2 than in Bluebuds. Also, the carrying case is better in X2 and that’s another aspect to consider.
Another key difference, though minor, is the fit options. Both the headphones come with earpieces that are slightly larger than your conventional wired headphones, but that is understandable considering that it is wireless.
In addition, it is also easy to install the ear pins in both the models. They slide over the earpiece snugly. However, it makes a little bit of time to get familiar with the orientation and donning, but once you get it right, the sound quality is great. All that you have to do is lock the tip of the rear fin in the top part of the ear. The ear fin should touch the lower side, back and top portions of the ear bowl to get a snug fit.
If you’re looking for the “R” and “L” letters to know which side each earpiece should go into, you’ll be disappointed. The manual clearly says that you’ll have to figure it out by the angle of the ear tip. Well, Jaybird could have had those letterings in both the models to make life easy for users. For some reason, they left it out!
While Bluebuds X came with three pairs of ear tips, X2 comes with six tips, out of which three are silicon tips while the other three are foam tips. This means X2 is sure to feel comfortable if you had problems getting a good fit from Bluebuds X.
Also, if you found Bluebuds a little comfortable, X2 is the choice for you as it comes with more fitting options.
The winner in this category is X2 because the earplugs are definitely more comfortable and give a snug fit when compared to Bluebuds.
The controls are identical in both the models.
The USB charging port is located right under the right earpiece’s end cap. When you plug it in, the headphones will be charged.
The top button is for increasing volume while the bottom one is for reducing the volume. The centre button can be used to take calls and to play or pause. A one-second push of the top button will allow you to navigate to the next song on your playlist while a one-second push on the bottom button will navigate to the previous song. A one-second push on the middle button turns on the headphones and can also be used to reject calls. Finally, a four-second push of the middle button turns off the headphone.
Since the controls are identical in both the models, there is nothing much to compare here.
Jaybird Bluebuds X and Jaybird X2 use the same Bluetooth version 2.1 EDR, and this might make you think that you’ve even bought the wrong product considering the newer Bluetooth versions that are available. In fact, most headphones released in the same year as X2 use Bluetooth 4.0 or 4.1. This might make you wonder why in the world does X2 not use any of the higher Bluetooth versions.
Well, that’s because Jaybird insists that the higher versions of Bluetooth do not offer better audio quality when compared to version 2.1, so it found no reason to upgrade to a higher Bluetooth version. Is this a good move? Just depends on you!
If you’ve heard other headphones and if you think that there is a significant difference in audio quality because of the higher Bluetooth version used, then obviously it’s not the right choice by Jaybird. On the other hand, if you find no difference and if you’re unable to attribute it to Bluetooth version, Jaybird is justified in its decision. Frankly speaking, identifying this change and attributing it to a specific Bluetooth version is tough, but you’re welcome to take this challenge.
The pairing process is identical in both the models, so there is nothing much to compare there. But, the one significant difference is the audio cues. Bluebuds have a lot more cues when you make changes and those are greatly reduced in X2. In fact, every time you increase volume in your headphones, you’ll hear an audio chirp in Bluebuds, but that’s gone in X2. In this area, X2 definitely scores over Bluebuds because if you increase the volume, you should just hear the volume change and not any notification associated with it.
Another significant aspect of connectivity is dropouts. Unfortunately, there were many instances of dropout in Bluebuds, even at a distance of four to five feet. Thankfully, that issue seems to have been resolved in X2 and there were no dropouts, even at a distance of five feet.
So, the winner? X2 because it has less audio cues and lower dropout rates when compared to Bluebuds X.
One area where X2 scores significantly over Bluebuds is battery life.
Though Jaybird claims that both the products have eight hours of playing time and need about two and a half hours to charge the battery fully, it was not the case. Repeated tests show that Bluebuds only reached about six to six and a half hours of playing time with a fully charged battery whereas X2 consistently reached the eight-hour mark.
This difference is probably because many reviewers pointed out to the lower battery life of Bluebuds, and Jaybird simply wanted to fix it in X2.
That said, eight hours of battery life has become more or less a norm in the world of wireless headphones today, so the eight-hour battery life of X2 is not something that should require significant attention.
Either way, X2 is the winner here because its battery life is consistent and accurate.
This is probably the most important parameter when it comes to comparing two headphones.
One of the aspects that make a difference to sound quality is the fit. When the headphones fit well into your ears, it greatly enhances your audio experience. Looking at the sound quality from this perspective, X2 is better because it offers more options to get a better fit. You can opt from the three silicon or the three foam tips to get the fit you prefer. Though in Bluebuds, you could buy the extra foam tips, it is still an extra job. Since these foam buds are included as a part of the product, X2 is better, though not that significantly.
In terms of quality though, both the headphones sound similar. Though some reviewers believe that the sound quality in X2 is much better than that of Bluebuds, it is debatable because when you pay more, you tend to believe that it is better. Besides this psychological difference, both the headphones seem to have more or less the same sound quality.
A good aspect of both the headphones is that they exclude ambient noise, so you can simply enjoy your music without any disturbance whatsoever. That said, these headphones are not always the best choice when it comes to cycling or running in the outdoors because you do need ambient sound for your own safety.
Also, both these headphones have a balanced sound with good undertones and clarity. In fact, they are comparable with wired headphones when it comes to sound quality, which is a surprise because wired headphones tend to transmit sound better. There are no visible sound distortions in both the models, and this makes them really good products to enjoy good audio wirelessly.
The vocals sound naturally in the ears while the mid-range is good too. Probably, one of the best aspects of any Jaybird headphone is its treble presence. The high-pitched details like your cymbals are clear and vibrant, and this is where both X2 and Bluebuds scores over other wireless headphones in the same category.
Overall, the sound is encompassing and immersive, and it is great to have both these aspects in a headphone of this price range. In fact, the sounds emulate a 3D environment and could give a soundstage feel.
That said, the bass is a little disappointing in both the models, so this may not be the ideal choice for bass heads. Otherwise, there is no perceptible difference in sound quality between the two products.
One possible difference could be the presence of more bass in X2 when compared to Bluebuds. Also, there are some mild refinements in the midrange and this makes some tones have a pleasing signature to it. But, the difference is not really that significant enough and can be felt only in some tracks.
In general though, if you don’t like how Bluebuds sound, the chances are high to not like the sound of X2 as well. If you were expecting X2 to have a better or different sound quality, you’ll be disappointed!
The final verdict – both the headphones are winners because their audio quality is quite good. Clear tones and good treble make them better than many other expensive brands available today. Between these two models though, there is only a slight difference that may also be subjective, so it is safe to say that there is no difference in sound quality and both are equally good.
This is the most important aspect that could determine your choice. You can check the prices of Jaybird X2 and Bluebuds X by clicking the hyperlinks.
The difference is not much really, but is the extra money justified?
Not really. X2 is similar to Bluebuds in many aspects, except maybe the battery life. Is that money more worth the extra one or one and a half hours you’ll get every time is a question that you should answer for yourself? If you think that one hour difference is significant for you, go for X2. Otherwise, Bluebuds is a good choice.
In fact, it is one of the most that offer the best value for money. With so many overpriced headphones out there, Jaybird Bluebuds offers a fairly similar audio quality at less than half the price. But, if you think the fit, case and battery life are essential, go for X2 (Bluebuds X were also discontinued by Jaybird).
In this section, let’s get a bird’s eye view of the pros and cons of both these products.
Below are some of the advantages of buying Bluebuds.
There are also a few cons that come with bluebuds, as with any product. So, let’s quickly run through them as well.
Here’s a look into the positive aspects of Jaybird X2.
Jaybird X2 also comes with some negative aspects, and they are:
Now that we have reviewed both Jaybird Bluebuds and Jaybird X2, which is better?
The answer is both are great headphone products that offer good value for money. The sound quality is fantastic, as you can hear bass, midrange and highs quite clearly in both the models.
When you compare both the models, the difference is not really that significant, except in a few minor areas. The casing of X2 is better and tighter than Bluebuds, and this could keep out more dirt and dust from your headphones. Secondly, the battery life is slightly longer, though the manufacturer claims that both the products have an eight-hour battery life. In reality, Bluebuds has only about six and a half hours when compared to the consistent eight hours of X2.
One area where X2 is better is the fit. With six tips, three of silicon and three of foam, it is sure to give a great fit for anyone, when compared to just three tips of silicon from Bluebuds.
In terms of cost, X2 is a little pricier than Bluebuds, and this extra cost is not really justified because there isn’t much difference between the two products.
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So, which of these is better? Both are the same and there is not much difference between them. But, if you think that the fit, case and battery life are significant enough to spend an extra few dollars, go for X2. Otherwise, Bluebuds is great as well! But keep in mind that Jaybird discontinued the Bluebuds X and it’s no longer in production.
Either way, both the products are excellent for this price range and offer good value for your money.
| Headphones | Jaybird Bluebuds X | Jaybird X2 |
| Amazon Link |  | |
Vacuuming the house is not a fun job, so you should be more than happy to hand over that job to someone else. Even better, if it’s a robot because you can have complete control over their working.
While having a robotic vacuum cleaner feels like a dream come true, in reality, it’s not always the case, because many models tend to have more focus on intelligent programming than a clean vacuuming system. In other words, these robotic vacuum cleaners can process your commands fast and efficiently, but the same can’t be said about cleaning.
There are a few companies though that are trying to change this trend, so the robotic vacuum cleaners, also called robovac, can score well on both the areas.
One such company is iRobot that has released many best-selling robovacs and has a good reputation for creating quality products. Two products that top their list are Roomba 690 and Roomba 890.
Let’s compare these two products to understand which of the two is better.
Both the models are well-known for their good cleaning performance, aesthetic looks and smart features. Let’s explore the differences between them to understand which is better.
Roomba 690 has silver and black aesthetic with green accents for special features. This two-layered tone adds a touch of class to the product while the green accents are used to highlight the carrying handle and the dust-bin release. These accents are particularly helpful for those who are using this product for the first time and are not too comfortable with its working.
The design of Roomba 890, on the other hand, has dark grey and black instead of silver and black on Roomba 690. There are also no brightly coloured accents in this model, as the design itself is intuitive and doesn’t need accents to tell users about different operations.
In both the models, the central panel has a “CLEAN” button. When you press this button, the auto clean cycle starts automatically. The working of both these products can be controlled with the iRobot smartphone app or by using voice assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Also, these models come with four basic activities, such as:
There is no clear winner in terms of design because both these models offer their own advantages. The green accents on Roomba 690 make it easier for users while the cohesive colour combination in Roomba 890 makes it more attractive. In terms of usability though, there is no difference and this is why both the models score well on the design factor.
Roomba 690 is 13″ in diameter and 3.6″ in height. This size is fairly average in the world of robotic vacuum cleaners and is of a decent size to get under furniture or reaching to the tight corners.
Roomba 890 also comes with similar dimensions. Its diameter is 13.9″ while the height is 3.6″, so there is not much difference here. This is also a fairly standard size and should be able to go under most pieces of furniture and tight spots.
Obviously, there is no winner here too because both the models have a similar size and dimension, and both are good in manoeuvring around.
This is one of the most critical aspects of the vacuum cleaner, and this is also the area where many other similar brands fail.
Roomba 690 cleans with a spinning side brush, central bristle brush roll and a strong vacuum suction. Together, these three do a fantastic job of cleaning the place for you.
The side brushes push the dirt from the edges and corners to the central brush roll. This roll, in turn, gathers all the dust while the vacuum suction does an effective job of cleaning the entire area that it can cover.
Roomba 890 also has a similar three-pronged strategy to give you the most perfect clean. The added advantage is that the central brush roll is more advanced than the one Roomba 690 uses. Unlike the 690, it has dual brush rolls called debris extractors that gather all possible dirt and dust including small hairs. This is why Roomba 890 is ideal in homes that have pets or people with long hairs.
Many reviewers have tested both these products across different floors and kinds of debris. On hardwood floors, Roomba 690 collected 99% of rice, 100% of cereal, 96% of cat litter and 95% of sugar whereas Roomba 890 collected 100% of rice, 100% of cereal, 92% of cat litter and 100% of sugar respectively.
In low pile carpet tests, Roomba 690 gathered 100% of rice and cereal, 98% of cat litter and 72% if sugar while Roomba 890 gathered 100% of rice, cereal and litter, but only 65% of sugar. The exact reason for this difference is hard to point out to any feature.
On high pile carpets, Roomba 690 gathered 99% of rice, cereal and cat litter, and 66% of sugar. Roomba 890, on the other hand, gathered 100% of rice, cereal and cat litter, while it collected 50% of sugar.
In these tests, Roomba 890 performed better in cleaning all debris except sugar. Though Roomba 690 also did a great job, the 890 model just out did it.
The final verdict – both the products do a good cleaning job, but Roomba 890 is definitely better, especially if you want to clean hair and other tiny particles often.
| Roomba 690 | Roomba 890 |
| |
Both the models use iRobot proprietary algorithm called iAdapt to navigate their way through the floor plan. With this technology, the robovacs can understand the kind of floor they are working on, sense walls and edges and avoid falls.
Though both the models are equal on this front, yet their navigation performance varies because of the presence or absence of other features.
The edge sensors present along the front side of Roomba 690 have a drop detection technology, so it prevents the device from falling over stairs or lofted spaces. Yet, Roomba 690’s navigation is a little suspect because it does not come with a memory mapping feature. This is why complicated floor plans or those with multi-levels are not ideal for Roomba’s 690.
On the other hand, Roomba 890 comes with a memory mapping feature, which means, it can understand even the most complicated floor plans and navigate through them. This memory mapping feature uses infrared to identify obstacles and layouts, and the same is stored in memory so that the device can remember it the next time.
Also, this feature increases the efficiency of Roomba 890 as it does not waste time and energy bumping into obstacles again and again. The edge sensors, however, are present in the same place as that of Roomba 690, but the presence of memory mapping technology greatly enhances its navigation.
So, the final verdict is that Roomba 890 scores big time on this feature. Its navigation and efficiency are clearly much better than Roomba 690.
Both the models use advanced technologies and acoustic sensors for dirt detection, which means, they can identify the dirtier areas and spend more time cleaning them.
In addition, Roomba 890 has a range of optical sensors that make it better at identifying dirt and cleaning them.
So, if you think you’re going to end up with dirtier floors often, Roomba 890 is your choice.
Roomba 690 uses AeroVac filtration system to filter out all the dust particles and debris. The filter that this model uses is called AeroVac. The main job of this filter is to pull all the hair, dirt and grime off the brushes and move them to the dustbin. The AeroVac filters do a reasonable job in filtering dust, carpet fuzz, dirt and pet hair, but sometimes the fuzz and hair could get tangled in the filters.
Also, the filter is fairly large and takes up substantial space in the dustbin, but it is quite effective. The problem, though, is that there is not much space in the dustbin for debris. This could prove to be a problem when you have to remove considerable debris from any place.
Roomba 890, on the other hand, uses a HEPA filtration system called AeroForce. These are high-efficiency filters that are known to trap more than 99% of all dust, allergens, pollen and anything else that is 10 microns or less. This pretty much means almost every bit of dust in your house, including your pet’s hair, carpet fuzz, pencil shavings, dust and so much more.
This filter is much smaller when compared to that of Roomba 690, and this means, there is more space to hold debris. As a result, it is more effective in cleaning large areas of debris.
In addition, this is a brushless system, so the brushes do not have to be cleaned periodically like the 690 model. The motor of 890 is more powerful and so, provides a stronger suction force. In fact, the suction force is five times more in 890 when compared to 690.
The winner of this category is definitely Roomba 890 as its filtering system is much more effective when compared to 690. In fact, iRobot has rectified the mistakes made in 690 in this model, especially with respect to the filtering system.
Both the vacuum cleaners are “smart” and connect to your home Wi-Fi system. The obvious advantage is you can control them from your smartphone app. You can even schedule the cleaning time, preferably when no one is at home, and the devices will clean the entire house for you. So, a clean home will welcome you back from work.
In terms of comfort and convenience, cleaning your house is just a breeze. You can even send voice commands over Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa to get the job done.
However, neither of these devices can deliver what’s called the Clean Map report to give you an idea of how much area it has cleaned, how much dust it has collected, the date and time of cleaning and more.
In comparison, both the devices offer the same amount of connectivity and features. But, they can offer more, especially considering that they have the capability built into them.
Roomba 690 comes with four accessories while Roomba 890 comes with three accessories. The common accessories that come with both the products are:
Roomba 690 comes with its AeroVac filter while Roomba 890 comes with its AeroForce filter. In addition to these three, Roomba 690 comes with an additional cleaning tool that doesn’t come as a part of Roomba 890.
So, if you’re particular about the extra cleaning tool, then Roomba 690 is the clear winner in this category. Otherwise, both the products seem to have the same parts and accessories.
Roomba 690 scores high in terms of usability. Its user interface is simple and intuitive and can be handled by anyone. The setup process is also easy as all you have to do is unbox it, install the brush, charge and use. It doesn’t really get easier than this. There is also a document that comes with the product to help you understand different parts, and remove any of it, in case you need it in the future.
Roomba 890 is also quite comparable to Roomba 690’s usability. The setup process is also the same.
Both the products connect to iRobot smartphone app that has an aesthetically appealing design and a clean user interface. Navigation is easy and you can find whatever you want on the app. Setting up is easy as well. Install the app, register by entering your details and you’re all set. It takes only a few minutes for the entire setup process.
Since there is no difference at all in terms of usability and setup, there is no winner here. In fact, we can even say that both the products are winners because they have one of the best usability in the robotic vacuum cleaner market today.
One minor feature that can make life a little bit easy for you is the dustbin indicator. Roomba 890 has an alert sound that tells you when the dust bin is almost full. SO, you can empty it and maybe even clean the filters.
With Roomba 690, there is no such indication, so you’re left wondering if the dust bin is full and needs to clean. Though this is a small feature, it adds greatly to convenience and this is why the Roomba 890 model scores over 690.
Maintenance is a critical aspect in vacuum cleaning. You sure don’t have to have an elaborate and expensive maintenance process on your hands, as that negates the very idea of having an automated cleaner in the first place.
Thankfully, Roomba models are consistent in maintenance and are fairly easy as well.
In Roomba 690, you have to empty the dust bin and clean the filters often to ensure that you have a good clean every time and to help the parts and accessories have a longer life. Also, the bristle-style brush will entail more maintenance when compared to the brush roll of the Roomba 890 model, especially if you have pets because the hair will get tangled in the brush often.
The maintenance costs for Roomba 690 comes to about $33 a year. Here is a split up of the costs associated with it.
Battery18 to 36 months$20
| Name of the part | Frequency | Cost per replacement |
| Filter | 2 months | $1.50 |
| Spinning brush | 6 months | $1.25 |
| Front wheel | 12 months | $8 |
| Brush roll | 12 months | $5 |
| Battery | 18 to 36 months | $20 |
When it comes to Roomba 890, the cost and effort is fairly similar. You’ll have to clean the dustbin and filters often to extend the life of the device.
One area where the 890 model scores over 690 is the maintenance of the brush roll. In this model, the roll is rubberized to prevent hair tangles and this is why it is easier to maintain when compared to the traditional bristle-style brush.
But, in terms of cost, Roomba 890 costs a little more as the average maintenance cost for each year comes to around $36. Here is a split up of the costs.
Battery18 to 36 months$20
| Name of the part | Frequency | Cost per replacement |
| Filter | 2 months | $1.50 |
| Spinning brush | 6 months | $1.25 |
| Front wheel | 12 months | $11 |
| Debris extractor | 12 months | $14 |
| Battery | 18 to 36 months | $24 |
In terms of battery, both use lithium-ion batteries and they deliver a run time of one hour.
So, which of the two is better in terms of maintenance? Roomba 890 again because you don’t have to clean the bristle-style brush that can sometimes be a painful thing to do. Otherwise, the rest are same and the maintenance cost is also pretty much the same.
Most traditional vacuum cleaners tend to be noisy, but Roomba models are different. A sound test was conducted where the noise was measured three inches away from where the vacuum was running, and the noise level was 68 dB (Decibel). To give you an idea, your hair dryer has a decibel value of 90 while the city traffic averages around 70. The sound of a crying baby can range anywhere from 99 to 120 dB. So, comparatively, the Roomba is silent!
Both the models have the same noise level, so you can choose either one on this front.
Let’s briefly look through the pros and cons of each product.
The pros of Roomba 690 are:
The cons of Roomba 690 are:
The pros of Roomba 890 are:
The cons of Roomba 890 are:
When you compare Roomba 690 with Roomba 890, clearly the latter is better. Though it costs $150 more, Roomba 890 has many additional features that increase its overall performance and usability. In fact, it is the ideal one in homes with pets or long-haired people as the advanced brush roll can remove all of these for you.
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On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget, then Roomba 690 is still a good choice. But, if you can afford the extra cost, go for Roomba 890 as it is one of the best models available today.
| Robotic Vacuum | Roomba 690 | Roomba 890 |
| Amazon | | |
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