Moondrop Sparks TWS True Wireless Stereo Bluetooth 5.2 APTX Sport Dynamic in-Ear Earphone -

In the increasingly crowded true wireless earbud market, manufacturers are looking to differentiate themselves through innovative designs and improved sound quality. The Moondrop Sparks enter as a relatively affordable option with a unique design and impressive audio performance. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at what makes these earbuds stand out.

Overview

The Sparks feature 6mm dynamic drivers and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity with support for Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec for improved wireless audio quality. They have an advertised battery life of up to 8 hours per charge, with the included charging case providing an additional 48 hours of playback time. The earbuds have an IPX4 sweat and water resistance rating.

Design

The Sparks have an unusual “floating” design - the main body of the earbud doesn’t make contact with your ear, instead being held in place by the eartip and fin. This makes them quite comfortable for extended listening sessions. The smooth, rounded surfaces give them an elegant look. The charging case has a transparent design that shows off the earbuds inside. Build quality feels decent but the hinge on the case does feel a bit flimsy.

Sound Quality

With their V-shaped sound signature emphasizing bass and treble, the Sparks deliver an enjoyable listening experience. The bass has nice depth and impact without being overpowering. Mids are slightly recessed but still sound clear. Highs are crisp without getting harsh. Soundstage is good for true wireless earbuds. The sound profile lends itself well to pop, hip-hop, and EDM genres. Those looking for a more balanced neutral sound may be disappointed.

Features and Connectivity

The touch controls work reliably for playback and call management. Customization in the Moondrop Link app is limited to choosing between two preset options. Connectivity is solid with fast pairing and stable connections during testing. Range is good, allowing freedom of movement up to 10m from the source device.

Battery Life

Battery life is rated at 8 hours of continuous playback per charge. In real-world mixed usage with some pausing, I was able to get around 7 hours, which is still very good. The charging case provides roughly 3 full charges. Charging time is quick - 15 minutes in the case provides around 1 hour of listening time.

Value for Money

Considering the sub-$100 retail price, the Moondrop Sparks deliver tremendous value for buyers looking for an affordable pair of true wireless earbuds. The combination of great sound powered by 6mm dynamic drivers, lengthy battery life from both the earbuds and charging case, and the sweat/water resistant design makes these earbuds punch far above their weight class.

While premium features like wireless charging, multi-device pairing, and advanced companion apps are missing, the omission of these is reasonable given the budget-friendly pricing. The lack of volume controls directly on the earbuds is a commonly cited downside, though still not unexpected for earbuds in this price range.

For shoppers who prioritize great audio quality and a customized fit for an active lifestyle over luxuries like ANC, wireless charging, and mobile EQ apps, the Sparks represent a superb value earbud option. Given the quality materials, construction, and use of advanced Bluetooth codecs like AAC and aptX Adaptive, these earbuds compete favorably with more expensive models. The Moondrop Sparks manage to deliver a wonderful listening experience without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Offering great sound, stylish looks, and lengthy battery life at a reasonable price point, the Moondrop Sparks deliver excellent value. While the flimsy charging case and limited app are minor drawbacks, overall these are easy to recommend for those looking for an affordable pair of true wireless earbuds.