The wait was finally over when Microsoft released the Surface Headphones 2, a significant upgrade to their original Surface Headphones. The new iteration brought with it a plethora of features, improvements, and refinements that catered to the evolving needs of audio enthusiasts. But when did the Surface Headphones 2 release, and what makes them stand out from the crowd?
The Long-Awaited Successor
The Surface Headphones, released in 2018, were Microsoft’s foray into the world of premium headphones. While they received praise for their sleek design, comfortable fit, and decent sound quality, they were not without their shortcomings. The original Surface Headphones lacked some essential features, such as multipoint Bluetooth connectivity and wireless charging. Microsoft listened to the feedback and went back to the drawing board to create a more comprehensive, feature-rich, and refined product.
A New Chapter in Audio Excellence
Fast-forward to 2020, when Microsoft announced the Surface Headphones 2 on May 6th. The release date was set for May 12th, 2020, and audio enthusiasts couldn’t wait to get their hands on the new devices. The Surface Headphones 2 were available for pre-order on Microsoft’s website, and they started shipping on the promised date.
The new headphones boasted significant upgrades, including improved sound quality, enhanced noise cancellation, and a sleeker design. But what really got people excited was the addition of multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to seamlessly connect to multiple devices at once. This feature was a game-changer for those who needed to switch between their phones, tablets, and laptops without having to constantly pair and unpair their headphones.
Key Features and Upgrades
So, what makes the Surface Headphones 2 stand out from their predecessors? Here are some of the key features and upgrades that set them apart:
Sound Quality
The Surface Headphones 2 boast improved sound quality, thanks to the enhanced 40mm Free Edge drivers. These drivers provide a more immersive audio experience, with deeper bass, clearer highs, and a more detailed soundstage. The headphones also support the aptX, aptX Low Latency, and SBC codecs, ensuring a consistent and high-quality audio experience across various devices.
Noise Cancellation
Microsoft has refined its noise cancellation technology in the Surface Headphones 2. The headphones now feature improved active noise cancellation, which can be adjusted via the Surface Audio app. This allows users to customize the level of noise cancellation according to their environment, whether it’s a bustling office or a quiet coffee shop.
Design and Comfort
The Surface Headphones 2 have a sleeker, more refined design than their predecessors. The headphones feature a durable, lightweight build with ear cups that rotate 180 degrees, ensuring a comfortable fit for users with different head sizes. The ear cushions are made of soft, breathable materials, providing long-lasting comfort during extended listening sessions.
Battery Life and Charging
The Surface Headphones 2 feature an impressive battery life of up to 20 hours on a single charge. When the battery runs out, users can quickly top up the headphones via the included USB-C cable or wirelessly using a Qi-compatible charging pad.
Multipoint Bluetooth Connectivity
One of the most significant upgrades in the Surface Headphones 2 is the addition of multipoint Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows users to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, eliminating the need to constantly pair and unpair their headphones. This is particularly useful for those who need to switch between their phone, tablet, and laptop throughout the day.
Comparison to Other Premium Headphones
The Surface Headphones 2 enter a competitive market dominated by established brands like Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser. So, how do they stack up against their rivals?
vs. Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is one of the most popular premium headphones on the market. Compared to the Surface Headphones 2, the Sony WH-1000XM4 has slightly better noise cancellation and a more comprehensive feature set, including adaptive noise cancellation and customizable sound profiles. However, the Surface Headphones 2 have a more comfortable design and longer battery life.
vs. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is another highly-regarded premium headphone. While it offers superior noise cancellation and a more comfortable design, the Surface Headphones 2 have better sound quality and longer battery life. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II also lacks multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, a key feature of the Surface Headphones 2.
Conclusion
The Surface Headphones 2 are a significant upgrade over their predecessors, offering a more comprehensive feature set, improved sound quality, and a refined design. With features like multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, enhanced noise cancellation, and a sleeker design, the Surface Headphones 2 are an attractive option for audio enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or simply someone who loves great sound, the Surface Headphones 2 are definitely worth considering. With their competitive pricing and impressive feature set, they’re an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their audio experience.
| Feature | Surface Headphones 2 | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Bose QuietComfort 35 II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Improved 40mm Free Edge drivers | Hi-Res Audio with LDAC | Deep, clear sound with volume-optimized EQ |
| Noise Cancellation | Enhanced active noise cancellation | Adaptive noise cancellation with atmospheric pressure optimization | Advanced noise-rejection technology |
| Multipoint Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | No | No |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours | Up to 30 hours | Up to 24 hours |
In conclusion, the Surface Headphones 2 are an excellent choice for anyone looking for premium headphones that offer great sound quality, comfort, and features. With their competitive pricing and impressive feature set, they’re an attractive option for audio enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.
What is the main difference between Surface Headphones 1 and Surface Headphones 2?
The main difference between Surface Headphones 1 and Surface Headphones 2 lies in their sound quality, design, and features. Surface Headphones 2 offers significant upgrades in terms of sound quality, with improved bass response, clearer dialogue, and more accurate soundstage. The design of Surface Headphones 2 has also been refined, with a more ergonomic fit, improved cushioning, and a more durable build.
In terms of features, Surface Headphones 2 offers advanced noise cancellation technology, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in their music or work. Additionally, Surface Headphones 2 has longer battery life, with up to 24 hours of playback time on a single charge. The new headphones also feature improved Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless pairing with Windows devices.
How does the noise cancellation technology work in Surface Headphones 2?
The noise cancellation technology in Surface Headphones 2 uses advanced algorithms and multiple microphones to actively detect and cancel ambient noise. This results in a more immersive listening experience, with less distraction from the outside world. The noise cancellation technology is also adaptive, meaning it can adjust to changing environmental conditions, such as the noise level of a bus or train.
In addition to noise cancellation, Surface Headphones 2 also features a “transparency” mode, which allows users to hear their surroundings when needed. This can be useful in situations where awareness of one’s environment is important, such as when walking or biking.
Can I use Surface Headphones 2 with non-Windows devices?
Yes, Surface Headphones 2 can be used with non-Windows devices, including iOS and Android devices. The headphones use Bluetooth connectivity, which is a universal standard supported by most devices. This means that users can pair their Surface Headphones 2 with their smartphone, tablet, or laptop, regardless of the operating system.
However, it’s worth noting that some advanced features of Surface Headphones 2, such as seamless pairing and easy switching between devices, may only be available on Windows devices. Additionally, the Surface Audio app, which provides customization options and firmware updates, is currently only available on Windows 10 devices.
How long does the battery last in Surface Headphones 2?
The battery life of Surface Headphones 2 is up to 24 hours on a single charge, depending on the use case. With moderate use, users can expect to get around 20-22 hours of playback time. The headphones also feature fast charging, which allows users to get up to 1 hour of playback time with just 5 minutes of charging.
It’s worth noting that battery life may vary depending on factors such as volume level, noise cancellation, and Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, Surface Headphones 2 features an automatic shutdown feature, which turns off the headphones when not in use to conserve battery life.
Are Surface Headphones 2 comfortable to wear?
Yes, Surface Headphones 2 are designed to be comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. The headphones feature an ergonomic design, with adjustable headband and ear cups that fit snugly around the ears. The ear cushions are made of soft, breathable materials that reduce fatigue and discomfort.
In addition to their ergonomic design, Surface Headphones 2 are also lightweight, making them easy to wear for hours on end. The headphones come with three different sizes of ear tips, ensuring a comfortable fit for most users.
Can I customize the sound of Surface Headphones 2?
Yes, Surface Headphones 2 offer various customization options to tailor the sound to individual preferences. The Surface Audio app, available on Windows 10 devices, allows users to adjust the equalizer settings, noise cancellation level, and more. Users can also create custom sound profiles for different types of music or activities.
Additionally, Surface Headphones 2 feature 13 levels of noise cancellation, allowing users to fine-tune the level of ambient noise they want to hear. This can be useful in situations where users want to be aware of their surroundings, but still want to enjoy their music or podcasts.
Are Surface Headphones 2 durable and resistant to damage?
Yes, Surface Headphones 2 are designed to be durable and resistant to damage. The headphones feature a sturdy build with high-quality materials, such as stainless steel and aluminum, that can withstand daily wear and tear. The ear cups and headband are also designed to be flexible, reducing the risk of breakage.
In addition to their durable build, Surface Headphones 2 also feature IPX4 water resistance, which means they can withstand splashes and sweat. This makes them ideal for users who plan to use their headphones during exercise or in harsh environments.