The BlueAnt Pump X over-ear headphones bring an impressive suite of features to the table, making them appealing to fitness enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. With loud, booming audio and thumping bass, combined with the X-Mode audio setting for workout intensity, these headphones cater specifically to those who want motivational soundtracks during their exercise routines.
The company is known for its focus on premium audio experiences and delivering products that deliver advanced performance. As a result, the Pump X headphones fall in line with this sentiment.
Design
The design is unique and the overall package is lightweight and perfect for compact carrying. The colours are striking and while available in both white and black, the gold accents certainly give these headphones a premium finish. Onboard controls are also relatively simple; there are buttons on the side that control volume up and down as well as a dedicated play/pause button.
There are also swappable ear pads that easily click in and out. The packaging comes with two pairs of pads, one pair for everyday use and another pair of cooling, designed to keep your ears cool, particularly during workouts.
These pads click in and out quite easily and they feel secure with a solid click to hold them into place. The downside is the sizing, there is a single size and it is on the well shorter side. If you have larger ears (like myself) you don’t get that perfect seal around your ear that a standard pair of headphones do. It’s a shame as they look and feel great, and the premium moulding makes this headset stand out amongst the competition.
Sound & Functionality
The Pump X boasts an advanced active noise cancellation (ANC) of up to 35 dB, on the opposite end, there is an advanced transparency mode that turns the mics on and allows the outside to be amplified a remarkable battery life of up to 34 hours with ANC on (58 hours with ANC off), and IP54 sweatproof and splashproof protection, ensuring durability during rigorous workouts.
There is an X mode you can turn on and off if you are using the headphones to work out. I didn’t notice too much of a difference when turning this on sound-wise, and as the headphones didn’t quite fit over my ears, it’s hard to know if any differences came into play here.
The connections are via Bluetooth 5.4 and USB-C audio playback provides robust connectivity, while rapid charging—10 minutes for up to 4 hours of ANC playback—is a standout feature. The 40mm dynamic drivers deliver a rich, dynamic sound, and the advanced transparency mode allows you to amplify your surroundings via the four microphones in the device, making these headphones versatile for indoor and outdoor use.
Verdict & Value
The BlueAnt Pump X is a solid solution for anyone wanting to wear a headset at the gym for example. The water and sweat resistance mixed with the solid build and premium features make this the ultimate device to work out in, even having its dedicated mode. Despite its strengths, the general size of the headphones limits the Pump X’s universal appeal.
Users with larger ears may find them uncomfortable after longer sessions, while those with smaller ears will likely enjoy the full benefit of its premium features. If BlueAnt were to offer larger ear pads or an adjustable ear cup design, these headphones could be amongst the best out there.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Highlights: Excellent sound quality; Decent ANC and transparency modes; Great battery life
Lowlights: Headphones don’t fit every ear type
Manufacturer: BlueAnt
Price: A$299
Available: Now
Review based on unit supplied by BlueAnt and are available via BlueAnt’s official website and at select retailers.
