Brenthaven Rugged 2 Wired Over Ear USB-C Headphones with Mic

With distance learning and virtual classrooms becoming the new normal, having a durable and reliable headphone is crucial for students. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Rugged 2 Wired Over Ear USB-C Headphones from Brenthaven to see if they can withstand the rigors of classroom use.

Overview

The Rugged 2 headphones are designed specifically for student use, featuring a durable construction and long cord length. Key features include:

• Wired over-ear design with USB-C connectivity
• Built-in microphone for voice calls/meetings
• 5-foot tangle-free braided cord
• Twistable headband and drop-tested durability
• Lightweight comfortable design
  

Design and Build

The Rugged 2 headphones have an over-ear design with soft padded ear cups that are comfortable for extended wear. The headband is flexible and twistable, making it easy to adjust for different head sizes.

Despite the lightweight feel, the headphones are actually very rugged. The headband is designed to resist cracking and snapping. Brenthaven claims the Rugged 2 is drop-tested to withstand falls from up to 6 feet. From my testing, the headphones can take a reasonable beating thanks to the durable build.

The cord is a high point, with a 5-foot braided design that resists tangling. The long length provides flexibility for students to move around while staying plugged in to their device.

Sound Quality

In terms of audio performance, the Rugged 2 headphones deliver decent sound quality. The over-ear cups help block out ambient noise, while the 40mm drivers pump out clear audio with emphasize on the lows and highs.

The sound profile is tuned more for vocal clarity, rather than a rich musical experience. Overall, the audio quality is suitable for listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or classroom lessons. Just don’t expect amazing bass or sound staging.

Features and Connectivity

The Rugged 2 utilizes a USB-C connector, making it compatible with most modern laptops, tablets and smartphones. The headphones worked seamlessly when tested with various devices.

A built-in microphone allows for voice calls and communications. The mic quality is decent, able to pick up clear voice recordings as long as background noise is minimal.

Inline controls are minimal - just a simple volume rocker and microphone mute switch. Still, the basics are covered for managing audio playback and muting the mic during classes.

User Reviews

Based on the user feedback analysis of the Brenthaven Rugged 2 Wired Over Ear USB-C Headphones with Mic, several key insights emerge.

Durability and Reliability: Users highly appreciate the durability and reliability of these headphones, especially in demanding environments like classrooms or for children’s use. Many reviewers mentioned that the headphones have endured daily wear and tear, including accidental drops, without compromising on audio quality. For example, one user highlighted how the headphones withstood six months of daily use by a child without breaking, showcasing their durability.

Compatibility and Connectivity: The headphones’ compatibility with various devices, thanks to the USB-C connection, received positive feedback. Users find it convenient to use the headphones with different devices such as iPads, tablets, laptops, and more. The plug-and-play functionality makes them easy to connect without the need for complex installation processes.

Cord Length and Design: Some users expressed concerns about the length of the cord, noting that it is shorter than advertised. Despite this, many users still find the braided cord to be sturdy and tangle-free, providing flexibility during use. Additionally, the twistable headband design was praised for its ability to adjust to different head sizes and shapes, enhancing comfort and usability.

Customer Support and Warranty: While the product warranty offers reassurance to users, there were mixed reviews regarding customer support. Some users reported positive experiences with resolving issues under warranty, while others encountered challenges or delays in receiving support. For instance, one user mentioned the efficient replacement of a defective adapter tip, while another expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of timely response from customer support.

User Suggestions for Improvement: Users have provided constructive feedback for potential improvements, such as the option for replaceable ear cups and wires to enhance longevity and customization. Some users also suggested improving the design of certain components, like the ear cup size and wire connection mechanism, to better suit their preferences and needs.

In summary, the Brenthaven Rugged 2 headphones offer a durable and reliable audio solution suitable for educational environments and everyday use. While users appreciate their compatibility, durability, and design features, there are opportunities for enhancements based on user feedback, particularly in terms of cord length and customer support experiences.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Durable construction and long cord ideal for classroom use
• Crisp vocal clarity suited for lessons and lectures
• Good value for the price point
• USB-C plug offers wide compatibility

Cons:

• Audio quality is decent but unexceptional
• Actual cord length is less than 5 feet
• Lack of padding on headband

Price and Value

The Brenthaven Rugged 2 headphones retail for $44.95, which positions them as a budget-friendly option compared to more premium headphones.

Given the durable construction and decent sound quality, the Rugged 2 offers good value for the price point. The flexible headband and long tangle-resistant cord justify the cost alone, as these design elements are crucial for classroom performance.

When you factor in the ability to withstand drops and daily student use, the price becomes even more compelling. Paying 2-3x more for premium headphones that lack these durability traits wouldn’t make sense for the school environment.

The Rugged 2’s main concessions at this price point are in audio quality. The sound, while decent, lacks the rich bass and expansive sound stage of more expensive headphones. But for primarily vocal playback and lectures, the audio quality is perfectly serviceable.

When compared to other sub-$50 wired headphones, the Rugged 2 stands out by offering better build quality and a longer cord. Competitors often cheap out on materials and cord length.

So for parents, teachers, and school administrators seeking a reliable headphone solution, the Rugged 2 gives you the most durability and key features for the price. While the audio isn’t perfect, the budget-friendly cost and classroom-ready design are highly compelling.

Conclusion

If you need a durable pair of wired headphones for classroom use, the Brenthaven Rugged 2 is a solid choice. These headphones can withstand the rough usage from students, while providing quality audio and voice performance. The twistable headband and long tangle-free cord add to the flexibility. Just don’t expect audiophile-level sound quality. For crystal clear audio and lessons, the Rugged 2 gets the job done.

Specifications

• Drivers: 40mm
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20KHz
• Sensitivity: 110dB ±3dB
• Impedance: 32Ω ± 15%
• Headphones Weight: 8.8 oz
• Cord Length: approx. 4.5 ft

Box Includes

• Rugged 2 Headphones
• USB-C cable
• Warranty documentation

Instructions

Using the Rugged 2 headphones is simple. Just plug the USB-C cable into your compatible device like a laptop or tablet. Put the headphones over your ears and adjust the headband for a secure fit. Use the inline controls to control volume and mute the built-in microphone as needed. Take care not to twist or tangle the cord. When finished, disconnect the USB-C plug.

Frequently Asked Questions

What devices are compatible with the Brenthaven Rugged 2 Wired Over Ear USB-C Headphones with Mic?

The Brenthaven Rugged 2 headphones are compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPads, tablets, laptops, Chromebooks, computers, notebooks, and MacBooks. They are equipped with a USB-C connection, ensuring seamless compatibility with modern devices.

Are the headphones durable?

Yes, the Brenthaven Rugged 2 headphones are designed to be durable and withstand the rigors of everyday use, especially in educational environments. The twistable headband is engineered to protect against snapping, cracking, and sudden breakages. Additionally, these headphones are drop-tested and can endure accidental drops of up to six feet without compromising audio quality.

How long is the cord?

The headphones come with a five-foot long braided cord, offering tangle-free and robust connectivity. This generous cord length provides freedom and flexibility to move around effortlessly while staying connected to audio devices.

Can the headphones be easily connected to devices?

Yes, the Brenthaven Rugged 2 headphones feature plug-and-play functionality, making them incredibly user-friendly and straightforward to use. Simply plug them in, and you can enjoy instant functionality without the need for any installation.

What warranty is offered for these headphones?

The Brenthaven Rugged 2 headphones come with a product warranty. For specific warranty information, customers can refer to the warranty details provided by the manufacturer.

Tips

• Replaceable Parts: Consider replacing the ear cups and wires for extended longevity and customization according to your preferences.
• Proper Storage: When not in use, store the headphones in a safe place to prevent damage and prolong their lifespan.
• Cleaning: Regularly clean the headphones to remove dirt and debris, ensuring optimal audio performance.
• Adjustment: Adjust the twistable headband to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for different head sizes and shapes.
• Child-Friendly Features: If purchasing for children or students, emphasize the durability and kid-safe design of the headphones, making them suitable for educational environments.