Moondrop Sparks TWS True Wireless Stereo Bluetooth 5.2 APTX Sport Dynamic in-Ear Earphone -
Published on June 3, 2023, 4:09 p.m.
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.
Features
- Bluetooth 5.2 with support for AAC and aptX Adaptive codecs
- 6mm dynamic drivers
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance
- Touch controls for playback and calls
- Up to 8 hours battery life per charge
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.
Use Cases
The Sparks are ideal for active use like workouts and runs thanks to their secure fit and water resistance rating. Their vibrant sound makes them great for listening to upbeat music genres. The compact charging case is easy to toss in a bag for listening on the go.
User Feedback Analysis
The Moondrop Sparks have received generally positive feedback, with many users praising the comfortable design and enjoyable sound quality. Based on over 200 customer reviews on Amazon, the earbuds have an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars.
A common theme in positive reviews is the secure fit provided by the unique “floating” design with removable fin and eartip accessories. Users say this allows the earbuds to stay firmly in place during activities like running or workouts. Many describe the vibrant, bass-forward sound signature in favorable terms as being fun and engaging.
Battery life is another highlight noted in reviews, with many users able to achieve the advertised 8 hours of continuous playback per charge. Some mention getting even longer runtime by listening at moderate volumes. The quick charging case is also appreciated for providing multiple full charges when on the go.
However, a number of customers faced some issues during use. One recurring complaint is the lack of volume controls on the earbuds themselves. Having to adjust volume from the connected device is seen as inconvenient by some. Additionally, several users report intermittent connectivity dropouts when using the Sparks, requiring them to manually re-pair with their phone or tablet to resume listening.
While a few reviews mention the flimsy charging case, the majority of feedback focuses on the earbuds themselves. Overall, users seem satisfied with the audio quality, styling, and battery life offered by the Moondrop Sparks, especially when factoring in the relatively affordable sub-$100 price point. The connectivity concerns do detract slightly for some, but not enough to outweigh the many positives mentioned.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Fun sound with emphasized bass
- Unique and comfortable design
- Good battery life
Cons
- Case build quality not stellar
- Lack of app customization options
- No volume control on earbuds
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.
Specifications
- Driver: 6mm dynamic
- Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz
- Bluetooth version: 5.2
- Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive
- Water resistance rating: IPX4
- Battery life: up to 8 hours (earbuds), up to 48 hours (with charging case)
- Weight: 5.3g per earbud, 50g charging case
Box Contents
- Moondrop Sparks earbuds (left and right)
- Charging case
- USB-C charging cable
- Extra eartips (XS/S/M/L)
- Quick start guide
- Warranty card
How to Use
- Take the earbuds out of the charging case. They will power on automatically and enter pairing mode.
- On your phone, go to Bluetooth settings and select “Moondrop Sparks” to pair.
- Insert the earbuds into your ears with the eartips forming a good seal. Adjust until they fit securely.
- Play audio on your phone. Use the touch controls to pause/resume playback or answer calls.
- Put the earbuds back in the charging case when not using to power off and recharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the sound quality of the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones?
The Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones offer impressive sound quality, with a focus on high dynamic sound fields. Thanks to the unit’s improved energy conversion efficiency, users can expect a better dynamic sound field and more detailed sound reproduction. The 6mm dynamic driver, combined with the Berylium-Coated Dome and PU Suspension Ring diaphragm, delivers clear highs, mids, and tight bass. Overall, users can enjoy a satisfying audio experience across various genres.
Are the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones suitable for sports activities?
Yes, the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones are designed to be sport-friendly. With their in-ear form factor and secure fit, they offer stability during physical activities. Additionally, the Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity ensures a stable connection, allowing users to enjoy music or take calls without interruptions. The earphones are also lightweight, which adds to their comfort during extended wear.
Can the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones be customized?
While the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones come with predefined sound profiles, users can further enhance their listening experience through the Moondrop Link app. The app provides options for adjusting equalizer settings and sound signatures, allowing users to tailor the sound to their preferences. However, it’s worth noting that the customization options may be somewhat limited compared to other premium earphones.
How long does the battery last on the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones?
The Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones offer impressive battery life, with up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge. Additionally, the charging case provides an additional 48 hours of battery life, ensuring extended usage without the need for frequent recharging. This makes the earphones suitable for long listening sessions or outdoor activities where access to charging may be limited.
Can the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones be used for phone calls?
Yes, the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones are equipped with a microphone and support for Bluetooth connectivity, making them suitable for phone calls. The earphones utilize Qualcomm QCC chip technology, which ensures low latency and high-quality transmission during calls. Users can expect clear audio and reliable performance for both listening to music and making calls.
Tips
- When using the Moondrop Sparks TWS earphones, ensure they are properly charged to maximize battery life and uninterrupted usage.
- Experiment with different ear tip sizes to find the most comfortable and secure fit for your ears, especially during physical activities.
- Take advantage of the Moondrop Link app to customize the sound profile according to your listening preferences.
- Keep the charging case handy for on-the-go charging to ensure the earphones are always ready for use.
- Clean the earphones and charging case regularly to maintain optimal performance and hygiene.
