The budget audio market continues to expand with devices that bring premium features to lower price points. I recently tested the Havit Life NC01T, a pair of active noise-cancelling true wireless stereo earbuds. These earbuds offer functionalities typically reserved for more expensive models, such as active noise cancellation and dedicated app integration.
You can currently purchase these for around $18. This price point places them firmly in the entry-level category, despite the inclusion of advanced specifications like Bluetooth 5.4 and noise reduction capabilities.
Design and Build Quality
The Havit Life NC01T is constructed primarily from plastic, which contributes to its lightweight profile. The charging case weighs only 34 grams, making it highly portable. Because it is made from plastic, the build feels durable enough for daily use without adding unnecessary bulk to your pocket.
Each earbud weighs just 4.1 grams. This lightweight design ensures they remain comfortable in the ear, even during extended listening sessions. I found that the fit is secure, and the physical design allows for long hours of usage without fatigue.
A standout design element is the digital battery indicator on the front of the case. This is a genuinely useful feature that eliminates the guesswork regarding power levels. Instead of relying on your phone to check how much juice is left, you can simply look at the case to see the exact battery percentage for both the main unit and the earbuds inside.
Battery Specifications
Power management is a crucial aspect of wireless audio, and the Havit Life NC01T offers respectable numbers for its class. The charging case houses a 420mAh battery, while each earbud contains a 40mAh battery. Charging the case from zero to 100% takes approximately two hours via the USB Type-C port.
Regarding playback time, you can listen to music continuously for about six and a half hours with the volume set to 60%. When you factor in the additional charges provided by the case, the total listening time extends to around 24 hours. This battery life is sufficient for a full day of mixed usage without needing to find a wall outlet.
Connectivity and App Integration
These earbuds operate on Bluetooth 5.4 and are compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Pairing is a straightforward process, and I found the connection to be stable. The device works with the Havit Life app, which is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Through the app, you can toggle between different modes, including Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency mode, and a standard mode with no effects.
The app also allows you to enable Game Mode. When this is active, latency is reduced, allowing you to hear game audio almost instantly, which is essential for synchronization during gameplay. While the app is a nice addition, it is not strictly necessary for daily operation. You can control most features, such as switching modes, directly via the touch-sensitive areas on the earbuds. However, the equalizer settings are only accessible through the app, and it is worth noting that you cannot customize the EQ; you are limited to presets.
A highly practical feature is the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. I paired the earbuds to two smartphones at the same time. The audio switches intelligently; for instance, if I am listening to music on one phone and a call comes in on the other, the earbuds automatically switch the audio to the call. Once the call ends, the music playback resumes.
Audio Quality and Driver Performance
Inside the earbuds, Havit has utilized 10mm drivers to deliver sound. The audio profile is quite balanced. The bass is moderate rather than overpowering, the highs are perfect, and the mids are clear. I found the sound quality to be decent for the price, providing a listening experience that does not feel cheap or tinny.
One specific characteristic I noticed is that these earbuds are not excessively loud. This can be a positive factor for those who prefer a more controlled volume output. The soundstage is clear enough to enjoy music comfortably, maintaining good separation between frequencies.
Noise Cancellation and Microphone Capability
I tested the Active Noise Cancellation in a busy outdoor environment near a traffic light with cars and scooters passing by. With ANC activated, the earbuds block out some ambient noise, but the isolation is not absolute. I could still hear the surrounding traffic and activity, meaning the noise cancellation is not extremely strong.
Transparency mode functions as intended, allowing outside sounds to filter in so you can remain aware of your surroundings. I also performed a microphone test while standing on a noisy street. The microphone quality is surprisingly good; my voice came through clearly without sounding muffled, and it managed to pick up my speech well despite the background noise of trucks and vehicles.
Final Thoughts — Price & Value
At $18, the Havit Life NC01T offers a compelling package for budget-conscious buyers. While the Active Noise Cancellation is not the strongest on the market, the inclusion of a digital battery display, clear microphone performance, multi-device connectivity, and a balanced sound profile makes this a solid value proposition. Considering the low cost, the feature set exceeds what is typically expected in this tier.
