The LG TONE Free Fit TF8 (TONE-TF8Q) is the first LG TONE true wireless earbud series for workouts and exercise., rated IP67 which makes it highly water resistant and washable. They are retailing in Singapore at S$302 but ongoing promotions are available at around S$220 or lower, which makes it more affordable to own. Read on to see if it’s worth your consideration.
Wearing true wireless earbuds for urban runs or cycling can be hazardous if you are not aware of the environment. The TF8 comes with Listening Mode (which is essentially Ambient Mode) to let in background sound while listening to your motivation music track at the same time. Conversely, if you are doing your workout in a noisy gym, the TF8 comes with hybrid ANC to cut out the ambient noise.
One of the more unique features on the LG TONE series is Plug & Wireless, where you can plug the charging case directly into a headphone jack and transmit audio to the earbuds. In this way, you can save the hassle of pairing the earbuds to the device. The Plug & Wireless is available on the TF8, and so is Multi Point pairing which will let you pair with up to 2 devices at the same and remembering last 8 paired devices.
Between the flagship T90 and this sport-friendly TF8, there are give-and-take features. With the TF8, you gain better waterproof rating at IP67 and a slightly better battery life of 10 hours per charge (20 hours with case), while you lose many improved technical features like a smaller driver, no USB mode for Plug & Wireless, no Dolby Atmos Head Tracking. It also does not support Whispering Mode.
But I like the lightly ribbed charging case surface, a rather uncommon texture for TWS casing, which offers a better grip and less prone to scratches compared to the smooth-surface T90. The lime colour accent on the case interior and around the ear hook achieve a refreshing look. More importantly, the TF8 ear hook locks the earbuds securely and comfortable inside your ears, and there are 3 sizes to choose from.
The TF8 audio quality sounds more crisp with a leaner bass than T90 due to the smaller 6mm diameter driver units vs. the 11mm on the T90, and makes it a more enjoyable pair of earbuds to listen to as it delivers more clarity. Using the smartphone app, you can adjust the EQ manually or select one of the presets specially designed by Meridian Audio. The number of Meridian EQ presets are identical to the FP9 and you can read the detailed differences in the FP9 review article. The EQ presets offer different listening experiences, for instance, the 3D Sound Stage provides a more surrounding effect, while the Natural mode makes the audio come from the front of the head.
Verdict
The LG TONE Free fit TF8 has a different design from the other TONE series, but offers same immersive listening experience thanks to the Meridian Audio EQ effects technology which is one of the key differentiating features from the other true wireless earbuds. The Plug & Wireless is also useful if you frequently need to plug into a 3.5mm audio port on the go.
