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Get Smartomi Q5 totally wireless Bluetooth earbuds for $23.99

That's one of the lowest prices I've seen for a set like this, especially one with such positive reviews. Plus: a free utility that could rescue a hosed Windows PC.

Rick Broida Senior Editor
Rick Broida is the author of numerous books and thousands of reviews, features and blog posts. He writes CNET's popular Cheapskate blog and co-hosts Protocol 1: A Travelers Podcast (about the TV show Travelers). He lives in Michigan, where he previously owned two escape rooms (chronicled in the ebook "I Was a Middle-Aged Zombie").
Rick Broida
2 min read

CNET's Cheapskate scours the web for great deals on PCs, phones , gadgets and much more. Questions about the Cheapskate blog? Find the answers on our FAQ page. And find more great buys on the CNET Deals page.


smartomi-q5-true-wireless.jpg

Ear not included.

Smartomi

We need some new terminology. When I say "wireless earphones," what comes to mind is "no wire between the 'phones and your mobile device."

But today's deal... no wires at all. (Well, except the one used to charge the earbuds.) Come on, language, give us something we can use!

Let's table that for a moment. For now, this: You can get the Smartomi Q5 True Wireless Bluetooth Headphones for $23.99 when you apply the promo code VJ587BAV at checkout. Usual rules apply: This is while supplies last... and I have no idea how much inventory the company has on hand.

Given that Apple AirPods sell for $159 and offer a similarly "true wireless" experience, one can't help but feel a bit suspicious about a product that's one-sixth the price.

First things first: AirPods rely on a custom wireless technology ( Apple 's W1 chip), so in theory they're better than Bluetooth at working outdoors and keeping a consistent connection between the two 'buds (a challenge given that your big fat head is in the way).

Second, the AirPods are good for about five hours on a charge, and you recharge them just by dropping them into their carrying case. Battery life here is "close to three hours," according to Smartomi, and there's no charging case. Instead, you use a dual-tip Micro-USB cable.

So, yeah, that's the reason these are cheaper than others I've featured here before. You do get a drawstring case, at least.

As for fit, sound and all that, the user reviews tell an important story. There are 87 at this writing, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. To my amazement, those reviews are all legitimate, at least according to the "A" grade from Fakespot. That's kind of rare for a product like this from a vendor like this.

That said, I haven't had the chance to test these myself. But if you've been wanting to experience totally wireless (wire-free? true wireless? no-no-wire?) earbuds and not wanting to spend $159 for the privilege, this is a pretty low cost of entry.

Your thoughts?

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