CMF Neckband Pro Quick Review: Affordable ANC with Impressive Features
Looking for a budget-friendly neckband headset with active noise cancellation (ANC)? The CMF Neckband Pro, launched alongside the CMF Buds, might be a strong contender. Let's delve into its features and see if it lives up to the hype.
CMF Neckband Pro Specifications:
| Feature | CMF Neckband Pro |
|---|---|
| Weight | 29.6 grams |
| Battery Life (without ANC) | Up to 37 hours |
| Battery Life (with ANC) | Up to 23 hours |
| Drivers | 13.6mm |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Noise Cancellation | Up to 50dB |
| Audio Codecs | AAC |
| Water Resistance | IP55 |
| Smart Dial Functions | Play/Pause Answer Calls Volume Control Next/Previous Track Noise Cancellation Mode Switching |
Unboxing and Design:
 |
| CMF Neckband Pro Unboxing and Design (image: Ujjwal Kumar) |
The CMF Neckband Pro comes in a simple package with the headset itself, different sized ear tips, and a user manual. The design is lightweight at 29.6 grams and features a silicone band that rests comfortably around your neck. The earbuds are magnetic, snapping together to pause music and resume playback when separated.
Several microphones are incorporated for ANC and clear call quality. A unique Smart Dial on the right side controls ANC, playback functions, and volume. There's also a USB-C charging port and a function button for pairing and other controls. The overall build quality feels decent, but the long-term durability of the connecting wire remains to be seen.
Functionality:
 |
| CMF Neckband Pro Smart Dial |
The Smart Dial offers various controls, and you can customize some functions through the Nothing X app for Android and iPhone. Connectivity is handled by Bluetooth 5.3, allowing for quick pairing with various devices. Notably, it supports multipoint connection, letting you connect to two devices simultaneously.
Audio Quality:
.webp "CMF Neckband Pro Audio Quality") |
| CMF Neckband Pro Audio Quality |
The CMF Neckband Pro delivers good audio quality with a focus on bass thanks to its 13.6mm drivers. It offers enough volume for most users, but higher-end audio codecs like LDAC or LHDC are missing. The headset provides various sound profiles, including balanced, bass-heavy, treble-boosted, and a separate "ultra bass" mode. You can also customize the equalizer settings and experience a virtual spatial audio effect.
Call Noise Cancellation and ANC:
.webp "CMF Neckband Pro Call Noise Cancellation and ANC") |
| CMF Neckband Pro Call Noise Cancellation and ANC |
The CMF Neckband Pro offers good noise isolation for calls with its five microphones. The built-in ANC effectively reduces background noise, making it suitable for commutes or noisy environments. It utilizes a hybrid noise cancellation system that adapts to your surroundings. Transparency mode allows you to hear ambient sounds when needed.
The headset also boasts a low-latency gaming mode, but the performance could be better.
Battery Life:
The CMF Neckband Pro promises up to 37 hours of playback without ANC and 23 hours with ANC enabled. Battery life may vary depending on usage patterns. Fast charging provides 18 hours (without ANC) or 11 hours (with ANC) of playback time in just 10 minutes of charging.
Pros and Cons:
.webp "CMF Neckband Pro Pros and Cons") |
| CMF Neckband Pro Pros and Cons |
Pros:
- Good audio quality
- Unique and functional design with Smart Dial
- Effective ANC up to 50dB
- Good call quality
- Long battery life with fast charging
Cons:
- No LDAC/LHDC/aptX audio codecs
- Durability of connecting wire uncertain
Verdict:
The CMF Neckband Pro is a compelling option for budget-conscious users seeking a neckband headset with ANC. It offers decent audio quality, a unique and functional design, effective ANC for the price range, good call quality, and long battery life with fast charging support. While it lacks high-end audio codecs, the overall package makes it a strong contender in the sub-Rs. 2000 market.