The H2O Audio Sonar headphone is a bestselling swimming bone conduction headphone that is best for people with medium-to-large head sizes.
In this guide, we’ll be reviewing the H2O Audio Sonar Bone Conduction Headphones.
We will tell you about the major pros and cons of buying it, and our verdict.
We will walk you through the features.
And help you compare it to other popular similar and alternative headphones and see what advantages and disadvantages it has as against other bone-conduction headphones.
Also tell you about other alternative headphones to it, if it does not offer you all you want from it.
And finally, we will recommend where to get the best deals for more savings.
*** TABLE OF CONTENTS ***
H2O Audio Sonar – WHO IS IT FOR?
It is good for
- For swimmers
- Anyone who feels uncomfortable with earbuds in their ears
- Anyone who likes keeping their ears open but who still likes to listen to music
Who Should Not Buy H2O Audio Sonar?
Those who will not benefit from using this bone conduction headphone may include;
- Audiophiles
- People who suffer from Sensorineural deafness
- Anyone who wants a swimming bone conduction headphone
You can check out the H2O Audio Sonar Wireless Headphones directly on Amazon.com
H2O AUDIO SONAR – OUR RATING 4.0/5
Looking through some of the reviews of the H2O Audio Sonar headphones.
While the reviewers’ responses have been openly positive towards the headphones.
We have been able to sort through the negative and positive reviews and give our own rating from the varying reviews.
Here are some of the main features most people have rated highly or poorly about the H2O Audio Sonar:
Battery life
The battery lasts about 7 hours from frequent usage.
When you turn it on, there’s a ‘battery level’ indication alert.
Although some did find that it can go from 50% to ‘low battery’ in about half an hour.
And for the remainder of your workout, the low-battery reminder alert will persist every few minutes.
You should start charging it when it says 75%, otherwise, at 50% it will start to consistently remind you, and annoyingly so too.
Earplugs
You can wear them along with earplugs to keep water out of your ears or choose not to.
Though the sound quality does improve on using earplugs.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is decent enough.
Some customers do want a sound quality that current bone technology cannot currently provide.
It’s really not gonna sound like your audiophile JBL Home Entertainment Center, but it should get you through your workouts.
While they work outside of water by the poolside, the sound quality is much better underwater.
Apple Watch
You can connect to your Apple Watch through Bluetooth, then place your watch under your swim cap.
Letting you listen to music directly from your playlists.
You can buy the separate Apple Watch Clip or Holder to get them working better.
With these you won’t have to place them under your swim cap, making them less inconvenient during swimming.
Drag and Drop
You can simply drag and drop .mp3 & .mp4 files, like songs, podcasts, and audiobooks into the internal memory of the headphones.
With about 8 GB of memory, it can hold over 60 hours of audio playback files.
You may find it difficult to load audio files if you don’t follow their step-by-step guide to loading audio files unto the headphones.
This is even more relevant for people who use Apple iTunes. You will initially have to convert your audio files from .m4a to .mp3.
A workaround is to find some mixtape apps and then drag and drop songs/playlists from there.
Easy to Use
They are very easy to use and you won’t have to continuously adjust the headphone to get the best fit.
The buttons are also easy to locate and use.
See what other customers are saying about the H2O Audio Sonar Headsets on Amazon.com.
PROS AND CONS
PROS
- Lightweight
- Great for swimming
- Clear sound quality
CONS
- Bluetooth connectivity is not the best underwater
- No microphone for making calls
- Loading audio can be a little challenging at first
H2O AUDIO SONAR VERDICT
It delivers about 7 hours of battery life and has easy-to-use controls, letting you enjoy music, calls, audiobooks, and or podcasts all day long.
The H2O Audio Sonar utilizes Bluetooth v4.2, providing a stable connection to your phone and an improved range of connections.
IPX8-rated for sweat and water resistance and uses a USB charging cable.
In conclusion, if you are looking for something different in sports headphones, the H2O Audio Sonar Open-Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones are worth a try, they are good quality and ideal for sports and swimming.
Check out the H2O Audio Sonar Open-Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones at Amazon.com…
H2O AUDIO SONAR REVIEW
Here’s an H2O Audio Sonar video review from SWIMMING WITH COLIN HILL.
FEATURES
- Bone Conduction Technology
- Open Ear Headphones
- iTunes Compatible
- IPX8 Rating
- Bluetooth with Smart Watch
Bone Conduction Technology
You do get to experience catchy music and quality sound without needing sound isolation.
As the sound passed directly through your cheekbones to the inner ears.
This has the benefit of protecting your eardrums. As well as enhancing the ability to hear for those with conductive hearing problems.
The H2O Audio’s underwater headphones were designed for swimming.
They have an integrated clip design that allows for easy attachment of the headphones to your swim goggles.
This helps to enhance fitting and secure them in place even during strong movements.
Open-Ear Headphones
You can either stream from your smartwatch (attachable to your goggles) or use the built-in MP3 player to upload your favorite audio files.
The wireless bone conduction headphones are designed to enhance comfort during swimming laps
This will help you avoid in-ear discomfort caused by swim earbuds. As well as protect from worsening or developing in-ear infections.
While being able to hear your surroundings out of the water, as you listen to music simultaneously.
iTunes Compatible
The Sonar waterproof headphones for swimming can work seamlessly with iOS and Android devices.
The Sonar has an underwater wireless Bluetooth range of about 3 feet, but your device must be attached to your goggles.
IPX8-Rating
The H2O Audio bone-conducting headphones help to provide a realistic swimming and underwater experience.
With an IPX8 waterproof capability, you can conveniently swim with the headphones without worrying about water damaging them.
You can go swimming, snorkeling, or go water sporting with the Sonar headphones.
BLUETOOTH with SMARTWATCH
The SONAR can play music from your smartwatch underwater over the wireless Bluetooth connection.
You will need to pair your smartwatch (Apple Watch, Fitbit, Garmin Samsung, etc.) with the SONAR.
Then attach your smartwatch to your swim goggles.
This is due to the short 3 feet Bluetooth range underwater.
The Smartwatch should be attached to your swim goggles (and not on your wrist) to optimize Bluetooth connectivity.
There is a separate APPLE WATCH CLIP for SONAR that will help in attaching your smartwatch to the headphone.
“CLICK HERE TO BUY THE H2O AUDIO SONAR AND CHECK OUT THE FULL LISTING AT AMAZON.COM….”
H2O AUDIO SONAR CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
Below we showcase balanced feedback from actual customers. They have written down their reviews from their own personal experiences from their personal use of the H2O Audio Sonar headset, from across the web.
POSITIVE FEEDBACK
I was unsure about buying these at first. I have previously used bone conduction tech in the military and it was great. When I got a discount coupon, I bought them. And I was very impressed.
What I liked
- Very comfortable to use in the water with them. More comfortable than jamming my ears with waterproof earbuds.
- Sound is great underwater. It sounds a little muffled, but clear enough.
- Securely fits on my goggles. I am barely aware of them on my cheekbones. And they hardly moved with surface/sub-surface swimming.
- Controls are easy to use.
- You can wear earplugs if you choose to keep water out of your ears.
- Loaded music plays in sequence and you can put it in shuffle mode.
- Works well with Apple Watch on land with no issues.
What I didn’t like
- There is a finicky connection between the headphone and the charger. You may need to tape your cord down so it won’t move.
- And also set your desk up so it is out of the way.
Though I did find out that the magnet pull between the charger and headphones was stronger than I had heard and read.
The biggest takeaways from this are:
- Be patient when you’re setting them up your first time.
- Do on-the-land rehearsal (using both the music on the memory and on your Apple Watch). This lets you be fully aware of the controls so it won’t affect your workout.
- Only use your Apple watch if you’re truly sure they are waterproof, by first testing them in your bathtub.
- Read the manual instructions before use.
- Wilson
CRITICAL FEEDBACK
I swim daily with the Sonar headphones for the past few months. There are things that I like, and things that I didn’t like about it, I will tell you about them. So that you can make up your mind if you can live with them or not.
First the good:
- I like the very solid build. I believe it can withstand some drops from a height or from some banging around.
- You can easily attach them to your goggles and it delivers above-average sound after you monkey with the positioning on your skull.
- The display buttons are fairly large and tactile, you won’t have any problem locating them on the side of your head.
- You can activate the random mode setting if you rapidly tap the power button twice. Although, it will default back to the alphabetical rhythm when you power them off and turn them back on.
- It is my 2nd H2O branded product and they are a local American-based company. They have a very responsive customer care service that has not delayed in responding to my complaints.
Now the bad:
- Loading music from the PC is quite challenging.
- It often stops loading when you choose a long selection of songs midway, even without shaking the cord.
- I then disconnect them from the USB port and reconnect some moments later and they do pick up from where they left off.
- A little bit of an inconvenience, but I can make do with it.
- The power level gauge that you hear from the headphone is inaccurate. When it says they are at 50% the 1st time, you probably have close to an hour left max. Not much of an issue, as you need to get ready to charge them then.
- The controls’ commands which require double clicks, have to be done quickly or they will fail to activate. Prepare your mind for this.
Overall, I see more positives going for it than negatives and I believe that they will last longer and you will enjoy it.
- Jeffery
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
The items in the box include;
- H2O Audio Sonar Bone Conduction Headphones
- USB Charging Cable
- User Manual
AVAILABLE – APPLE WATCH CLIP for SONAR is sold separately. You can also pick up the Swim Cap and Swim Goggles.
Available Styles
H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport | H2O Audio Interval | H2O Audio Sonar
Available H2O Audio Sonar Colors
The H2O Audio Sonar color is available in only Black-Blue.
H2O AUDIO SONAR PRICE
The H2O Audio Sonar price costs around $20 less than the list price of the Naenka Runner Pro and about $50 less than the list price of the Shokz OpenSwim.
H2O AUDIO SONAR HEADPHONE SPECIFICATIONS
| General | |
| Brand | H2O AUDIO |
| Model | SONAR Underwater Headphones |
| Item Model Number | SONAR |
| Colors | Black-Blue |
| Variants | Tri Multi-Sport, Interval, Sonar |
| Function | Water-resistant, Sweatproof, Song Switching, Bluetooth |
| Language | English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean |
| Material | Plastic and rubber |
| Speaker Type | Bone Conduction Transducers |
| Wearing Style | Open-Ear, Around-Ear |
| Microphone Type | Dual Noise-Canceling Microphone |
| Moisture Detector | No |
| Command Controls | Power button, Mode button, Volume buttons |
| Product Details | |
| Application | Sports; Swimming, Diving, Snorkeling |
| IP Rating | IPX8 (Waterproof) |
| Compatible with | Smart Phone, Apple Watch, PC, and Laptops |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Extended Function | |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth V4.2 |
| Multipoint Pairing | None |
| Wireless Range | 33 feet (W/O obstacles 10m) |
| Compatible Codecs | SBC |
| Compatible Profiles | A2DP, AVRCP, HSP, HFP |
| Audio Formats | MP3, and M4A |
| Internal Memory | 8GB or 2000 songs |
| Sound | |
| Speaker Type | Bone Conduction Transducers |
| Frequency response | 20Hz~20KHz |
| Sensitivity | 100 ± 3dB |
| EQ | 0 |
| Driver unit | 16mm |
| Impedance | 8ohms |
| Microphone | |
| Microphone | Not Available |
| Microphone Sensitivity | Not Available |
| Battery Information | |
| Battery Capacity(mAh) | Built-in 170 mAh Lithium-ion Battery |
| Max. Charge Voltage | 5.25V |
| Max. Output Power | 0.6W |
| Charging Port | Magnetic Induction |
| Charging Time | 2H |
| Music Time | 7H |
| Talk Time | Not Applicable |
| Standby time | 240H |
| Dimension and Weight | |
| Package size (L x W x H) | 16.89 x 13.49 x 6.86 cm / 6.65 x 5.31 x 2.7 inches |
| Package weight | 300 g, 10 oz |
| Product size (L x W x H) | 14.9 x 13 x 5 cm / 5.87 x 5.12 x 1.97 inches |
| Product weight | 58 grams, 2.046 oz |
HOW TO SETUP AND OPERATE THE H2O Audio Sonar HEADPHONE
We are going to talk about how to best operate and use the H2O Audio Sonar headphone.
The images below show the various parts of the headphone. These include:
- the charging port
- the volumes,
- the mode,
- and power buttons.
HOW DO YOU CHARGE THE H2O Audio Sonar HEADPHONE
Charge the Audio Sonar headphones with the included magnetic induction charging cable, connected to a wall adapter (5V, 1A), power bank, or your Laptop/PC.
The LED indicator will turn blue when charging is complete.
SONAR CONTROLS
You can learn below how to control the Audio Sonar for playback, calls, etc.
Volume up (+) Button & Volume down (-) Button
Press one time – Increase/Decrease the volume
Press two times – Skip to Next Song
Press and Hold – When music is playing, to fast forward and rewind
Mode (M) Button
Press one time – Switch between MP3 Mode and Bluetooth Mode
Press two times – Switch between different folders on the device’s memory
The Power Button
Press one time – Play/Pause
Press 3 seconds – Power on/Power off
HOW DO YOU PAIR THE HEADPHONE?
- Power on – Press and hold the power button for 3 seconds.
- Press the Mode (M) button to Put the Sonar into Bluetooth Mode
- Paring Mode – When you see the blue light flash alternately, it means the headset is waiting for pairing.
- Pair with your phone – Open your phone/smartwatch and search for the new BT device, then you will find the signal “H2O Sonar” and click “Connect”.
- Pairing successful – LED turns solid blue.
HOW DO YOU DOWNLOAD MP3 AUDIO FILES TO THE HEADPHONE?
The headphone has support for a number of music formats, which include .MP3 or .M4A
Any other audio format will not be playable through the headphone.
Do note that the headphone works best with mp3 files.
You can learn how to download MP3 music, by clicking on the following helpful links
To copy audio files to the Audio Sonar headphone
Here is a video below from H2O Audio showing you how to troubleshoot your device from H2O Audio.
- Turn off the Sonar headphone
- Connect the magnetic USB cable to your PC computer,
- then click on “my computer”,
- find “H2O Sonar”,
- copy your music files (in either .MP3, or .M4A file formats) from the computer (drag & drop) and paste them to “H2O Sonar”.
- remove the USB cable.
HOW TO PLAY MP3 AUDIO FILES
After downloading some music, then do the following;
- Transfer the music you want, and remove the USB cable.
- Turn on the headset and press the power button for 3 seconds, then it will switch to MP3 Play.
- Then tap the power button once to play or pause
LED INDICATOR
Red Light
Solid glow – Battery charging
Flashing – Low battery
Green Light
Solid glow – Playing from the 8GB internal memory
Slow flashes – Music on pause
Blue Light
Solid glow – Connected in Bluetooth Mode
Slow flashes – Attempting a Bluetooth pairing
WHAT DEVICE IS THE H2O Audio Sonar HEADPHONE COMPATIBLE WITH?
The H2O Audio Sonar is compatible with your smartphones, smartwatches, Mac and PC computers, and laptops.
How to wear H2O Audio Sonar
- Attach your google straps at the slots on the Sonar headphone
- Pick up your headphones, position them behind the back of the base of your neck, then place the ear hooks over the ridge of your ears.
- The transducers’ speakers are placed in front of the ear on the cheekbones, then enjoy your music!
How To Store and Maintain The H2O Audio Sonar Headphone
- This product has a water resistance of IPX8, which can be used up to 5 meters underwater for up to 5 hours.
- Don’t use it over 5 meters deep, good enough for snorkeling. Don’t use it when deep diving.
- Please wash the product with clean water after swimming, and make it dry indoors.
- Please charge or connect to the PC only after the Audio Sonar headphone is totally dry. If you charge while the jack is wet, it may explode.
Troubleshooting
Here is a video below from H2O Audio showing you how to load songs unto your device from H2O Audio.
- Or you can contact their support here.
H2O Audio Sonar User Manual
You can view or download the H2O Audio Sonar user manual here.
H2O Audio Sonar Warranty
H2O Audio Sonar Warranty lasts for 1 year.
You can visit their website Warranty Policy for details of the limited warranty.
COMPARISON
We compare the H2O Audio Sonar to similar bone-conduction headphones.
| H2O Audio Sonar | H2O Audio Interval | H2O Audio Tri | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Images |   |   |   |
| Speaker Technology | Bone Conduction | Bone Conduction | Bone Conduction |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX8 | IPX8 | IPX8 |
| Music Source | Internal Memory, MP3 or Bluetooth Transmission | Bluetooth, Pair the Interval with Apple iWatch Not iPhone | Internal Memory, MP3 or Bluetooth Transmission |
| Battery Life | 7 hrs | 7 hrs | 7 hrs |
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Interval Bone Conduction
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The H2O Audio Interval like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
They both have no microphones.
The Interval has no wireless Bluetooth connection, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
They are both IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The H2O Audio Interval like the Audio Sonar is built for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs TRI Multi-Sport
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The H2O Audio TRI like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The Tri uses dual noise-canceling microphone, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The Tri uses wireless Bluetooth v5.0 connection, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
They are both IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The H2O Audio TRI like the Audio Sonar is built for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Finis Duo
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The Finis Duo like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The Duo has no microphone, compared to the Audio Sonar which also has no microphone.
The Duo has no wireless Bluetooth connection, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
They are both IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Finis Duo like the Audio Sonar is built for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Tayogo WB02
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The Tayogo WB02 like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The WB02 has no microphone, compared to the Audio Sonar which also has no microphone.
The WB02 uses wireless Bluetooth v4.2 connection and has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs, compared to the Audio Sonar which also uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
They are both IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Tayogo WB02 like the Audio Sonar which is built for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Tayogo WB01
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The Tayogo WB01 like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The WB01 has no microphone, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The WB01 has no wireless Bluetooth connection, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
They are both IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Tayogo WB01 like the Audio Sonar which is built for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Tayogo S5
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The Tayogo S5 like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The S5 uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The S5 uses Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The S5 is IP55-rated, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Tayogo S5 is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs S2
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The Tayogo S2 like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The S2 uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The S2 uses Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The S2 is IP55-rated, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Tayogo S2 is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Naenka Runner Chic
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The Naenka Runner Chic like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The Runner Chic uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The Runner Chic uses Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The Runner Chic is rated IPX6, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Naenka Runner Chic is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Naenka Runner Caller
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The Naenka Runner Caller like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The Runner Caller uses a CVC 8.0 225° rotatable and flexible noise-canceling boom microphone for crispy call quality, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The Runner Caller uses Bluetooth v5.3, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The Runner Caller is rated IPX6, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Naenka Runner Caller is built for communications, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Naenka Runner Pro
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The Naenka Runner Pro like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The Runner Pro uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
They both use wireless Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 modes.
The Runner Pro uses Bluetooth v5.0 and has 8GB of internal memory storage for 2000 songs, compared to Bluetooth v5.2 and 16GB memory storage for 4000 songs of the Audio Sonar.
They are both rated IPX8 for dust and waterproofing.
The Naenka Runner Pro like the Audio Sonar is designed for sports and swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Naenka Runner Diver
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The Naenka Runner Diver like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The Runner Diver uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
They both use wireless Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 modes.
The Runner Diver uses Bluetooth v5.2 and has 16GB of internal memory storage for 4000 songs, compared to Bluetooth v4.2 and 8GB of memory storage for 2000 songs of the Audio Sonar.
They are both rated IPX8 for dust and waterproofing.
The Naenka Runner Diver like the Audio Sonar is designed for sports and swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs AfterShokz Trekz Air
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The Shokz Trekz Air like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The Trekz Air uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
They both use Bluetooth v4.2, compared to the Bluetooth v4.2 of the Audio Sonar, and have 8GB of memory space for 2000 songs.
The Trekz Air is rated IP55, while the Audio Sonar is rated IPX8 for dust and waterproofing.
The Shokz Trekz Air is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Shokz OpenRun
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The Shokz OpenRun like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The OpenRun uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The OpenRun uses Bluetooth v5.1, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The OpenRun is IP67-rated, compared to the IPX8-rating of the Audio Sonar for dust and waterproofing.
The Shokz OpenRun is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Shokz OpenRun Pro
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The Shokz OpenRun Pro like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The OpenRun Pro uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The OpenRun Pro uses Bluetooth v5.1, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The OpenRun Pro is rated IP55, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Shokz OpenRun Pro is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Shokz OpenMove
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The Shokz OpenMove like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The OpenMove uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The OpenMove uses Bluetooth v5.1, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The OpenMove is rated IP55, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Shokz OpenMove is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Shokz OpenSwim
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The Shokz OpenSwim like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The OpenSwim does not use microphones, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The OpenSwim uses wireless MP3 technology and has a 4GB internal storage space for about 1000 songs.
the Audio Sonar uses Bluetooth v5.2 wireless connectivity and also has an MP3 mode, with 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The OpenSwim is rated IP68, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Shokz OpenSwim like the Audio Sonar which is built for sports and works great for swimming..
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Vidonn F1
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The Vidonn F1 like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The F1 uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The F1 uses Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The F1 is rated IP55, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Vidonn F1 is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Vidonn F3
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The Vidonn F3 like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The F3 uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The F3 uses wireless Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The F3 is rated IP65, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Vidonn F3 is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs YouthWhisper Lite
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The YouthWhisper Lite like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The YouthWhisper Lite uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The YouthWhisper Lite uses Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The YouthWhisper Lite is rated IP54, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The YouthWhisper Lite is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs 9 Digital Lite
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The 9 Digital Lite like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The 9 Digital Lite uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The 9 Digital Lite uses Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The 9 Digital Lite is rated IP54, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dust and waterproofing.
The 9 Digital Lite is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Moing TouchBone BC-8
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The Moing TouchBone BC-8 like the H2O Audio Sonar uses an open-ear design, to maximize safety and lets you be aware of your environment.
The TouchBone BC-8 uses dual noise-canceling mics, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The TouchBone BC-8 uses Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The TouchBone BC-8 is IP55 rated, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8 rated for dust and waterproofing.
The Moing TouchBone BC-8 is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
ALTERNATIVES
We compare the H2O Audio Sonar to other non-bone-conduction headphones.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Apple AirPods 3
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The Apple AirPods uses an in-ear earbud design to help reduce sound leakage and optimize sound performance, compared to the H2O Audio Sonar with its open-ear design focused on safety and environmental awareness.
The AirPods deliver audio via air conduction which sounds much better, compared to the Audio Sonar which operates via bone conduction.
The AirPods use Dual beamforming microphones and an Inward-facing microphone, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The Airpods use wireless Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The AirPods are rated IPX4, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dustproofing and water resistance.
The Apple AirPods are geared towards an active lifestyle, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Beats Powerbeats 4
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The Beats Powerbeats 4 uses an in-ear earbud design to help reduce sound leakage and optimize sound performance, compared to the H2O Audio Sonar with its open-ear design focused on safety and environmental awareness.
The Powerbeats 4 delivers audio via air conduction which sounds much better, compared to the Audio Sonar which operates via bone conduction.
The Powerbeats 4 uses Dual beamforming microphones, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The Powerbeats 4 uses wireless Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The Powerbeats 4 is rated IPX4, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dustproofing and water resistance.
The Beats Powerbeats 4 is built for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Sony LinkBuds WF-L900
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The Sony LinkBuds WF-L900 uses an open-ear earbud design to help reduce sound leakage and optimize sound performance, compared to the H2O Audio Sonar with its open-ear design focused on safety and environmental awareness.
The LinkBuds WF-L900 delivers audio via air conduction which sounds much better, compared to the Audio Sonar which operates via bone conduction.
They both use dual noise-canceling mics.
The LinkBuds WF-L900 uses wireless Bluetooth v5.2 connectivity, compared the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2.
the Audio Sonar also has an MP3 mode, with 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The LinkBuds WF-L900 is rated IPX4, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dustproofing and water resistance.
The Sony LinkBuds WF-L900 is geared towards an active lifestyle, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Bose Sport Open Earbuds
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The Bose Sport Open Earbuds use an open-ear earbud design to help reduce sound leakage and optimize sound performance, compared to the H2O Audio Sonar with its open-ear design focused on safety and environmental awareness.
The Sport Open Earbuds deliver audio via air conduction which sounds much better, compared to the Audio Sonar which operates via bone conduction.
They both use dual noise-canceling mics.
The Sport Open Earbuds use wireless Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The Sport Open Earbuds are rated IPX4, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dustproofing and water resistance.
The Bose Sport Open Earbuds are designed for sports, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Amazon Echo Frames
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The Amazon Echo Frames uses smart audio glasses design to help reduce sound leakage and optimize sound performance, compared to the H2O Audio Sonar with its open-ear design focused on safety and environmental awareness.
The Echo Frames delivers audio via air conduction which sounds a bit much better, compared to the Audio Sonar which operates via bone conduction.
The Echo Frames uses Dual beamforming microphones, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
The Echo Frames use wireless Bluetooth v5.0, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The Echo Frames is rated IPX4, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dustproofing and water resistance.
The Amazon Echo Frames are geared towards an active lifestyle, compared to the Audio Sonar which is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
H2O Audio Sonar Vs Sony NW-WS623 Waterproof Walkman
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The Sony NW-WS623 uses an in-ear earbud design to help reduce sound leakage and optimize sound performance, compared to the H2O Audio Sonar with its open-ear design focused on safety and environmental awareness.
The Sony NW-WS623 delivers audio via air conduction which sounds a bit much better, compared to the Audio Sonar which operates via bone conduction.
The Sony NW-WS623 uses Dual beamforming microphones, compared to the Audio Sonar which has no microphone.
They both use wireless Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 modes.
The Sony NW-WS623 uses Bluetooth v4.0 along with NFC technology and has 16GB of internal memory storage for 4000 songs, compared to the Audio Sonar which uses Bluetooth v4.2 connectivity and also has 8GB memory storage for 2000 songs.
The Sony NW-WS623 is rated IP68, while the Audio Sonar is IPX8-rated for dustproofing and water resistance.
The Sony NW-WS623 like the Audio Sonar is designed for sports and works great for swimming.
What is the H2O Audio Sonar good for?
You can use the H2O Audio Sonar for a variety of situations. These include;
Underwater Workouts?
Yes, the Audio Sonar is waterproof and good for Underwater Workouts.
Swimming?
Yes, the Audio Sonar is waterproof and good for Swimming.
Snorkeling?
Yes, the Audio Sonar is waterproof and good for Snorkeling.
Diving?
Yes, the Audio Sonar is waterproof and good for Diving.
Showering?
Yes, the Audio Sonar is waterproof and good for Showering.
Hot Tub Spas?
Yes, the Audio Sonar is waterproof and good for Hot Tub Spas.
FREQUENT BOUGHT TOGETHER
IPX8
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions by customers when buying the H2O Audio Sonar headphones.
Will this support downloading an Audible or Spotify format?
Audible or Spotify files like most streaming app services are embedded with DRM protection for copyright and cannot be downloaded to the SONAR internal 8GB memory.
However, you can stream music from the app over Bluetooth, usually by means of your smartwatch which can be clipped on the SONAR or placed under your swim cap.
Will these connect to an iPhone by Bluetooth?
Yes, but the Bluetooth range underwater is just a few inches, you have to keep the iPhone close by, which is rather impossible to use while swimming without experiencing several music cutouts.
How good is the sound quality?
The sound quality on the mp3 player is very good, and even much better underwater
I have an old computer with Windows 7. Will this work with Windows 7?
Yes, it will connect to your Windows 7 PC.
If I put my Apple Watch underneath a cap or connected to my googles strap, will it track my swimming?
No, when the Apple Watch is underneath a cap or connected to your googles strap, it will not track my swimming laps properly.
Can they be used in salt water?
Yes, but be aware that the only exposed metal parts are gold contacts which may overtime corrode.
How do I charge them? Does it take a special plug or any usb?
It uses a special magnetic USB charging cable.
How do I acquire a charging cord replacement? would have been great if this was not a custom charging cord, but instead, usb-c
You can buy the replacement charging cord directly from H2O Audio or check on Amazon.
Do you wear these over the swimming cap or under?
You can wear them either over or under your swimming cap.
Are these usable out of the water, like while sitting in the hot tub after swimming?
Yes, you can use them out of the water, while sitting in the hot tub after swimming.
Will these work for scuba diving
The headphone was not designed for scuba diving.
It is made for underwater swimming.
What is the warranty for this product
The H2O Audio Sonar has a 1-year warranty.
Does this support multiple folders to organize your audio files?
Yes, it supports multiple folders for your audio files on the 8GB internal memory of the Sonar headphone.
Can I use it outside the water? Like for running or just listening to music at the office?
While you can use them just out of the water, by the poolside.
The sound you hear is best in the water.
How do you connect the watch to your goggles?
You can get a special goggle clip for your Apple Watch from H2O Audio.
WHERE TO BUY H2O Audio Sonar HEADPHONES?
You can buy the H2O Audio Sonar headphone offline in your local electronics department store, or you can buy them online at Amazon or at the H2O Audio website.
You can also pick up useful accessories like hard protective casing, extra charging cords, etc.
CONCLUSION
With 7 hours of battery life and easy commands, you can enjoy music, calls, audiobooks, and podcasts all day.
The Audio Sonar charges fully in about 2 hours.
We explained to you how the H2O Audio Sonar headset gives you the opportunity to be able to listen to music, podcasts, and or audiobooks, as well as make clearer calls.
And also lets you keep your ears open and free, so that you can easily assess and monitor what is going on in your environment.
And as such, you may avoid having to deal with ear infections as a result of your frequent usage of earpieces.
Nor should you have to be worried about having ear sores, from the overuse of headphones.
We rated it 4.0/5 based on lots of customer opinions, feedback, and expert reviews from all around the internet.
It feels rather comfortable, with ease of use, and last way longer with a durable battery.
Even though the sound is not as you can always expect with traditional headphones.
It is fully ready and used right out of the box.
We then compared it to other similar products.
And we also told you about other conventional headphones.