Audio-Technica has launched its latest wireless earbuds, the ATH-CKS50TW2, at CES 2025. While the name might not roll off the tongue (not uncommon for the brand), these earbuds bring some fresh ideas to the table, making them an interesting option for both tech enthusiasts and everyday listeners.

The key feature of the ATH-CKS50TW2 is something called "Magnetic Switch" technology. It’s a clever way to conserve battery life when you’re not actively using the earbuds. The magnets inside the earbuds let them snap together when they’re close, automatically powering them down. 

This means you don’t need to worry about forgetting to turn them off if you don’t have the charging case with you. Plus, it keeps them from playing music in your pocket or bag by accident.

Of course, the charging case is still your main way to recharge the earbuds, but this feature is a handy backup. It’s a thoughtful addition for anyone who’s ever fumbled with earbuds on the go and wondered later why the battery was drained.

Battery life is a big deal for wireless earbuds, and the ATH-CKS50TW2 doesn’t disappoint. Audio-Technica claims you’ll get up to 25 hours of playback on a single charge, which is almost unheard of. 

Add another 40 hours from the charging case, and you’re looking at a total of 65 hours of listening time with noise cancellation off. Even with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned on, you’ll still get a solid 15 hours from the earbuds and 25 hours from the case.

To put that in perspective, Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 offer a total of about 30 hours, including the case. This makes the ATH-CKS50TW2 a great pick for long trips or busy days when charging isn’t an option.

These earbuds aren’t just about battery life. They also deliver some impressive hardware and design features:

• Drivers: The 9mm high-definition drivers promise detailed sound. While Audio-Technica hasn’t confirmed the specific codec support yet, their previous model included aptX Adaptive, AAC, and SBC, so it’s possible this one will too.
• Durability: With an IP55 rating, these earbuds can handle dust and water better than many competitors, making them a solid choice for workouts or outdoor use.
• Fit: The hybrid ear tips combine hard and soft silicone for a snug fit that helps reduce sound leakage.
• Wireless Charging: Unlike their predecessor, the ATH-CKS50TW2 now supports wireless charging, adding another layer of convenience.
• Customizable Controls: Through the Audio-Technica Connect app, you can tweak controls and EQ settings to suit your preferences. Multipoint connectivity also lets you pair the earbuds with more than one device at a time.

Available in black or beige, the ATH-CKS50TW2 is priced at $149. This makes them a competitive option compared to higher-priced models from brands like Apple, Sony, and Bose. For what they offer, the price seems pretty reasonable. If you’re in the market for wireless earbuds with long battery life and practical design, these could be worth checking out. They’re available now on Audio-Technica’s website.

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