Creative Outlier Free Pro+ (Hardware)
Official GBAtemp Review
Product Information:
Bone conduction headphones usually appeal to a niche market as they pack an open-ear design that allows you to be aware of ambient sounds. This makes them apt in situations such as cycling or outdoors running as they allow you to listen to your playlist or podcast while still maintaining an aural awareness of your surroundings.
Audio specialist Creative’s latest headphones in this market is the Outlier Free Pro+ which costs €130 and comes with the following:
- 1 x Creative Outlier Free Pro+
- 1 x Magnetic Clip-on Charging and Data Transfer Cable
- 3 x Microphone plug
- 1 x Pair of Silicone Earplugs
- 1 x Quick Start Guide
Specs of the device can be found below:
Creative has two colour variants for the Outlier Free Pro+: Midnight Blue and Matte Black, and Midnight Blue with Fiery Orange. I am personally fond of the latter (as is the model reviewed) as the orange accents endow the earpiece with a unique-looking touch.
Speaking of touch, the Outlier Free Pro+ packs a matte, rubberised finish. This delivers a satisfying feeling to the touch and I am also a fan of matte finishes over glossy ones.
To operate these headphones, you have two options: pairing over Bluetooth and standalone MP3 player mode. Bluetooth pairing is a simple affair, and delivers a stable and reliable connection over Bluetooth 5.3. In this mode, the Outlier Free Pro+ also supports Multipoint connectivity which allows you to pair up to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
This enables you to, for example, take calls and stream audio from two separate audio devices respectively. This can be handy if you’re gaming on your desktop and want to be able to take phone calls without having to reach out to your phone. The Outlier Free Pro+ even features a microphone for taking calls or just calling up your phone's assistant. While it won't replace a boom mic or a dedicated desktop microphone, it is serviceable enough to take calls. The package also includes a microphone cover to ensure that the headphones are free from damage when outdoors.
However, my favourite mode is the standalone mode. With 8GB of built-in memory, the Creative Outlier Free Pro+ can double as an MP3 player, without the need to be paired to a source device or the internet. It supports MP3, FLAC, WAV, and APE file formats and being free from a source device makes it more versatile as you can bring it to your workouts or just while reading to enjoy a hassle-free music experience.
Whether you use the Outlier Free Pro+ over a Bluetooth connection or as a standalone MP3 player, the sound quality is decent. The soundscape is balanced over treble and bass, making it adequate to listen to podcasts, music or video game soundtracks. The output isn’t on par with over-ear headphones but they are pretty decent as open-ear headphones, so you’ll have to manage your expectations accordingly. However, there can be some leaks depending on how high the volume is set.
Controls on the Creative Outlier Free Pro+ are located on the left side and include a multi-function middle button (for Bluetooth pairing or toggling between modes) and volume adjustment buttons on either side. I am glad that Creative opted for physical controls as I’ve found them to be more accurate and reliable than touch controls. However, there is an adjustment period with using the Outlier Free Pro+’s controls as they are not your usual pair of headphones and the location isn’t immediately familiar.
While the Creative Outlier Free Pro+ is sturdily built overall, with adjustable transducers for a personalised fit and IPX8 waterproof rating that can withstand a range of weather conditions and activities (you can even swim with it), my major gripe is with the back loop. It is not adjustable, meaning there will be some space between it and the back of your head. In most cases such as when running or biking, this generally won’t be an issue. But when you’re using it while sitting or lying down, the back loop will push the headphones forwards and it’s not ideal for use nor comfortable.
Speaking of comfort, a minor note is due with the Creative Outlier Free Pro+. Over extended periods of use, some pressure can be felt around the area the transducers are placed. But it’s not noticeable when used for short bouts.
Also, it's worth noting that the charging cable (which doubles as a data transfer cable to upload audio files on the device) is a proprietary one. This is likely due to make the device IPX8-rated waterproof but it also means that replacement is harder. Another more welcome option would have been to have a USB-C cable concealed under a waterproof flap, not unlike the microphone situation on this very device.
Overall, the Outlier Free Pro+ is a decent pair of bone conduction headphones. It stands out with its versatility as it can double as a standalone MP3 player, and it delivers decent audio for open-ear headphones. It’s well worth considering if you’re looking for audio accessories with open-ear designs but don’t expect it to replace high end over-ear headphones.
Verdict
- Standalone MP3 mode with on-board memory
- Decent sound quality
- IPX8 waterproof rating
- Back loop isn’t adjustable
- Pressure can be felt over extended periods
- Proprietary charger/data cable
