Review of Audio-Technica ATH-CKS50TW2: Impressive Battery Life and Pleasing Audio for $150

A Good Purchase If You Tolerate Some Drawbacks

Earbuds in the $150 bracket often fail to offer anything beyond standard features and competent sound quality. Rarely do they boast an exceptional trait that lingers in memory. Audio-Technica aims to change that with the ATH-CKS50TW2 by focusing on incredible battery duration and a unique element to enhance usability. While not without flaws, these earbuds pack numerous appealing features usually reserved for pricier options. Their captivating sound output and remarkable stamina of over 20 hours per charge might persuade buyers to forgive their imperfections.

Highlights: Endurance, Magnetic Function, and Sound

Upon CES's unveiling of the ATH-CKS50TW2, its standout attribute was undoubtedly the battery lifetime. Audio-Technica confidently states these earbuds can last up to 25 hours per full charge without active noise cancellation (ANC) and another 40 hours courtesy of the charging case. With ANC enabled, listening time drops to 15 hours—a figure double the usual offerings from competitors. Throughout my evaluation, these assertions consistently proved accurate.

To make those impressive numbers possible, Audio-Technica incorporated what they call Magnetic Switch technology. This feature allows the earphones to disconnect with magnets prior to being cased, unlike many rivals which power off only when housed. Simply separate and unite them outside the case to conserve battery energy while they're idle. This approach not only saves power but also prevents constant recharging in the case, aiding in prolonging battery lifespan.

Audio-Technica masterfully executes both sound and battery longevity with the ATH-CKS50TW2, offering this performance at a fraction of the cost of top-tier earbuds.

The signature cozy, inviting sound profile exemplifies Audio-Technica in the ATH-CKS50TW2. The factory settings avoid over-adjustment, letting the bass pop when necessary and recede otherwise. Tracks like Kendrick Lamar’s 'tv off' see the deep bass pulsate, while elements like hi-hats and vocals emerge sharply. Switching to calmer tunes such as Turnpike Troubadours’ 'Be Here,' one can appreciate the full array of acoustic instruments alongside gentle drumming minus bass dominance.

While lacking the absolute clarity or detail of high-end, flagship counterparts, the ATH-CKS50TW2 stands out among $150 contenders concerning audio quality. Jason Isbell’s 'Foxes in the Snow,' for instance, may not reveal the exact nuances of more luxurious models, but the ATH-CKS50TW2 remains competitive with its price peers, largely due to its extended battery capabilities.

Concerns: Physical Design, Button Controls, and a Key Missing Function

Relative to 2025 expectations, the ATH-CKS50TW2's design feels large and somewhat cumbersome. Its weight is prominently distributed around the ear’s perimeter, impacting comfort and stability. Though they stayed put, I always sensed an impending drop—not ideal. The bulkiness perhaps serves a purpose: accommodating larger batteries. Audiophiles valuing prolonged sessions will likely deem this compromise worthwhile.

Physical controls on the ATH-CKS50TW2 seem promising, yet they inherit issues from earlier models in their small button size and unusual top-edge placement. The design demands holding the earphones while pressing controls due to each earbud's mass and size, making them feel unwieldy. The problematic design trickles down, affecting various elements of the experience.

Absent from the ATH-CKS50TW2 is the ever-useful wear detection feature. Nevertheless, the model thoughtfully incorporates features like ANC, ambient mode, a five-band EQ, soundscapes, and media functions via its app. Also included are a 'private timer,' gaming/video-friendly low latency mode, and configurable volume steps. The earbuds even allow microphone testing for call noise reduction. An attention mode for brief conversations is handy, but automatic pausing upon removal would have been a beneficial addition.

Final Considerations for the ATH-CKS50TW2

As anticipated, the exceptional battery life is the primary incentive to acquire the ATH-CKS50TW2. Although the Magnetic Switch may not be vital to reach the advertised longevity, it efficiently prevents unnecessary charging. The sound quality, while not Earth's finest, sufficiently showcases Audio-Technica’s audio pedigree in a more budget-friendly offering.

Admittedly not the most ergonomic or intuitive in control settings, the extensive feature list remedies many misgivings. For enthusiasts prioritizing acoustics and power duration, these earbuds will likely satisfy, despite their minor setbacks.