In the world of audio technology, the headphone market is both vast and varied, with a plethora of choices that can make even the most ardent audiophile’s head spin. Yet, every so often, a pair of headphones manages to stand out, rising above the cacophony of choices, capturing the attention of the music lover and the tech enthusiast alike. Today, we have such a gem on our hands: the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810.
Plantronics is a name that needs no introduction in the world of audio devices, consistently delivering products that strike a balance between innovation, quality, and price. With the BackBeat GO 810, they’ve taken a leap forward, offering a product that not only meets the expectations of discerning audiophiles, but also poses a substantial challenge to the titans of the headphone world.
The BackBeat GO 810 is marketed as a pair of wireless, over-ear headphones designed for those who crave immersive sound and robust features without burning a hole in their pockets. But does it truly live up to this promise? Is it the ideal companion for your musical journey, or just another contender in an already saturated market? As a tech enthusiast and avid music lover, I’ll delve into the highs and lows, the hits and misses, and everything in between of this promising product. From sound quality to battery life, from design to comfort, every aspect will be put under the microscope in this comprehensive review.
Join me as we embark on this sonic exploration, testing the limits of what the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 has to offer. After all, the pursuit of the perfect sound is a journey, and every journey needs a reliable companion. Let’s find out if the BackBeat GO 810 is the one for you.
Table of Contents
Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 product information
History
Plantronics, a company with a rich history and impressive portfolio of audio solutions, embarked on a journey to create the BackBeat GO 810 in the early 2020s. The company, which was originally founded in 1961, made a name for itself through its invention of the first lightweight communication headset, which was used by NASA during the Apollo missions. Over the decades, Plantronics continued to make strides in audio technology, becoming a trusted name in both professional and consumer audio markets.
The genesis of the BackBeat GO 810 came from the need to provide high-quality audio in a wireless format without compromising on affordability. As the market trend was shifting towards wireless technologies, the demand for over-ear headphones that could deliver immersive, high-fidelity sound was growing. Plantronics saw an opportunity to fill this gap and began developing the BackBeat GO 810.
The design and development process was a labor of love that required extensive research, testing, and refinement. The engineers at Plantronics sought to create a product that would not only deliver excellent sound quality, but also offer an array of features that made it a versatile companion for everyday use. They focused on achieving a balance between active noise cancellation, sound quality, battery life, and comfort.
The team behind the BackBeat GO 810 poured countless hours into researching acoustic technologies, studying different materials for the ear cups, and experimenting with various battery types to ensure a long-lasting experience. They took inspiration from the needs and feedback of real-world users, adapting their design to meet the requirements of the modern, mobile audiophile.
After several iterations, the BackBeat GO 810 was launched. It was a culmination of Plantronics’ decades-long expertise in audio technology, their understanding of evolving market trends, and their commitment to delivering superior audio experiences to their users. The reception was overwhelmingly positive, with users and critics alike praising the headphones for their performance, features, and value for money.
The creation of the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 is a testament to the company’s dedication to innovation and user satisfaction. It stands as a symbol of their journey through the ever-changing landscape of audio technology, and their commitment to continually raising the bar in the realm of personal audio devices.
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2020 |
| Company | Plantronics |
| Official Website | www.plantronics.com |
| Fit Type | Over-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | – |
| Item Weight | 189 grams |
| Special Features | Dual-Mode Active Noise Cancellation, Multi-Point Bluetooth Connection |
| Driver Size | 40mm |
| Frequency Response | 50-20,000 Hz |
| Impedance | – |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 50 meters/165 feet |
| ANC Modes | Dual Mode (High and Low) |
| Audio Codec | – |
| Battery Life | Up to 22 hours with ANC on, up to 28 hours with ANC off |
| Charging Time | Approximately 2 hours for a full charge |
| Quick Charging | 10 minutes of charging provides up to 3 hours of listening |
| Controls | On-Ear Controls for Volume, Track Control, Calls, and Voice Assistant |
| Price | Around $150 |
What is included in the delivery set?
- Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 Headphones: The main product, these wireless over-ear headphones are designed for immersive audio and comfort.
- Micro-USB Charging Cable: This cable is used for charging the headphones. It’s worth noting that there might not be a power adapter included, so you may need to use an existing one or plug it into a device with a USB port for charging.
- 3.5mm Audio Cable: This is included for times when you prefer or need to use a wired connection, such as when the battery is low or you’re using a device that doesn’t support Bluetooth.
- Carry Bag: This helps protect the headphones and makes them easier to carry when you’re on the go.
- User Manual: This document provides instructions for using and caring for the headphones, as well as information about the warranty.
What about design, materials, assembly?
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones are designed with a modern, sleek aesthetic that matches their advanced technical capabilities. They strike a balance between style and function, offering a look that’s both appealing and understated.
The design is minimalist, featuring clean lines and a simple color scheme. The headphones are available in multiple colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your personal style. The outer shell is made of robust plastic, giving the headphones durability without adding unnecessary weight.
One of the standout design elements is the ear cups. They are made with memory foam, ensuring comfort even during long listening sessions. The ear cups are covered with a soft, leather-like material that not only enhances comfort but also adds a touch of luxury to the headphones’ overall appearance.
The headband, similarly cushioned for comfort, is adjustable to accommodate a wide range of head sizes. It’s made with similar materials as the ear cups for a consistent look and feel.
The assembly of the headphones reflects Plantronics’ attention to detail and commitment to quality. All parts fit together seamlessly, with no visible gaps or loose components. The physical controls on the ear cups are sturdy and responsive, providing tactile feedback when pressed.
One of the appealing design aspects of the BackBeat GO 810 is its portability. Despite being over-ear headphones, they’re designed to be travel-friendly. The ear cups swivel flat, making the headphones easier to pack into the included carrying bag.
In conclusion, the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810’s design, materials, and assembly showcase the company’s commitment to delivering a product that is not only high-performing in terms of audio quality, but also comfortable and stylish for everyday use.
What about ergonomics and usability Plantronics BackBeat GO 810?
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones were designed with a strong focus on ergonomics and usability, ensuring a comfortable and intuitive user experience. Here are some key aspects that contribute to their overall user-friendliness:
Comfort and Fit: The headphones feature memory foam ear cups that conform to the shape of your ears, providing a comfortable fit even during extended listening sessions. The adjustable headband also allows for a customized fit, catering to a wide range of head sizes.
Weight: Weighing in at approximately 189 grams, the BackBeat GO 810 is relatively lightweight for over-ear headphones. This makes them comfortable to wear for long periods without causing strain or discomfort.
Controls: The headphones feature on-ear controls for music, calls, and voice assistant activation. These buttons are conveniently placed and provide tactile feedback, making them easy to locate and use without having to remove the headphones.
Multi-Point Bluetooth Connection: This feature allows the headphones to be connected to two devices simultaneously. You can switch seamlessly between devices, enhancing usability especially for those who frequently alternate between different audio sources.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The BackBeat GO 810 offers dual-mode ANC, allowing users to choose the level of noise cancellation depending on their environment. This feature enhances the versatility and usability of the headphones, making them suitable for a wide range of settings.
Battery Life and Quick Charging: With up to 22 hours of playtime with ANC on (or up to 28 hours with ANC off), the headphones are designed for long-lasting use. The quick charging feature also boosts usability, providing up to 3 hours of listening time with just a 10-minute charge.
Connectivity: The inclusion of a 3.5mm audio cable for wired use enhances the headphones’ versatility, allowing them to be used even when the battery is low or with devices that don’t support Bluetooth.
In conclusion, the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones offer impressive ergonomics and usability, ensuring a comfortable, convenient, and versatile user experience.
What about connection, control and software?
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones provide a seamless and intuitive connection, control, and software experience.
Connection: The headphones feature Bluetooth 5.0 technology, ensuring a strong and stable wireless connection with a range of up to 50 meters or 165 feet. They also offer the convenience of multi-point Bluetooth connection, which allows them to be connected to two devices simultaneously. This is particularly useful if you often switch between different audio sources, such as a phone and a laptop. For situations where a wired connection is necessary or preferred, the headphones come with a 3.5mm audio cable.
Control: The BackBeat GO 810 features on-ear controls for music, calls, and voice assistant activation. These controls are thoughtfully placed and provide tactile feedback, allowing you to easily manage your audio experience without having to remove your headphones or reach for your connected device. The headphones support a variety of commands, including play/pause, skip track, volume control, call answer/end, and activation of your device’s voice assistant.
Software: Plantronics offers a companion app called BackBeat, available for both iOS and Android devices. The app provides an array of useful features to enhance your headphone experience. You can customize your audio preferences, toggle between noise cancellation modes, check battery levels, update firmware, and even locate your headphones if you misplace them. The app’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate and adjust your settings according to your needs.
In terms of connection, control, and software, the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones offer a user-friendly and flexible experience. They’re designed to effortlessly integrate into your daily life, whether you’re enjoying music at home, taking calls on the go, or focusing on work in a busy environment.
How’s the sound quality?
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones deliver a commendable audio experience that’s designed to appeal to a broad range of listeners. Let’s delve deeper into their sound performance:
Bass: The BackBeat GO 810 has a robust and well-defined bass response. It’s punchy and energetic without being overly dominant, creating a sound profile that’s engaging and enjoyable. Bass-heavy genres like EDM, hip-hop, and pop music shine particularly well on these headphones. However, the bass is well-controlled and doesn’t bleed into the mid-range, preserving the clarity of vocals and instruments.
Mid-range: The mid-range is where the vocals and most musical instruments reside, and the BackBeat GO 810 represents this range faithfully. The mids are clear and detailed, offering a natural and warm representation of vocals and instruments. Whether it’s the subtle nuances in a vocal performance or the intricate details in a complex musical arrangement, the headphones deliver a satisfying mid-range performance.
Treble: The treble on the BackBeat GO 810 is clean and crisp. It adds a nice sparkle to the overall sound without being harsh or sibilant. High-frequency details in music are well-presented, enhancing the sense of space and openness in the soundstage.
Soundstage and Imaging: For closed-back, over-ear headphones in this price range, the BackBeat GO 810 offers an impressive soundstage. The music doesn’t feel compressed or confined, giving a good sense of space and separation between different instruments and sounds. The imaging, or the ability to locate different sounds in the soundstage, is also commendable, adding to the immersive listening experience.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The dual-mode ANC is a significant feature in these headphones. It effectively reduces ambient noise, allowing you to focus on your music even in noisy environments. The two modes (high and low) let you choose the level of noise cancellation according to your needs.
Overall Sound Quality: The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 offers a balanced sound profile that’s suitable for a wide range of genres. They deliver a satisfying combination of punchy bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, all wrapped in a spacious soundstage. Whether you’re a casual listener or a discerning audiophile, these headphones deliver a sound performance that’s enjoyable and engaging.
It’s important to note that sound quality is highly subjective and can be influenced by various factors, including the quality of the audio source, individual hearing differences, and personal preferences. However, based on their technical specifications and user reviews, the BackBeat GO 810 offers a sound quality that’s impressive for its price range.
What about the energy efficiency and battery life?
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones are designed with energy efficiency in mind, providing a substantial battery life that’s perfect for long listening sessions or extended periods away from a charging source.
The headphones offer up to 22 hours of battery life with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on. If you turn off ANC, the battery life extends even further to an impressive 28 hours. This considerable battery life makes these headphones a reliable companion for long commutes, travel, or simply all-day listening at work or at home.
To preserve battery life, the BackBeat GO 810 also features an automatic shut-off function that turns the headphones off after a period of inactivity. This smart feature ensures that you don’t accidentally leave your headphones on and drain the battery.
In terms of charging, the headphones use a Micro-USB charging cable. While this might be considered slightly outdated with the widespread adoption of USB-C, it still delivers efficient charging. The headphones can be fully charged in about 2 hours, which is quite reasonable for headphones with such a long battery life.
One particularly convenient feature is the quick charging capability. With just a 10-minute charge, you can get up to 3 hours of listening time. This is particularly useful if you forget to charge your headphones and need to use them in a pinch.
Overall, the energy efficiency and battery life of the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones is a standout feature, offering both longevity and convenience for users. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a busy professional, or just someone who enjoys uninterrupted music, these headphones are designed to keep up with your lifestyle.
Comparison & Review
What headphones are similar in features and cost?
The headphone market is quite competitive, and there are several models with features and pricing similar to the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810. Here are a few:
1. **Jabra Elite 85h**: These wireless over-ear headphones come with SmartSound technology and are designed to offer superior sound and call quality. They boast an impressive battery life of up to 36 hours with ANC turned on.
2. **Sony WH-CH710N**: These headphones feature Sony’s Artificial Intelligence Noise Cancellation (AINC) technology and offer up to 35 hours of battery life. They also come with a quick charging function that gives 60 minutes of playback from a 10-minute charge.
3. **Sennheiser HD 450BT**: These headphones deliver the signature Sennheiser sound quality with deep dynamic bass. They offer Active Noise Cancellation and a robust 30-hour battery life.
4. **Audio-Technica ATH-SR30BT**: While these headphones don’t offer noise cancellation, they excel in sound quality and battery life, offering an incredible 70 hours of continuous use on a full charge.
5. **Skullcandy Venue**: These headphones offer Active Noise Cancellation and a ‘monitor mode’ that lets you momentarily turn off the noise cancellation to hear your surroundings. They also have a built-in Tile tracker to help locate them if lost.
6. **Anker Soundcore Life Q20**: Known for their value for money, these headphones offer hybrid Active Noise Cancellation and an impressive 40-hour playtime. They also boast BassUp technology for enhanced bass.
7. **Taotronics SoundSurge 60**: These headphones offer hybrid Active Noise Cancellation and a comfortable design. They offer up to 30 hours of playtime and come with a fast charging feature.
Let’s delve a bit deeper into two models:
**Jabra Elite 85h**: The Jabra Elite 85h headphones are a strong competitor in this price range. They offer SmartSound technology, which automatically adapts the audio experience based on your surroundings. The battery life is one of the best in its class, offering up to 36 hours with ANC on. The headphones are also rain-resistant and come with a 2-year warranty against water and dust.
**Sony WH-CH710N**: Sony’s WH-CH710N headphones offer Artificial Intelligence Noise Cancellation (AINC), which adjusts to your environment for the best noise cancelling performance. They provide a long battery life of up to 35 hours, and the quick charging feature is quite convenient, offering 60 minutes of playback from a mere 10-minute charge. Sound quality is impressive, with clear highs, mids, and lows.
As with any audio product, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences, including factors such as comfort, sound quality, battery life, and additional features like noise cancellation and voice assistant support.
Compare with similar items
| Specification | Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 | Jabra Elite 85h | Sony WH-CH710N |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 |
| Company | Plantronics | Jabra | Sony |
| Official Website | www.plantronics.com | www.jabra.com | www.sony.com |
| Fit Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | 8.1 x 6.9 x 2.2 in | 7.6 x 8.8 x 3.2 in | 7.84 x 2.09 x 9.02 in |
| Item Weight | 189 grams | 296 grams | 223 grams |
| Special Features | Dual-mode ANC, Multipoint Bluetooth | SmartSound, rain-resistant | AINC, Quick charging |
| Driver Size | 40 mm | 40 mm | 30 mm |
| Frequency Response | 50-20,000 Hz | 10-20,000 Hz | 20-20,000 Hz |
| Impedance | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | 50 meters/165 feet | 10 meters/33 feet | 10 meters/33 feet |
| ANC Modes | Dual-mode | Not specified | AINC |
| Audio Codec | SBC | SBC | SBC, AAC |
| Battery Life | Up to 22 hours with ANC on; 28 hours with ANC off | Up to 36 hours with ANC on | Up to 35 hours |
| Charging Time | 2 hours | 2.5 hours | 7 hours |
| Quick Charging | 10 minutes for 3 hours of listening | Not specified | 10 minutes for 60 minutes of playback |
| Controls | On-ear controls | On-ear controls | On-ear controls |
| Price | Around $150 | Around $200 | Around $130 |
How do Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 users describe their experience with these headphones?
The user experience with the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones is generally positive across a variety of aspects. Here are some of the key themes that emerge from user reviews:
1. **Comfort and Fit**: Users often note that the BackBeat GO 810 is comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to its lightweight design and plush earpads. The adjustable headband also ensures a secure fit for different head sizes.
2. **Sound Quality**: Many users praise the sound quality of these headphones, highlighting the balanced audio profile, clear mids, and punchy bass. The soundstage and imaging are also frequently commended for their spacious and detailed presentation.
3. **Noise Cancellation**: The dual-mode Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) receives positive feedback, with users appreciating the ability to adjust the level of noise cancellation based on their surroundings.
4. **Battery Life**: The long battery life is a standout feature for many users. The ability to use the headphones for up to 22 hours with ANC turned on, and even longer with it off, is frequently mentioned as a major plus.
5. **Connectivity**: The multipoint Bluetooth connection is another feature that users appreciate, as it allows them to connect the headphones to two devices simultaneously. Users also note that the Bluetooth connection is reliable and stable.
6. **BackBeat App**: The companion BackBeat app is generally well-received, with users finding it easy to navigate and useful for customizing their audio preferences and checking battery levels.
However, as with any product, there are also some criticisms:
1. **Micro-USB Charging**: Some users express disappointment that the headphones use a Micro-USB charging port instead of the more modern USB-C. This is seen as a minor inconvenience rather than a deal-breaker.
2. **Call Quality**: A few users have noted that the call quality could be better, particularly in noisy environments.
Overall, users describe their experience with the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones as positive, praising the comfort, sound quality, noise cancellation, battery life, and connectivity. The few criticisms that exist seem to be minor in comparison to the many strengths of these headphones.
Pros and cons of headphones Plantronics BackBeat GO 810
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| Comfortable fit for extended periods | Uses Micro-USB for charging, not USB-C |
| Balanced sound quality with clear mids and punchy bass | Call quality can be improved |
| Dual-mode Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | |
| Long battery life (up to 22 hours with ANC on, 28 hours with ANC off) | |
| Stable and reliable Bluetooth connection | |
| Multipoint Bluetooth connection (ability to connect two devices simultaneously) | |
| Companion BackBeat app for customizing audio preferences and checking battery level |
Conclusions
To conclude, the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones make a compelling case for themselves in the crowded mid-range headphone market with their combination of comfort, sound quality, active noise cancellation, and battery life.
These over-ear headphones are comfortable for extended listening sessions, thanks to their lightweight design and plush earpads. Sound quality is a strength, with users appreciating the balanced audio profile, clear mids, and punchy bass. The dual-mode active noise cancellation is effective, and the ability to adjust it based on your environment is a nice touch.
Battery life is another major plus. You can expect up to 22 hours of listening with ANC on and even longer with it off. Connectivity is reliable, and the ability to connect to two devices simultaneously via multipoint Bluetooth is a bonus. The companion BackBeat app is also well-received for its ease of use and handy features.
The headphones aren’t without their shortcomings, though these are relatively minor. The use of Micro-USB for charging instead of the more modern USB-C is a common criticism, and some users feel that call quality could be improved.
However, these criticisms don’t detract from the overall appeal of the BackBeat GO 810. For those seeking a pair of comfortable, great-sounding headphones with effective noise cancellation and excellent battery life, these headphones are worth considering.
As with any tech purchase, your individual needs and preferences should guide your decision. But based on their features and performance, the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones offer good value for their price, earning them a solid recommendation in the mid-range headphone category.
Our Review
Plantronics BackBeat GO 810. Basic questions, basic answers
-
How well does the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) work on the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810?
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 features a dual-mode ANC that users have found effective in reducing ambient noise. While it may not be as powerful as some higher-end models, it’s generally considered very good for its price range.
-
Can the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 be used for gaming?
While the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 is not specifically designed for gaming, its good sound quality and comfortable fit make it suitable for casual gaming. However, it may lack some gaming-specific features like low latency mode or a high-quality boom mic.
-
What is the battery life of the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810?
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 offers up to 22 hours of listening with ANC turned on and up to 28 hours with ANC turned off.
-
What devices can I connect the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 to?
The Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 features Bluetooth 5.0, which should allow it to connect to any device that supports Bluetooth, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and certain gaming consoles.
-
Does the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 have on-ear controls?
Yes, the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 features intuitive on-ear controls for volume adjustment, track skipping, and call handling.
-
Can the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 connect to multiple devices at once?
Yes, the BackBeat GO 810 supports multipoint Bluetooth pairing, which allows it to be connected to two devices simultaneously.
-
Does the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 come with a companion app?
Yes, there’s a companion BackBeat app that allows you to customize your audio preferences, switch between EQ profiles, and check the battery level of the headphones.
Last Updated on November 15, 2023
English 
German 
Russian 
Latvian 
Lithuanian 
Polish 
Portuguese 
Spanish 
Indonesian 
Turkish 
Ukrainian
3 comments
Thank you for taking the time to read our review of the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810 headphones. I hope you found the information helpful and informative. We understand that choosing the right headphones can be a challenging task with so many options available in the market. Therefore, we strive to provide comprehensive and unbiased reviews to assist you in making an informed decision.
Your feedback is invaluable to us. If you have any thoughts or personal experiences with the Plantronics BackBeat GO 810, we would love to hear from you. Or if you have any questions that weren’t addressed in the review or the FAQ, feel free to ask. Your insights not only help us improve our content but also help others in our community make better buying decisions.
Let’s continue the conversation in the comments section below. Looking forward to your thoughts and comments!
Great review! I’ve been using the BackBeat GO 810 for a few months now and can vouch for the sound quality and battery life. They’ve become my go-to for long flights.
I was hoping for a bit more on their gaming performance. Can anyone share their experience using these headphones for gaming?