TOZO Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds with 6 Mics AI Clear Call Ear Buds 68H Playtime with LED Display 32 Preset EQs via APP Bluetooth 5.3 IPX8 Waterproof in Ear Headphones Review

Budget ANC earbuds are a minefield. For every hidden gem, there are a dozen products that slap "Active Noise Cancelling" on the box and deliver something closer to a mild suggestion. The TOZO NC9 sits in a crowded price bracket — regularly discounted to under $30 on Amazon — so the real question isn't whether it's impressive for the price. It's whether it actually delivers on its headline promises.

What You're Actually Getting

The NC9 packs hybrid ANC — meaning it uses both feedforward and feedback microphones to cancel noise, not just one type. At this price, that's genuinely noteworthy. You also get 6 microphones total for call quality (TOZO labels this ENC, or Environmental Noise Cancellation), IPX8 waterproofing, Bluetooth 5.3, and access to 32 preset EQ profiles through the TOZO app. The case features an LED display showing battery percentage, which is a small but practical touch that more expensive earbuds sometimes skip.

Battery life is rated at 68 hours total (earbuds plus case combined), though real-world figures with ANC enabled will be noticeably lower — as is standard across the industry. Treat the headline number as the ceiling, not the guarantee.

The Case for Buying These

At $27–$30 during frequent Amazon deals, the NC9 punches meaningfully above its weight class. Hybrid ANC at this price is rare. Most budget competitors either skip ANC entirely or implement a single-mic passive approach that barely qualifies. The 6-mic setup for calls is also a real differentiator — if you're taking work calls on the go, having dedicated environmental noise filtering matters more than an extra hour of battery life.

The IPX8 waterproof rating is also surprisingly high for the price. IPX8 means submersion resistance — not just sweat protection — so gym sessions, rain, and outdoor workouts are fair game without anxiety. TOZO has built a strong reputation for waterproofing across their lineup, and the NC9 continues that trend.

The 32 EQ presets via app are a genuine bonus for people who like to tinker. Most budget earbuds offer zero customization. Even if you settle on one setting and never change it, having the option matters — especially since the default tuning on budget earbuds is often heavy on bass at the expense of clarity.

Where It Falls Short

Let's be honest about what "hybrid ANC" means at the $30 price point. It will noticeably reduce steady-state noise — AC hum, engine rumble, ambient crowd noise — but don't expect Sony XM5 or even Anker Q45 performance. Sudden noises and complex sound environments will still break through. If you need serious noise isolation for focus work or flights, you'll want to spend more.

Sound quality follows a similar curve. The stereo bass is real — TOZO tunes for a consumer-friendly V-shape with boosted lows and highs — but audiophiles will find the midrange recessed and the overall signature a bit flat under scrutiny. The EQ app helps correct this, but there's a ceiling to what software can fix.

It's also worth noting: a Reddit comparison surfaced the UGREEN Studio Pro over-ears at a similar price point (around £31 in the UK), which offers LDAC hi-res audio, Bluetooth 6.0, and 120-hour battery. If you're an over-ear person, that's worth checking. But for true wireless in-ears with waterproofing, the NC9 holds its own.

Who Should Buy This

The NC9 is built for the budget-conscious daily commuter or gym-goer who wants genuine ANC, solid call quality, and waterproofing without spending $80+. It's not a product for audiophiles, serious remote workers who need premium call clarity, or anyone expecting flagship-tier noise cancellation. But for a student, a casual listener, or someone upgrading from truly basic earbuds — this is a strong buy, especially on sale.

One practical tip: install the TOZO app before your first use and dial in your EQ. The default sound profile is fine but the app-tuned experience is noticeably better. Takes five minutes and makes a real difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the ANC on the TOZO NC9 actually effective?

A: It's genuinely hybrid ANC, which is better than most at this price. It handles steady background noise well — commuter hum, office ambience, fan noise — but won't compete with premium options for complex or sudden sounds.

Q: What does IPX8 waterproof rating mean for these earbuds?

A: IPX8 means the earbuds can withstand submersion in water, not just sweat or splashes. They're safe for intense workouts, rain, and even accidental drops in water — a genuinely high rating for the price point.

Q: How long does the battery actually last with ANC on?

A: The 68-hour figure is total playtime with the case. With ANC enabled, expect the earbuds themselves to last significantly less per charge — typical for all ANC earbuds. Budget for roughly half the rated earbud playtime when ANC is active.

Q: Do I need the TOZO app?

A: Not strictly required, but highly recommended. The app unlocks all 32 EQ presets and significantly improves the listening experience beyond the default tuning. It's free and setup is straightforward.

Q: How does the TOZO NC9 compare to the TOZO A1?

A: The A1 is a more stripped-down model (no ANC, IPX5 instead of IPX8, typically priced around $12 on sale). The NC9 is the upgrade pick if ANC and better waterproofing matter to you — and at $27–$30 on sale, the gap is small enough that most buyers should step up.

— Tech Lead Editor, CPrice