The following review is based on a recent competition prize win and is compared to existing Anker models which I own or have had in the past.
Anker SoundBuds Sport Slim are, for me, a nice introduction to Anker’s overall Bluetooth headphone line. I’ve used the Sport NB10 model (my fav) and the ‘entry level’ SoundBud Sport (casing for the EarBuds were too big and in general were quite uncomfortable in any configuration). The ‘Slim’ offering looks to have taken user feedback on board and improved many aspects which I found off putting with their initial entry level buds. They have also returned to the signature blue/white packaging instead of their ‘revamped’ NB10 Sport packaging, I guess to help with the difference between their entry and premium level offerings.
Used a few times in the gym (held well to sweat), at work and while reading in bed over the past week and was certainly surprised how much I warmed to them given my last brush with the entry level model. If I was recommending to a friend for solely gym use, I would lean towards the NB10, which for me held better, yet for general daily use they would surprise many. Solid build quality as standard and lightness rarely seen in this budget range (a slight 15g). Despite the controls now being returned to the cable, instead of being at the earpiece end, I found this not to be an issue for either access and/or obstruction, quite the opposite actually. Another plus is usage so far has been off a single full charge, with average use of 40 minutes a day (so about 4-5 hours so far). Volume level on average was at around 60-70% of the maximum, higher or lower volume usage will have an impact on usage time from a single charge.
Thanks to Bluetooth 4.1 you are able to keep an eye on the charge level, to an extent via iOS notification centre, android may have its own method, although introduction of a universal Anker app could be a good way forward to monitor their BT range! Clear audio detail over various genres tested, thanks to the 6mm drivers, with no lag during playback and/or changing tracks (as often has been an issue with other similar priced entry level buds I’ve bought or used).
During use three things mainly stood out compared to my past NB10 and Sport version uses, firstly was how accessible the power and volume buttons are, in fact better than the NB10 for this (especially if you’ve got large fingers), second the volume was lower and with just a little less bass than the NB10 (which in many ways worked better for home use before bed) and finally how much better the general fit is compared to the previous Sport version used, they really are more inline and held well under gym use.
Only one small negative I could find during my use this week, is that the flap for the charging port can be fussy about remaining closed from just a simple press, takes a bit more force than imagined to keep it shut.
In The Box:
- Anker SoundBud Sport Slim
- Xtra Small/Small/Medium/Large in-ear tips and small/medium/large earhooks (found a medium hook/small tip to work well)
- Top Sprung Travel Pouch
- Micro USB charging cable
- FitClip (for cable)
- Clothing Clip
- Warranty and user manual
If you are just making a jump to Bluetooth earphones, compared to the Sport model, these would be a nice introduction and a bargain at £20 (or less on Amazon or Anker deal days) but for the more seasoned gym goer I still would recommend the NB10.
and 
but you can actually view the battery percent of bluetooth devices in the iOS notification centre (knew it was possible for the internal battery but not BT also).
