Belkin SoundForm Isolate Over-Ear Headphones Review: Price and Features Compensate for a Snug Fit

Belkin SoundForm Isolate Over-Ear Headphones Review

The Belkin SoundForm Isolate arrives amid a wave of budget-conscious audio gear that continues to challenge expectations. Recent reviews at Serious Insights have highlighted devices like the Altec Lansing ComfortQ 2.0, which offers hybrid ANC and a comfort-first design, and the SoundPEATS Pop Clip, a lightweight ear clip with surprising audio quality. These entries demonstrate that affordability no longer equates to compromise, setting a high bar for audio offerings like the Belkin SoundForm Isolate.

Belkin positions the SoundForm Isolate as a versatile option for users seeking features like hybrid ANC, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and extended battery life—all under $60. While it doesn’t aim to dethrone premium models, it seeks to provide a compelling alternative for budget-minded consumers.

Technical Specifications

• Driver: 40mm
• Frequency range:20Hz-20kHz
• Number of Microphones: 5
• Playback time: Up to 60 hours
• Dimensions:  (LxWxH) 7.4 in./187mm (H) x 6.6 in./168mm (W) x 3.2 in./82mm (D)
• Weight: 5.6 in./160g

What we like

Pros

• Affordable price ($59.99) for ANC headphones
• Long battery life (up to 60 hours)
• Hybrid active noise cancellation
• Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connectivity
• Includes 3.5mm and USB-C wired options
• CloudCushion earcups for comfort
• Unique “Isolate Effect” with ocean sounds
• Foldable design for portability
• Built-in microphone with clear call quality

The Belkin SoundForm Isolate offers hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) that effectively reduces low-frequency noises, such as bus engines and air conditioners. While it doesn’t match premium models in ANC performance, it provides a noticeable reduction in ambient noise, enhancing the listening experience in various environments.  Clear audio prompts indicate ANC settings.

When it comes to music listening, the Belkin SoundForm Isolate performs competently but without flair. The midrange and treble offer a clean, balanced presentation that works well for vocals and casual listening, but the overall sound lacks depth and richness. Bass response is noticeably limited, particularly when active noise cancellation is engaged, which dulls the impact of genres like hip-hop, EDM, or cinematic scores. The soundstage feels confined, with minimal instrument separation, making the listening experience more functional than immersive. Perfectly fine for other audio such as listening to books or podcasts.

With a battery life of up to 60 hours without ANC and 40 hours with ANC activated, these headphones are well-suited for extended use.

Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, the SoundForm Isolate ensures a stable and reliable wireless connection. The multipoint connectivity feature allows seamless switching between two devices, such as a laptop and a smartphone, and extended range.  

Belkin includes both 3.5mm and USB-C cables with the headphones, providing flexibility for users who prefer wired connections or need to connect to devices without Bluetooth capability. This inclusion adds value and versatility to the product.

The CloudCushion earcups are designed for comfort, featuring soft padding that conforms to the ears. This design helps in passive noise isolation and allows for comfortable wear during extended listening sessions.  

A distinctive feature of the SoundForm Isolate is the “Isolate Effect,” which plays soothing ocean wave sounds. This built-in ambient noise track can aid in relaxation or focus, offering an additional use case beyond standard audio playback.  Push the raised combo button where the volume buttons converge to invoke the ocean sounds.

The headphones’ foldable design enhances portability, allowing them to collapse into a more compact form for easy storage in bags or backpacks. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who travel frequently.  

The built-in microphone delivers clear call quality, making the SoundForm Isolate suitable for phone calls and virtual meetings. The microphone effectively reduces background noise, ensuring that the user’s voice remains clear to listeners.  

Belkin emphasizes sustainability in the SoundForm Isolate’s design, utilizing  43.81% recycled plastics in its construction. Additionally, the packaging is 100% plastic-free, aligning with environmentally conscious practices.

The Belkin SoundForm Isolate Over-Ear Headphones come with a 2-year warranty.

What could be improved

Cons

• Shallow earcups and tight headband may cause discomfort over time
• Limited bass response, especially with ANC on
• Earcups do not rotate fully to lay flat
• No EQ customization or app support
• No carrying case 

Some users may find the earcups shallow, leading to discomfort during prolonged use. The limited depth can cause pressure on the ears, which might be alleviated by redesigning the earcups to accommodate a wider range of ear sizes.  The headband will also likely prove tight for those with larger heads (or average heads even, like mine!). 

The headphones exhibit a decent bass response, even when ANC is activated. This results in a thinner sound profile that may not satisfy users who prefer a richer bass experience. Enhancing the low-frequency response could improve overall sound quality.  

The earcups do not rotate fully to lay flat, which can be inconvenient for users who wish to rest the headphones around their neck when not in use. Allowing full rotation would increase comfort and portability.  

Currently, there is no support for EQ customization or a companion app, limiting users’ ability to adjust sound settings to their preferences. Introducing app support with customizable EQ settings would enhance user experience. Though EQ through the music apps will change sound profiles.

The absence of a carrying case may affect the headphones’ durability during transport. Providing a protective case would help users maintain the product’s condition over time. The headphones do come in a reusable cloth bag, which will offer some protection as long as it lasts.

Belkin SoundForm Isolate Over-Ear Headphones: The bottom line

The Belkin SoundForm Isolate offers a compelling package for budget-conscious consumers seeking wireless over-ear headphones with active noise cancellation. While it may not satisfy audiophiles due to its limited bass response and lack of customization options, it excels in battery life, connectivity, and comfort. The addition of unique features like the “Isolate Effect” and multipoint connectivity enhances its appeal. However, potential buyers should consider the noted comfort and sound quality limitations. Overall, the SoundForm Isolate stands out as a value-oriented choice in its price range. 

Belkin provided the SoundForm Isolate Over-Ear Headphones for review. Images courtesy of Belkin unless otherwise noted.

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