Status Pro X review: Triple-driver true wireless earbuds that put sound first
The Status Pro X uses a bold, angular design that stands out instantly among true wireless earbuds. Picture: Status Audio.
True wireless earbuds have become increasingly similar, with most brands chasing smaller designs, softer tuning and familiar features. The Status Pro X goes in the opposite direction, focusing heavily on audio performance with a rare triple-driver setup. After using them daily, they stand out as some of the most characterful earbuds I have tested in recent years.
The Pro X earbuds use a block-like, angular shape that immediately sets them apart from the smooth curves of mainstream buds. They look contemporary, but there is a clear sense of intent behind the design.
Based on the specs, they are slightly smaller than Status’s earlier ANC model. Rather than sitting shallow in the ear, the Pro X nestles deeper, closer to an in-ear monitor style. This makes them feel more secure and also contributes to their excellent passive noise isolation.
The charging case is small, making it very pocket-friendly, sliding easily into jeans or a jacket pocket. The trade-off is reduced battery capacity compared to bulkier rivals, but the improved portability is worth it. Build quality is solid throughout, with a reassuring hinge and a matte finish that resists fingerprints. It's also good to see the buds can handle sweat and splashes, thanks to an IP55 water- and dust-resistance rating.
Fit is always subjective, but for my ears, the Pro X works extremely well. The deeper fit and lightweight design mean the earbuds stay firmly in place, even when walking briskly or moving around the house. Once fitted correctly, I rarely felt the need to adjust them.
That said, these will not suit everyone. If you prefer the light, barely-there feel of other stem-style earbuds, the Pro X may feel intrusive at first. There is a short adjustment period, but once accustomed, the secure fit becomes a major advantage, particularly for long listening sessions or commuting.
The deeper seal also enhances passive noise isolation, reducing reliance on active noise cancellation and helping preserve sound quality.
The Pro X includes the full suite of features you would expect at this level. Active noise cancellation is effective, especially when combined with the strong passive isolation, but I didn’t find it class-leading in this area. Transparency mode is usable for conversations and awareness, though it sounds more functional than natural.
Support for LDAC high-resolution audio (24-bit/96 kHz audio at bitrates up to 990 kbps) is a welcome addition for Android users. It enables higher-quality wireless playback and aligns with the Pro X’s sound-first focus. iPhone users, however, will not benefit from this due to Apple’s codec limitations.
Touch controls are responsive but limited. While taps cover play, pause and skipping tracks, there are no swipe gestures for volume control, despite some early references suggesting otherwise. At this price, that omission feels disappointing.
Each earbud houses a triple-driver configuration consisting of a 12mm dynamic driver for bass and two balanced armature drivers for mids and highs. This is still rare in true wireless earbuds and forms the core of the Pro X’s appeal.
Battery life is respectable rather than class-leading. I consistently got just over six hours of playback with ANC turned on and up to eight hours with it off. The charging case adds enough power for up to 24 hours in total. That is enough for daily use, but heavy travellers may wish it lasted longer.
You also get auto wear detection for automatic pause and play, find my support, Qi wireless charging, and multipoint connectivity, along with Android Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair support.
Sound quality is where the Status Pro X truly separates itself from the competition. The triple-driver setup delivers a bold, energetic presentation that prioritises enjoyment over strict neutrality.
Bass is deep, powerful and controlled without being muddy or bloated. I think it’s clearly tuned to satisfy bass-lovers.
The midrange benefits enormously from having its own dedicated driver. Vocals are forward and articulate, guitars have texture, and acoustic instruments sound fuller than expected. There is a sense of separation that helps complex tracks breathe, avoiding the congestion common in single-driver designs.
Treble is crisp and detailed, sometimes bordering on aggressive, depending on the track and EQ setting. With poorly mastered music or higher volumes, the highs can sound sharp. That said, the clarity and sparkle they bring to well-recorded material are impressive.
Status includes several EQ presets and a custom option. The “Knowles Preferred” preset is particularly interesting, pushing detail and presence forward, though it can become fatiguing over long sessions. Small EQ changes can result in noticeable volume jumps, so careful adjustment is advised.
Overall, the sound is big, lively and engaging. It is not studio-neutral, but it is exciting, which is something many modern earbuds lack.
The Status Pro X is not for everyone, but for listeners who value excellent sound quality, a secure fit and distinctive design, it delivers something refreshingly different. A confident, characterful earbud that prioritises musical enjoyment above all else.
€300 Status Audio
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