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Urbanears Medis Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£45
Avg. price in US: ~$50
Form factor: earbud
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Urbanears Medis review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.1

Poor

3.3

Poor

7.4

Very good

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
7.2
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
10
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#751 in Best Wired Headphones
#1316 in Best Headphones with Mic

Verdict

The Urbanears Medis is a unique semi-earbud featuring patented EarClick technology that secures the earpiece at two points to ensure it stays in place during active use. Technically, it is equipped with 15.4mm handmade dynamic drivers, an impedance of 32 ohms, and a sensitivity of 115 dB, delivering a standard frequency response of 20Hz to 20,000Hz. Key characteristics include a tangle-resistant 120cm fabric cord and an integrated inline microphone and remote for managing calls. Main pros include its exceptionally secure fit for exercise, situational awareness due to its non-isolating design, and a vibrant variety of color options. However, common cons include a significant lack of bass response, mediocre overall audio quality that can sound hollow, and potential discomfort during long-term wear.

Technical Specifications of Urbanears Medis

Overall score

4.1

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

2.4

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

4.5

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity

6.2

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

2.7

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

1.0

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

8.3

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Urbanears

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

earbud

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

open-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Urbanears Medis vs the average headphone

Why is Urbanears Medis better than the average headphone?

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94.1% lower weight
Urbanears Medis is lighter than the average headphone (12.9 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Urbanears Medis is lighter than the average headphone (12.9 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.12.9 g vs 218 g
13 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Urbanears Medis has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Urbanears Medis has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Urbanears Medis includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Urbanears Medis includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Urbanears Medis includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Urbanears Medis includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Water resistance
Urbanears Medis is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
What it is: Protection level against water exposure
When it matters: When workouts, commuting, or outdoor use expose the headphones to moisture.
Importance: MEDIUM
Urbanears Medis is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
12 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
Urbanears Medis has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (115 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
Urbanears Medis has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (115 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.115 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
94.1% lower weight
Urbanears Medis is lighter than the average headphone (12.9 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Water resistance
Urbanears Medis is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
13 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Urbanears Medis has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
12 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
Urbanears Medis has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (115 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Urbanears Medis includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Urbanears Medis includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Urbanears Medis worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Urbanears Medis has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
Urbanears Medis does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
No passive noise reduction
Urbanears Medis does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
24.6 mm smaller driver size
Urbanears Medis has smaller driver size than the average headphone (15.4 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Urbanears Medis has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
95% lower input power handling
Urbanears Medis has a lower max input power than the average headphone (5 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
No voice assistant support
Urbanears Medis does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
No passive noise reduction
Urbanears Medis does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.
Importance: MEDIUM
Urbanears Medis does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
24.6 mm smaller driver size
Urbanears Medis has smaller driver size than the average headphone (15.4 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
Urbanears Medis has smaller driver size than the average headphone (15.4 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.15.4 mm vs 40 mm
No voice assistant support
Urbanears Medis does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
Urbanears Medis does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Urbanears Medis has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Urbanears Medis has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Urbanears Medis has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Urbanears Medis has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
14.2% worse value for money
Urbanears Medis has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.90 vs 6.736).
What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
Urbanears Medis has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.90 vs 6.736).5.9 vs 6.74
No travel bag
Urbanears Medis does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
Urbanears Medis does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
8.6% lower user score
Urbanears Medis has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.36 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Urbanears Medis has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.36 vs 8.000).7.36 vs 8

Graphic comparison of Urbanears Medis and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Urbanears Medis?

Patented 'EarClick' design ensures a secure, stable fit that resists falling out during movement.
Highly comfortable and lightweight, even for long periods.
Stylish aesthetic available in a wide variety of colors.
Durable, cloth-wrapped cable that helps prevent tangling.
Includes an inline microphone and remote for calls and music playback.
Easy to drive, reaching high volume levels without distortion.

What customers dislike about Urbanears Medis?

Overall audio quality is mediocre, often described as hollow or lacking detail.
Weak bass response that lacks 'thump' or impact for many users.
Remote lacks volume control, requiring adjustment on the connected device.
Limited noise isolation due to the semi-open 'earbud' design.
Some users find the build quality feels slightly flimsy or 'plasticky' for the price.

Expert reviews

popdose.com

07/04/2010

Product Review: Urbanears Headphones - Popdose

Urbanears Headphones Review Summary This review evaluates the Tanto headphones from Urbanears, a Scandinavian "lifestyle" brand, highlighting a mix of unique aesthetics and disappointing build quality. On the positive side, the headphones offer surprisingly good sound quality and unique visual appeal, featuring a choice of fourteen distinct colors, a premium matte fabric cord, and a...Read more

jayminter.com

19/06/2012

UrbanEars Medis - review

In his review of the Urbanears Medis Plus on the On The List blog, Jay Minter provides a highly positive assessment based on two weeks of daily testing, ultimately naming them his favorite earphones so far. The primary highlight of the review is the patented EarClick construction, which utilizes four included sets of interchangeable silicone sizers to securely hook each earphone...Read more

unbox.ph

02/09/2012

Urbanears Medis Review

The Urbanears Medis features a unique, non-traditional design utilizing patented EarClick technology to provide an exceptionally comfortable and secure fit without deep ear canal insertion. Pros include this innovative structural comfort, along with a tangle-resistant fabric-wrapped cable and a functional in-line microphone for audio management. Conversely, the review notes that the...Read more

theabsolutesound.com

09/07/2012

Urbanears Medis High-Performance Earbud/Headset

The Urbanears Medis offers exceptional detail resolution for its $50 price point, utilizing a unique, non-invasive fit that delivers clean, high-definition, yet airy bass, say The Absolute Sound. Its prominent, shelved-up midrange provides an energetic, clear sound that outperforms many competitors in its class. The Absolute SoundHowever, the design results in a complete lack of...Read more

cnet.com

20/08/2010

Urbanears Medis earphones review - CNET

The Urbanears Medis earphones are a unique semi-earbud model that stands out primarily due to its eye-catching design and color options. Priced at a budget-friendly $50, these earphones walk a fine line between a traditional earbud and an on-ear headphone, utilizing an innovative configuration with a rubber nub that secures the lightweight earpieces into the interior crux of the...Read more

01net.com

21/12/2011

Review: An uncomfortable Urbanears headphone that is pleasant to listen to", "Test: Urbanears headphones – uncomfortable but a pleasant listen

The Urbanears Plattan is a stylish, supra-aural on-ear headphone that emphasizes design, aesthetic appeal, and a compact foldable build available in 11 colors. Its core strengths include a durable, high-quality braided cable with an integrated smartphone remote microphone, and a unique 3.5 mm "ZoundPlug" audio output jack that allows users to chain a second pair of headphones to...Read more

endomorfun.fr

16/04/2014

Urbanears Medis Sports Earphones", "Urbanears Medis Sport Headphones

The reviewer, Anne-Claire, provides a highly positive review of the Urbanears Medis sports earphones after testing them over several weeks during her daily commute, office work, cycling, and running a full marathon. The primary pros include an innovative "ear-click" locking mechanism that keeps the earbuds completely stable during long runs without causing ear irritation or...Read more

gearlimits.com

16/04/2013

Urbanears Medis Earphones - Gearlimits

The Gearlimits review highlights the Urbanears Medis as highly innovative earbuds that excel during physical activities. The reviewer notes that while the large size takes some getting used to, finding the correct silicone tip size (S/M/L/XL are included) yields an exceptionally secure and comfortable fit. Major pros include their ability to stay firmly in place during intense...Read more

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