Loop Earplugs Review: Are They Better Than Foam?

Summary

In this in-depth review, the user compares the Loop Dream, Quiet 2, and Experience 2 Plus earplugs with traditional foam earplugs, evaluating their comfort, noise reduction, and practicality for various situations. The Loop models excel in comfort, especially for sleep and public use, with the Dream being the most comfortable for side sleepers. While foam earplugs outperform Loop models in noise reduction, the Loop earplugs provide a good balance of comfort and moderate noise blocking. The Experience 2 Plus shines in loud environments like concerts, making it ideal for those seeking hearing protection in noisy public spaces. Overall, Loop earplugs offer a stylish, practical option for everyday use.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Loop Dream, Quiet 2, and Experience 2 Plus are all comfortable to wear, with the Loop Dream being the most comfortable, especially for side sleepers.
• 😀 Foam earplugs provide superior noise reduction compared to the Loop earplugs, particularly for high noise levels like snoring or loud music.
• 😀 The Loop earplugs are discreet and stylish, making them ideal for wearing in public without attracting attention.
• 😀 The Loop Dream and Quiet 2 earplugs are effective at reducing lower-level noise, such as traffic and light snoring, but struggle with louder noises.
• 😀 The Experience 2 Plus is designed for louder environments like concerts and festivals, where some noise filtering is needed without total isolation.
• 😀 The Loop earplugs come with interchangeable tips, making them easy to fit and comfortable to wear for long periods, even in bed.
• 😀 Despite the higher cost, Loop earplugs can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to foam earplugs, especially if you use them multiple times.
• 😀 All three Loop models have an occlusion effect, which makes certain internal sounds, like chewing or breathing, louder when wearing them.
• 😀 The Quiet 2 and Dream earplugs are great for blocking background traffic noise and TV sounds, though very loud noises, like motorbikes or trucks, still get through.
• 😀 The Experience 2 Plus is less effective at noise reduction overall but provides enough noise attenuation for social events and public outings.
• 😀 While foam earplugs remain the go-to choice for maximum noise blocking, the Loop earplugs offer a more comfortable and practical solution for those who dislike foam.

Q & A

How comfortable are the Loop earplugs for extended use, particularly when sleeping?

The Loop earplugs are very comfortable, especially the Loop Dream model, which was found to be particularly suitable for side sleepers. The flexible silicone and small size make them comfortable for long periods, including when lying on one's side in bed.

How do the Loop earplugs compare to traditional foam earplugs in terms of noise reduction?

The foam earplugs offer superior noise reduction, with an NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) of 33 dB, compared to the Loop earplugs, which have lower ratings ranging from 12-24 dB depending on the model. However, the Loop earplugs still reduce noise significantly, particularly in quieter environments or for lower-level sounds.

What types of noise are the Loop earplugs most effective at blocking?

The Loop earplugs are effective at blocking background noise like light snoring, traffic, and distant conversations. However, they are less effective at blocking loud, abrupt noises such as barking dogs or high-impact sounds like fireworks.

How do the Loop earplugs perform in outdoor and noisy environments like concerts or festivals?

The Loop Experience 2 Plus earplugs are specifically designed for noisy environments such as concerts, festivals, and sporting events. They reduce noise but still allow you to hear important sounds, like music or conversations, without fully blocking them out.

What are the key differences between the Loop Quiet 2, Dream, and Experience 2 Plus models?

The Quiet 2 is designed for focus, travel, and napping, providing moderate noise reduction. The Dream model offers better noise blocking for sleep, with a foam-filled silicone tip. The Experience 2 Plus is meant for loud environments like concerts and festivals, with an acoustic channel to filter out high noise levels while allowing some sounds through.

How does the cost of the Loop earplugs compare to traditional foam earplugs over time?

The Loop earplugs are more expensive initially, with prices ranging from £24.95 to £44.95 depending on the model. However, over time, the cost could balance out with foam earplugs, as Loop earplugs can be used for multiple nights with replaceable tips, whereas foam earplugs are single-use.

Are the Loop earplugs practical for use in public or social situations?

Yes, the Loop earplugs are discreet and stylish, making them suitable for use in public without drawing attention. The Quiet 2 and Dream models, in particular, have a subtle look that doesn't attract much attention.

What is the occlusion effect, and how does it affect the use of Loop earplugs?

The occlusion effect occurs when sounds, like chewing or speaking, become louder because the earplugs block ambient noise. With Loop earplugs, this effect is noticeable, especially when chewing or making vocal sounds, which could be distracting in noisy environments like restaurants or bars.

Can the Loop earplugs be used effectively for side sleepers?

The Loop Dream model is very comfortable for side sleepers, as its small, flexible design fits snugly in the ear without causing discomfort. The Quiet 2 is also decent for side sleeping but requires slight adjustments for maximum comfort.

Would you recommend the Loop earplugs for people who need complete silence to sleep?

The Loop earplugs do not offer complete silence like foam earplugs, as they block noise to a moderate level. If total silence is necessary, foam earplugs or a combination of foam and noise-cancelling headphones would be a better choice.