Elecom ECLEAR Earplug Duo: Comfortable Sleep & Noise Reduction

as demand grows for effective sleep solutions, the market for innovative sleep technology is expanding, with earplugs emerging as a popular option. While brands like Loop have gained recognition, new contenders are entering the field. This week, Elecom launched its latest offering, the ECLEAR Earplug Duo, designed for a more comfortable and secure night’s rest-and a recent review puts its design and effectiveness to the test.

Demand for better sleep is driving innovation in sleep technology, and earplugs designed for nighttime use are gaining traction. While Belgium-based Loop has become a well-known name in the space, other companies are entering the market with their own solutions.

The latest contender is Elecom with its new ECLEAR Earplug Duo (hereafter referred to as “ECLEAR Duo”).

【ECLEAR Duo is recommended for people who…】

Sometimes can’t sleep because of noise
Are looking for sleep earplugs that won’t fall out when they toss and turn
Want earplugs that are comfortable to wear for long periods of time without causing discomfort

Everyday earplugs can be burdensome during sleep

The packaging for the product, released in November, states, “Cut out the annoying noises during sleep.”

You might be wondering, “What’s the difference between these and regular earplugs?” The key difference lies in the fact that they are designed to be difficult to dislodge and gentle on the ears,” even while sleeping.

I live near a railway and a highway, so traffic noise often carries into my home. When I need to focus during work, I use earplugs. These are high-spec, even used by motorcycle racers to reduce engine noise, and I really like them.

However, they can cause some discomfort in my ears after prolonged use. When I try to use them while sleeping, the feeling of something in my ears often wakes me up. They’re also painful to wear on my side, and they tend to fall out.

Therefore, a separate pair of earplugs specifically designed for sleep is necessary. These typically offer slightly less noise cancellation, but that’s usually not a problem at night when traffic is lighter.

Improved comfort and noise reduction compared to the original model

What’s inside the “ECLEAR Earplug Duo” (also available in white)

Let’s get back to the “ECLEAR Duo.” The exterior is a nearly circular shape, but is actually a D-shape, which is one of its key features. It’s used with silicone ear tips that come in four sizes: XS to L. A convenient ring-attached case is also included for portability.

Comparison of ear tips for “ECLEAR Earplug” (left) and “Duo” (right)

Elecom previously released the “ECLEAR Earplug.” The “ECLEAR Duo” is an evolution of that model, with softer ear tips and a double-layered structure that increases noise reduction. Despite these improvements, it remains incredibly lightweight at approximately 1 gram per ear, minimizing discomfort.

No pain even during long periods of side sleeping

I’ve been testing the ECLEAR Duo every night for the past week.

I was surprised by how comfortable they were – this shape of earplug was new to me. I’ve tried earplugs ranging in price from $1.10 to $40, and they all had some degree of pressure. In contrast, the “ECLEAR Duo” slides smoothly into the ear canal with no unpleasant sensation.

The fit is secure, and they don’t move even when touched or when I shake my head.

My biggest concern was whether they would be comfortable when sleeping on my side. As mentioned earlier, regular earplugs can press on the ear canal and even cause some pain when I lie on my side.

But that concern proved unfounded. I didn’t experience any pain. For the first few nights, I was aware of the earplugs, but after that, I didn’t even notice them.

During the day, they also reduce traffic noise from outside the window quite effectively. I tested them in various locations, and they blocked out enough noise to make them useful in relatively busy cafes and stores.

However, they don’t quite match the noise cancellation of earplugs specifically designed for that purpose on trains and buses. Nevertheless, the “ECLEAR Duo” would be a better choice if you plan to sleep for long periods on overnight buses or airplanes.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the ECLEAR Duo for sleep, and for everyday use. If you’re particularly concerned about noise, you might want to consider a separate pair of earplugs with higher noise cancellation. But, personally, I think the ECLEAR Duo is a great all-around option.

The “ECLEAR Earplug Duo” is available at Elecom Direct Shop (main store, Rakuten, Yahoo! Shopping), and Bic Camera.com. The suggested retail price is ¥2,980.