Heyday True Wireless Earbuds

Finding Your Perfect Audio Companion Without Breaking the Bank

As I sit here typing, my Heyday True Wireless Earbuds are delivering the perfect soundtrack to my workday. The gentle thump of bass in my ears is just enough to keep me focused without overwhelming my thoughts. After trying countless earbuds over the years—from budget options that disappointed to premium ones that emptied my wallet—I’ve found something special in these unassuming little devices.

If you’re considering making the jump to true wireless earbuds or looking to replace your current pair, you’ve likely encountered the dizzying array of options on the market. Today, I’m diving deep into everything you need to know about Heyday True Wireless Earbuds—Target’s house brand that’s been steadily winning over budget-conscious audiophiles like myself.

Why I Decided to Try Heyday Earbuds

Let’s be honest—I wasn’t expecting much when I first picked up a pair of Heyday earbuds. Like many of you, I was skeptical about a retailer’s house brand competing with established audio companies. But sometimes the best audio experiences come from the most unexpected places, and that’s exactly what happened here.

After my third pair of expensive earbuds failed just outside their warranty period, I found myself at Target, unwilling to spend another small fortune but desperately needing something for my morning commute. The colorful Heyday display caught my eye, and the price tag (significantly lower than what I was used to paying) convinced me to give them a shot.

Two years and countless listening hours later, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about these surprisingly capable earbuds. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking for workout companions, a remote worker needing clear call quality, or simply someone who appreciates good music without the premium price tag, this guide is for you.

Understanding the Heyday True Wireless Lineup

Heyday offers several variations of their true wireless earbuds, each with slightly different features and price points. The standard model typically retails between $39.99 and $59.99, depending on sales and promotions. They also offer slightly upgraded models with additional features that might push the price closer to $69.99.

What’s consistent across the lineup is the focus on providing impressive value. Even their entry-level models include features that used to be reserved for earbuds twice the price:

• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for stable connections
• Touch controls for managing playback and calls
• Compact charging case with additional battery capacity
• Multiple ear tip sizes for customized fit

The brand refreshes their lineup periodically, often introducing new colors or minor feature improvements while maintaining their core value proposition. This means if you’re reading this a few months after I’ve written it, the specific models might have slightly different features, but the overall quality and experience should remain consistent.

Battery Life: How Long Can You Actually Listen?

One of the first questions most people have about wireless earbuds is how long they’ll last before needing a recharge. In my experience, Heyday earbuds typically provide about 5-6 hours of continuous listening time on a single charge, which aligns with what the company advertises.

The charging case adds approximately 3-4 additional full charges, bringing the total listening time to around 20-24 hours before you need to plug in the case itself. This has been more than sufficient for my daily use—I charge the case about once a week with regular use.

However, I’ve noticed that using higher volumes (which I occasionally do when I’m really trying to focus) can reduce the battery life by about 20%. Additionally, taking calls seems to drain the battery faster than just listening to music or podcasts.

The earbuds take approximately 1.5 hours to fully charge in their case, while the case itself requires about 2 hours to charge via USB-C. Unfortunately, most Heyday models don’t support wireless charging—a feature I miss from my previous premium earbuds but can certainly live without given the price difference.

Pairing Process: Getting Connected Without Frustration

Pairing the Heyday earbuds is refreshingly straightforward. Here’s the process that’s worked consistently for me:

1. Remove the earbuds from their charging case
2. They automatically enter pairing mode (indicated by alternating red/blue lights)
3. Open your device’s Bluetooth settings
4. Select “Heyday True Wireless” from the available devices list
5. Enjoy your audio

After the initial pairing, the earbuds connect automatically to the last device they were paired with when you remove them from the case. If you want to pair them with a different device, you’ll need to disconnect from the current device first or reset the earbuds (more on that later).

One thing I particularly appreciate is how quickly they connect—typically within 2-3 seconds of removing them from the case. This might seem minor, but when you’re rushing out the door or answering an incoming call, those seconds matter.

Device Compatibility: Will They Work With Your Phone?

I’ve used my Heyday earbuds with multiple devices without issues. They’re compatible with:

• iPhones and iPads (iOS 10 and newer)
• Android phones and tablets (Android 6.0 and newer)
• Windows laptops and desktops
• MacBooks and iMacs
• Most other Bluetooth-enabled devices

The standard Bluetooth profile means you won’t need any special apps to use the basic functions. However, this also means you won’t get some of the advanced features that brand-specific earbuds might offer through their companion apps, like customizable EQ settings or find-my-earbuds functionality.

For most users, this simplicity is actually a benefit—there’s no software to install, update, or troubleshoot. The earbuds just work.

Where to Buy: Finding the Best Deals

As Target’s house brand, Heyday products are primarily available at Target stores and Target.com. Occasionally, you might find them on third-party marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, but I’d recommend purchasing directly from Target for several reasons:

1. You’re guaranteed to get authentic products
2. Target frequently runs promotions on their house brands
3. The return process is much simpler if you have any issues
4. You can often see and try display models in-store

I’ve found that Target typically discounts their Heyday products during major shopping events like Black Friday, back-to-school season, and their semi-annual electronics sales. If you’re not in a rush, waiting for one of these promotions could save you 15-30%.

If you have a Target RedCard, you’ll save an additional 5% on your purchase. Combined with the occasional Circle offers in the Target app, the savings can be substantial compared to the already reasonable retail price.

Price Consideration: What’s the Real Value?

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room—price. Heyday earbuds typically retail between $39.99 and $69.99, depending on the specific model and any ongoing promotions. This positions them well below premium options from Apple, Sony, or Bose, which can easily cost $150-300.

Are they as good as those premium options? In terms of absolute sound quality and feature set, no. But that’s not really the right question to ask. The real question is whether they provide enough value for their price point, and here the answer is a resounding yes.

After using both premium and budget earbuds extensively, I can confidently say that Heyday earbuds deliver about 70-80% of the premium experience at roughly 25-30% of the cost. For many users, that math makes perfect sense.

Here’s what you’re giving up compared to premium options:

• Advanced noise cancellation (Heyday offers basic passive noise isolation)
• Spatial audio or 3D sound features
• Ultra-premium materials and build quality
• Brand prestige and ecosystem integration
• Extended battery life (some premium models offer 8-10 hours per charge)

And here’s what you’re gaining:

• Significant cost savings
• Similar core functionality for everyday use
• Less financial stress if you lose or damage them
• The ability to replace them more frequently if desired

For me, that tradeoff has been well worth it, especially considering how frequently I misplace small electronics.

Noise Isolation: What to Expect

Let’s clear up a common confusion: Heyday earbuds offer passive noise isolation, not active noise cancellation. The difference is important to understand:

• Passive noise isolation: Physical barriers (the ear tips) that block external sound
• Active noise cancellation: Electronic processing that counters external sound waves

Heyday relies entirely on the former. The silicone ear tips, when properly fitted, create a seal in your ear canal that blocks a significant amount of ambient noise. In my experience, this blocks about 50-60% of background noise like office chatter, cafe ambiance, or the hum of an air conditioner.

This level of isolation is sufficient for most everyday scenarios, but don’t expect them to completely silence the roar of an airplane engine or the rumble of a subway car. For those situations, you’d need earbuds with proper ANC technology, which typically adds $100+ to the price tag.

The upside of passive isolation is that it doesn’t require additional power, so it doesn’t impact battery life. It also doesn’t create the slight pressure sensation that some people find uncomfortable with active noise cancellation.

Troubleshooting: How to Reset Your Earbuds

Even the most reliable technology occasionally needs a reset, and Heyday earbuds are no exception. If you’re experiencing connectivity issues, uneven battery drain, or one earbud not working, a reset often solves the problem.

Here’s the reset process that’s worked for me:

1. Place both earbuds in the charging case
2. Press and hold the button inside the charging case for about 10 seconds
3. The LED indicators should flash several times, indicating a successful reset
4. Remove the earbuds from the case
5. Pair them with your device again as if for the first time

I’ve only needed to do this a handful of times in two years of ownership, typically after using the earbuds with multiple devices in a short period. The reset process clears the Bluetooth memory and reestablishes the connection between the two earbuds.

Water and Sweat Resistance: Can They Handle Your Workout?

Most Heyday earbuds feature IPX4 or IPX5 water resistance ratings, which means they’re protected against splashes and light sweat. This makes them suitable for most workouts, but there are some important limitations to understand.

In my experience, they handle typical gym sessions, runs, and even light rain without issues. However, they’re not fully waterproof, so you shouldn’t:

• Wear them swimming or in the shower
• Submerge them in water
• Expose them to heavy downpours
• Rinse them under a faucet

I’ve accidentally worn mine in light rain several times without problems, but I make sure to wipe them down afterward and let them dry completely before placing them back in the charging case.

For particularly intense workouts where I sweat heavily, I’ve found that wiping the earbuds with a slightly damp cloth after use helps prevent salt buildup and extends their lifespan.

Audio Quality: What Do They Actually Sound Like?

Audio quality is subjective, but I’ll do my best to describe the Heyday sound signature based on extensive listening across various music genres, podcasts, and calls.

The standard Heyday earbuds have a relatively balanced sound profile with a slight emphasis on bass frequencies. This makes them well-suited for popular music genres like pop, hip-hop, and electronic music, where that extra bass presence adds energy without overwhelming the mix.

The mid-range is reasonably clear, allowing vocals and lead instruments to come through without sounding muffled. The high frequencies are present but somewhat restrained compared to audiophile-focused earbuds. This means you won’t get the ultimate in sparkle and detail, but it also means the sound isn’t fatiguing during long listening sessions.

What impresses me most is the soundstage—the perceived width and depth of the audio. Despite their budget price, Heyday earbuds create a surprisingly spacious sound that doesn’t feel congested or “inside your head” the way some cheaper earbuds do.

For calls, the microphone quality is adequate but not exceptional. In quiet environments, call recipients can hear me clearly, but background noise can become an issue in louder settings like coffee shops or busy streets.

How They Compare to Other Brands

I’ve owned or extensively tested earbuds from Apple, Samsung, Jabra, Anker Soundcore, and JBL, giving me a good basis for comparison. Here’s how Heyday stacks up against various price brackets:

Compared to premium options ($150-300):

• Sound quality: 70% as good
• Build quality: 60% as good
• Features: 50% as good
• Value: 200-300% better

Compared to mid-range options ($80-150):

• Sound quality: 85% as good
• Build quality: 80% as good
• Features: 70% as good
• Value: 150-200% better

Compared to budget options ($20-40):

• Sound quality: 120% as good
• Build quality: 130% as good
• Features: Generally comparable
• Value: Slightly better or comparable

The closest competitors in terms of price-to-performance ratio would probably be Anker Soundcore’s budget models or JBL’s entry-level true wireless options. Heyday competes well against these, sometimes winning on price, sometimes slightly behind on features, but generally in the same quality tier.

What separates Heyday from ultra-budget options is consistency—I’ve found fewer quality control issues and longer-term durability compared to the absolute cheapest earbuds on the market.

Touch Controls: Navigating Your Music

Heyday earbuds feature touch-sensitive controls on the outer surface of each earbud. These allow you to control various functions without reaching for your phone:

• Single tap: Play/pause music or answer/end calls
• Double tap left earbud: Previous track
• Double tap right earbud: Next track
• Triple tap: Activate voice assistant (Siri or Google Assistant)
• Press and hold: Adjust volume (left for down, right for up)

The touch sensitivity is generally good, though it took me a few days to get used to the exact pressure needed. Too light a touch won’t register, while pressing too hard can be uncomfortable in your ear.

One limitation I’ve noticed is that you can’t customize these controls—they’re preset at the factory. This is one area where companion apps for premium earbuds offer more flexibility.

The controls work identically across both iOS and Android devices, which is convenient if you switch between platforms.

What’s in the Box: The Complete Package

When you purchase Heyday True Wireless Earbuds, here’s what you’ll typically find in the package:

• Two wireless earbuds
• Charging case
• USB-C charging cable (typically about 12 inches long)
• Three sizes of silicone ear tips (small, medium, large)
• Quick start guide and warranty information

The packaging is minimal but protective, with a simple cardboard box and plastic inserts. This aligns with Target’s increasing focus on reducing packaging waste, which I appreciate.

One minor complaint is that the included charging cable is rather short. I ended up using a longer cable I already had, which made charging more convenient.

The multiple ear tip sizes are crucial for getting a proper fit, which directly impacts both comfort and sound quality. I recommend trying all three sizes, even if you think you know your size—the right fit makes a tremendous difference in bass response and passive noise isolation.

Charging Speed: How Quickly Can You Power Up?

When you’re running low on battery, the charging speed becomes an important consideration. Based on my experience:

• 10 minutes in the case provides approximately 1 hour of listening time
• 30 minutes in the case provides approximately 2.5-3 hours of listening time
• A full charge (about 1.5 hours) provides the maximum 5-6 hours of listening time

The charging case itself takes about 2 hours to fully charge from empty via the USB-C port. Unfortunately, as mentioned earlier, most Heyday models don’t support wireless charging.

One battery feature I particularly appreciate is the LED indicators on the charging case. These give you a quick visual reference for the remaining battery level, with different colors indicating high, medium, or low charge. This helps avoid the unpleasant surprise of discovering dead earbuds when you’re about to head out.

Fitness and Activity Compatibility

For many users, wireless earbuds are primarily workout companions. I’ve put my Heyday earbuds through countless workouts to see how they perform during various activities:

Running: The earbuds stay in place remarkably well during steady-state running. I rarely need to adjust them, even during longer runs. The passive noise isolation is actually beneficial here—it blocks enough environmental noise to enjoy your music but allows enough awareness to stay safe near traffic.

Weight Training: They perform well during most strength exercises, though movements that involve lying on your back (like bench press) can sometimes cause them to shift slightly. The touch controls are convenient for changing tracks between sets without grabbing your phone with sweaty hands.

HIIT and Plyometrics: High-intensity interval training with lots of jumping and quick movements presents the biggest challenge. The earbuds generally stay put, but particularly vigorous movements can sometimes dislodge them. For these workouts, I occasionally use the larger ear tips for a more secure fit, even though the medium size is more comfortable for everyday use.

Yoga and Pilates: These gentler activities pose no problems for the earbuds. The low-profile design means they don’t press uncomfortably against your ears when lying on your side during certain poses.

The IPX4/IPX5 rating handles typical workout sweat without issues, though as mentioned earlier, I make a point of wiping them down after particularly sweaty sessions.

Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues

Despite their generally reliable connection, you might occasionally experience connectivity issues with your Heyday earbuds. Here are the most common problems I’ve encountered and their solutions:

One earbud not connecting:

1. Place both earbuds in the charging case for at least 10 seconds
2. Remove both simultaneously
3. If the problem persists, perform a full reset as described earlier

Audio cutting out intermittently:

1. Move your device closer to the earbuds (within 20-30 feet)
2. Check for interference from other wireless devices
3. Ensure the earbuds are adequately charged
4. Try repairing with your device

Delayed audio when watching videos:
This is common with many Bluetooth earbuds, not just Heyday. Most modern devices and apps compensate for Bluetooth latency, but if you notice significant audio/video misalignment:

1. Ensure your device’s software is updated
2. Try disconnecting and reconnecting the earbuds
3. Close and reopen the video application

Earbuds won’t turn on:

1. Ensure the charging case itself has power
2. Clean the charging contacts on both the earbuds and case
3. Try the reset procedure
4. If all else fails, let the case charge overnight before trying again

I’ve found that about 90% of connectivity issues can be resolved with a simple reset or by ensuring adequate charge in both the earbuds and the charging case.

Charging Case: Features and Limitations

The charging case is more than just a home for your earbuds—it’s an integral part of the overall experience. Heyday’s charging cases are compact enough to fit comfortably in a pocket or small bag compartment, measuring roughly 2.5 x 1.5 x 1 inches.

The case features a clamshell design with a lid that snaps closed magnetically. This magnetic closure is strong enough to stay shut in a bag but easy enough to open one-handed when needed.

Inside, magnetic connectors position the earbuds correctly for charging and hold them securely even if you turn the case upside down. The internal battery typically holds enough charge for 3-4 complete earbud recharges.

As mentioned earlier, most Heyday cases charge via USB-C and don’t support wireless charging. This is one of the more noticeable differences compared to premium options, but given the price difference, it’s a reasonable compromise.

The LED indicators on the front of the case provide a basic battery level indication, though they’re not as precise as the percentage readouts you might get with app-connected premium earbuds.

Color Options and Style Considerations

One area where Heyday stands out is color variety. Unlike many brands that offer just black and white options, Heyday regularly introduces new colors and finishes. During my last visit to Target, I saw options including:

• Classic black
• White
• Navy blue
• Mint green
• Coral pink
• Lavender
• Rose gold

Some special editions even feature patterns or textured finishes on the charging case. This variety is refreshing in a market where most affordable options stick to basic colors.

The earbuds themselves have a stemless design that sits fairly flush with your ear. This creates a more subtle look compared to AirPods-style designs with prominent stems. The low-profile appearance makes them less noticeable during video calls or when you’re wearing your hair down.

If aesthetics are important to you, it’s worth checking a few Target locations or their website, as color availability can vary by store and season.

User Reviews and Community Feedback

Beyond my personal experience, I’ve spent time researching what other users say about Heyday earbuds across various platforms. The consensus generally aligns with my findings:

Most positive reviews highlight:

• Excellent value for money
• Better-than-expected sound quality
• Comfortable fit for extended wear
• Reliable connectivity for the price range
• Attractive design options

Common criticisms include:

• Limited advanced features compared to premium brands
• Occasional quality control inconsistencies
• Touch controls that can be too sensitive or not sensitive enough
• Call quality in noisy environments
• No companion app for customization

The overall rating across various platforms typically falls between 4.0 and 4.3 out of 5 stars, which is impressive for earbuds in this price range. Many reviewers specifically mention being surprised by the quality relative to the cost, suggesting that Heyday consistently exceeds expectations.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips

Proper maintenance significantly extends the life of any earbuds. Here’s my routine for keeping Heyday earbuds in top condition:

Weekly cleaning:

1. Gently wipe the earbuds with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth
2. Use a dry cotton swab to carefully clean around the speaker meshes
3. Remove and clean the silicone ear tips with mild soap and water (let them dry completely before reattaching)
4. Wipe down the charging case exterior

For stubborn earwax buildup:

1. Remove the silicone tips
2. Use a soft, dry toothbrush to gently brush away debris from the speaker mesh
3. Never use sharp objects that could damage the mesh

Charging contacts:

1. If charging becomes inconsistent, clean the metal contacts on both the earbuds and inside the charging case
2. Use a cotton swab with a tiny amount of isopropyl alcohol
3. Let dry completely before attempting to charge

Following these simple maintenance steps has kept my earbuds functioning like new, even after two years of regular use.

Warranty Information and Customer Support

Heyday earbuds typically come with a one-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects. This is standard for the industry and provides reasonable protection for your purchase.

If you encounter issues within the warranty period, Target’s return and exchange policy makes the process relatively painless. You can return the earbuds to any Target store with your receipt, or process the return online if you purchased through Target.com.

In my experience, Target’s customer service for their house brands is generally responsive and helpful. When I had a question about compatibility, their online chat support provided accurate information within minutes.

For the best warranty protection, I recommend:

1. Keeping your receipt (or digital receipt if purchased online)
2. Registering your product if the option is available
3. Using the earbuds as directed and avoiding exposure to excessive moisture

Final Thoughts: Are Heyday Earbuds Right for You?

After thousands of hours of use and comparing them to both cheaper and more expensive alternatives, I can confidently say that Heyday True Wireless Earbuds occupy a sweet spot in the market. They offer performance that satisfies most everyday needs without the premium price tag of big-name brands.

They’re ideal for:

• Budget-conscious consumers who still want decent quality
• Casual listeners who don’t need advanced features
• People who tend to lose or damage earbuds frequently
• Those new to true wireless earbuds who aren’t ready to invest heavily
• Gym-goers looking for affordable workout companions

They might not satisfy:

• Audiophiles seeking the ultimate in sound reproduction
• Those who need active noise cancellation for commuting or travel
• People who take lots of calls in noisy environments
• Users who want extensive app-based customization

The most important consideration when buying any audio product is understanding what you truly need versus what you’re paying for. Heyday earbuds deliver exceptional value by focusing on the core features most people actually use daily, while skipping the premium features that often go unused or unappreciated.

My pair has accompanied me through countless workouts, work sessions, commutes, and relaxation time. They’ve proven themselves reliable, comfortable, and more than capable of delivering an enjoyable listening experience. For around $50, that’s all I could really ask for—and yet they consistently deliver more.

If you’re on the fence, I’d recommend giving them a try. Target’s return policy means there’s little risk, and you might just find yourself—like me—pleasantly surprised by just how good affordable earbuds can be in 2025.