Cleer Audio Arc 3 specifications and in-depth review

Cleer Audio Arc 3

Manufacturer: Cleer

The Cleer Audio Arc 3 are open-ear true wireless earbuds designed for listeners who prefer an unobstructed, on-ear fit without the isolation of in-canal styles. They come with wingtips for a more secure hold and include a travel bag, making them a practical option for everyday use. Wireless charging support adds everyday convenience, and the earbuds connect via USB Type-C when a wired top-up is preferred.

On the connectivity side, the Arc 3 supports Bluetooth 5.4 alongside a notably broad codec lineup that includes LDAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless, catering to listeners who prioritize high-resolution wireless audio. The 16.2 mm drivers cover a frequency range of 50 Hz to 40,000 Hz, and Dolby Atmos is supported. A four-microphone array with noise cancellation handles calls and voice use, while multipoint connectivity allows pairing with two devices simultaneously. Battery life is rated at 10 hours per charge, with the case extending total playback to 40 hours.

Pros
  • Supports LDAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless codecs, covering a wide range of high-resolution wireless audio options
  • IPX7 waterproof rating provides reliable protection against water exposure
  • Wireless charging is supported alongside USB Type-C wired charging
  • The charging case extends total battery life to 40 hours, suitable for extended use between full recharges
  • Multipoint connectivity allows simultaneous pairing with two devices
  • Four-microphone array with noise cancellation is included for clearer call quality
Cons
  • Open-ear design provides no passive noise isolation, making it unsuitable for noisy environments where sound blocking is needed
  • No active noise cancellation available
  • Bluetooth range is limited to 10 m
  • No fast pairing or NFC pairing support, which can make the initial connection process less convenient
  • In/on-ear detection is absent, meaning music will not automatically pause when the earbuds are removed
Who is this for?

The Arc 3 are well-suited to users who prefer an open-ear listening experience that keeps them aware of their surroundings, making them a practical choice for outdoor activities, commuting, or workplace settings where environmental awareness matters. The IPX7 waterproof rating makes them a reliable option for workouts or use in wet conditions. Those who prioritize high-resolution wireless audio will appreciate the broad codec support including LDAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless, while the 40-hour combined battery life and wireless charging cater well to users who need extended, low-maintenance daily use.

Who is this NOT for?

Users who need to block out environmental noise will find the Arc 3 unsuitable, as the open-ear design offers no passive noise isolation and no active noise cancellation, making them a poor fit for loud commutes, open-plan offices, or concentrated listening in busy spaces. The 10 m Bluetooth range may also be limiting for those who frequently move away from their source device. Additionally, users who rely on automatic playback management will be disappointed, as the absence of in/on-ear detection means there is no hands-free pause when the earbuds are removed.

Design:

Fit Open-ear
Ingress Protection (IP) rating IPX7
water resistance Waterproof
has no wires or cables
are neckband earbuds
wingtips included
has RGB lighting
has stereo speakers
has UV light
Has a display

The Cleer Audio Arc 3 feature an open-ear fit with no neckband design, and wingtips are included to help keep them in place during wear. They are fully true wireless, with no cables or wires involved. Built-in stereo speakers deliver audio from both sides, and a UV light is present on the earbuds. On the durability front, the Arc 3 carry an IPX7 rating, meaning they are waterproof and can handle water exposure with confidence. RGB lighting and a display are not part of the design.

Sound quality:

has active noise cancellation (ANC)
has passive noise reduction
driver unit size 16.2 mm
lowest frequency 50 Hz
highest frequency 40000 Hz
supports spatial audio
has Dolby Atmos
has Dirac Virtuo
has a neodymium magnet

The Arc 3 use 16.2 mm drivers and cover a frequency range of 50 Hz to 40,000 Hz, offering a wide sonic spectrum. Dolby Atmos is supported, adding a spatial dimension to compatible audio content, though dedicated spatial audio and Dirac Virtuo processing are not included. The earbuds do not feature active noise cancellation or passive noise isolation, and the drivers do not use a neodymium magnet.

Power:

Battery life 10 hours
Battery life of charging case 40 hours
charge time 2 hours
has wireless charging
Has a solar power battery
has a battery level indicator
has a rechargeable battery

The Arc 3 offer 10 hours of battery life per charge, with the charging case extending total playback to 40 hours. A full charge takes 2 hours, and the earbuds support both wired and wireless charging. A battery level indicator is built in so users can keep track of remaining power at a glance. The battery is rechargeable, and there is no solar charging capability.

Connectivity:

has fast pairing
Has USB Type-C
Bluetooth version 5.4
has LDAC
has LDHC
has Bluetooth LE Audio
has aptX Adaptive
has aptX Low Latency
has aptX HD
has aptX
has aptX Lossless
has aptX Voice
has Auracast
maximum Bluetooth range 10 m
supports Bluetooth pairing using NFC
Can be used wirelessly
has AAC

The Arc 3 connect wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.4 with a maximum range of 10 m, and USB Type-C is available for wired charging. The codec support is broad, covering LDAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless for high-resolution wireless audio, alongside AAC for broader device compatibility. aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, aptX Voice, and LDHC are not supported. Fast pairing, NFC pairing, Auracast, and Bluetooth LE Audio are also absent from the feature set.

Features:

has ambient sound mode
has in/on-ear detection
has find device feature
Supports fast charging
multipoint count 2
can read notifications
has a mute function
can be used as a headset
control panel placed on a device
Has voice prompts
travel bag is included
Has an in-line control panel
Has a temperature sensor
Has a built-in camera remote control function

The Arc 3 support multipoint connectivity for up to two devices simultaneously and can be used as a headset, with a mute function available during calls. Fast charging is supported, and a find device feature is on hand to help locate misplaced earbuds. Controls are handled via a panel on the device itself rather than an in-line control, and voice prompts provide audio feedback. A travel bag is included in the box. Ambient sound mode, in/on-ear detection, notification reading, a temperature sensor, and a camera remote shutter are not part of the feature set.

Microphone:

number of microphones 4
has a noise-canceling microphone

The Arc 3 are equipped with a four-microphone array, and noise cancellation is applied to the microphone signal to help reduce unwanted background sound during calls and voice use.

Final Verdict

The Cleer Audio Arc 3 make a clear case for users who want a capable open-ear wireless earbud with serious audio credentials. The combination of LDAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless codec support alongside Dolby Atmos sets it apart on the connectivity and audio quality front, while the IPX7 waterproof rating and 40-hour combined battery life add practical durability for daily use. Those expecting noise isolation or advanced smart features like in/on-ear detection will need to look elsewhere, as the open-ear format and streamlined feature set reflect a deliberate focus rather than an oversight. For listeners who prioritize high-resolution wireless audio and situational awareness over noise blocking, the Arc 3 represents a well-rounded and technically capable option within the open-ear category.

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