HMD has recently unveiled its DUB series of true wireless earbuds with three new models: the P60, S60 and X50.
Positioned as an accessible lineup, these earbuds are clearly meant to cover different types of users whether you are simply looking for an affordable pair for everyday use or something with better sound and features without spending that flagship-level price tag.
Each model targets a slightly different listener from budget-conscious users to those who prioritize sound quality, battery life and added conveniences like app support for more features.
On paper, the differences may seem subtle but after spending real time with all three, those differences become much easier to hear and feel.
We spent time using the DUB P60, DUB S60, and DUB X50 in daily situations, including commuting, casual music listening, video streaming and calls.
This hands-on focuses on design, comfort, sound performance, ANC, and features such as app support and Google Fast Pair to see how these earbuds actually stack up in real-world use.
Box Content and Design
Design-wise, it does not take long to notice how different each pair of earbuds feels despite belonging to the same lineup. HMD clearly wanted each model to have its own identity rather than just changing internal specs.
The DUB P60, which we have in Green, has the most playful look of the three. The earbuds and case lean heavily into a plastic build that feels lightweight and simple.
The green colorway, combined with the orange ear tips, gives it an oddly familiar look closely resembling a certain cartoon platypus. Someone could really slap a fedora on this thing, and it would fit right in. Once you notice it, it becomes hard to ignore and whether that is charming or distracting will depend entirely on your taste.
In terms of comfort, the P60 is light enough that it does not cause fatigue during longer listening sessions. The fit is secure especially once you find the right ear tip size, although it does not feel as snug or isolating as the other two models.
The DUB S60 in Purple stands out immediately because of its charging case. Instead of the common pebble-shaped design used by most earbuds, the S60 opts for a boxy, squared-off case that feels more industrial.
It has a solid presence in the hand and feels well-built, which gives it a slightly more premium impression compared to the P60. Personally, I like this design choice because it feels different and less generic.
That said, the trade-off is size. The case is noticeably larger and thicker. While it fits fine in a bag, it can feel bulky in smaller pockets. This is one of those designs that some people will appreciate for its uniqueness while others may prefer something more compact.
The DUB X50, which we have in Black, looks the most traditional but also the most refined. The case is more compact and streamlined and everything about it feels deliberate.
From the hinge to the finish, it gives off the impression that this is the top-tier model in the lineup even before you start listening to it.
All three models come with the same basic inclusions. Inside the box, you get the earbuds with their charging case, a USB-C charging cable, documentation and three pairs of silicone ear tips in different sizes. The extra ear tips are important because achieving a proper seal directly affects comfort, bass response and passive noise isolation.
All three earbuds are rated IPX4, making them suitable for workouts, outdoor use, and light splashes. Sweat resistance is especially useful at this price point and it makes the DUB lineup more versatile for everyday use.
Touch controls are present across all three models. They are responsive once you get used to the gestures, although they do require some adjustment at first. Accidental touches do happen occasionally especially when repositioning the earbuds.
Bluetooth 5.3 is standard across the lineup which helps with stable connections and efficiency.
However, only the DUB S60 and DUB X50 support Google Fast Pair. This feature allows the earbuds to instantly pop up on compatible Android phones the moment you open the case, making the initial setup quick and painless.
Once connected, both the S60 and X50 also prompt you to download the HMD audio app. This immediate push toward the app makes it clear that these models are designed to be customized and adjusted based on user preference.
The DUB P60 does not support Google Fast Pair so pairing is done through the regular Bluetooth menu. It works reliably but compared side by side with the S60 and X50, it feels like a more basic and dated experience.
App, Sound Quality and ANC
The real differences between the three earbuds become obvious once you start listening.
The DUB P60 does not support the HMD audio app what you hear out of the box is exactly what you are stuck with. There is no way to tweak EQ settings or adjust sound profiles. For some users, this simplicity may be fine, but it does limit the overall experience.
Sound-wise, the P60 feels narrow and compressed. Instrument separation is limited and everything feels like it is being pushed through a smaller space. Bass is present, but it lacks weight and punch, which makes music sound flatter and less engaging. Vocals are clear enough for podcasts and calls, but music does not feel particularly lively.
ANC is available, but it is basic. It mainly reduces steady background noise like air conditioning or engine hum, but it does not do much against sudden or higher-pitched sounds.
One notable annoyance is the clicking sound that plays before and after audio playback. It happens consistently and becomes noticeable the more you use the earbuds which does affect the overall experience.
Because of these limitations, the P60 ended up being the least enjoyable of the three for extended listening.
The DUB S60 supports the HMD audio app and shares the same EQ presets as the X50. Having access to EQ settings already gives it a clear advantage over the P60 as you can fine-tune the sound based on your preferences.
Out of the box, the S60 sounds cleaner and more refined than the P60. Vocals and mids come through with better clarity, and there is more control across the frequency range.
However, it does feel slightly quieter compared to the other two. This could be subjective, but in daily use it consistently felt like it needed to be pushed a bit louder.
Bass on the S60 is controlled rather than impactful. This helps with clarity but makes the overall presentation feel more restrained. It does not have the fullness or energy of the X50, but it also avoids sounding muddy or congested.
This places the S60 firmly in the middle. It is more detailed and precise than the P60, but not as immersive or fun as the X50.
ANC performance remains modest and works best against constant background noise rather than unpredictable sounds.
The DUB X50 is the strongest performer of the three and easily my personal favorite. Despite using the same app and EQ presets as the S60, it sounds fuller and more open. Bass has more body and impact, giving music more depth and presence.
Instrument separation is better and tracks feel less crowded overall. This makes a noticeable difference when listening to more complex music or watching movies.
ANC and ENC are still not flagship-level, but they are effective enough for commuting, casual travel and everyday calls.
Battery life on the X50 is also noticeably better, which adds to its appeal as a daily driver. Low latency mode is available across all three models, making them suitable for video streaming and casual gaming without obvious audio delay.
Pricing
Spending more in this lineup genuinely makes a difference.
The DUB P60 is the most affordable at PHP 1,390, but it also feels the most compromised. While it gets the basics right, it has limited sound depth, no app support, no Google Fast Pair and the clicking sound during playback becomes hard to ignore over time.
DUB P60 specs:
DUB Platinum Sound with bass Boost
Low latency mode
Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC)
Bluetooth 5.3
Low-latency mode
USB Type-C
Earbuds 35 mAh / Case 400 mAh
51 × 63 × 24 mm (dimensions)
38 grams (weight)
Green, White, Black
The DUB S60, priced at PHP 1,890, lands as a solid middle option. It offers better clarity, app-based tuning, and Google Fast Pair support. While it is quieter and less punchy than the X50, it sounds cleaner and more refined than the P60.
Its boxy case design is something I personally enjoy even if others may find it too large.
DUB S60 specs:
Dolby Audio with customizable EQ modes via app
Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC)
Bluetooth 5.3
Low-latency mode
USB Type-C
Earbuds 35 mAh / Case 400 mAh
49 × 65 × 27 mm (dimensions)
57 grams (weight)
Black, Purple
The DUB X50 sits at Php1,990 and is only slightly more expensive than the S60. That small jump in price brings the fullest sound, the strongest bass, smooth app integration, Google Fast Pair and the best battery life of the three.
If your budget allows for it, the X50 is easily the most complete and satisfying choice in the lineup.
DUB X50 specs:
Audio ( Basic )
Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC)
Low-latency gaming mode
Fast Pair
IPX4 protection
51 × 65 × 24 mm (dimensions)
57 grams (weight)
USB Type-C
Earbuds 70 mAh / Case 600 mAh
Black and White
At the end of the day, HMD’s DUB lineup makes one thing clear. You can start cheap but spending a bit more, especially on the DUB X50, delivers a far more enjoyable and well-rounded experience that truly feels worth it.
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