We covered the Nest Earbud Protectors from Digital Innovations back in September of 2012. At the time I wasn’t all too interested in the product. It just looked like the kind of thing that would become one more piece of clutter in my gear cabinet. Turns out I was completely wrong, and these are actually a great product that, although a bit overpriced, are worth having if you use in-ear headphones on a regular basis.
Digital Innovations, the company behind The Nest, describes their product as
an earbud winder/headphone case that protects your earbud-style headphones or earphones from tangling and damage! It features a patent-pending design and high-quality silicone construction. It’s also soft, flexible, durable, effortless to use and fits easily in any pocket.
The Nest lets you store earbuds in seconds, remove them instantly with a single pull and keeps earbuds fully protected. In addition, the flexible material is pocket-friendly.
My change of heart came when Judie arrived for a visit and brought three Nests with her. She doesn’t tend to use in-ear headphones, so her need for them was limited. I, on the other hand, switch between in-ear, on-ear and over-the-headphones so I actually could make use of the Nests. In fact, considering the fact that my in-ear headphone storage was a mishmash of different pouches having three Nests available to me actually made sense. (I honestly need a few more, and I’ll likely be placing an order.)
I was surprised to discover that the product does exactly what it promises. The Nest may not look like much, but it does exactly what it promises. It offers a quick and simple way to stow your earbuds and an even quicker way to get them out and ready to use.
In this example I took my ZAGG ZR-Six earbuds, placed the actual earbuds in the center of the Nest, and wrapped the cord around the spool.
When I got to the end of the cord, I simply placed the 3.5mm jack into the center and flipped the cover (the lower half of the Nest in this photo) up and over the cable.
The result was a nice, neat package with my earbuds completely protected and easy to carry. And when I want to listen to music, I simply reach inside, grab the 3.5mm jack, and pull. Within seconds the earbuds are free and ready to use.
No, this isn’t a mind-blowing, game-changing design. But, and this is important, it works… perfectly. That’s why three of my favorites earbuds are now living inside the Nests Judie brought with her, and I may be purchasing a few more for the rest of my earbuds. And that’s my biggest issue with The Nest — it is a bit more pricey than I think something like this ouch to be. Still, if you want one of, if not the, easiest, most flexible (literally) and functional way to carry, protect and use your earbuds, then you won’t find a better accessory than the Nest. You can learn more here.
MSRP: $9.99
What I Like: Delivers exactly what they promise
What Needs Improvement: A bit too pricey
Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample