The FiiO FW3 sits below the FW5 in FiiO's true wireless earphone range, offering a more accessible entry into FiiO's high-fidelity TWS lineup without compromising on core audio engineering principles. It carries FiiO's fully integrated HiFi DAC and amplifier design philosophy into a compact wireless format aimed at listeners seeking audiophile-grade sound from a true wireless earphone.
Driver and Audio Processing
At the heart of the FW3 is a 10mm carbon-based dynamic driver, chosen for its stiffness-to-weight ratio, which allows FiiO's acoustic engineers to apply precise tuning across the frequency range. Paired with an AK4332 high-resolution DAC, the earphones achieve a signal-to-noise ratio of up to 106 dB and total harmonic distortion as low as -96 dB. The sound signature is mildly V-shaped, with a warm tilt and extended treble that adds brightness and detail without becoming harsh.
Bluetooth and Codec Support
Wireless connectivity is handled by the Qualcomm QCC5141 dual-DSP, dual-core Bluetooth 5.2 chipset, which supports high-resolution audio at up to 96kHz/24-bit. Supported codecs include LHDC, aptX Adaptive, AAC, and SBC, providing broad compatibility with both Android and iOS sources. The FiiO Control app allows users to lock codec selection, ensuring a consistent decode path rather than defaulting to a lower codec when signal conditions change.
Controls and Comfort
The FW3 uses four physical tactile buttons, two on each earbud, for playback and call control. This approach avoids the accidental triggers common with touch panels and suits users who prefer deliberate, tactile feedback. Two sets of ear tips are included in S, M, and L sizes (Balanced and FiiO HS18 types), allowing fit optimisation for different ear shapes and tuning preferences.
Battery and Build
Each earbud contains a 65 mAh battery providing approximately 7 hours of playback per charge. The matte grey charging case houses a 380 mAh battery, bringing the combined total to around 21 hours of listening time. The case is noted for its resistance to everyday scratches. The FW3 carries an IPX4 water resistance rating, making it suitable for use during exercise or in light rain.