QCY MeloBuds Pro (Black): problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-19

Summary

Owners most often complain about the firmware-update process, oversensitive wear detection and an app whose settings do not stick. There is no real running cost: the only consumable is ear tips, and no subscription is required for core features. It is a good buy at $45 or less and a weak pick above $60.

Common problems and fixes

Cumbersome firmware updates — version 2.0.4 demands a factory reset and re-pairing, and owners describe the process as cumbersome; skipping steps can cause temporary connectivity issues. One owner reported firmware V2.0.6 degraded audio. QCY recommends updating firmware for longevity. Covered by the 12-month warranty from date of delivery. [2][12][13][15]
Oversensitive wear detection — auto pause/play can pause audio or drop calls when you adjust an earbud. No owner-reported fix; the app offers control customization if you want to rework the behavior. [2][3]
App reliability — the QCY app requires an account login, and settings sometimes do not stick; clearing the app cache is the reported fix for switching to LDAC, and multipoint pairing can be difficult. [2][6]
Fit and ear tips — some owners report the buds falling out with movement on the stock tips; aftermarket tips are the widely recommended upgrade. [6][8]
Longevity — some Reddit owners report buds dying, becoming quieter or draining battery prematurely; nobody has published a failure rate, so buy from a store with a good return window. [6][8]
One side not working — QCY’s support page recommends a firmware update and factory reset as the fix. [14]

Parts and consumables

No user-serviceable parts: there is no replacement battery or repair channel, and the case battery is not owner-replaceable. [15]

Yearly running cost

No recurring cost beyond replacement ear tips (inexpensive). No subscription is required for core features.

When it is a good buy

$30 or less — strong budget pick: ANC, LDAC and the feature set compete well above this price.
$31-45 — still good value on sale; the Edifier TWS1 Pro 2 is the alternative to check in this range.
$46-60 — fair; the Soundcore Liberty series and Earfun Air Pro add wireless charging and stronger app ecosystems, and are the better choice there.
Above $60 — weak value unless the LDAC plus ANC combination is the priority.

Reference prices: QCY US official store $39.99 (sale, regularly $57.59); QCY global shop $14.40; a QCY blog post from November 2025 lists $69.59, likely outdated or regional. Street prices in reviews ran about $25-45. [10][11][12][2][3][4]