The wireless earbuds market is buzzing with options, and the new OnePlus Buds 3 are aiming to shake things up in the “affordable ANC” category. But can these sleek newcomers dethrone the established players and become your go-to choice for noise-cancelling nirvana? Let’s dive in and see if they match the hype.
First Impressions: Sleek Design, Snug Fit
OnePlus knows good design, and the Buds 3 don’t disappoint. The lightweight, half-in-ear design is perfect for comfortable listening, even if you plan to rock them all day. They’re not bulky like some over-ear options, and the matte finish with subtle branding exudes a minimalist vibe that suits diverse styles. Bonus points for the three included ear tip sizes – finding the perfect fit is crucial for optimal ANC and sound isolation, after all.
ANC Battleground: Does it Block the Noise You Hate?
The Buds 3 boast three ANC intensity levels, from light to strong. While they won’t magically transport you to a silent utopia, they effectively tame low-frequency foes like traffic rumbles and airplane hum. Moderate and strong settings offer noticeable noise reduction, making them ideal for noisy commutes, chatterbox colleagues, or focusing on tasks. However, some high-pitched sounds might sneak through at lower levels, so keep that in mind.
Sound Check: Punchy Bass, Personalized Bliss
Ready to rock your world with audio goodness? The Buds 3 deliver well-balanced and immersive sound. Bass lovers rejoice – it’s punchy and satisfying without drowning out mids and highs. The 10mm dynamic drivers handle various genres with aplomb, from the crisp detail of acoustic tracks to the electrifying energy of electronic music. And here’s the kicker: OnePlus Audio ID 2.0 lets you tailor the sound signature to your unique preferences. While audiophiles might crave even more detail and separation, the overall sound quality is impressive for the price tag, exceeding expectations for “affordable” earbuds.
Power Up, Stay Connected: Fueling Your Audio Marathon
We all hate dead batteries during our audio escapes. The Buds 3 offer a respectable 7 hours with ANC on, and the charging case extends that to a grand total of 31 hours. That’s enough for most commutes and workouts, and the fast charging gets you back in the groove quickly. Bluetooth 5.2 ensures a stable and reliable connection, minimizing audio dropouts and latency issues. Sure, some competitors might offer slightly longer battery life, but the Buds 3 hold their own in this department.
More Than Just Noise Cancelling: Your Feature-Packed Companion
Clear calls are a must, and the Buds 3 deliver. The microphones effectively pick up your voice while filtering out background noise, ensuring smooth communication even in noisy environments. They also boast IP55 water resistance for worry-free workouts, seamless multi-device pairing for switching between devices effortlessly, and a low latency mode for gamers who demand precision. While some might miss auto-ear detection or touch controls for volume adjustment, the included features offer good value for the price.
The Verdict: Affordable ANC Ace or Just Another Contender?
So, are the OnePlus Buds 3 the new king of affordable ANC earbuds? It depends on your priorities. If you’re seeking absolute silence and audiophile-grade sound, you might need to spend more. But if you value effective noise cancellation, well-rounded sound, comfortable design, and a competitive price tag, the Buds 3 are definitely worth considering. They offer excellent value for money, exceeding expectations and establishing themselves as a serious contender in the affordable ANC market.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. But if you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable, and feature-packed option that delivers great ANC and sound without breaking the bank, the OnePlus Buds 3 are definitely worth a listen.
