What makes me excited about OnePlus? Well, definitely their audio products. Over the last couple of years, the brand has been making records in the audio market and has become one of the most loved brands in the mid-range segment.
I’ve been fortunate enough to experience almost every audio product OnePlus has launched since 2022. Be it OnePlus Nord Buds, OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2, or OnePlus Buds Pro 2, almost every product from the brand has entertained my soul whenever I put them on-ear or in-ear.
Within a short span, OnePlus has carved a niche for itself in the TWS segment and being a fanboy of the OnePlus Nord Buds, I was very excited when I got my hands on the OnePlus Nord Buds 2. Let’s get in the groove and see what the newbie in the house offers!
Design
Lookwise, there are no significant changes in the design of the buds, but when it comes to the case, it’s tiny compared to the 1st gen Nord Buds and has a dotted dust-like texture on it. The brand must have avoided working on the design, as the main focus was what to update on the insides.
The pill-shaped matte-grey charging case will feel uncomfortable in a trouser pocket, but the price of the buds will suit most pockets. The touch controls on the stem, tap to play or pause music, double tap for the next track or answer/end calls, and triple tap for the previous track.
Sound
The 2nd gen Nord Buds arrives with many updates, especially in terms of sound delivery. The Nord Buds 2 effortlessly deliver on every feature it promises, unlike its predecessor – the Nord Buds, where calls can be glitchy, and distortion is common.
When it comes to sound output, the Nord Buds 2 offers a detailed sound where every vocal or instrumental element reaches its zenith. The 2nd gen buds are backed with a new BassWaveTM algorithm and a 12.4mm driver unit that dynamically enhances your sound for a balanced listening experience.
The buds offer deeper bass along with crisp and clear vocals, giving you that main character energy while listening to your favourite music. In terms of connectivity, they are easy to pair with OnePlus smartphones and iPhones as well.
App
The buds offer an Active Noise Cancellation feature with 25dB depth, but to have it under control, you must download the HeyMelody app. The listening experience they offer with noise cancellation is sharp; be it listening to music or making calls, everything comes to you without audio disturbances.
With the HeyMelody app, you can track the earphones’ battery levels and choose noise control modes – noise cancellation, off, or transparency, to enhance your audio experience. The app also allows you to elevate your audio experience further with four sound modes – Balanced, Bold, Serenade, and Bass.
Battery
The earbuds offer good battery life with active noise cancellation on, and offer you a service for slightly over seven hours on a single charge without putting them back in the case. Once you put them in the case for 15 minutes and they’ll get charged up to 60%, offering 2-3 hours of usage.
Verdict
Overall, the Nord Buds 2 has been enjoyable. The earbuds worked well with various types of audio, and the noise-cancelling feature was quite outstanding. Nevertheless, for the price of Rs 2,999, the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 is a reasonable device to purchase, especially if you’re looking for affordable earbuds.