Verdict
The CMF Buds 2 is a clear choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking style, solid audio, and long battery life. Their playful design, effective ANC, and feature-rich Nothing X app makes them stand out in the sub-₹3000 segment. However, the non-functional rotating dial feels like a missed opportunity, and the ANC’s occasional inconsistency may annoy users in noisy environments. For casual listeners who prioritize value and don’t need premium codecs or advanced controls, the CMF Buds 2 delivers exceptional bang for the buck. If you desire the interactive Smart Dial or LDAC support, consider the CMF Buds Pro 2 for a slight premium.
The Good
- Affordable price for feature-rich wireless earbuds.
- Lightweight design with comfortable fit and IP55 rating.
- Impressive sound quality with punchy bass and customizable EQ.
- Long battery life with up to 55 hours total usage.
The Bad
- Non-functional rotating dial lacks interactive purpose.
- ANC performance can be inconsistent and requires reseating.
- No support for high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC.
- Touch controls can be prone to accidental triggers.
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Build & Design
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Performance
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Battery
CMF by Nothing has established itself by offering stylish, feature-packed technology at budget-friendly prices. The CMF Buds 2, the entry-level model in their 2025 earbud lineup, continues this trend. Priced at ₹2,699, these wireless earbuds promise solid sound quality, active noise cancellation (ANC), and a unique design that stands out in the competitive market. However, with a non-functional rotating dial and some performance quirks, are they worth the investment? Let’s explore the details.
Design & Build
The CMF Buds 2 sports a unique squircle-shaped charging case with a matte finish. The case measures 53.3 x 53.3 x 23 mm and weighs 46g without the buds. It feels sturdy yet lightweight, although it lacks an IP rating. The standout feature is the transparent rotating dial on the case’s corner, a playful nod to the CMF Buds Pro 2’s Smart Dial. Unlike its pricier sibling, this dial serves no interactive purpose, acting only as a lanyard attachment point or a fidget-friendly toy. While this might disappoint some, the satisfaction of spinning it adds a unique charm.
The earbuds are lightweight at 4.9g each, featuring a mixture of glossy and matte with an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts or light rain. The angled nozzles ensure comfort for extended wear, though the fit can loosen during energetic activities like running, requiring occasional adjustments. Three sizes of silicone ear tips are included, and the Nothing X app offers a fit test to optimize the seal. The Matte black variant we tested looks good but attracts smudges easily.
Also Read: CMF Buds 2 Plus Review
Features and Performance
The CMF Buds 2 offers an impressive set of features for their price. They are equipped with 11mm PMI drivers tuned with Dirac Opteo, offering punchy bass, clear mids, and decent treble. This makes them ideal for pop, electronic, and bass-heavy genres. The Nothing X app improves the listening experience with a customizable EQ, Ultra Bass Technology 2.0, and Spatial Audio, adding a subtle depth. However, it falls short of providing true 3D sound. The Bluetooth 5.4 provides reliable connectivity with dual-device pairing and Google Fast Pair. However, the absence of high-resolution codecs like LDAC may limit their appeal to audiophiles.
The 48dB hybrid ANC is highlighted, effectively reducing low-frequency noises like traffic or office hums by up to 80%. However, it struggles with high-pitched sounds, and the ANC can be inconsistent, sometimes requiring users to reseat the earbuds to restore effectiveness. This quirk, likely due to fit sensitivity, can be frustrating during commutes. The Adaptive ANC mode adjusts dynamically to ambient noise, but the difference between Low, Mild, and High settings is subtle. Transparency mode is serviceable but slightly muffled, and the six-microphone array with Clear Voice Technology 3.0 ensures decent call quality, though background noise can still sneak in.
Battery
Battery life is a strong suit, offering me up to 12 hours of playback with ANC off and 9 hours with ANC on. The 460mAh case extends total usage to 55 hours, outpacing many competitors. A 10-minute fast charge gives 7.5 hours of listening time, though wireless charging is missing. Touch controls on the earbud stem are responsive and customizable via the app, but accidental triggers during the commute are a minor annoyance.