The OnePlus Nord Buds: A Budget-Friendly Audio Experience with a Focus on Bass
OnePlus has expanded its popular Nord line beyond smartphones, venturing into the audio world with the OnePlus Nord Buds. These true wireless earphones, priced under Rs. 3,000, offer a compelling alternative to the company’s higher-end Buds Z2 and Buds Pro, focusing on delivering value-driven sound and extended battery life. But can a budget-friendly offering compete with the expanding field of affordable true wireless earphones? This review delves into the OnePlus Nord Buds‘ design, features and performance to see if they make a compelling case for your ears.
A Distinct Look and Comfortable Fit
The OnePlus Nord Buds take a departure from the company’s usual design language, showcasing a bold, unique look. The earpieces feature larger stems and distinct touch areas, while the charging case embraces a boxier design with sharp edges and flat surfaces. The Nord Buds are available in two colors, Black Slate and White Marble, with the mirror-like touch-sensitive areas on the earpieces being a striking visual element.
The earphones offer a comfortable, secure in-canal fit, customizable with replaceable silicone ear tips in different sizes. Though the earpieces feature a glossy finish, they remain neat and resistant to grime or dust. For added protection, the Nord Buds boasts an IP55 rating, making them resistant to dust and water splashes.
Touch Controls and App Compatibility
The OnePlus Nord Buds boast large, tactile touch areas on each earpiece, making them easy to control. These controls are configurable through the HeyMelody app, allowing users to manage playback, activate their device’s voice assistant, and quickly switch between paired devices with simple gestures. However, the HeyMelody app’s iOS version does not support the Nord Buds currently.
While the earphones are said to support OnePlus Fast Pair for seamless pairing and customization options on supported OnePlus devices, this feature didn’t work as expected during my review. I hope this is addressed through future software updates.
Powerful Bass and Dolby Atmos Support
The OnePlus Nord Buds are equipped with 12.4mm dynamic drivers, capable of delivering a loud, immersive listening experience. The Nord Buds support Dolby Atmos sound, enhancing the listening experience on select OnePlus devices. However, it’s important to note that this feature, while present, may not be as impactful as on some other premium audio products.
Battery Life and Fast Charging
The OnePlus Nord Buds boasts impressive battery life for its price point. The earpieces can last up to five hours on a single charge at moderate volume levels, and the case provides three additional charges, resulting in a total playback time of approximately 20-21 hours. Fast charging allows for five hours of listening with just 10 minutes of charging, and the entire charging process takes just 25 minutes.
Sound Quality: A Punchy Bass Emphasis
While the OnePlus Nord Buds might not be considered a direct successor to the OnePlus Buds Z, they share a similar focus on delivering punchy bass and affordability. The Nord Buds excel in delivering a powerful bass response, particularly noticeable in electronic music tracks with heavy bass lines.
However, the emphasis on bass comes at a slight expense to the mid-range and treble frequencies. While vocals and softer elements are clear, the overall sound signature may feel somewhat lacking in detail and nuanced compared to other options in the same price range.
Competition: Considering The Trade-offs
The OnePlus Nord Buds face stiff competition from other budget-friendly true wireless earphones. Options such as the Oppo Enco Air 2 Pro, though slightly more expensive, offer active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature that might be a deal-breaker for some buyers.
Verdict: A Great Choice for Bass Lovers
The OnePlus Nord Buds deliver value-driven audio performance with a strong emphasis on bass. Their comfortable fit, long battery life, and fast charging capabilities make them an appealing choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, the lack of ANC might be a concern for some, especially considering competing models in the same price range.
If you prioritize powerful bass, a comfortable fit, and a long-lasting battery, the OnePlus Nord Buds present a compelling option. However, if you demand more nuanced sound and ANC, the competition offers more appealing alternatives. Ultimately, the OnePlus Nord Buds remain a solid budget option for those seeking a punchy audio experience without breaking the bank.
