Review: OnePlus Buds 3 – Affordable Quality
Finding decent earbuds used to mean turning to big names like Bose or Sony. However, now, phone companies like OnePlus are stepping up with their own solid offerings. The OnePlus Buds 3 is a prime example of this trend.
Priced at $99, the OnePlus Buds 3 strike a balance between affordability and quality. Drawing from the lessons learned with the OnePlus Buds Pro 2, these earbuds offer commendable audio and features, albeit with some noticeable compromises that reflect their price point. After using them as my daily audio companions for almost two weeks, I'm quite impressed, particularly considering their affordability.
Audio Quality Midrange earbuds often fall short in audio quality or features. However, the OnePlus Buds 3 defy this trend. While they may not match the sound of premium options like Pixel Buds Pro or AirPods Pro, they excel in delivering solid audio and unexpected features for their price.
Out of the box, the audio quality is decent, though not exceptional. Pairing them with a OnePlus phone provides access to various settings directly, while users of other devices can use the HeyMelody companion app for customization. Despite my initial aversion to downloading additional apps, setting up the HeyMelody app proved to be straightforward and worthwhile, unlocking additional features that enhanced the listening experience.
From Noah Kahan to Hozier and even Metallica, everything I listened to sounded good, especially after tweaking the equalizer in HeyMelody. Supporting SBS and AAC codecs, as well as LHDC 5.0, ensures consistent quality across different devices.
Microphone quality, while not the best, is more than adequate for everyday conversations, even in mildly noisy environments like the grocery store.
Battery Life The OnePlus Buds 3 offer better-than-expected battery life, with OnePlus claiming up to six and a half hours on a single charge, even with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled. In my experience, this claim holds true, and I never felt anxious about running out of battery mid-listening session. Additionally, the USB-C charging cables provided and the case's ability to hold three additional charges make charging convenient on the go.
Features and Fit Despite their midrange price, the OnePlus Buds 3 boast an impressive array of features. From ANC to transparency mode, fast pair, and multipoint connectivity, these earbuds offer functionalities usually found in pricier options. The HeyMelody app unlocks even more features, including the intriguing "Golden Sound" profile, which tailors audio to individual ear shapes.
While moderately comfortable, achieving a secure fit during vigorous activities may require some adjustment. However, once properly positioned, their lightweight design makes them easy to forget. The touch controls, though prone to accidental presses during readjustment, are intuitive and easy to use.
Areas for Improvement Despite their strengths, the ANC of the OnePlus Buds 3 leaves much to be desired. While it cancels out some noise, it also allows in a significant amount of ambient sound. Additionally, the transparency mode seems more effective at blocking noise than the ANC mode. Connectivity issues with the HeyMelody app were also observed, impacting user experience.
Final Verdict Overall, the OnePlus Buds 3 offer excellent value for their price. While they may not satisfy hardcore audiophiles, most users will appreciate their solid performance and feature set. At $99, they represent a compelling choice in the midrange earbud market, boasting features not commonly found at this price point.
The OnePlus Buds 3 are available for $99.99 in Splendid Blue and Metallic Gray color options.
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