OnePlus recently launched the Nord Buds 3 Pro in India, aiming to bring active noise cancellation (ANC) technology at a more budget-friendly price. Let’s see if these earbuds live up to the hype!
Noise Cancellation on a Budget
The key feature of the Nord Buds 3 Pro is its ANC. OnePlus claims it can block out up to 49 decibels (dB) of noise. This means you’ll hear less of the outside world, whether it’s traffic hum, chatter in a cafe, or a noisy airplane cabin. ANC is great for focusing on your music, audiobooks, or calls without distractions.
How Good is the Noise Cancellation?
While 49dB sounds impressive, it’s important to understand that ANC effectiveness can vary. In ideal situations, it might block out a lot of noise. However, very loud noises or certain frequencies might still be noticeable.
Crystal Clear Calls
The Nord Buds 3 Pro also boasts clear call quality. With three microphones on each earbud, your voice should be picked up clearly during calls, even in noisy environments.
Big Sound, Big Bass
These earbuds pack a punch with 12.4mm drivers, which are the speakers inside. Larger drivers generally translate to better sound quality, especially with bass. OnePlus even throws in their own Basswave™ 2.0 technology for extra low-end thump.
How Long Does the Battery Last?
OnePlus claims the Nord Buds 3 Pro can last up to 44 hours of listening time with the charging case. That’s a long time for a pair of wireless earbuds! However, this number is with ANC turned off. With ANC on, expect the playtime to drop to around 20 hours. Still, that’s enough for most users to get through a workday or a long trip.
Fast Charging
Even if you do manage to drain the battery, the Nord Buds 3 Pro supports fast charging. OnePlus says just a 10-minute charge can give you 11 hours of playback time. This is handy if you’re in a rush and need a quick battery boost.
Comfortable Fit?
A good fit is crucial for comfort and sound quality. Unfortunately, reviews suggest there isn’t much information on how comfortable these earbuds are for extended wear. It might be a good idea to check online reviews or try them out in a store if possible.
Simple Controls
The Nord Buds 3 Pro uses touch controls for playback, volume, and ANC. This lets you easily manage your music or calls without taking out your phone.
Water Resistance
The Nord Buds 3 Pro have water resistance, which is a plus for those who worry about sweat during workouts or getting caught in the rain. However, it’s always best to avoid submerging them in water.
App Support
OnePlus smartphone users can use the company’s “Wireless Earphones” app to customize settings and features. Everyone else can download the HeyMelody app for similar functionality.
The Verdict: Are They Worth It?
At Rs. 3299, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro offer a compelling package for budget-conscious users who want ANC. They have decent battery life, fast charging, and good sound quality. However, keep in mind that the comfort might not be for everyone, and the ANC effectiveness might not be the strongest.
Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:
- Pros: Up to 49dB ANC, clear call quality, big sound with good bass, long battery life with fast charging, water resistance
- Cons: Comfort might be an issue, ANC effectiveness might vary, not many features compared to high-end options
If ANC is your top priority and you’re on a budget, the Nord Buds 3 Pro are definitely worth considering. However, if you prioritize a super comfortable fit or the absolute best noise cancellation, you might want to explore other options.