The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 emerge as a compelling option in the crowded true wireless earbud market, especially for those seeking a balanced blend of features and affordability.

They deliver on the promise of active noise cancellation ANC in a budget-friendly package, alongside respectable audio quality and a comfortable fit, making them a strong contender for everyday use.

While they might not unseat premium flagship earbuds in every single metric, their value proposition is undeniable, offering a significant upgrade over their predecessor and presenting a viable alternative to many pricier competitors.

If you’re looking for solid performance without breaking the bank, the Nord Buds 2 certainly warrant a closer look.

Product Name	Active Noise Cancellation ANC	Battery Life Earbuds + Case	Key Features	Price Range USD
OnePlus Nord Buds 2	Yes	Up to 36 hours	ANC, BassWave algorithm, IP55 rating	$50 – $70
Soundcore Anker Liberty 4 NC	Yes Adaptive ANC 2.0	Up to 50 hours	Adaptive ANC, Hi-Res Audio, LDAC, IPX4 rating	$80 – $100
JBL Live Pro 2	Yes True Adaptive Noise Cancelling	Up to 40 hours	Spatial Sound, 6 mics for calls, IPX5 rating	$120 – $150
Nothing Ear 2	Yes	Up to 36 hours	Personalised ANC, LHDC 5.0, IP54 earbuds	$130 – $150
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE	Yes	Up to 30 hours	Ergonomic design, Wingtip support, IPX2 rating	$80 – $100
Google Pixel Buds A-Series	No Passive Noise Reduction	Up to 24 hours	Adaptive Sound, Google Assistant integration, IPX4 rating	$80 – $100
Sony WF-C700N	Yes	Up to 20 hours	DSEE upscaling, Ambient Sound Mode, IPX4 rating	$100 – $120

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Table of Contents

Dissecting the Audio Experience: Sound Quality and BassWave

When we talk about true wireless earbuds, sound quality is often the first thing people zero in on, and rightly so.

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 make a distinct play here, especially with their “BassWave” algorithm. It’s not just a marketing buzzword.

It’s an active attempt by OnePlus to sculpt the audio profile, particularly for those who appreciate a bit more thump in their tunes.

The BassWave Algorithm: What it Does and How it Sounds

OnePlus has integrated a custom BassWave algorithm designed to enhance the low-end frequencies.

In practice, this means a more pronounced and impactful bass response. Retrocrush Review

For genres like hip-hop, electronic dance podcast EDM, or anything with a significant rhythmic foundation, this enhancement is immediately noticeable.

Punchy Bass: The bass isn’t just louder. it feels more dynamic and full. It’s not an overwhelming, muddy bass that bleeds into the mids, but rather a controlled, powerful presence that adds depth and excitement to the podcast.
Clarity Preservation: Crucially, OnePlus has tried to ensure that this bass boost doesn’t come at the expense of clarity in other frequency ranges. While the bass is certainly forward, vocals and instruments generally remain distinct and articulate.
Customization via App: You’re not stuck with a single bass profile. The HeyMelody app allows for some equalization EQ adjustments, so if the BassWave is a bit too much or too little for your personal taste, you can tweak it to your liking. This flexibility is a significant plus, as not everyone prefers the same audio signature.

Mid-Range and Treble Performance

Beyond the bass, the Nord Buds 2 offer a respectable, if not groundbreaking, performance across the mid-range and treble.

Clear Vocals: Vocals tend to come through clearly and with good presence. Podcasts and spoken word content are easy to follow, and lead vocalists in podcast tracks don’t get lost in the mix.
Detailed Highs: The treble is generally well-defined, though it can occasionally exhibit a slight harshness at very high volumes with certain tracks. It’s bright enough to bring out details in cymbals and string instruments without being overly sibilant.
Balanced Presentation for the price: Considering their price point, the overall sound signature is surprisingly balanced. They don’t shy away from dynamic range, and the stereo separation is decent, providing a relatively immersive listening experience.

Comparing to Competitors in Sound

When stacked against earbuds in a similar price bracket, the Nord Buds 2 often hold their own.

Against Budget ANC Earbuds: Many budget ANC earbuds struggle with a coherent sound profile, often sacrificing clarity for perceived loudness. The Nord Buds 2 manage to offer decent ANC while maintaining a generally pleasing sound.
Vs. Higher-End Models: Naturally, they won’t compete directly with premium offerings like the Sony WF-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II in terms of audiophile-grade fidelity or expansive soundstage. Those models offer greater nuance, separation, and overall refinement. However, the Nord Buds 2 close the gap significantly for casual listening.

Takeaway: The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 prioritize a fun, energetic sound profile with a notable emphasis on bass, thanks to their BassWave algorithm. For most listeners, especially those who enjoy popular podcast genres, this translates to an engaging and satisfying audio experience that punches above its weight class.

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The Silence Seeker: Active Noise Cancellation ANC Effectiveness

Active Noise Cancellation ANC has moved from a luxury feature to an expectation for many earbud users.

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 bravely step into this arena, promising effective noise suppression at a competitive price. So, how do they fare in the real world?

How ANC Works in the Nord Buds 2

The Nord Buds 2 employ a typical ANC setup, using microphones to detect external noise and then generating an inverse sound wave to cancel it out.

Feed-forward and Feedback Microphones: They likely utilize both feed-forward external and feedback internal microphones to capture a broader range of frequencies and more accurately cancel noise.
AI Noise Reduction for Calls: While primarily focused on listening, the ANC system also contributes to clearer calls by reducing ambient noise picked up by the microphones during conversations.

Real-World ANC Performance

The ANC on the Nord Buds 2 is surprisingly competent for their price point.

Low-Frequency Noise: They perform admirably in tackling constant, low-frequency hums. Think airplane cabin noise, the drone of a bus engine, or the whir of an air conditioner. These types of sounds are significantly reduced, creating a more peaceful listening environment.
Mid-Range Sounds: They offer decent reduction of mid-range noises, such as general office chatter, distant traffic, or the clatter of a keyboard. These sounds won’t be entirely eliminated, but their presence is noticeably softened, making them less intrusive.
High-Frequency and Sudden Noises: Like most ANC earbuds, they struggle more with sudden, sharp noises e.g., a car horn, someone shouting or very high-frequency sounds. These will still cut through to some extent.

Transparency Mode Transparency Mode

Beyond ANC, the Nord Buds 2 also feature a Transparency Mode, which allows ambient sounds to pass through, keeping you aware of your surroundings. Terramaster F2 223 Nas Review

Clarity: The transparency mode is reasonably clear, allowing you to hear announcements, traffic, or conversations without removing your earbuds.
Naturalness: While not as natural-sounding as some premium implementations, it’s perfectly functional for safety and convenience. It avoids the overly digitized or tinny sound often found in cheaper transparency modes.

ANC Comparison and Value

When evaluating the ANC of the Nord Buds 2, it’s crucial to consider their cost.

Against Budget Competitors: They easily outperform many budget ANC earbuds that offer only rudimentary noise cancellation. The Nord Buds 2 provide a tangible difference.
Against Premium Competitors: They won’t match the best-in-class noise cancellation offered by market leaders like the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II or Sony WF-1000XM5, which excel at creating an almost uncanny silence. However, those earbuds also cost several times more. The Nord Buds 2 offer about 70-80% of that performance for a fraction of the price, which is excellent value.

Performance Data Illustrative, not exact measured values:

Low-Frequency Noise Reduction: ~20-25 dB
Mid-Frequency Noise Reduction: ~10-15 dB
High-Frequency Noise Reduction: Minimal effective reduction

Practical Scenarios Where ANC Shines:

Commuting: Great for cutting out bus/train engine hum.
Office Environments: Helps reduce chatter and keyboard noise.
Home Use: Good for dampening appliance sounds or general background noise.

Consideration: While the ANC is effective for the price, achieving the best results still relies on a good seal from the ear tips. Experimenting with the included sizes is recommended for optimal noise cancellation. Leica Noctilux M 50Mm F12 Asph Review

Endurance Test: Battery Life and Charging Conveniences

Battery life is a critical factor for any true wireless earbud.

Nobody wants their podcast to cut out halfway through a workout or commute.

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 aim to provide ample listening time, both from the earbuds themselves and with the assistance of their charging case.

Earbud Battery Life

The earbuds themselves offer a respectable amount of playtime on a single charge.

With ANC On: You can expect around 5-6 hours of continuous playback with Active Noise Cancellation enabled. This is a solid figure that will easily cover most commutes, gym sessions, or several hours of focused work.
With ANC Off: Turning ANC off extends the listening time significantly, pushing it to approximately 7-8 hours on a single charge. This is excellent for extended listening sessions where noise cancellation isn’t a priority.

Charging Case and Total Playback

The charging case is where the real longevity comes into play. Nokia 2780 Flip Review

It acts as a portable power bank, allowing you to recharge the earbuds multiple times on the go.

Total Playback: With the charging case, the Nord Buds 2 can deliver up to 36 hours of total playback earbuds + case charges combined. This is a fantastic figure that means you can go for days, or even a week, of moderate use without needing to find a wall outlet.
Case Charges: The case typically provides an additional 3-4 full charges for the earbuds.

Charging Features and Speed

Convenience in charging is just as important as the raw battery numbers.

USB-C Charging: The charging case uses a standard USB-C port, which is a major plus. Most modern devices use USB-C, meaning you likely already have compatible cables, reducing clutter and improving convenience.
Fast Charging: OnePlus has included a quick charge feature. A brief charge can provide a significant boost:
- 10 minutes of charging can yield approximately 5 hours of playback time earbuds + case combined, likely referring to total system uptime. This is incredibly useful for those moments when you realize your earbuds are dead right before you head out.
No Wireless Charging: One feature conspicuously absent, though understandable at this price point, is wireless charging for the case. You’ll need to stick to the USB-C cable for topping up the case.

Real-World Usage Scenarios

Scenario	ANC On Estimate Earbuds	ANC Off Estimate Earbuds	Total with Case
Daily Commute 1 hr each way	2-3 days	3-4 days	Over 2 weeks
Long-Haul Flight single stretch	Might require one case top-up	Possible on a single charge	Multiple flights
Gym Sessions 1.5 hrs	3-4 sessions	4-5 sessions	Over 20 sessions

Comparison with Competitors:

The Nord Buds 2’s battery life is very competitive in its price segment. Many earbuds in this range offer less, especially with ANC enabled.
While premium earbuds might push slightly higher total playback numbers, the Nord Buds 2 strike a solid balance, offering sufficient power for most users without unnecessary bulk or cost.

Tip: To maximize battery life, remember to turn off ANC when it’s not needed, and always place the earbuds back into the charging case when not in use.

Design, Fit, and Durability: Comfort Meets Robustness

Beyond sound and features, how earbuds look, feel, and withstand daily wear and tear are crucial aspects of the user experience. Msi Prestige 13 Evo Review

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 strike a balance between a practical design, a comfortable fit, and decent durability for their price.

Design Aesthetic

The Nord Buds 2 largely retain the design language of their predecessors, with subtle refinements.

Compact and Discreet: The earbuds themselves are relatively compact, featuring a short stem design. They sit fairly flush in the ear, avoiding a bulky or obtrusive appearance.
Color Options: Typically available in neutral colors like black and white, offering a universally appealing aesthetic. The case usually matches the earbud color.
Matte Finish: The earbuds often feature a matte finish, which not only looks good but also resists fingerprints and smudges better than glossy surfaces.
Case Design: The charging case is a smooth, pebble-like shape that fits comfortably in a pocket. It’s lightweight and easy to carry.

Ergonomics and Fit

Comfort is highly subjective, but the Nord Buds 2 aim for a broad appeal.

In-Ear Fit: They are an in-ear design, meaning they have silicone ear tips that create a seal within the ear canal. This seal is crucial for both sound quality and effective ANC.
Lightweight: The individual earbuds are quite light, contributing to long-term comfort. You might even forget you’re wearing them after a while.
Multiple Ear Tip Sizes: OnePlus includes various sizes of silicone ear tips small, medium, large in the box. It is highly recommended to try all sizes to find the one that provides the most secure and comfortable fit, as well as the best seal. A proper seal significantly impacts bass response and ANC performance.
Stability: For most activities, including walking, commuting, and light exercise, the Nord Buds 2 offer good stability. For intense workouts or running, individual mileage may vary, but they generally hold up well.

Durability and IP Rating

The Nord Buds 2 come with an official IP Ingress Protection rating, indicating their resistance to dust and water.

IP55 Rating: This rating signifies:
- “5” for Solid Protection: Protected against dust ingress sufficient to prevent the product from operating normally, but not dust tight. In practical terms, they’re fine for dusty environments.
- “5” for Liquid Protection: Protected against low-pressure jets of water from any direction. This means they are sweat-resistant and can easily handle light rain or splashes.
Workout Friendly: The IP55 rating makes them suitable for gym use and outdoor activities, as sweat won’t be an issue. However, they are not meant for submersion in water e.g., swimming or showering.
Build Quality: The plastic construction feels solid enough to withstand everyday bumps and drops without feeling flimsy. The hinge on the charging case is generally robust.

Practical Considerations

Pocketability: The compact case easily slips into even smaller pockets.
Maintenance: The silicone tips are removable for cleaning, and the matte finish is easy to wipe down.

Summary of Design & Fit: Kobo Elipsa 2E Review

Sleek and understated design.
Lightweight and generally comfortable for extended wear.
Crucial to find the right ear tip size for optimal sound and ANC.
IP55 rating adds confidence for active users and ensures protection against sweat and light rain.

The Nord Buds 2 manage to offer a thoughtful design that prioritizes both aesthetics and practical use, making them a reliable companion for a variety of daily activities.

Seamless Integration: Connectivity and Controls

In the world of true wireless earbuds, a reliable connection and intuitive controls can make or break the user experience.

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 aim for seamless integration, particularly for OnePlus smartphone users, but also offer a solid experience for other Android devices.

Bluetooth Connectivity

The Nord Buds 2 utilize a modern Bluetooth standard to ensure a stable and efficient connection.

Bluetooth 5.3: This is a relatively new and efficient Bluetooth version, offering several advantages:
- Improved Stability: Less prone to drops and interruptions compared to older standards.
- Lower Latency: Better synchronization between audio and video, which is crucial for watching videos or gaming.
- Better Power Efficiency: Contributes to the earbuds’ impressive battery life.
Fast Pairing: On OnePlus phones, they benefit from fast pairing features, similar to how Apple AirPods pair with iPhones or Google Pixel Buds with Pixel phones. Simply open the case near your OnePlus device, and a pop-up prompt will appear.
Standard Pairing: For other Android devices or iOS devices, the standard Bluetooth pairing process is quick and straightforward.

Touch Controls

The Nord Buds 2 feature touch-sensitive areas on the exterior of each earbud for controlling playback, calls, and ANC modes. Yaber Pico T1 Review

Customizable Taps: Through the HeyMelody app or integrated settings on OnePlus phones, you can customize the actions for:
- Single Tap: Play/Pause, Answer/End Call.
- Double Tap: Next Track, Decline Call, Switch ANC Mode.
- Triple Tap: Previous Track, Voice Assistant.
- Touch and Hold: Switch ANC Mode Noise Cancellation, Transparency, Off.
Responsiveness: The touch controls are generally responsive, though like all touch controls, they require a bit of muscle memory to master. Accidental touches can occur, but less frequently than some competitors.
No Volume Control by Default: By default, volume control is not assigned to the earbud gestures. This can be a minor inconvenience for some users who prefer not to reach for their phone. However, in some app versions or firmware updates, you might be able to assign volume control to a triple tap or hold gesture.

HeyMelody App Integration

EQ Customization: As mentioned, you can fine-tune the sound profile using an equalizer.
ANC Mode Switching: Easily toggle between Noise Cancellation, Transparency, and Off modes.
Button Customization: Remap the touch controls to suit your preferences.
Firmware Updates: Essential for receiving bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features. Keeping the firmware updated is crucial for optimal performance.
Battery Status: View the battery levels of each earbud and the charging case.
Ear Tip Fit Test: Some versions of the app might offer a test to help you determine if you have a good seal with your ear tips, which is vital for sound and ANC.

Latency Performance

Latency is the delay between audio and video.

Low Latency for Video: Thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, the Nord Buds 2 generally perform well for video consumption. Lip-sync issues are rare or negligible.
Gaming: While not marketed as dedicated gaming earbuds, their low latency makes them suitable for casual mobile gaming, where split-second audio cues might not be as critical as competitive PC gaming.

Connectivity & Controls Summary:

Bluetooth 5.3 ensures stable and efficient connection.
Fast pairing for OnePlus users, standard for others.
Customizable touch controls enhance user experience, though volume control might require a phone interaction or specific customization.
HeyMelody app is a must-have for unlocking the full potential and keeping the earbuds updated.

Overall, the Nord Buds 2 offer a highly competent connectivity and control experience that aligns well with their price point, making them easy and pleasant to use on a daily basis.

Calling Home: Microphone Quality and Call Performance

The quality of calls made using true wireless earbuds can vary wildly.

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 aim to provide a clear calling experience, even in challenging environments. Oneplus Pad Review

Microphone Array

The Nord Buds 2 are equipped with multiple microphones per earbud to capture your voice and simultaneously reduce background noise.

Dual Microphones: Each earbud typically features at least two microphones:
- One positioned to pick up your voice.
- Another or more dedicated to environmental noise detection for noise reduction algorithms.
AI Noise Reduction Algorithm: OnePlus utilizes an AI-based noise reduction algorithm to distinguish between your voice and ambient sounds. This is crucial for filtering out distractions like wind, traffic, or chatter.

Voice Pickup Quality Quiet Environments

In a quiet indoor setting, the Nord Buds 2 perform admirably.

Clear and Natural Voice: Your voice comes through clearly and naturally, without sounding overly digitized or muffled.
Sufficient Volume: Call recipients report adequate volume, making it easy to understand what you’re saying.
Good for Online Meetings: They are perfectly suitable for casual phone calls, video calls, or online meetings where background noise is minimal.

Noise Suppression Performance Noisy Environments

This is where the true test lies for earbud microphones. The Nord Buds 2 do a decent job for their class.

Consistent Background Noise e.g., fan, AC: They effectively reduce constant, low-level background noise, preventing it from overpowering your voice.
Environmental Sounds e.g., street noise, light traffic: While they can reduce these sounds, some will still bleed through. Your voice will generally remain intelligible, but the listener might hear some background activity.
Wind Noise: Like most true wireless earbuds, strong wind remains a challenge. While the AI noise reduction helps, very windy conditions can still make your voice sound choppy or distant. They are certainly better than earbuds without any wind reduction, but not immune.
Speech Clarity in Noise: The focus of the algorithm is to ensure your voice remains the primary focus. While background noise is reduced, the quality of your voice itself might become slightly more processed or less full in very noisy environments.

Practical Scenarios

In their price range, the Nord Buds 2 offer a competitive calling experience. They often outperform cheaper alternatives that have rudimentary noise reduction.
They won’t rival dedicated headset microphones or premium earbuds like the Jabra Elite 7 Pro or Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3, which typically excel in microphone quality and noise reduction due to more advanced beamforming and larger microphone arrays. However, for casual to moderately important calls, they get the job done well.

Tip: For the best call quality, try to be in a moderately quiet environment. If you must take a call outdoors, try to face away from strong wind or move to a sheltered spot.

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The Software Experience: HeyMelody App and Features

The hardware is only half the story. the software experience significantly enhances the usability and versatility of true wireless earbuds. For the OnePlus Nord Buds 2, the HeyMelody app is the gateway to unlocking their full potential. While OnePlus phone users might see some integration directly within their phone’s Bluetooth settings, the HeyMelody app is crucial for everyone else.

What is the HeyMelody App?

It provides a centralized hub for managing your earbuds.

Availability: It’s available for both Android and iOS devices, ensuring broad compatibility.
Purpose: It allows users to customize settings, check battery life, update firmware, and access unique features specific to their earbuds.

Key Features and Customization Options

The HeyMelody app offers a suite of functionalities that empower users to tailor their Nord Buds 2 experience.

1. Sound Customization EQ

Sound Master EQ: This is where you can truly personalize the audio profile.
- “Bold” BassWave Default: The pre-set sound profile that leverages the BassWave algorithm for punchier bass.
- “Balanced”: A flatter, more neutral sound signature for those who prefer less emphasis on the low end.
- “Serenade” / “Gentle” / “Clear”: Additional preset EQs designed for specific listening preferences e.g., more vocal clarity, softer highs.
- Custom EQ: Crucially, you can create your own custom equalizer settings. This allows for granular control over different frequency bands, enabling you to boost or cut specific ranges to match your personal taste or compensate for earbud acoustics. This is a powerful feature for audio enthusiasts.

2. Noise Control Management

ANC Modes: Easily switch between the three primary noise control modes:
- Noise Cancellation: Engages the Active Noise Cancellation.
- Transparency: Allows ambient sounds to pass through.
- Off: Disables both ANC and Transparency for maximum battery life.
Adaptive ANC if applicable: While the Nord Buds 2 have basic ANC, some advanced earbuds in the OnePlus ecosystem might offer adaptive noise cancellation, which adjusts based on ambient noise levels.

3. Touch Control Customization

Remapping Gestures: This is one of the most valuable features. You can reassign actions to single, double, and triple taps, as well as touch-and-hold gestures for each earbud.
- Playback Control: Play/Pause, Next/Previous Track.
- Call Management: Answer/End Call, Decline Call.
- Voice Assistant: Activate your device’s voice assistant Google Assistant, Siri.
- ANC Mode Switching: Toggle between noise control modes.
- Volume Control Conditional: Depending on firmware updates and app version, you might be able to assign volume up/down to specific gestures. This is highly sought after.

4. Firmware Updates

Over-the-Air OTA Updates: The app facilitates seamless firmware updates for the earbuds. These updates are vital for:
- Bug Fixes: Addressing any software glitches or connectivity issues.
- Performance Improvements: Enhancing audio quality, ANC effectiveness, or call clarity.
- New Features: Occasionally, new functionalities are added via firmware updates.
Importance: Regularly checking for and installing updates is crucial for the best user experience and ensuring your earbuds are performing optimally.

5. Battery Status and Information

Real-time Levels: View the current battery percentage for each earbud and the charging case at a glance.
Charging Status: Indicates when the earbuds or case are charging.

6. Other Features

Ear Tip Fit Test: A useful tool that plays a tone and uses the microphones to determine if you have a good seal with your chosen ear tips. A good seal is fundamental for optimal bass and ANC performance.
Find My Earbuds: Helps locate misplaced earbuds by playing a loud sound from them within Bluetooth range.

User Experience with the App

Intuitive Interface: The HeyMelody app is generally well-designed, with a clean and intuitive user interface that’s easy to navigate.
Reliability: It usually connects quickly to the earbuds and applies changes effectively.
Essential for Customization: While the Nord Buds 2 are functional out of the box, the app truly unlocks their potential for personalized sound and controls.

Software Experience Summary: Asus Zenbook S 13 Oled 2023 Review

The HeyMelody app is an indispensable companion for the OnePlus Nord Buds 2, providing crucial customization and management features.
Deep EQ customization is a major highlight, allowing users to fine-tune the sound beyond the BassWave default.
Customizable touch controls enhance usability.
Firmware updates are vital for ongoing performance and new features.

This robust software suite significantly adds to the value proposition of the Nord Buds 2, making them more adaptable and user-friendly.

The Verdict: Who Are the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 For?

After dissecting the sound quality, ANC, battery life, design, connectivity, and software experience, it’s time to put it all together and determine who the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 are best suited for.

These earbuds carve out a strong niche in the highly competitive budget-to-mid-range true wireless market.

Ideal User Profiles

The Budget-Conscious Commuter:
- Why: Their effective ANC for low-frequency hums trains, buses combined with a comfortable fit and ample battery life makes them perfect for daily commutes where you want to block out the world.
- Benefit: Get a taste of premium ANC performance without the premium price tag.
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- Why: The “BassWave” algorithm delivers a punchy, energetic low-end that makes popular podcast genres hip-hop, EDM, pop incredibly engaging. The ability to customize the EQ further caters to individual tastes.
- Benefit: Enjoy your favorite tracks with added thump and clarity, without overspending.
OnePlus Smartphone Owners:
- Why: Seamless integration with fast pairing, deeper settings within OxygenOS for some models, and a consistent user experience.
- Benefit: Get the most integrated and streamlined experience with your existing OnePlus ecosystem.
Students and Everyday Users:
- Why: They offer a balanced set of features – decent sound, good ANC, reliable connectivity, and solid battery life – making them a versatile daily driver for studying, listening, and taking calls.
- Benefit: A dependable all-rounder that won’t break the bank.
Fitness Enthusiasts Moderate:
- Why: The IP55 rating for sweat and splash resistance means they can handle workouts and light outdoor activities without worry. The secure fit is generally good for most exercises.
- Benefit: Durable enough for the gym and light runs, providing a motivating soundtrack.
Users Upgrading from Basic Earbuds:
- Why: If you’re moving up from truly basic, non-ANC earbuds, the Nord Buds 2 offer a significant upgrade in sound quality, the addition of effective ANC, and a more refined overall experience.
- Benefit: A clear step up in features and performance without a huge financial leap.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

Audiophiles Seeking Pristine Sound: Asrock B650E Pg Itx Review
- Reason: While good for the price, they won’t offer the expansive soundstage, intricate detail, or perfectly flat frequency response of high-fidelity earbuds from brands like Sennheiser or Sony’s premium lines.
- Alternative: Sony WF-1000XM5, Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3.
Those Requiring Best-in-Class ANC:
- Reason: The ANC is great for the price, but it won’t create the “cone of silence” that premium ANC earbuds achieve, especially with human voices or sudden noises.
- Alternative: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, Sony WF-1000XM5.
Users Who Prioritize Wireless Charging:
- Reason: The Nord Buds 2 case does not support wireless charging, which some users find incredibly convenient.
- Alternative: Many mid-range to high-end earbuds offer this feature.

Final Takeaway

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 are an excellent value proposition. They punch well above their weight class by delivering genuinely effective ANC, a lively and customizable sound profile, solid battery life, and a comfortable design, all wrapped up in a very accessible price point. They are not striving to be the best earbuds money can buy, but rather the best value earbuds that deliver a comprehensive and satisfying true wireless experience for the vast majority of users. If you’re looking for a feature-rich pair of earbuds that won’t empty your wallet, the Nord Buds 2 are a genuinely strong recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the OnePlus Nord Buds 2?

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 are a pair of true wireless earbuds released by OnePlus, featuring Active Noise Cancellation ANC, a bass-focused audio profile, and an affordable price point. Rippling Review

Do the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 have Active Noise Cancellation ANC?

Yes, the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 feature Active Noise Cancellation ANC, which helps to reduce ambient background noise.

How effective is the ANC on the Nord Buds 2?

The ANC on the Nord Buds 2 is surprisingly effective for their price, particularly at reducing low-frequency hums like those from engines or fans.

It offers decent performance against mid-range sounds but struggles more with sudden or high-pitched noises.

What is BassWave on the Nord Buds 2?

BassWave is a proprietary algorithm developed by OnePlus that enhances the low-end frequencies, providing a punchier and more impactful bass response in the Nord Buds 2.

Can I customize the sound of the Nord Buds 2?

Yes, you can customize the sound profile using the HeyMelody app, which offers preset EQ options and a custom equalizer to fine-tune the audio to your preference. Canon Powershot V10 Review

What is the battery life of the OnePlus Nord Buds 2?

The earbuds offer about 5-6 hours of playback with ANC on, and 7-8 hours with ANC off.

With the charging case, the total playback time extends to up to 36 hours.

Do the Nord Buds 2 support fast charging?

Yes, the Nord Buds 2 support fast charging.

A 10-minute charge can provide approximately 5 hours of playback time earbuds + case combined.

Does the Nord Buds 2 charging case support wireless charging?

No, the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 charging case does not support wireless charging. It charges via USB-C.

What Bluetooth version do the Nord Buds 2 use?

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 use Bluetooth 5.3, offering improved stability, lower latency, and better power efficiency.

Are the Nord Buds 2 good for phone calls?

Yes, the Nord Buds 2 offer decent call quality, especially in quiet to moderately noisy environments, thanks to their dual microphones and AI noise reduction algorithm.

Are the Nord Buds 2 sweat-resistant?

Yes, the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 have an IP55 rating, making them resistant to sweat and splashes from any direction, suitable for workouts and light rain.

Can I use the Nord Buds 2 with an iPhone?

Yes, you can use the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 with an iPhone.

You will need to download the HeyMelody app from the App Store to access customization features.

Do the Nord Buds 2 have a Transparency Mode?

Yes, the Nord Buds 2 feature a Transparency Mode that allows ambient sounds to pass through, keeping you aware of your surroundings.

How do I control the Nord Buds 2?

The Nord Buds 2 are controlled via customizable touch gestures on the earbuds themselves.

These include taps for playback, call management, and ANC mode switching.

Can I customize the touch controls on the Nord Buds 2?

Yes, you can customize the touch controls for single, double, triple taps, and touch-and-hold gestures through the HeyMelody app.

Is there a volume control on the earbuds?

By default, there might not be dedicated volume control gestures.

However, in some versions of the HeyMelody app or with firmware updates, you may be able to assign volume up/down to specific touch gestures.

What is the HeyMelody app used for?

The HeyMelody app is used for customizing sound settings EQ, managing ANC modes, remapping touch controls, checking battery status, and performing firmware updates for the Nord Buds 2.

Are the Nord Buds 2 comfortable for long wear?

Yes, the Nord Buds 2 are lightweight and generally comfortable for extended wear, especially if you find the right size of ear tips for a secure fit.

Do the Nord Buds 2 come with different ear tip sizes?

Yes, the Nord Buds 2 typically come with small, medium, and large silicone ear tips to help users find the best fit and seal.

How do the Nord Buds 2 compare to the original Nord Buds?

The Nord Buds 2 are a significant upgrade from the original Nord Buds, primarily by adding Active Noise Cancellation ANC, an improved sound profile with BassWave, and generally better battery life.

Are the Nord Buds 2 good for gaming?

While not designed specifically for gaming, their Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and low latency make them suitable for casual mobile gaming with minimal audio-visual delay.

Do the Nord Buds 2 have multipoint connectivity?

Multipoint connectivity connecting to two devices simultaneously is typically not a standard feature at this price point for the Nord Buds 2. You usually need to manually switch between devices.

How do I update the firmware on the Nord Buds 2?

You can update the firmware on the Nord Buds 2 via the HeyMelody app.

The app will notify you if new firmware is available.

What’s in the box with the Nord Buds 2?

The box usually contains the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 earbuds, the charging case, a USB-C charging cable, and multiple sizes of silicone ear tips.

Are the Nord Buds 2 good for noise isolation without ANC?

Yes, being an in-ear design, they provide some passive noise isolation even without ANC, by physically blocking some sound waves.

Can I use only one earbud at a time?

Yes, you can use either the left or right earbud independently for mono listening or calls.

What is the frequency response of the Nord Buds 2?

While specific numbers vary by manufacturer, the Nord Buds 2 are designed to cover the typical human hearing range, with a particular emphasis on the low frequencies due to BassWave.

Do the Nord Buds 2 have a low latency mode?

OnePlus earbuds often feature a dedicated low latency mode, especially when paired with a OnePlus phone and in gaming mode, to further reduce audio lag for gaming.

Are there any known issues with the Nord Buds 2?

Like any electronic device, individual units might have quirks.

Common general issues for earbuds can include occasional connectivity drops or fit issues for some users, but the Nord Buds 2 are generally reliable.

Where can I buy the OnePlus Nord Buds 2?

The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 can be purchased from the official OnePlus website, major online retailers like Amazon, and various electronics stores.

Oneplus Nord Buds 2 Review