OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: The ultimate upgrade with Dynaudio tuning
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: If there’s one brand that works hard to cater to different market segments, it’s OnePlus. From premium products to affordable gadgets, the brand offers something for almost everyone. In its latest launch, OnePlus has introduced the OnePlus Buds Pro 3, which combines a stylish design, a slew of features, and a decent sound quality. Notably, the faux leather design enhances the aesthetic appeal, while the redefined case offers a premium feel. In this review, we’ll analyse whether the device justifies its price tag.
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: Aesthetically pleasing design
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: Sporting an overhauled design, the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 has done away with the suitcase-like outlook of its predecessors. This time, the brand has opted for a pebble-shaped design, which offers a more compact and premium look. On the front, the OnePluslogo is visible, while the Dynaudio’s branding is engraved at the back. The USB-C charging port is located at the bottom, along with the LED indicator for battery and connectivity. There’s also a button on the left side to help set up the Bluetooth connection. The device supports Bluetooth 5.4 and also features touch controls, including squeeze and swipe gestures.
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: Faux Leather Finish
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: The talk of the town has been the faux leather finish at the front and the back. However, not everything that glitters is gold, the leather finish is actually made up of plastic, though it undoubtedly renders the device a stylish feel. The case is circumscribed with a matte finish that sports a metallic look. The device is available in two colour options: Midnight Opus and Lunar Radiance. Additionally, the earbuds have a dual finish with a combination of glossy and matte textures. The buds perfectly fit into the ears and come with an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance.
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: ANC and Companion App
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: The device offers a considerable number of features, and the companion app, HeyMelody, makes it highly customizable. The app is compatible with both Apple and Android devices. To start with the features, the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 boasts an impressive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature. When we tested it, no trace of human or ambient sound could penetrate. Additionally, users get to choose between manual settings and Adaptive ANC, enhancing the user experience. The device is equipped with a 6-band equaliser that lets users adjust the sound to their taste. It also comes with Spatial Audio, typically a premium feature, and aBassWave slider feature that ensures seamless bass response. The HeyMelody app offers features like Golden Sound, further bolstering the device’s customisation profile. Additionally, the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 supports dual or multipoint connections.
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: Sound Quality
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: The OnePlus Buds Pro 3 delivers impressive sound quality, thanks to the significant hardware upgrades. The device is equipped with dual drivers- a 6mm tweeter and an 11mm woofer in each earbud. It also comes with a couple of Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) in each earbud, resulting in a dynamic audio experience. The balance between lows and highs is well-managed, allowing users to enjoy a wide range of outputs. The bass is also punchy and offers a solid output with excellent clarity. The mid-range sound sometimes lacks clarity, which the brand could improve.
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: Call Quality
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: The device features a triple microphone setup in each bud, enhancing call quality. Additionally, an AI algorithm along with the Bone Conducting Voice Pickup Sensor takes the call quality to the next level. The voice is clear and loud enough to be heard with clarity on the receiver’s end.
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: Battery
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: The device has reported significant upgrades in the battery segment, with the brand claiming up to 10 hours of playback time on a single charge without ANC. The charging case can provide up to 33 hours of backup, taking the total playback time with ANC off to as high as 43 hours. However, with ANC activated, the buds along with the case offer around 25-26 hours of backup. When we tested the device, the device lasted comfortably 6 hours with ANC. The device also has fast charging support, allowing users to enjoy 10 hours of playback time with just a 10-minute charge.
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: Verdict
OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review: In this price segment, the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 is set to give its contemporaries a run for money. The device cobbles together a luxurious design, aesthetically pleasing feel, decent sound quality, excellent ANC, powerful bass output, and more. However, there have been some roadblocks to perfection, including some distortion in Spatial Audio head-tracking and comparatively heavier cases. Despite these minor negatives, the overall profile of the device is impressive.