OnePlus Buds Z2 are official and do not disappoint expectations thanks to a very aggressive price and their innovative features
The long-awaited debut of OnePlus Buds Z2, the new wireless earbuds that become the company's new affordable option to replace the first Z model, has arrived. Although they inherit the design, they introduce some significant improvements from a technical and music playback perspective.
In this area, The Buds Pro continue to hold a lead in the OnePlus range, but the Buds Z2 allow you to enjoy many of their features at a lower price. Arguably the happiest new feature is Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, which allows you to suppress surrounding noises while talking on the phone or listening to music and was not present on OnePlus' previous budget headset model. There's also no shortage of cutting-edge features, such as Mono and Transparent modes, as well as support for fast charging that ensures use without annoying interruptions. The OnePlus Buds Z2 can already be purchased and the price is very attractive indeed.
OnePlus Buds Z2, what they're like
The ANC on the OnePlus Buds Z2 is able to effectively operate up to 40 dB of noise reduction with a two-level adjustment, which should allow for optimal music playback in a medium-noisy environment. Mono mode works with either earbud, while Transparent mode allows you to stay alert to your surroundings while listening to music. For optimal quality, 11mm dynamic drivers intervene for deep bass, crisp treble and Dolby Atmos support.
These wireless headphones also support Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and Google Fast Pair, can detect insertion and removal from the ear and automatically pause playback. They also have IP55 certification for water and sweat resistance.
Each of the Z2 Buds has a 40 mAh battery that allows them to be used for about 7 hours, which becomes 5 if ANC is active. Their case, which doubles as a charging cradle, has a 520 mAh capacity and supports 5W fast charging via USB Type-C. OnePlus estimates that 10 minutes of charging should correspond to 5 hours of music playback.
Smartphone users of the Chinese company will be able to pair and manage the earbuds without the aid of other apps thanks to OxygenOS, while others will be forced to install HeyMelody, available for Android and iOS phones.
OnePlus Buds Z2: price and availability
You can already buy the OnePlus Buds Z2 on the company's official website and on Amazon, but only in Pearl White color. Although Oneplus has already announced the Obsidian Black as well, this will only arrive in early 2022.
As far as pricing is concerned, European users will be able to buy the new wireless headphones for just €99, which is lower than the Buds Pro but still allows you to take advantage of many cutting-edge features.