OnePlus Nord Buds 4: A Budget-Friendly TWS Option
The OnePlus Nord Buds 4 have entered the budget TWS market, offering a compelling mix of features including reliable battery life and decent active noise cancellation (ANC). Priced competitively, these earphones aim to deliver solid performance without breaking the bank. According to Rohit KVN of DH Tech, the Nord Buds 4 excel in build quality and provide good audio quality for music and phone calls, with fewer distortion issues.
Build Quality and Design
The OnePlus Nord Buds 4 boast a sturdy build that feels premium for their price range. The earbuds are compact and lightweight, ensuring a comfortable fit for extended use. The charging case is similarly well-constructed, with a smooth matte finish that resists fingerprints. The design language is consistent with OnePlus's Nord series, offering a modern and understated look.
Audio Performance
In terms of audio, the Nord Buds 4 deliver a balanced sound profile suitable for various genres. The bass is punchy but not overwhelming, while mids and highs remain clear. During phone calls, the microphone captures voice accurately with minimal background noise, thanks to the AI noise reduction technology. The earphones support AAC and SBC codecs, ensuring decent wireless audio quality over Bluetooth 5.3.
Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
The ANC on the Nord Buds 4 is rated at up to 25dB, which is effective for blocking low-frequency sounds like traffic hum or air conditioning. However, it may not completely eliminate higher-pitched noises. The transparency mode allows ambient sound to pass through, making it easy to stay aware of surroundings without removing the earbuds. The ANC performance is decent for the price, though it doesn't match higher-end models.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a strong point for the Nord Buds 4. The earbuds offer up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge with ANC off, and the case provides an additional 30 hours. With ANC enabled, the total drops to around 28 hours. The case supports USB-C fast charging, providing 10 hours of playback from a 10-minute charge. This makes the Nord Buds 4 reliable for daily use without frequent recharging.
Connectivity and Features
The earphones feature Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connectivity and low latency. They support Google Fast Pair for quick pairing with Android devices. The HeyMelody app (available for Android and iOS) allows customization of EQ settings, touch controls, and firmware updates. Touch controls are responsive, allowing playback, volume, and call management, though accidental touches can occur occasionally.
Call Quality
Call quality is commendable, with the dual microphones effectively reducing wind noise and background chatter. The AI noise reduction algorithm ensures clear voice transmission even in moderately noisy environments. This makes the Nord Buds 4 suitable for work calls and casual conversations.
Comparison with Competitors
In the budget segment, the Nord Buds 4 compete with models like the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro and Xiaomi Redmi Buds 4 Pro. While the Realme offers slightly better ANC, the OnePlus excels in build quality and battery life. The Xiaomi alternative provides similar features but with a less refined app experience. Overall, the Nord Buds 4 strike a good balance between price and performance.
Verdict
The OnePlus Nord Buds 4 are a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable TWS earphones with decent ANC and long battery life. They offer good audio quality, clear calls, and a premium build at an affordable price. While the ANC is not top-tier, it is sufficient for everyday use. For those prioritizing battery life and build quality over absolute noise cancellation, the Nord Buds 4 are a worthwhile investment.
