Alongside its new Ace 3 (12R) phone, OnePlus has also unveiled the Buds 3 (Nord Buds 3) as its latest wireless earbuds model. Priced from 449 yuan ($65), the Buds 3 deliver excellent sound, noise cancellation, and battery life in a sleek design.
Available in gray and blue, the OnePlus Buds 3 feature glossy outer earbud shells with a matte inner finish. The rounded rectangular charging case follows OnePlus’s familiar styling.
Technically, the Buds 3 pack a dual driver setup combining a 6mm tweeter and 10.4mm woofer in each earbud. Support for LHDC 5.0 allows high-resolution 96kHz audio at up to 1Mbps.
OnePlus tuned the sound profile using its expertise for dynamic yet balanced performance. The earbuds also offer adjustable bass boost sound and pure clear vocals modes via the companion app.
Active noise cancellation reaches up to 49dB for blocking external noises. Gaming fans will appreciate the ultra-low latency when using LHDC 5.0. For calls, three microphones employ AI noise reduction algorithms.
The Buds 3 are rated IP55 dust and water resistant. Battery life reaches a very capable 44 hours with ANC disabled. Fast charging provides 3 hours of use from just 10 minutes plugged in.
OnePlus has equipped the Buds 3 with additional features like customized spatial audio and in-ear detection. User comfort is enhanced through an ergonomic half in-ear design and interchangeable silicone tip sizes.
Priced very competitively against rivals, the OnePlus Buds 3 make an compelling choice for those with OnePlus phones or seeking AirPods alternatives. The combination of great sound, noise cancellation, comfort and battery life is hard to beat at this price point.
For now, the OnePlus Buds 3 are limited to China and India like the new Ace 3 phone. But previous OnePlus earbuds have eventually reached Europe and North America re-branded, often as Nord Buds 3 models.