Highlights

• Dual drivers and LHDC 5.0 codec enhance audio quality.
• Fast charging offers 7 hours of playback in just 10 minutes.
• ANC provides up to 49dB noise cancellation for immersive listening.
• Dual-device connectivity and customizable controls via HeyMelody app.

OnePlus launched the OnePlus 12 series in India last month and alongside it, the company also unveiled a new product that kind of went under the radar.

The OnePlus Buds 3 is the new addition to OnePlus’ portfolio of true wireless earbuds.

The OnePlus Buds 3 introduces several high-end features such as dual drivers and the LHDC 5.0 codec, which were previously exclusive to the Pro models, into a more affordable segment.

Despite lacking wireless charging, the OnePlus Buds 3 compensates with its fast charging capability.

The question arises: Are these earbuds the best option for ANC true wireless under Rs. 6,000?

In this OnePlus Buds 3 review, I seek to provide this answer.

OnePlus Buds 3: Pros and Cons

OnePlus Buds 3: Key Specs

• Dual Drivers: 10.4mm dynamic and 6mm planar diaphragm tweeter.
• Bluetooth 5.3: Supports LHDC 5.0 codec.
• ANC: Up to 49dB noise cancellation.
• Battery: Up to 10 hours playback, 44 hours with case.
• Fast Charging: 10 minutes for 7 hours playback.
• IP55 Rating: Dust and water-resistant earbuds.
• Customizable Controls: Via HeyMelody app.

OnePlus Buds 3: Box Content

• OnePlus Buds 3 earbuds in Metallic Gray
• OnePlus Buds 3 charging case
• User guide
• Silicon ear tips (S and L, M pre-installed)
• Safety and Warranty card
• USB Type-C charging cable

OnePlus Buds 3: Unboxing

The OnePlus Buds 3 package includes the earbuds in a striking Metallic Black colour, alongside their charging case.

Accompanying these main components are the user guide and a Safety & Warranty card, ensuring users have all the necessary information for their new device.

To cater to different ear sizes, silicon ear tips are provided in small (S) and large (L) sizes, with the medium (M) size already fitted on the earbuds.

Additionally, a USB Type-C charging cable is included to power up the device, rounding off the comprehensive box contents.

OnePlus Buds 3: Unboxing Video

OnePlus Buds 3: Design and Build

The charging case, sporting a rectangular design with rounded edges, is pocket-friendly and features a matte finish.

This look is attributed to an NCVM coating and CO2 laser engraving, which offers a distinctive metallic texture that adeptly balances light and shadow.

Weighing in at 40.3 grams, I found the case to be quite portable and it is equipped with a small LED indicator and a USB Type-C port at the back.

Upon opening the case, the earbuds’ slots are marked for the left and right earbuds, alongside a central function button.

In contrast to the case, the buds themselves boast a glossy finish, which, is prone to fingerprint marks.

The inclusion of touch controls for volume adjustment and a lightweight design at approximately 4.8 grams per earbud ensures a comfortable fit for me.

The Buds 3 are more than ideal for outdoor activities and the IP55 rating offers some protection against dust and water, although the case lacks such certification.

OnePlus Buds 3: Connectivity, Pairing, and Controls

Featuring Bluetooth 5.3 and LHDC 5.0 codec, the OnePlus Buds 3  makes it a point that it packs high-quality sound on supported devices.

As per usual OnePlus standards, the pairing process is straightforward, especially for OnePlus devices (6 and later), with a fast pair option for the latest Android phones.

I paired it on my iPhone and faced no issues except that there is no Fast Pair. What I did like quite a lot is that the earbuds support dual connection, allowing for seamless audio switching between two devices.

Control customisation is available through the settings on OnePlus, OPPO, or realme phones, or via the Hey Melody app on devices like iPhones.

The controls offer flexibility in managing playback, calls, and noise-cancellation modes.

I have to say that the HeyMelody app is more than intuitive offering various functionalities like 3D Audio mapping and Golden Sound customisation.

You can also adjust and make custom EQs while fiddling around with the earbuds fit test to get the best out the Buds 3.

I will talk about these features in more detail in the audio quality section of the review.

As far as the actual controls go, the OnePlus Buds 3 feature intuitive inputs that are easy to remember and use.

On both the left (L) and right (R) earphones, a single tap will play or pause your music.

If you’re looking to skip to the next track or answer a call (and hang up afterwards), a double tap on either earbud will do the trick.

For those times when you want to go back to the previous track, simply triple-tap.

If you need to enable noise cancellation or switch between its modes to better suit your environment, pressing and holding either earbud for 1 second will get the job done.

Additionally, pressing and holding for 3 seconds allows you to switch the connected device or reject incoming calls, providing a seamless and versatile listening experience.

OnePlus Buds 3: Audio Quality, ANC, and Microphone

Now coming to the meat of the matter, the Buds 3 pack in dual driver setup, comprising a 10.4mm dynamic driver and a 6mm planar diaphragm tweeter, promises an expansive frequency range from 15Hz to 40KHz. 

In my listening experience, the sound quality is characterised by crisp vocals and balanced bass, with OnePlus Audio ID 2.0 allowing for personalized audio tuning.

I especially enjoyed all of the heavy bass EDM and Hip/Hop tracks with great clarity.

Although lacking spatial audio with head tracking, the OnePlus Buds 3 introduces a feature called Golden Sound which can be accessed in the Hey Melody app.

It amplifies the audio experience by tailoring a sound profile to your individual hearing capabilities.

This profile enhanced the audio quality for me, bringing out more pronounced highs and offering a superior listening experience compared to the standard sound signature of OnePlus

For those with current OnePlus devices, the addition of Dolby Atmos and the ability to switch between multiple sound profiles further enriches the audio experience on their smartphones or tablets.

However, for my taste, the Buds 3 lacks a very spacious soundstage with instrument separation not coming out to be very nuanced.

The bass tends to muffle the highs which can put a damper on some of the classical rock numbers I love to listen to.

Even with OnePlus 3D Audio which should broaden the soundstage, providing a more expansive audio experience, there is a slight airy quality to the music, which, while adding a sense of space, may detract from the naturalness of the sound for some listeners.

In terms of the bitrate on offer OnePlus asserts that when using LHDC, it supports a maximum bit depth of 24-bit and a sampling rate of 96kHz, with a bitrate up to 1Mbps.

The bitrate can be adjusted in increments of 400kbps, 500kbps, 900kbps, and 1000kbps. 

The 400kbps and 500kbps modes are quite practical if you opt to activate them manually.

The 900kbps mode is generally reliable when you’re near your phone, although occasional hiccups may occur, which may take a few seconds to rectify.

The ANC feature effectively reduces ambient noise, offering up to 49dB noise cancellation.

The Max setting delivers the best performance by utilising full power to significantly reduce ambient noise across a wide frequency range. 

It diminishes low and mid-frequency sounds, although some high-frequency noises like ambulance sirens or bird chirping remain perceptible, albeit not to a distracting degree.

Finally, the Transparency mode proves invaluable for maintaining conversations and increasing situational awareness in social environments and while walking, making it a practical feature for everyday use.

OnePlus Buds 3: Battery Life

The earbuds provide up to 10 hours of playback, but with ANC this was reduced to about 6 hours.

The charging case extends the total battery life to 44 hours without ANC and 22 hours with it.

In my time using it the fast charging delivered 7 hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging, a notable convenience

OnePlus Buds 3: Final Verdict

The OnePlus Buds 3 emerges as a strong contender in its price range, offering commendable audio quality, effective noise cancellation, and convenient features like dual-device connectivity and volume controls.

While the glossy finish of the earbuds may not appeal to everyone, the overall build quality, IP55 rating, and battery performance make it a worthwhile investment.

Priced at Rs. 5,499, the OnePlus Buds 3 is available for purchase through various channels, presenting a compelling option for those seeking quality earbuds under Rs. 6,000.

5 Reasons to Buy OnePlus Buds 3

• Exceptional Audio Quality: With its dual driver setup and LHDC 5.0 codec, the OnePlus Buds 3 delivers crisp, clear vocals and balanced bass, offering an immersive listening experience.
• Effective Noise Cancellation: The ANC capability, providing up to 49dB noise cancellation, ensures a distraction-free audio experience, making these earbuds ideal for noisy environments.
• Convenient Dual-Device Connectivity: The ability to connect to two devices simultaneously and seamlessly switch audio playback between them adds a layer of convenience for multitasking users.
• Robust Battery Life with Fast Charging: The earbuds offer up to 10 hours of playback, with the case extending total battery life to 44 hours. The fast charging feature is a significant advantage, providing 7 hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging.
• Customizable Controls and Water Resistance: The IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, combined with customizable controls through the HeyMelody app, makes the OnePlus Buds 3 versatile and suitable for various lifestyles.

3 Reasons Not to Buy OnePlus Buds 3

• Case Prone to Fingerprints: The matte finish of the charging case is susceptible to fingerprints, which might detract from its aesthetic appeal for some users.
• No IP Rating for the Case: Unlike the earbuds, the charging case does not have an IP rating for water and dust resistance, potentially limiting its durability.
• Occasional Touch Control Issues: Some users might experience infrequent responsiveness with the touch controls on the buds, which could affect the user experience.

My Mobile Rating

• Design – 4/5
• Fit – 4/5
• Sound Quality – 3.5/5
• Call Quality – 3.5/5
• Battery Life – 3.5/5
• ANC – 4/5

Top 5 Alternatives to the OnePlus Buds 3

• Oppo Enco X

These earbuds are a notable audio product from Oppo, known for its smartphones. They offer effective ANC and top-notch sound quality.

Oppo has teamed up with Dynaudio to provide a better audio experience. However, they lack iOS app support and have an average battery life.

• Sony WF-XB700

Sony’s TWS earbuds are part of their Extra Bass range, offering a powerful bass response.

They are known for their comfortable fit and water-resistant design, making them suitable for workouts.

• Lypertek PurePlay Z3

These earbuds are praised for their balanced sound and long battery life.

They also feature an IPX7 water resistance rating, making them a good choice for sports use.

• OnePlus Buds Pro

OnePlus Buds Pro offers a premium design with good sound quality and features like ANC. They also have a good battery life and support for OnePlus’ Warp Charge technology.

• Nothing Ear 1

These earbuds stand out with their unique transparent design.

They offer good sound quality, effective ANC, and a comfortable fit.

Oneplus Buds 3 Metallic Gray

Oneplus Buds 3 Splendid Blue

FAQs

What are the key features of the OnePlus Buds 3?

The OnePlus Buds 3 features dual drivers, LHDC 5.0 codec support, up to 49dB ANC, and fast charging capability, offering a premium listening experience.

Does the OnePlus Buds 3 support wireless charging?

No, the OnePlus Buds 3 does not support wireless charging but compensates with its fast charging feature.

How does the ANC feature on the OnePlus Buds 3 perform?

The ANC on the OnePlus Buds 3 effectively reduces ambient noise up to 49dB, providing an immersive audio experience even in noisy environments.

Can I connect the OnePlus Buds 3 to two devices simultaneously?

Yes, the OnePlus Buds 3 supports dual-device connectivity, allowing seamless switching between two devices.

What is the battery life of the OnePlus Buds 3?

The OnePlus Buds 3 offers up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge, with the case extending total battery life to 44 hours without ANC.

What are Offers on the OnePlus Buds 3 ?

Users can avail of an Instant Bank Discount of INR 1000 via purchase with ICICI Bank Credit Cards and OneCard.

RCC members can also avail an additional up to INR 800 off on the purchase of the OnePlus Buds 3.

OnePlus Buds 3: Open Sales Begin. Details?

OnePlus, a global technology brand, is thrilled to announce that open sales for the much-anticipated OnePlus 12R and OnePlus Buds 3 have started , following their successful launch on January 23rd.

These latest offerings from OnePlus are set to redefine the mid-segment, delivering OnePlus’ fast and smooth experience. Both devices go on sale in the Indian market starting from 6th February 2024, 12 PM.

The OnePlus 12R and OnePlus Buds 3 will be available across OnePlus.in, OnePlus Store App, Amazon.in, OnePlus Experience stores, and other offline partner stores.

Completing the new line-up are the OnePlus Buds 3, offering exceptional, impactful, and well-balanced sound through a dual-driver acoustic system.

By combining the power of a 10.4mm woofer with the precision of a 6mm tweeter, the Buds 3 deliver an ultra-wide 15Hz to 40KHz frequency response, offering commanding bass, exquisite treble, and soul-touching vocals.

With up to 49dB of noise cancellation, the Buds 3 minimize ambient noise to create an oasis of tranquillity and leveraging OnePlus’ in-house algorithms – Smart Scene Noise Cancellation 2.0, the Buds 3 can automatically choose the most suitable setting for users to enjoy optimized sound based on their surroundings.

Finally, its fast charging capabilities provide up to 7 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, so users can enjoy uninterrupted usage.

The OnePlus Buds 3 are available at INR 5499 and are available on OnePlus.in, OnePlus Store App OnePlus Experience Store, Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra and Offline Partner Stores.

What are OnePlus Buds 3: 5 Reasons to Buy ?

Advanced Sound Quality: Dual-driver setup ensures superior sound quality across all music genres.

Robust Noise Cancellation: Up to 49dB noise cancellation offers an immersive listening experience in any environment.

Durable Design and IP55 Rating: IP55 water and sweat resistance makes them ideal for active use and outdoor activities.

Long Battery Life: Extensive usage with up to 6.5 hours of playback and 28 hours with the charging case.

Intuitive Controls and Connectivity: Easy touch controls and fast pairing with Google Fast Pair enhance usability and connectivity.

OnePlus Launches the Buds 3 featuring Dynamic Dual Drivers, Adaptive ANC, and Sliding Volume Control. Details?

Global technology company OnePlus launched their new wireless Bud – the OnePlus Buds 3 – in India, Europe, and North America.

Incorporating a cutting-edge, flagship-level coaxial integrated design, the Buds 3 offer exceptional, impactful, and well-balanced sound through a dual-driver acoustic system.

The bespoke audio experience is further refined through calibrated audio algorithms that reach new heights with adaptive Active Noise Cancellation.

The Buds 3 also guarantee all-round reliability with prolonged battery life, dual connection, ultra-low latency, and high durability.

With the tagline “Harmony Unfiltered,” the Buds 3 take OnePlus’ “Never Settle” mantra and combine impeccable sound quality with a fast and smooth user experience to deliver the ultimate in wireless audio.

What is the Price and Availability of OnePlus Buds 3?

Priced at INR 5499, the OnePlus Buds 3 will be available OnePlus.in, OnePlus Experience Store, Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra and Offline Partner Stores starting 12:00 PM on 6th February 2024.

Users can avail of an Instant Bank Discount of INR 1000 via purchase with ICICI and OneCard credit cards from 6th-12th February. RCC members can also avail an additional INR 800 off starting 6th February.

How is the Flagship Sound Quality of OnePlus Buds 3 ?

The OnePlus Buds 3’s exceptional audio experience begins with flagship sound quality powered by dual dynamic drivers and a state-of-the-art coaxial integrated design.

By combining the power of a 10.4mm woofer with the precision of a 6mm tweeter, the Buds 3 deliver an ultra-wide 15Hz to 40KHz frequency response, offering commanding bass, exquisite treble, and soul-touching vocals.

Thanks to the inclusion of the LHDC 5.0 Bluetooth codec, the buds have also been certified by JAS (Japan Audio Society) as a Hi-Res Audio Wireless device, ensuring the seamless transmission of high-resolution audio at levels similar to wired audio solutions.

For even more immersive audio experiences, the OnePlus Buds 3 are equipped with 3D Audio technology that replicates the intricate acoustic nuances of 3D spatial environments like concert halls or recording studios, while enveloping users in a rich and immersive tapestry of sound.

OnePlus’ personalized audio profile technology, Audio ID 2.0, has also been fine-tuned to help users find their own sound on the Buds 3.

How is Custom Noise Cancellation feature of OnePlus Buds 3?

Matching the flagship sound quality on the OnePlus Buds 3 is equally impressive calibrated noise cancellation technology.

With up to 49dB of noise cancellation, the Buds 3 minimize ambient noise to create an oasis of tranquillity in which users can immerse themselves and revel in their music and other entertainment without any disturbances.

This high-performance noise cancellation has also earned the Buds 3 a TÜV Rheinland certification as a High-Performance Noise Cancellation device, helping them to stand out even further in the crowded TWS market.

Leveraging built-in microphones and OnePlus’ in-house algorithms, Smart Scene Noise Cancellation 2.0 can automatically choose the most suitable setting for users to enjoy optimized sound based on their surroundings.

Complementing this, Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation can automatically analyze a user’s ear canal and tailor the optimal noise cancellation effect for a custom, high-quality audio experience that puts an end to the need for manual adjustments.

With Transparency Mode, users can enjoy flagship audio quality while talking with friends or being more aware of their surroundings, allowing seamless connection with the outside world without needing to remove the earbuds.

Is OnePlus Buds 3 A Perfect Match of Modern Elegance and Ergonomic Comfort?

Continuing OnePlus’ modern elegant design philosophy, the Buds 3 are crafted with a metallic coating and matte finish for a sleek and streamlined design that elevates the earbuds both visually and physically.

With each bud weighing just 4.8g, users can also enjoy a burden-free experience and uninterrupted audio for even longer.

The Buds 3 have undergone extensive testing to accommodate various ear shapes and sensitivities to an extreme level of precision, ensuring they remain snug and comfortable for every individual user.

Does OnePlus Buds 3 have All-round Reliability?

With Active Noise Cancellation disabled, the OnePlus Buds 3 offer up to 10 hours of non-stop playback on a fully charged earbud, with up to 44 hours of total listening time available via the charging case.

Fast charging capabilities provide up to 7 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, so users can enjoy uninterrupted usage, flexibility, and a burdenless audio experience without worrying about having to frequently charge the Buds 3.

In addition to a long-lasting battery and fast charging, the Buds 3 also excel in a variety of scenarios thanks to their IP55 water and dust resistance and high durability.

Whether used for long-distance travel, outdoor activities, gym workouts, or just everyday occasions around the home or office, the Buds 3 are a reliable companion for everyday adventures.

Is OnePlus Buds 3 Fast and Smooth ?

OnePlus’ commitment to providing fast and smooth user experiences shines through on the Buds 3 thanks to dual connection powered by Google Fast Pair.

When connecting to two devices – be it smartphones, tablets, or laptops running Android, iOS, or Windows – the earbuds can automatically switch between audio from different applications to ensure seamless connectivity and enhanced versatility for effortless multitasking.

With a minimum latency of just 94ms, the Buds 3 are also perfect for free-flowing and immersive gaming experiences.

During calls, the enhanced AI call algorithm along with the anti-wind design further preserves the original sound and allow voices to remain clear, audible, and steady.

Intuitive control over the OnePlus Buds 3 is also offered through a touch control area that can be used to adjust the volume by sliding for a truly smooth and effortless listening experience.

Also Read: OnePlus 12R and OnePlus Buds 3 Open Sale Starting Today: Price, Offers, Specs, and All You Need to Know

Also Read: OnePlus Buds 3 to be Unveiled Alongside OnePlus 12 in India

Also Read: OnePlus Buds 3 Launched with 10.4mm Driver, up to 49dB ANC, LHDC 5.0, ANC Support & Reasonable Price

Also Read: OnePlus Prepares to Launch OnePlus Buds 3 Next Month Alongside Ace 3 in China

Also Read: OnePlus Buds 3 Likely Set for India Launch After Appearance on BIS, FCC Websites