Nothing Buds 2
Apple AirPods 3rd generation
What Buyers Say
Nothing Buds 2
The CMF Buds 2 are widely praised for delivering excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit at an affordable price. Users highlight the rich bass, clear vocals, and solid ANC performance that rivals more expensive models. While some note the bass can be slightly overpowering and the touch controls have limited customization, the overall value is considered outstanding. The long battery life, USB-C charging, and premium build further cement these as a top budget choice.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with rich bass
- Effective noise cancellation for the price
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Long battery life with USB-C charging
- Premium build and design
Cons
- Bass can be slightly overpowering
- Limited touch control customization
- Case lacks functional dial
- Case is somewhat bulky
- No Google Fast Pair support
Apple AirPods 3rd generation
The Apple AirPods (3rd generation) receive generally positive feedback for their excellent sound quality, long battery life, and seamless integration with Apple devices. However, a significant number of users report fit issues, with some finding the earbuds prone to falling out, especially during movement. A few negative reviews mention problems with charging or connectivity, particularly with refurbished units. Overall, the product is highly recommended for those who find a comfortable fit.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Long battery life
- Seamless Apple device integration
- Wireless charging with MagSafe case
- Spatial audio feature
Cons
- Poor fit for some ears
- Earbuds may fall out during movement
- Connectivity issues with refurbished units
- Charging problems with refurbished units
- No active noise cancellation
Scores
Specifications
| Nothing Buds 2 | Apple AirPods 3rd generation | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | true wireless | true wireless |
| Weight | 0.04 kg | 0.00 kg★ |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver Size | 11 mm★ | — |
| Drivers | 2★ | — |
| Freq Max | 5 kHz★ | — |
| Impedance | 32 Ω | 16 Ω |
| Hi-Res Audio | — | ✗ |
| Codecs | SBC, AAC | AAC |
| Surround | — | Spatial Audio |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✓★ | ✗ |
| ANC Type | hybrid | — |
| Transparency | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth | 5.4★ | 5.0 |
| Profiles | — | A2DP, HFP, AVRCP |
| Multipoint | ✓ | ✓ |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | 13.5 hrs★ | 6 hrs |
| Charge Time | 0.16599999368190765 hrs★ | — |
| Fast Charging | 10 min for 7.5 hours playback | Quick charge |
| Charging | USB-C★ | Lightning |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | 55 hrs★ | 30 hrs |
| Case Charging | USB-C★ | Lightning |
| Wireless Charging | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mic Count | 6★ | — |
| NC Mic | ✓★ | — |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | ChatGPT | Siri |
| Touch Controls | ✓ | ✓ |
| App | Nothing X | Apple |
| Gaming Mode | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | IP55 | IPX4 |
Pros & Cons
Nothing Buds 2
- Strong mic (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong connectivity (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong battery (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong anc (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
Apple AirPods 3rd generation
- Strong social proof (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong comfort (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong connectivity (87th percentile)87th %ile
- Strong sound (84th percentile)84th %ile
- Below average anc (31st percentile)
- Below average user sentiment (33rd percentile)
Verdict
Scores 89 overall, wins 6 of 7 usage categories and 14 of 34 specs.