Apple EarPods
Nothing Buds 2
What Buyers Say
Apple EarPods
Users overwhelmingly praise these Apple EarPods for their clear sound quality, reliable performance, and genuine Apple build. Many appreciate the convenience of the inline mic and remote, especially as a backup or alternative to wireless AirPods. A few note minor issues like cord tangling and moderate music volume, but overall satisfaction is high.
Pros
- Clear and crisp sound quality
- Genuine Apple product
- Built-in mic and remote
- Comfortable fit
- Great value for money
Cons
- Cord tangles easily
- Moderate music volume
- Cord can snag on objects
- Not as loud as some prefer
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
Scores
Specifications
| Apple EarPods | Nothing Buds 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | ear-tip | true wireless |
| Ear Tips | S, M, L | — |
| Weight | 0.04 kg | 0.04 kg |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver Size | 3.5 mm | 11 mm★ |
| Drivers | — | 2★ |
| Freq Max | — | 5 kHz★ |
| Impedance | 32 Ω | 32 Ω |
| Codecs | Apple EarPods Headphones with 3.5mm Plug, Wired Ear Buds with Built-in Remote to Control Music, Phone Calls, and Volume | SBC, AAC |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | hybrid |
| Transparency | — | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Bluetooth | — | 5.4★ |
| Multipoint | — | ✓★ |
| Wired Connector | 3.5mm | — |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 13.5 hrs★ |
| Charge Time | — | 0.16599999368190765 hrs★ |
| Fast Charging | — | 10 min for 7.5 hours playback |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | — | 55 hrs★ |
| Case Charging | proprietary | USB-C★ |
| Wireless Charging | — | ✗ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mic Count | — | 6★ |
| NC Mic | — | ✓★ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | Siri | ChatGPT |
| Touch Controls | ✓ | ✓ |
| App | — | Nothing X |
| Gaming Mode | — | ✓★ |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | Water-Resistant | IP55 |
Pros & Cons
Apple EarPods
- Strong social proof (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Strong comfort (72nd percentile)
- Strong build (71st percentile)
- Below average sound (2nd percentile)2nd %ile
- Below average anc (31st percentile)
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
Verdict
Scores 89 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 15 of 33 specs.