Etymotic ER3SE
Nothing Buds 2
What Buyers Say
Etymotic ER3SE
The Etymotic ER3 SE is widely praised for its neutral, uncolored sound and exceptional passive noise isolation, often described as god-tier for the price. Users highlight the need for proper deep insertion and aftermarket ear tips to achieve comfort and optimal sound, while the cable microphonics are a common frustration. The XR variant receives mixed feedback, with some finding it muddier than the SE. Overall, these IEMs are a top choice for audiophiles seeking clarity and isolation without active noise cancellation.
Pros
- Neutral, uncolored sound
- Exceptional passive noise isolation
- Great value for money
- Replaceable cable
- Comfortable with proper tips
Cons
- Pronounced cable microphonics
- Uncomfortable stock ear tips
- Requires deep insertion
- No inline mic or controls
- Not suitable for side sleeping
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
| Etymotic ER3SE | Nothing Buds 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | detachable MMCX cable | true wireless |
| Ear Tips | Assorted eartips | — |
| Weight | — | 0.04 kg★ |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | balanced armature | dynamic |
| Driver Size | — | 11 mm★ |
| Drivers | 1 | 2★ |
| Freq Min | 20 Hz★ | — |
| Freq Max | 16 kHz★ | 5 kHz |
| Impedance | 22 Ω | 32 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 120 dB★ | — |
| Codecs | Etymotic ER3SE Studio Edition Earphone,Black | SBC, AAC |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | hybrid |
| Transparency | — | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | — | ✓★ |
| Bluetooth | — | 5.4★ |
| Multipoint | — | ✓★ |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 13.5 hrs★ |
| Charge Time | — | 0.16599999368190765 hrs★ |
| Fast Charging | — | 10 min for 7.5 hours playback |
| Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | — | 55 hrs★ |
| Case Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Wireless Charging | — | ✗ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Mic Count | — | 6★ |
| NC Mic | — | ✓★ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | — | ChatGPT |
| Touch Controls | — | ✓★ |
| App | — | Nothing X |
| Gaming Mode | — | ✓★ |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | — | IP55 |
Pros & Cons
Etymotic ER3SE
- Strong user sentiment (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong sound (68th percentile)
- Strong social proof (67th percentile)
- Below average mic (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average connectivity (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average comfort (29th percentile)
- 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
Pricing
Nothing Buds 2 offers 12.4x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 89 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 18 of 34 specs.
