In the crowded world of true wireless earbuds, the OnePlus Buds 3 and Nothing Ear (2) stand out as compelling options for budget-conscious buyers seeking premium features. Both offer impressive sound, active noise cancellation (ANC), and sleek designs, but they cater to slightly different preferences.
This article provides a detailed, unique comparison of their design, audio performance, ANC, battery life, connectivity, and more to help you choose the right pair.
1. Design and Build Quality
OnePlus Buds 3
The OnePlus Buds 3 embrace a minimalist, stem-style design available in Splendid Blue and Metallic Gray. Each earbud weighs 4.8g, ensuring comfort for long listening sessions. The glossy earbuds paired with a matte charging case give a modern, functional look, though the case can attract fingerprints.
With an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, the earbuds are workout- and weather-ready, but the case lacks any IP rating. The case is compact, with a front LED indicator and a USB-C port, but it skips wireless charging to keep costs low.
Nothing Ear (2)
The Nothing Ear (2) are instantly recognizable for their transparent design, showcasing internal components in a futuristic, industrial aesthetic. Available in White and Black, each earbud weighs 4.5g, slightly lighter than the Buds 3.
The charging case, also transparent, is a conversation starter but prone to scratches without a protective cover. The earbuds carry an IP54 rating, while the case has an IP55 rating, offering better overall protection. The case supports wireless charging, a rare feature at this price point.
Verdict: The Nothing Ear (2) win for their bold, unique design and wireless charging, while the OnePlus Buds 3 offer a more conventional but practical look with slightly better earbud durability.
2. Sound Quality
OnePlus Buds 3
The Buds 3 feature a dual-driver setup (10.4mm woofer + 6mm tweeter), delivering punchy bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The sound profile leans bass-heavy out of the box, ideal for pop and EDM, but mids and treble hold up well for vocals and guitars.
They support SBC, AAC, and LHDC codecs, with LHDC enabling high-resolution audio on compatible devices (e.g., OnePlus phones). The HeyMelody app offers a 6-band equalizer, Golden Sound for personalized tuning, and BassWave for enhanced low-end, though the soundstage feels slightly constrained compared to premium earbuds.
Nothing Ear (2)
The Nothing Ear (2) house an 11.6mm dynamic driver with a polyurethane and graphene diaphragm, tuned for a more neutral sound profile. Bass is tight and controlled, mids are detailed for vocals and instruments, and highs are smooth without harshness, making them versatile for genres like jazz, classical, or rock.
They support SBC, AAC, LHDC, and LDAC, with the latter offering superior high-res audio on Android devices. The Nothing X app provides a custom EQ, Personal Sound Profile, and a hearing test for tailored audio. The soundstage is wider and more immersive than the Buds 3.
Verdict: The Nothing Ear (2) take the lead for their neutral tuning and broader codec support, appealing to audiophiles, while the Buds 3 are great for bass lovers on a budget.
3. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency
OnePlus Buds 3
The Buds 3 offer 49dB adaptive ANC, effectively muting low-frequency noises like traffic or engine hums. Mid-frequency sounds, such as office chatter, are reduced but not fully blocked, and high-frequency noises can still seep through.
ANC modes include Light, Moderate, Deep, and Smart (auto-adjusting), with a fit test to optimize performance. Transparency mode lets in ambient sound for awareness, but it feels slightly artificial and lacks clarity for conversations.
Nothing Ear (2)
The Nothing Ear (2) provide 40dB ANC, which is slightly less potent than the Buds 3 but still handles low-frequency noises well, such as subway rumbles or air conditioning. It struggles more with mids and highs, like voices or keyboard clatter.
ANC modes include High, Mid, Low, and Adaptive, with a Personalized ANC option that adjusts based on your ear fit. Transparency mode is more natural than the Buds 3, making it easier to hear surroundings or hold brief chats without removing the earbuds.
Verdict: The OnePlus Buds 3 have stronger ANC, especially for low frequencies, but the Nothing Ear (2) offer a better transparency mode for situational awareness.
4. Battery Life and Charging
OnePlus Buds 3
The Buds 3 deliver 6.5 hours with ANC on and 8 hours with ANC off per charge, with the case extending to 28 hours (ANC on) or 44 hours (ANC off). A 10-minute USB-C fast charge provides about 7 hours of playback (with the case). The lack of wireless charging is a drawback, but the long total battery life compensates for daily use.
Nothing Ear (2)
The Ear (2) offer 4 hours with ANC on and 6 hours with ANC off per charge, with the case providing 22.5 hours (ANC on) or 36 hours (ANC off). A 10-minute charge yields around 4 hours of playback. The case supports wireless charging and USB-C, adding versatility, though the battery life is shorter than the Buds 3, especially with ANC enabled.
Verdict: The OnePlus Buds 3 dominate with longer battery life, while the Nothing Ear (2) gain points for wireless charging convenience.
5. Connectivity and Features
OnePlus Buds 3
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, the Buds 3 ensure stable connections and support dual-device pairing (sequential switching). They integrate seamlessly with OnePlus phones via Google Fast Pair and offer a 94ms low-latency Game Mode for minimal audio lag.
The HeyMelody app (Android/iOS) enables EQ tweaks, ANC customization, touch control adjustments, and features like Find My Earbuds. However, there’s no in-ear detection, so music doesn’t pause when you remove an earbud.
Nothing Ear (2)
The Ear (2) also use Bluetooth 5.3, supporting dual-device connection (simultaneous Multipoint on compatible devices). They work with the Nothing X app, which offers advanced features like Personal Sound Profile, Ear Tip Fit Test, Low Lag Mode, and customizable pinch controls. In-ear detection pauses and resumes audio automatically, a feature missing on the Buds 3. Nothing phones unlock extras like quick settings, but the earbuds are cross-platform friendly.
Verdict: The Nothing Ear (2) edge out with in-ear detection and Multipoint, while the Buds 3 are solid for OnePlus users and simpler needs.
6. Call Quality
OnePlus Buds 3
With three microphones per earbud and AI noise reduction, the Buds 3 deliver clear calls in quiet settings. Voices sound natural, but in noisy environments like windy streets or crowded cafes, background sounds can interfere, though the AI helps suppress them to an extent. They’re decent for casual calls but not exceptional.
Nothing Ear (2)
The Ear (2) also feature three microphones per earbud with Clear Voice Technology, which outperforms the Buds 3 in noisy conditions. Voices remain crisp, and background noise like traffic or chatter is filtered out more effectively, making them better for calls on the go or in busy settings.
Verdict: The Nothing Ear (2) offer superior call quality, especially in challenging environments, making them ideal for frequent callers.
7. Price and Value
OnePlus Buds 3
Priced at around $99 / ₹5,499, the Buds 3 are a steal, offering strong ANC, good sound, and exceptional battery life. They’re perfect for users who want reliable performance without spending a fortune, though the lack of wireless charging and in-ear detection may feel like compromises.
Nothing Ear (2)
At approximately $149 / ₹9,999, the Ear (2) are pricier but justify the cost with a unique design, wireless charging, LDAC support, and a more refined feature set. They compete with higher-end earbuds while maintaining an accessible price, appealing to those who value style and audio nuance.
Verdict: The Buds 3 offer unbeatable value for budget buyers, while the Ear (2) provide a premium experience for a slightly higher investment.
Final Thoughts
The OnePlus Buds 3 are a practical choice for users prioritizing battery life, strong ANC, and bass-heavy sound at an affordable price. They’re ideal for commuters, casual listeners, or anyone seeking dependable earbuds without breaking the bank. However, they miss out on wireless charging and advanced features like in-ear detection.
The Nothing Ear (2) cater to those who crave a unique design, neutral audio, and a more polished feature set, including wireless charging and better call quality. They’re perfect for style-conscious users or audiophiles who want high-res audio and customization options.
Choose the OnePlus Buds 3 if you want maximum value and long-lasting battery life.
Choose the Nothing Ear (2) if you prioritize sound versatility, aesthetics, and premium touches.
Both earbuds showcase their brands’ strengths—OnePlus’s focus on affordability and Nothing’s flair for innovation—ensuring you get a great experience whichever you pick.