OnePlus Buds 4: Exceptional Wireless Earbuds for Every Budget

The wireless earbud market offers a variety of choices, yet there are few that truly exceed expectations. The OnePlus Buds 4 certainly fit this description.

Launched for ₹5,999, the Buds 4 provide an unexpectedly premium experience for this price range. OnePlus has clearly leveraged elements from its high-end Buds Pro 3, eliminating features where necessary to create a well-rounded product that feels far from compromised.

Impressive Sound Quality

What matters most in earbuds is undoubtedly the sound quality. The Buds 4 boast a coaxial dual-driver configuration (11mm dynamic woofer combined with a 6mm planar diaphragm tweeter) and a dual DAC structure, a combination rarely seen in this price category.

In practical usage, the audio quality is both rich and multi-dimensional. The bass is powerful yet balanced, ensuring that the mids are perceptible, while the highs deliver a crispness often lacking in budget options.

Active Noise Cancellation that Performs Well

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is rated at up to 55dB, and while its real-world effectiveness may not meet that maximum, it remains more than sufficient for everyday commutes and background office noise. The most surprising aspect was its performance during flights, effectively muting the drone of the aircraft. While it does not compare to high-end brands like Bose or Sony, the ANC performance is commendable for its price.

However, the transparency mode reveals some limitations. While it functions adequately, the experience lacks naturalness. Although it can be switched on for brief conversations, extended use can be uncomfortable.

Elegant Design Features

In terms of design, OnePlus has opted for a refined look. The earbuds are lightweight and ergonomically designed, ensuring comfort even during prolonged usage. The slightly chunky stems add grip which is beneficial for adjustments.

The charging case is compact and can easily fit in pockets, featuring a matte surface that resists fingerprints. The earbuds have an IP55 rating while the case has an IPX4 splash resistance, making them suitable for gym use and daily commutes.

Functional Features that Enhance Usability

Several thoughtful features elevate the Buds 4 beyond what is expected in this price segment. The 47ms latency is a significant advantage when playing games like COD Mobile, which demands quick audio response.

However, the EQ customisation options are somewhat limited unless the user has a OnePlus phone. Touch controls can also be inconsistent in terms of responsiveness.

Battery Life That Impresses

The OnePlus Buds 4 are rated for up to 11 hours on a single charge, while the charging case allows for a total playback time of up to 44 hours (without ANC). With ANC active, realistic usage generally ranges between 5-7 hours, which remains commendable.

Fast charging is also a noteworthy feature, allowing for nearly 3 hours of use with just a 10-minute charging session.

Final Thoughts

The OnePlus Buds 4 may not be flawless, but perfection isn’t a requirement. What they provide is remarkable sound quality, effective ANC, notable battery life, and intelligent features, making them one of the best wireless earbuds available under ₹6K. With the OnePlus Buds 4, the value raises questions about the necessity of spending more on TWS earphones.