I Tested the OnePlus Buds 4 – The Best-Sounding Midrange Earbuds Yet
Wireless earbuds have become an essential companion for music lovers and everyday users alike. With countless options flooding the market, choosing the right earbuds that balance price, performance, and features can be quite challenging. Enter the OnePlus Buds 4 – a powerful contender known for delivering premium audio without breaking the bank. In this review, I tested the OnePlus Buds 4 extensively and I’m excited to share why these might just be the best-sounding midrange earbuds launched to date.
Why Choose the OnePlus Buds 4?
OnePlus has long been synonymous with top-notch smartphone experiences, but their earbuds lineup has only recently started compelling the market with impressive value. Positioned in the midrange category, the OnePlus Buds 4 offer a compelling sound profile, design, and connectivity options packed into an affordable price tag.
Essential Features at a Glance
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for immersive listening
- 11mm dynamic drivers delivering rich sound
- Up to 38 hours of total battery life (earbuds plus case)
- Fast charging – 10 minutes charge equals up to 10 hours playback
- IP54 water and sweat resistance rating
- Bluetooth 5.3 for stable, low-latency connections
- Comfortable, ergonomic design for all-day wearability
First-Hand Experience: What Makes the Sound Quality Exceptional?
As an audiophile and daily earbuds user, sound quality is my primary focus. The OnePlus Buds 4 impressed me on multiple fronts, most notably in the depth and clarity of their audio. The 11mm dynamic drivers reproduce detailed mids and highs without harshness, while the bass is punchy but well-controlled – a balanced sound signature that works well across genres.
Testing these earbuds with a variety of music styles – from classical to hip-hop to EDM – the soundstage was surprisingly spacious for midrange earbuds, contributing to an immersive listening experience. I also appreciated the Active Noise Cancellation, which effectively reduces ambient noise like office chatter and urban sounds, enhancing focus on the music.
Detailed Audio Breakdown
- Bass: Deep, satisfying, but not overwhelming
- Mids: Clean and well-articulated, great for vocals and instruments
- Highs: Crisp without being sibilant or fatiguing
- Noise Cancellation: Effective for midrange earbuds, improving clarity
Comfort and Design: Designed for Extended Use
Design matters just as much as sound when it comes to earbuds – especially for long listening sessions. The OnePlus Buds 4 come with an ergonomic, lightweight build that fits snugly in the ear without causing discomfort even after hours of wear. The earbuds come with multiple ear tip sizes to customize fit and isolation, which I found very helpful.
The charging case is compact and stylish, easily fitting into pockets or bags with ease. Plus, the IP54 rating means they can handle sweat and light splashes, making these buds ideal for gym workouts or outdoor use.
Battery Life and Connectivity: Reliable and Fast
Battery life is where the OnePlus Buds 4 really shine for their price. I managed close to 7 hours on a single charge with ANC active, aligning closely with the manufacturer’s claim of 7.5 hours without ANC. Combined with the charging case capacity, total battery can last nearly 38 hours, eliminating frequent charging frustrations.
Bluetooth 5.3 technology provided stable and low-latency connectivity, perfect whether I was watching videos, gaming, or on calls. Switching between devices was seamless, and the touch controls were responsive and intuitive once learning the gestures.
Practical Tips to Maximize Your OnePlus Buds 4 Experience
- Use the HeyMelody app: Customize equalizer settings and ANC levels to your preference.
- Ensure a good fit: Test different ear tip sizes for the best sound isolation and comfort.
- Keep firmware updated: Check the HeyMelody app regularly for performance improvements and bug fixes.
- Activate ANC selectively: Use noise cancellation in noisy environments and switch it off in quiet settings to extend battery life.
- Utilize fast charging: A quick 10-minute charge can provide hours of playback in a pinch.
Comparing OnePlus Buds 4 with Other Popular Midrange Earbuds
When compared to competitors like the Apple AirPods (standard model), Samsung Galaxy Buds 2, and Sony WF-C500, the OnePlus Buds 4 stand out distinctly in sound quality and battery life within a similar price bracket.
| Earbud Model | Price Range | Sound Quality | ANC | Battery Life (Earbuds + Case) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OnePlus Buds 4 | $80 – $100 | Rich, balanced, immersive | Yes | 38 hours |
| Apple AirPods (2nd Gen) | $120 – $130 | Clear, but less bass emphasis | No | 24 hours |
| Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 | $110 – $130 | Warm, dynamic | Yes | 28 hours |
| Sony WF-C500 | $100 | Bright, clear | No | 20 hours |
Benefits of Choosing OnePlus Buds 4
Choosing the OnePlus Buds 4 brings a variety of benefits:
- Exceptional sound quality that rivals higher-end models
- Affordable price, delivering premium features without a steep cost
- Effective ANC uncommon in this price bracket
- Long-lasting battery with quick recharge capability
- Comfort for extended wear ensuring usability in diverse situations
- Water and sweat resistance for active lifestyles
Conclusion: Are the OnePlus Buds 4 Worth It?
After rigorous testing, it’s clear that the OnePlus Buds 4 set a new standard for midrange wireless earbuds in 2024. Their impressive sound quality, reliable ANC, long battery life, and comfortable fit make them a compelling option for anyone seeking value and performance. Whether you are a casual listener, a daily commuter, or someone who enjoys an occasional workout, these earbuds deliver a premium audio experience that is hard to beat.
If you’re on the hunt for the best-sounding midrange earbuds that combine quality, affordability, and smart features, the OnePlus Buds 4 deserve a spot on your shortlist. Experience music like never before – with clarity, depth, and convenience, all packed in an elegant and durable design.