Yes, it’s true — after releasing the earbuds in China in October, the Chinese company finally launched OnePlus Buds Z2 on December 16, 2021, at 1:30 PM GMT. The first post that went viral on Instagram was, “We’re celebrating 8 years of Never Settle with exclusive benefits every week of December. Follow us to join the Community,” by the Instagram handle for the OnePlus UK.
Buds Z2 is an upgrade to the original model and is more noise-friendly, as it includes Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with bigger dynamic drivers. The earphones also have a longer battery life than those supplied with the Buds Z. The OnePlus Buds Z2 also includes a Pro Gaming mode to reduce mobile gamers’ latency. Overall, Buds Z2 competes with Samsung Galaxy Buds Live and Nothing Ear 1.
OnePlus Buds Z2 Features
The new OnePlus Buds Z2 earbuds have 11mm dynamic drivers, which are somewhat bigger than the 10mm drivers in the current OnePlus Buds Z. The earphones also include ANC support, which is a major improvement over last year’s model. The company states Buds Z2 provides noise cancellation of up to 40dB. Users may also use the Transparency Mode to hear ambient noises while listening to music or during conversations.
According to the manufacturer, OnePlus Buds Z2 features an improved design with a shorter stem and lighter construction over the original. The Buds Z2’s earbuds are protected by an IP55-rated casing that resists dust, water, and sweat. However, the charging case included with the set is rated IPX4 to resist water splashes.
Three micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) microphones work as feedback, feedforward, and beamforming microphones on each Buds Z2 earpiece. For an improved music listening experience, there is also Dolby Atmos support.
OnePlus Buds Z2 uses Bluetooth version 5.2. The latency rate when utilizing the Pro Gaming mode is as low as 94 milliseconds, comparable to previous generations. The earbuds have Cinematic Movie, Immersive Music, and Mobile Gaming modes to give personalized settings depending on the media you play.
With the included charging case, the Buds Z2 will deliver 38 hours of music playback on a single charge. It’s better than the 20-hour listening time available with the original Buds Z. Using Flash Charge fast charging, the OnePlus Buds Z2 can give you five hours of listening in just 10 minutes.
The earbuds are powered by a 40mAh battery and can provide five hours of playback with ANC on or seven hours without ANC. On the other hand, the charging case includes a 520mAh cell and comes with a USB Type-C connection for charging.
Users who don’t possess a OnePlus phone can download the HeyMelody smartphone app. It provides access to Buds Z2’s customization options and settings and enables noise-canceling adjustments. Users may also utilize the Find My Buds function in the proprietary app to find out where their earbuds are located using a mobile device.
Buds Z2 Specs
Here’s a quick look at the specifications of the OnePlus Buds Z2:
- 25 db – 40 dB Active Noise Cancellation Mod with Transparency
- 11mm Bass-tuned dynamic drivers
- Flash Charge support (10-minute charge runs for up to 5 hours)
- 3-MIC setup for Noise and Wind Reduction
- Dolby Atmos Support
- Water and Sweat Resistant
- Bluetooth 5.2 Support
OnePlus Buds Z2 Price
OnePlus Buds Z2 cost $99 (roughly Rs. 7,600) or EUR 99. The earbuds are available in Pearl White and Obsidian Black colors. In early 2022, the Pearl White color choice will be available for purchase in the US. On the other hand, its Obsidian Black option will be on sale in early 2022. After a successful launch in the United Kingdom this December, Europe will get access to the earbuds before Christmas, hopefully.