OnePlus Buds 4 Review

I’ve been testing the OnePlus Buds 4 for 2 weeks now, and my main takeaway is simple. They set a new standard for what mid-range TWS earbuds can deliver.

Following the success of the Premium Buds Pro line, the Buds 4 were expected to be a solid but scaled-back offering. Instead, they feel like an uncompromised version of OnePlus’s best technology, bringing exceptional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and a high-fidelity dual-driver system to the affordable segment.

From the unboxing experience to the daily grind of calls and commutes, these earbuds consistently punch above their weight. If you’re looking for performance that rivals the top-tier competition without emptying your wallet, keep reading.

OnePlus Buds 4 Specifications

Pros and Cons

Design, Build & Comfort

The first thing you’ll notice is the charging case. OnePlus has moved to a sleek, pebble-shaped design reminiscent of the Buds Pro 3. It features a matte, metallic finish (available in Zen Green or Storm Gray) that resists fingerprints, a small but appreciated detail that contributes to the Premium aesthetic. The magnets are strong, and the lid snaps shut with a satisfying, reassuring click.

• Case Portability: The case is compact and easily fits into a pocket, though some may find the smooth finish a bit slippery.
• Earbud Ergonomics: The earbuds themselves are lightweight and feature an ergonomic design with a slightly chunky stem. They are comfortable for extended use, and the included S/M/L ear tips are essential for dialing in a secure seal, which is crucial for maximizing both comfort and sound quality.
• Durability: The earbuds’ IP55 rating makes them impervious to sweat and rain, making them perfectly suitable for gym use or outdoor runs.

Sound Quality

This is where the OnePlus Buds 4 truly surprise. They feature an advanced acoustic architecture that is rare at this price point:

• Dual Drivers: An 11mm woofer handles the low and mid frequencies, while a dedicated 6mm tweeter handles the crisp, sparkling highs.
• Dual DAC System: Crucially, the Buds 4 feature a separate Dual Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) system for each driver. This allows for cleaner signal separation, resulting in better clarity and separation across the entire frequency range.

The resulting sound profile is energetic and well-balanced. The bass is powerful and punchy, capable of satisfying bass-heads, especially when utilizing the BassWave dynamic enhancement feature in the app. However, it remains controlled, ensuring vocals are crisp and the treble has enough sparkle without becoming harsh. If you are debating the subtle sound differences, we conducted a full OnePlus Buds 4 vs Realme Air 7 Pro sound comparison.

For audiophiles with compatible devices (like newer OnePlus phones), support for LHDC 5.0 Hi-Res Audio elevates the experience further, enabling high-quality streaming up to 24bit/192kHz.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is often the weak point of mid-range earbuds. However, the ANC on the Buds 4 is a true standout feature, boasting an impressive noise reduction depth of up to 55dB.

OnePlus claims the earbuds can achieve up to 55db of noise reduction across a wide 5,500Hz frequency range, and in real-world testing, they deliver. Constant, low-frequency noises like the drone of an airplane engine, a bathroom fan, or café chatter are reduced to a near-silent whisper, rivaling the performance of significantly more expensive models.

• Standard ANC: This Mode is incredibly effective and reliable for deep focus.
• Transparency Mode: This works well, allowing you to hear your surroundings for quick conversations or safety without removing the buds.
• Adaptive Mode: While a great idea, it automatically adjusts ANC levels based on your environment, and some reviewers found it a little inconsistent in rapidly changing noise scenarios.

Call Quality

The OnePlus Buds 4 are excellent performers for voice calls, making them reliable for professionals and multitaskers.

Each earbud is equipped with a 3-microphone system paired with an AI Call Noise Cancellation algorithm. This setup excels at separating your voice from ambient noise, ensuring clarity even on a busy street or in a loud office.

In testing, recipients reported that my voice came through crisply and naturally, with minimal distortion. Crucially, the earbuds proved effective at suppressing disruptive background noise, such as wind and construction, so you can confidently take important calls virtually anywhere.

Battery Life & Charging

The battery performance is excellent, providing enough juice for days of continuous use.

The Fast Charging feature is a genuine lifesaver: 10 minutes of charging the case provides up to 11 hours of playback, ensuring you’re never caught without power before a commute.

A minor drawback for some users is the lack of wireless charging for the case, which remains wired via USB-C.

App Features & Customization

Customization is deep and accessible via the HeyMelody app (for non-OnePlus devices) or natively within the Bluetooth settings on OnePlus phones.

• Golden Sound: A personalized Audio feature that conducts a listening test to create an EQ profile explicitly tailored to your hearing.
• Sound Master EQ: Includes presets (Balanced, Serenade, Bass) and a custom 6-band EQ for precise tuning.
• Dual-Device Connection: The ability to seamlessly pair with and switch between two devices (like a phone and a laptop) is flawless and a must-have for productivity.
• AI Translation: A unique feature allowing for real-time translation when speaking face-to-face with a non-native speaker.
• Low Latency: A 47ms low-latency Game Mode ensures lag-free Audio for mobile gaming.

Final Verdict

After rigorous testing, the OnePlus Buds 4 are an easy, high-value recommendation. They take Premium features like dual drivers with dedicated DACs, Hi-Res Audio support, and powerful ANC, and offer them at a price point that undercuts most of the competition.

If you’re searching for true wireless earbuds that deliver genuinely flagship-level sound and noise cancellation without the flagship price tag, the Buds 4 are currently the ones to beat.

Looking for alternatives? Check out Powerbeats Pro 2.

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