Google has once again raised the bar with the release of the Pixel Buds Pro 2, a pair of wireless earbuds that promise exceptional noise-cancelling capabilities and a host of other improvements. Priced at $229, these earbuds are designed to compete with the likes of Apple’s AirPods Pro 2, offering a more affordable yet highly capable alternative. With a more compact design, extended battery life, and seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are set to impress both new and existing users.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 have undergone a significant redesign, making them the smallest and lightest earbuds Google has produced to date. This compact form factor not only enhances comfort but also ensures a secure fit, making them ideal for extended use. The earbuds come in four colors: Porcelain, Peony, Hazel, and Wintergreen, catering to a variety of style preferences.
Despite their small size, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 pack a punch in terms of features. They include spatial audio by Dolby Atmos, which provides an immersive listening experience. The earbuds also support Qi wireless charging and USB-C, ensuring that users can easily keep them powered up. The charging case is equally compact and offers additional battery life, making it convenient for on-the-go use.
The build quality of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is impressive, with an IP54 rating for the earbuds and an IPX4 rating for the case, ensuring resistance to dust and water. This durability makes them suitable for various environments, whether you’re at the gym or caught in the rain.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
One of the standout features of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is their active noise-cancellation (ANC) capability. Google has significantly improved the ANC performance, making it one of the best in its class. The earbuds effectively block out ambient noise, allowing users to focus on their music or calls without distractions. This makes them perfect for use in noisy environments like public transport or busy offices.
The sound quality of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is equally impressive. They feature custom-designed 11 mm dynamic speaker drivers that deliver rich, clear audio across a wide range of frequencies. The highs are crisp, the mids are well-balanced, and the bass is deep and punchy, making them suitable for all genres of music. Additionally, the earbuds support SBC, AAC, and Opus codecs, ensuring high-quality audio streaming.
The transparency mode is another notable feature, allowing users to hear their surroundings without removing the earbuds. This is particularly useful for situations where you need to stay aware of your environment, such as when crossing the street or having a quick conversation.
AI Integration and Battery Life
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 come equipped with Google’s Gemini AI, which enhances the overall user experience. This AI integration allows for more intuitive voice commands and better contextual understanding, making interactions with the earbuds more seamless. Users can easily access Google Assistant for tasks like setting reminders, sending messages, or controlling smart home devices.
Battery life is another area where the Pixel Buds Pro 2 excel. With ANC turned on, the earbuds offer up to 8 hours of playback, and this extends to 12 hours with ANC off. The charging case provides additional charges, bringing the total battery life to an impressive 28 hours. This ensures that users can enjoy their music and calls throughout the day without worrying about running out of power.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also feature fast charging, providing up to 2 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge. This is a convenient feature for users who need a quick boost before heading out.
