OnePlus, recently released a lighter version of the OnePlus Buds- the OnePlus Buds Z. It costs about $49 or 2999 INR. This makes it 10$ or 2000 INR cheaper than the OnePlus Buds which are priced at $59 or 4990 INR. So, what’s the bargain you might ask? Well, not many!
Here are the differences between the OnePlus Buds Z and the original OnePlus Buds.
OnePlus Buds Z vs OnePlus Buds – Similarity
Now, before we get to the differences, there’s a bunch of similarities. Both the OnePluds Buds and OnePlus Buds Z support Bluetooth 5.0, Type c charging, and operate at AAC Bluetooth codec. They have a 103-ms low-latency gaming mode but works only on OnePlus devices. Both earbuds have a touch-sensitive back and come with in-ear detection. You can modify these double-tap functions within the Bluetooth menu on OnePlus devices. For non-OnePlus devices, you can download the “HeyMelody” app.
1. OnePlus Buds Z have an in-ear design
The striking difference between the OnePlus Buds Z and OnePlus Buds is the earbud design. The OnePlus Buds has more of Airpods like one-size-fits-all design, while the OnePlus Buds Z are in-ear with silicone ear tips. The in-ear design might be uncomfortable for a few people but helps the OnePlus Buds Z achieve better noise isolation. The OnePlus Buds Z also comes with a pair of two extra silicone ear tips in the box.
Apart from the earbuds, the charging case of both OnePlus Buds Z and OnePlus Buds are quite different. The OnePlus Buds Z has a cylindrical charging case that goes snug in my jean’s watch pocket. On the other hand, the OnePlus Buds have a pebble-shaped charging case. Both are handy to carry but I would tilt a bit towards the Buds Z case.
2. OnePlus Buds Z has IP 55 water resistance
Another striking difference is the IP ratings. The OnePlus Buds have an IP X4 rating which makes it resistant to water splashes. On the other hand, the Buds Z has IP 55 ratings which makes it dust resistant as well as resistant to the continuous water stream. Hence, you can use the OnePlus Buds Z in the shower and it’ll also survive your harder workout sessions.
3. OnePlus Buds Z has 20-hour while OnePlus Buds has 30-hour
The OnePlus Buds Z has a combined battery life of 20-hours. The earbuds have a 5-hour battery life and the case can charge it 4 times. On the other hand, the OnePlus Buds have 30-hour combined battery life. The buds have 7-hour battery life and the case can charge it around 4 times.
In terms of call quality, the Buds Z can accompany you in a call for up to 3 hours whereas the OnePlus can go up to 4 hours.
4. OnePlus Buds Z has more bass
The OnePlus Buds Z has “Bass Boosted” written on the box. They do have a heavier bass but it’s mostly due to the in-ear design and not due to some audio tuning. The OnePlus Buds Z and OnePlus both have a similar warm audio signature. However, due to the in-ear design of the OnePlus Buds Z, they appear to have deeper bass, wider soundstage and sound louder.
5. OnePlus Buds have better call quality
The original OnePlus Buds have a 3-microphone array for noise cancellation during calls. On the other hand, Buds Z has a 2-microphone array for noise cancellation. In real-time, there’s a minute difference in the call quality of the OnePlus Buds and the OnePluds Bud Z. The OnePlus Buds sounds more processed and isolated.
Below, is an audio sample from both the earbuds. Kindly, listen to it through an earphone for the best results.
OnePlus Buds:
OnePlus Buds Z:
6. OnePlus Buds Z has a cool Harrington edition
The OnePlus Buds Z has a cool limited special edition that hasn’t been on sale since launch. The “Cool Cat” special edition is a unique collaboration with designer, Steven Harrington. The sneak-peak is below and it sure looks funky.
Purchase Links
Buy OnePlus Buds
Buy OnePlus Buds Z
Also Read: How to Improve Bluetooth Audio Quality on Android and Mac With aptX
