The OnePlus Buds 4 are the latest addition to the mainline OnePlus Buds series, launched alongside the OnePlus Nord 5 and Nord CE 5. With a price tag of ₹5,499, these earbuds aim to bridge the gap between affordable wireless audio and flagship-level features. But do they succeed? Let’s dive deep into what makes them stand out — and where they fall short.
Standout Features of the OnePlus Buds 4
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): A Flagship-Level Surprise
The most impressive feature is undoubtedly the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system. It reduces noise by up to 55dB, with real-time adjustments made 800 times per second. That’s a huge leap from the Buds 3 and even challenges the more expensive OnePlus Buds Pro 3.
Adaptive Modes for Real-World Use
- Adaptive ANC & Transparency Mode: Automatically switches between full noise isolation and ambient sound.
- Transparency Mode: Feels like you’re not even wearing them — ideal for conversations without removing the buds.
Sound & Smart Features
Dual Drivers & DACs = Power
The OnePlus Buds 4 are built with:
Featured
- 11mm woofer + 6mm tweeter (Dual Driver)
- Dual DAC setup
- Hi-Res Audio via LHDC 5.0 codec (up to 1 Mbps, 24-bit, 192 kHz)
Personalized Audio
With Sound Master EQ, Golden Sound profiling, and OnePlus 3D Audio, users get a customized listening experience. However, the factory tuning is bass-heavy, which can muddy vocals and reduce treble clarity.
AI-Powered Features
- AI Call Noise Cancellation: 3-mic system actively filters wind and background noise.
- AI Translation: Real-time translation support (available on supported OnePlus phones).
- Game Mode: 47ms low latency for smooth audio sync in mobile gaming.
- Touch Controls: Swipe for volume, tap to control playback, and long press to toggle ANC.
- Google Fast Pair & Find My Earbuds: Quick and smart connection features.
Connectivity & Compatibility
- Bluetooth 5.4 ensures stable range and efficient connectivity.
- Multi-device Pairing with Steady Connect keeps you seamlessly connected to two devices.
Battery Life & Charging
| Feature | ANC Off | ANC On |
|---|---|---|
| Earbuds Only | 11 hrs | 6 hrs |
| With Charging Case | 45 hrs | 24 hrs |
| Fast Charging | 10 mins = 11 hrs (ANC Off) |
Battery life matches real-world use, with solid endurance across both earbuds and case.
Design, Build, and Colors
- Colors: Zen Green, Storm Gray
- Build: IP55-rated buds, ~49g total with case
- Design Inspiration: Premium styling with chunky stalks similar to the Pro models
- Usability: Comfortable to hold, but some users find the eartips overly isolating, which may cause a slightly muffled audio effect
Price & Value
| Model | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OnePlus Buds 4 | ₹5,499 | ₹500 off on launch |
| Buds 3 | ₹4,999 | Less powerful ANC |
| Buds Pro 3 | ₹11,999 | Similar ANC, better tuning |
The Buds 4 sit comfortably in the mid-range, ₹6,500 cheaper than the Pro 3, but offer ANC quality that arguably outperforms it.
Final Verdict
The OnePlus Buds 4 successfully bring flagship-grade ANC, dual drivers, and AI features to a wider audience. They’re perfect for:
- Commuters needing strong ANC
- OnePlus phone users looking for seamless integration
- Gamers wanting low-latency audio
However, the out-of-box tuning, which prioritizes bass over balance, may disappoint audio purists. Lack of Bluetooth LE Audio is another minor drawback for advanced users.