
The cheapest TWS earbuds from OnePlus with an open-back design are the Nord Buds CE. For more information, read our entire review.
OnePlus has released another set of earbuds with the Nord name in response to the success of the Nord Buds. The latest Nord Buds CE are OnePlus' most affordable fully wireless earbuds to yet, and they are really potent. But they're not just repurposed Nord Buds with the same shape and a few features missing. The Nord Buds CE, however, are a whole different animal. Instead of using ear tips, they have an open-back design, which can be both a benefit and a drawback, depending on your perspective. The OnePlus Nord Buds CE are among the least expensive TWS on the market, costing around 2,299 (about $29). Here is how I feel about them now that I have used them for more than two weeks.
OnePlus Nord Buds CE: Specifications
| Specification | Nord Buds CE |
|---|---|
| Build and Weight | IPX4 sweat and water resistance Earbuds: 3.5g (each earbud) Charging case: 33g |
| Audio | Single 13.4mm dynamic driver Driver sensitivity: 128 ± 3dB Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 Codecs: AAC, SBC Range: 10 m |
| Battery & Charging | 27 mAh (per earbud) 300mAh charging case 4.5 hours of continuous playback 20 hours with charging case (combined) USB Type C port 10-minute quick charge for 81 minutes of playback |
| Features | AI noise cancellation for calls OnePlus Fast Pair Sound Master EQ Game mode (low-latency mode) |
| In The Box | Pair of Nord Buds CE Charging case USB charging cable User guide Safety and Warranty card Nord emoji sticker x1 |
Price and Availability
The brand-new Nord Buds CE from OnePlus are only offered in India. They are available at oneplus.com or Amazon India for 2,299 (about $29). There are two colours available: Misty Grey and Moonlight White.
The OnePlus Nord Buds CE have a different look from the standard Nord Buds. The Nord Buds CE chose a less distinctive style that is evocative of the Apple AirPods, whereas the original Nord Buds had a distinctive look that marked them apart. The charging case and earphones are made of plastic and feel sturdy. Similar to the Apple AirPods, the earbuds have lengthy stalks and an oblong aperture at the end of each earcup. Earbuds are concealed inside a charging case with an oval shape and a magnetic top. The casing has a glossy texture that quickly attracts little scratches and fingerprints.
The one-size-fits-all design of the OnePlus Nord Buds CE means that comfort and fit are mostly determined by the size and shape of your ear. However, in my experience, I discovered that they were quite comfy. They don't go all the way into your ear canal or provide the tight seal that silicone tips occasionally produce, which might feel like a suction. The OnePlus Nord Buds are the most comfortable completely wireless earbuds I have ever used, according to my evaluation of them. I must say, though, that after using the Nord Buds CE for more than two weeks, they are far more comfortable than the original Nord Buds. These earbuds are so comfortable that I can essentially use them nonstop throughout the day. Just 3.5g in weight,
Sound Performance
- The OnePlus Nord Buds CE pack 13.4mm dynamic drivers.
- The overall sound quality is excellent for casual listening.
Latency, Call Quality, and Connectivity
- The OnePlus Nord Buds CE's AI noise cancellation for calls isn't effective
- There's also a Game mode that reduces audio latency in games.
Battery life and Charging
- The OnePlus Nord Buds CE provide up to 20 hours of total playback time.
You can Buy the OnePlus Nord Buds CE if:
- You don't like earbuds with silicone tips.
- You don't want to isolate yourself from the outside world while listening to music.
- You're looking for an affordable alternative to Apple AirPods.
- You want earphones that you can practically wear all day.
you should Don't buy the OnePlus Nord Buds CE if:
- You want earphones with effective passive noise isolation.
- You like deeper bass.
- You can spend more.