Google Pixel Buds Pro Review: Are These Google’s AirPods Pro Killers?
Google’s Pixel Buds have had a… complicated relationship with the wireless earbud market. Past iterations, while promising, often fell short of expectations. But the Pixel Buds Pro represent a significant leap forward. These aren’t just an incremental upgrade; they’re Google’s serious attempt to dethrone the reigning champion, the AirPods Pro. So, have they succeeded? Let’s dive in.
The sound quality on the Pixel Buds Pro is genuinely impressive. Google has finally delivered the deep, rich bass response that was sorely lacking in previous models. Mids are clear and well-defined, and the highs are crisp without being harsh. These earbuds handle a wide variety of music genres with aplomb, making them suitable for everything from classical to hip-hop. The active noise cancellation (ANC) is equally commendable, effectively silencing distractions in noisy environments like bustling city streets or airplane cabins. Transparency mode is also well-implemented, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings without removing the earbuds.
Design-wise, the Pixel Buds Pro maintain the minimalist aesthetic that’s become synonymous with the Pixel brand. They’re compact and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. The touch controls are responsive and intuitive, allowing you to easily adjust volume, skip tracks, and answer calls. The build quality feels premium, with a smooth, matte finish and a satisfying heft. However, the lack of wingtips for extra stability might be a concern for those with particularly active lifestyles.
Feature-wise, the Pixel Buds Pro are packed with goodies. Google Assistant integration is seamless, allowing you to control your music, answer calls, and access information with just your voice. Multipoint connectivity allows you to connect to two devices simultaneously, which is incredibly convenient for switching between your phone and laptop. Spatial audio support is present, though currently only works with compatible Android devices. Sadly, there’s still no support for lossless audio codecs, which audiophiles might find disappointing.
Battery life is solid, offering up to 7 hours of listening time with ANC enabled, and up to 11 hours with ANC turned off. The charging case provides an additional 14-20 hours of battery life, depending on ANC usage. Wireless charging is also supported, adding to the convenience. While the battery life is good, it’s not class-leading.
Ultimately, the Pixel Buds Pro represent a significant improvement over previous Pixel Buds iterations and offer a compelling alternative to the AirPods Pro. The price point puts them in direct competition with Apple’s offering, making the decision a tough one. However, for Android users deeply integrated into the Google ecosystem, the seamless integration and excellent sound quality make the Pixel Buds Pro a very attractive option.
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Google Pixel Buds Pro Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 94%
- Design: 91%
- Performance: 92%
- Quality: 91%
- Popularity: 90%
Top Pros
- ✅ Sound quality is superb, with rich bass and clear mids and highs.
- ✅ Active noise cancellation is effective at blocking out distractions.
- ✅ Google Assistant integration is seamless and incredibly convenient.
Key Cons
- ❌ No support exists for lossless audio codecs, which is a drawback for audiophiles.
- ❌ Lacks wingtips for increased stability, potentially an issue for active users.
- ❌ Battery life, while good, isn’t quite as long as some competitors offer.
