ANC is widely described as effective or better than expected, though most reviewers stop short of calling it class-leading.
Across reviews, ANC is consistently described as best-in-class for earbuds, often quieting commutes and flights to near over-ear levels. Performance depends on achieving a good seal, and a few users report rare pressure/flight-related artifacts. Multiple listening modes (ANC, transparency, adaptive blends) make it easy to adjust noise control for different situations, and mode switching is generally smooth. Customization is still more preset-driven than fully user-tunable.
Android setup is straightforward, with Android recognition and Fast Pair both mentioned.
Android support is consistently described as basic Bluetooth audio with many features missing, including deeper settings and firmware updates. Reviewers regularly frame these as iPhone-first earbuds.
The ConneX app is widely described as useful and feature-rich, even if not every reviewer liked its look or behavior.
There is no standalone AirPods app in the traditional sense; most controls live in Apple’s Settings on iOS. This works well for Apple users but offers little for Android users beyond pairing.
H2-based processing is referenced as enabling Apple’s adaptive features, call processing, and ecosystem behaviors, keeping the overall experience cohesive for iOS users.
aptX family support is explicitly confirmed, including aptX Adaptive.
Reviewers explicitly note that aptX is not supported, which limits Android-focused low-latency and hi-quality codec options.
Where tested, video and gaming latency are described positively, with low-latency use called fine or strong.
Bass is the main dividing line: several reviews hear limited punch or body, while others report strong or satisfying bass once fit or tuning is dialed in.
Bass is commonly described as deeper, more impactful, and cleaner than prior generations, helping energy in modern tracks. A minority find it overemphasized or fatiguing over long sessions.
Battery life is usually judged average or mediocre for the price, though some reviews report acceptable day-to-day runtime.
Single-charge battery life is widely reported around eight hours with ANC, with some tests pushing higher at moderate volume. The common caveat is reduced total runtime with the case compared with the prior generation.
Reviews note Bluetooth 5.4 support and solid wireless basics.
Apple-device pairing and switching are generally smooth, but there are scattered reports of connection quirks such as occasional manual reconnects or odd channel behavior. Non-Apple pairing is possible but less seamless.
Build quality gets mixed-to-positive feedback, with some reviews calling the buds well-made and others criticizing cheap-looking materials.
Overall build is considered solid, helped by an IP57 rating for buds and case, but long-term serviceability is criticized. Some sources point out poor repairability and battery service constraints typical of true wireless earbuds.
Reviews repeatedly confirm hi-res playback support, though they focus on playback capability rather than DAC specifics.
Squeeze, pinch, and pressure controls are often described as deliberate and more reliable than typical touch inputs.
Stem squeeze and swipe controls are broadly viewed as intuitive, enabling volume and mode changes without reaching for the phone. A few reviewers still mention occasional uncertainty with tap-based case controls or gesture reliability.
Case impressions are mixed, ranging from ugly or cheap-looking to robust and well-made.
The case remains compact and pocketable but is often described as glossy and scratch-prone, with slight size changes versus Pro 2. Pairing controls moving to a touch area can feel less tactile than a physical button.
Charging is a clear strength thanks to wireless support and quick top-ups.
Charging is flexible with USB-C, MagSafe/Qi wireless, and Apple Watch charger support, plus quick top-ups in the case. Some reviewers wish the fast-charge rate improved and note the missing cable in the box.
Codec support is a major strength, with repeated praise for the unusually broad hi-res codec list.
Codec support is typically summarized as SBC and AAC only, with frequent disappointment about no hi-res or wireless lossless playback. This is a recurring reason reviewers cite for looking at competitors.
Comfort is consistently strong, with several reviewers saying they could wear the earbuds for hours or all day.
Comfort is divisive: several reviewers find the new shape better for multi-hour sessions, while others feel pressure, digging, or faster ear fatigue. Tip sizing down (or mixing sizes per ear) often improves comfort.
Design is divisive: some reviewers call the earbuds modern or futuristic, while others simply do not like the look.
With the right tip size, reviewers report an excellent seal and secure fit.
Multiple reviews confirm a wide ear-tip selection, typically spanning extra small through extra large.
Five included tip sizes (XXS through L) plus the hybrid foam-infused design are frequently called out as a meaningful upgrade. Reviewers emphasize trying different sizes and using Apple’s seal/fit tests.
The EQ offers real customization, but several reviews say it is limited, technical, or less effective than expected.
Lack of a proper user EQ is one of the most repeated complaints, especially from listeners who dislike the default tuning. Workarounds exist via iOS settings, but they do not replace a full EQ experience.
One review confirms a find-my feature that makes the earbuds beep when misplaced.
Find My support is repeatedly highlighted as a practical strength, with newer UWB in the case improving precision finding range and speed. Case speakers further help locate misplaced earbuds.
One review says the tuning stays reasonably close to the Harman curve.
Frequency response and tonal balance are seen as less strictly neutral than Pro 2, with some reviewers noting a more V-shaped or bass-forward tilt. Fit and listening volume can noticeably change perceived balance.
Reviews confirm a generous bundle that can include multiple ear tips, a charging cable, manuals, and a pouch or carrying case.
In-box extras focus on multiple ear-tip sizes, but several reviews mention the lack of a bundled USB-C cable. Accessory value is therefore seen as mixed despite the improved tips.
Instrument separation and layering are a standout, with reviewers repeatedly calling the presentation clean and highly detailed.
Instrument separation and imaging are generally considered improved or at least highly competitive, helping layered mixes sound less congested. Spatial processing can further enhance placement cues for some listeners.
Multiple reviews explicitly mention a six-mic or three-per-side microphone setup.
LDAC support is repeatedly confirmed across reviews.
LDAC support is repeatedly called out as absent, keeping Bluetooth streaming firmly in AAC/SBC territory.
Lossless support is explicitly cited through aptX Lossless and related hi-res codec support.
Clarity at higher volumes is usually described as good with limited distortion, though tonal shifts and preference sensitivity still apply. Most sources do not report major breakup at typical listening levels.
Microphone noise reduction is mixed: some reviewers hear background suppression struggle, while others say it helps keep calls usable outdoors.
Noise reduction and Voice Isolation are generally effective at reducing chatter and traffic, but wind and very loud noise can introduce artifacts or leave some noise audible. Results vary by environment and settings.
Call quality ranges from decent to very good, with clear pickup in good conditions but not universal best-in-class performance.
Call quality is commonly rated excellent, with voices sounding clear and natural in both quiet and moderately noisy places. Some sources even suggest the mics are usable for lightweight content capture.
Midrange performance is generally clear and natural, but one review says vocals can dip back in the mix on some material.
Midrange and vocal clarity are often praised as smooth and full, staying intelligible even with stronger low-end presence. Speech-heavy content and podcasts are generally easy to follow.
Reviews describe straightforward use across Apple devices and Android, suggesting broad everyday compatibility.
They can connect to non-Apple devices (Android, PCs, some consoles), but functionality is limited compared with using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Expect a working audio connection, not the full feature set.
Multipoint support is present and often works well, though some reviews report occasional sluggish or manual switching.
One review says the earbuds provide decent passive isolation with a proper fit.
Foam-infused silicone tips and the deeper fit improve passive sealing for many users, helping low-frequency rumble and chatter before ANC kicks in. It still does not behave like full memory-foam isolation for everyone.
One review calls the case very pocketable and easy to carry.
Presets such as Dynamic or Electrostatic are often useful, with reviewers finding modes that better suit their tastes.
Apple’s adaptive tuning features (such as Adaptive EQ and personalized behaviors) are generally credited with keeping sound consistent and enjoyable for most listeners. Some reviewers still prefer more direct user control.
Several reviews note customizable case lighting with multiple color options.
Wear detection and other onboard sensors are present, but wear-detection behavior is not consistently praised.
Sensors and smart features are a headline theme: heart-rate tracking is often reported as close to smartwatch readings, and hearing/translation tools add utility beyond audio. Wear-detection and fit-dependent sensing can also affect performance if the seal is inconsistent.
One review says the matte case finish helps prevent fingerprints.
Setup and pairing are often easy, but one review notes awkward app behavior across devices.
Setup is repeatedly described as effortless inside the Apple ecosystem with quick pairing and easy mode toggles. A few reviewers still call out certain controls as buried or unintuitive in iOS, especially for advanced audio routing.
Reviews repeatedly praise the NeoBuds Planar for detailed, high-fidelity sound, though one review found the tuning inconsistent from track to track.
Overall sound quality is widely rated strong and detailed with a punchier presentation than Pro 2 for many listeners. The main split is preference: some love the added weight, while others miss the older model’s neutrality.
One review explicitly says the presentation has width but lacks depth.
Multiple reviews describe an open, spacious presentation with a large soundstage.
Many reviews describe a bigger, wider presentation, especially when spatial features are enabled, making movies and big mixes feel more expansive. Perceived width still varies by content and settings.
One review explicitly notes that spatial audio is not included.
Spatial audio is frequently praised for movies and immersive content, with head tracking adding convincing placement. Spatial music remains more polarizing, with some preferring it turned off.
Fit security is generally good, including for workouts and movement.
Fit security is improved for many thanks to the new angle and deeper insertion, making the buds feel more locked in for daily wear. Some reviewers still note slip-outs during intense workouts or when sweat/oil builds up.
Sustainability notes are mixed: there is recycled material content and trade-in/recycling programs, but repairability and battery longevity limits remain concerns. Some reviewers explicitly call out low repair scores.
Controls are generally usable, but responsiveness and refinement are not universally praised.
Control responsiveness is mostly good, but some reviewers call gestures stubborn or less responsive than expected. Overall reliability improves with familiarity, but it is not universally perfect.
Transparency mode is usable and sometimes helpful, but most feedback stops short of calling it natural or fully open-sounding.
Transparency is repeatedly praised for sounding natural and clear, with speech coming through realistically and less processed than many rivals. This also supports hearing and safety use cases outdoors.
Treble clarity is a recurring strength, with reviewers highlighting clean, precise highs and strong upper-frequency detail.
Treble is typically described as crisp and detailed, though some sources mention occasional sharpness depending on volume, fit, or personal taste. The result is lively detail that may not suit everyone.
USB-C charging is explicitly confirmed in multiple reviews.
USB-C charging on the case is now standard and repeatedly highlighted as a modern convenience, especially alongside MagSafe/Qi options.
Value is the main weakness, with frequent pushback on the $299 price even from reviewers who liked the sound.
One review says native voice assistant commands are acted on swiftly.
Volume output is usable but not exceptional, with some reviewers saying the buds are not especially loud.
Several reviewers note strong loudness headroom, making it easier to overcome noisy environments without maxing out volume. Loudness is often paired with strong ANC for commuting and travel.
Reviews cite IP54 or IP55 protection for sweat, dust, and light weather exposure.
IP57 is repeatedly cited as a meaningful durability upgrade for both buds and case, improving confidence for sweat, rain, and dust exposure. Reviewers still caution against treating them like dedicated swim gear.
One review notes the 5.6g weight keeps them from feeling heavy.
