ANC is widely described as effective or better than expected, though most reviewers stop short of calling it class-leading.
ANC performance is good for the price but not unanimous: several reviews call it strong in Max/Smart modes, while others describe it as average or clearly behind key rivals. Expect solid low-frequency reduction, with more variance on mid/high chatter and wind. Most reviewers note multiple ANC strength options (Mild/Moderate/Max plus Smart/adaptive). Smart can be handy, but lower settings may feel much weaker than Max and the adaptive shifts are not always obvious.
Android setup is straightforward, with Android recognition and Fast Pair both mentioned.
Android support is strong thanks to Fast Pair, broad feature access in HeyMelody, and LHDC availability on compatible phones. Non-OnePlus Android devices may need the app for full control.
The ConneX app is widely described as useful and feature-rich, even if not every reviewer liked its look or behavior.
The HeyMelody app (or OnePlus system settings) delivers broad control over modes, EQ, and features. Experiences range from polished and fast to occasionally glitchy, especially when the app fails to detect the buds reliably.
aptX family support is explicitly confirmed, including aptX Adaptive.
Where tested, video and gaming latency are described positively, with low-latency use called fine or strong.
Video lip-sync and general A/V timing are typically good, and low-latency/game modes help in demanding scenarios. Some gaming use can still show slight delay in fast shooters depending on device and settings.
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 a defining trait: often described as powerful and punchy, sometimes even thunderous. Whether it is a plus or a minus depends on your taste, and several reviews suggest using EQ/BassWave to moderate it.
Battery life is usually judged average or mediocre for the price, though some reviews report acceptable day-to-day runtime.
Real-world battery is usually around 6.5 to 7 hours with ANC on and closer to 10 hours with ANC off, matching most manufacturer claims. Heavy feature stacking (ANC + LHDC + spatial) can noticeably reduce runtime.
Reviews note Bluetooth 5.4 support and solid wireless basics.
Baseline Bluetooth stability is generally solid in everyday use, with rare reports of app-connection hiccups or slower initial pairing rather than persistent dropouts.
Build quality gets mixed-to-positive feedback, with some reviews calling the buds well-made and others criticizing cheap-looking materials.
Build quality is generally good for the price, with solid fit and finish and durable day-to-day handling. A few reviewers flag that the buds are not especially rugged or that glossy parts show wear like fingerprints.
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.
Control mapping is flexible in the app and most gestures work reliably. A few reviews dislike the lack of pressure-squeeze controls or note that default mappings may require customization to feel complete.
Case impressions are mixed, ranging from ugly or cheap-looking to robust and well-made.
The case is typically described as compact and pocketable with a decent hinge and finish. A few reviews call the plastic feel less premium or note it can be a bit slippery when removing buds.
Charging is a clear strength thanks to wireless support and quick top-ups.
Charging is fast and generally reliable, with quick-charge behavior repeatedly mentioned. The main downside is the lack of wireless charging on the case.
Codec support is a major strength, with repeated praise for the unusually broad hi-res codec list.
Codec support is strong for the tier (SBC/AAC plus LHDC 5.0) and generally works well. However, some testing suggests very high LHDC bitrates can be unstable and can cost battery.
Comfort is consistently strong, with several reviewers saying they could wear the earbuds for hours or all day.
Comfort is a consistent strength: the buds are lightweight and many reviewers report long-session comfort. Fit can feel slightly loose for some ears, so tip selection matters.
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.
The box typically includes three tip sizes, which covers most ears but not all; some reviewers wish for extra-large tips or more varied options.
The EQ offers real customization, but several reviews say it is limited, technical, or less effective than expected.
EQ support is a major strength: multiple presets plus a custom multi-band EQ are widely praised for meaningful tuning, though a minority say changes can feel subtle depending on the preset and listening habits.
One review confirms a find-my feature that makes the earbuds beep when misplaced.
Find My features are typically audio-based (playing a sound) rather than full location tracking. Useful for nearby couch-cushion situations, less helpful for true lost-and-gone scenarios.
One review says the tuning stays reasonably close to the Harman curve.
Frequency response out of the box is commonly described as V-shaped rather than neutral. With the right preset or custom EQ, several reviewers say it can get much closer to balanced listening.
Reviews confirm a generous bundle that can include multiple ear tips, a charging cable, manuals, and a pouch or carrying case.
Instrument separation and layering are a standout, with reviewers repeatedly calling the presentation clean and highly detailed.
Instrument separation is often praised for this class, helped by the dual-driver design and tuning tools. Not every review calls it exceptional, but most agree it is above average at the price.
Multiple reviews explicitly mention a six-mic or three-per-side microphone setup.
LDAC support is repeatedly confirmed across reviews.
LDAC is not supported; multiple reviews point to LHDC as the hi-res option instead. If you specifically want LDAC, this model is a mismatch.
Lossless support is explicitly cited through aptX Lossless and related hi-res codec support.
Clarity at high volume is good overall, though several reviews warn that treble can get harsh or sibilant when pushed toward the top end of the volume range.
Microphone noise reduction is mixed: some reviewers hear background suppression struggle, while others say it helps keep calls usable outdoors.
Background-noise handling on calls is frequently praised, with several reviews noting strong suppression of chatter and environmental sounds. Wind handling is good but not universally perfect across all reports.
Call quality ranges from decent to very good, with clear pickup in good conditions but not universal best-in-class performance.
Call quality is often rated very good for the price, with voices coming through clearly. A minority describe it as merely adequate rather than class-leading.
Midrange performance is generally clear and natural, but one review says vocals can dip back in the mix on some material.
Midrange presence is generally decent but can feel recessed compared to the bass and treble in the default tuning. Some reviewers find vocals clear, while others want more natural mid emphasis.
Reviews describe straightforward use across Apple devices and Android, suggesting broad everyday compatibility.
Cross-platform support is better than many budget buds: iOS users get the app and most core features, but hi-res codec advantages and some behaviors may vary by device ecosystem.
Multipoint support is present and often works well, though some reviews report occasional sluggish or manual switching.
Multipoint is frequently highlighted as a standout convenience feature, with several reviewers calling it excellent or flawless for switching between two devices. Using multipoint can reduce available hi-res bandwidth on some setups.
One review says the earbuds provide decent passive isolation with a proper fit.
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.
Preset profiles are generally useful (with some reviewers preferring certain presets as closer to balanced). Bass-leaning presets and BassWave can be fun but may not satisfy listeners chasing a reference curve.
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.
Wear detection and other sensors generally work as expected for pausing, mode toggles, and personalization tests, though performance can vary by ear fit and configuration.
One review says the matte case finish helps prevent fingerprints.
Glossy or chrome-like surfaces tend to pick up fingerprints and smudges, which multiple reviewers call out. The case finish is often less prone to marks than the earbuds.
Setup and pairing are often easy, but one review notes awkward app behavior across devices.
Setup is usually straightforward with Fast Pair on Android, but a few reviewers report slower pairing or extra friction when installing/using HeyMelody on non-OnePlus phones.
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 considered strong for the price, with an energetic, consumer-friendly tuning and plenty of detail for casual listening. A few reviewers still categorize it as merely good-not-great versus flagship sets.
One review explicitly says the presentation has width but lacks depth.
Multiple reviews describe an open, spacious presentation with a large soundstage.
Soundstage is generally moderate with a sense of space that improves with spatial modes, but it is not universally described as wide or holographic in standard stereo playback.
One review explicitly notes that spatial audio is not included.
Spatial or 3D audio is polarizing: some reviewers find it immersive and a big value add, while others call it underwhelming or artificial, and it may not behave consistently across apps/devices.
Fit security is generally good, including for workouts and movement.
Stability in the ear is good for most users and workouts, but not perfect: a handful of reviews mention needing occasional readjustment, especially with sweat or a looser seal.
Controls are generally usable, but responsiveness and refinement are not universally praised.
Touch and swipe controls are generally responsive and feature-rich (including volume gestures). Some users report occasional mis-taps or finicky behavior when moving or when the touch area is hard to locate.
Transparency mode is usable and sometimes helpful, but most feedback stops short of calling it natural or fully open-sounding.
Transparency generally sounds natural and usable, but quality varies: some find it close to best-in-class for conversations, while others say it still muffles speech or is not clearly better than ANC.
Treble clarity is a recurring strength, with reviewers highlighting clean, precise highs and strong upper-frequency detail.
Treble is usually described as lively and detailed, though it can become sharp, sibilant, or fatiguing at higher volumes for some listeners.
USB-C charging is explicitly confirmed in multiple reviews.
USB-C charging is standard and consistently present across reviews, with no major complaints about the port itself.
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.
Maximum loudness is a frequent positive: many reviewers note it gets very loud without needing to push the volume far. This helps in noisy environments but can tempt unsafe listening levels.
Reviews cite IP54 or IP55 protection for sweat, dust, and light weather exposure.
The IP55 dust and water rating is a meaningful plus for rain and sweat, and reviewers generally treat it as dependable for everyday exercise. It is not intended for submersion.
One review notes the 5.6g weight keeps them from feeling heavy.
