You’re not the only one who is comparing the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R to the OnePlus Nord Buds 3. These two earbuds are some of OnePlus’s best-selling products. Both models offer great sound quality, extended battery life, and a clean design, all at a price that is affordable. But it can be difficult to pick one when two models appear so much alike.
Both earbuds have become bestsellers because they are affordable and have features that most people actually use. You don’t have to possess a OnePlus phone to use them; both sets function well with any Android or iOS handset. That makes this comparison quite helpful for anyone who wants excellent wireless earbuds without spending a lot of money.
This is how this guide can help:
You think both models are rather comparable, but you’re not sure which one is best for you.
We promise to make every difference easier to understand, whether it’s sound, comfort, or value.
And at the end, you’ll know for sure which OnePlus Buds are best for you, whether you want cheap ones or ones with more complex capabilities like ANC and 3D Audio.
OnePlus has been able to separate itself out in the congested audio industry by making the Nord lineup function well and look appealing all the time. You may avoid paying too much or missing out on features that really make listening better by knowing the little but important differences between the 2R and 3.
In this in-depth study of OnePlus Nord Buds 2R vs. OnePlus Nord Buds 3, we’ll go over the comparison step by step.
Value for Money
OnePlus Nord Buds 2r True Wireless in Ear Earbuds with Mic, 12.4mm Drivers, Playback:Upto 38hr case,4-Mic Design, IP55 Rating [Triple Blue]
- [Enhanced Sound Experience]: The buds comes with 12.4mm driver unit, which delivers crisp clear and enhanced bass quality sound experience
- [Sound Master Equalizers]: For the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r, you get to choose how heavy or light you want your sound with the help of sound master equalizer s 3 unique audio profiles -Bold, Bass & Balanced
- [Battery Life]:The flagship-level battery life for the all-new OnePlus Nord Buds 2r delivers up to 38 hrs of non-stop music on a single charge.; [IP55 rating]: IP55 Water & Sweat Resistance
List Price :
Offer: 1399.00
View Deal on AmazonFor UAE Buyers:
If you’re shopping from the United Arab Emirates, you can view or purchase the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R directly from Amazon UAE using the button below.
Quick Specs Table: OnePlus Nord Buds 2R vs OnePlus Nord Buds 3
Feature | OnePlus Nord Buds 2R | OnePlus Nord Buds 3 | |
Driver Size | 12.4 mm Dynamic | 12.4 mm Titanized Diaphragm | |
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | No | Yes, up to 32dB | |
Battery Life (Earbuds + Case) | Up to 38 hours | Up to 43 hours | |
Fast Charging | Yes | 10 mins = 11 hours playback | |
Water Resistance | IP55 | IP55 | |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3 + Dual Connection + Google Fast Pair | |
Audio Profiles / EQ | Sound Master EQ (Bold, Bass, Balanced) | BassWave 2.0, 3D Audio (for OnePlus phones) | |
Microphones | 4-mic design | AI noise reduction mics | |
Colours | Deep Grey, Ash Black, Aura Blue, Misty Grey | Chromatic Blue, Harmonic Gray, Melodic White, Soft Jade, Starry Black |
Design & Comfort
The OnePlus DNA is the same in both earbuds: they are compact, simple, and pleasant. The OnePlus Nord Buds 2R are easy to wear every day because they have a matte finish and a stem that is a little shorter. They fit snugly in the ear without being overly huge, so they’re ideal for working out or traveling on vacation.
The cases for charging are also a little different. The Nord Buds 2R case is rounder and smaller, so it fits easily in a pocket. The case for the Nord Buds 3 feels tougher and has a smooth, shiny surface. The hinge on the Buds 3 also appears firmer, which is a pleasing detail that you don’t generally see in this price range.
The OnePlus Nord Buds 3, on the other hand, have a more polished and streamlined design. It feels like the building is stronger and a little more high-end. The 2R’s muted colors make it look more modern than the Chromatic Blue and Soft Jade colors.
Both earbuds are comfortable to use for a long time, but the Nord Buds 3 block out sound a little better because the ear tips fit better. That added barrier keeps sound from leaking out and makes it easier to hear, whether you’re watching a movie or running outside.
Premium Sound Experience
OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Truly Wireless Bluetooth in Ear Earbuds with up to 32dB Active Noise Cancellation, 10mins for 11Hours Fast Charging with Up to 43h Music Playback -Chromatic Blue
- [Enhanced Sound Experience]: The buds comes with 12.4 mm Titanized Diaphragm Drivers with which you can enjoy music with deeper bass and pure clear treble, immersing in the audiophile-grade sound experience. It has 3D audio specifically for OnePlus smartphone users.
- [32dB Active Nosie Cancellation]: – With up to 32dB Active Noise Cancellation one can maximize the audio enjoyment of music, allowing an immersive listening experience virtually.
List Price :
Offer: 1799.00
View Deal on AmazonFor UAE Buyers:
If you’re shopping from the United Arab Emirates, you can view or purchase the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 directly from Amazon UAE using the button below.
More information: The Nord Buds 3 are more comfortable to use for long periods of time and block out more noise since they fit better. The Buds 3 win this round by a slight bit when it comes to how they look and fit.
Sound Quality
This is when the battle between the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R and the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 really heats up.
The Nord Buds 2R have 12.4 mm drivers that make the bass sound strong and the voices sound clear. The Sound Master Equalizer lets you change the sound to your liking by giving you three options: Bold, Bass, and Balanced. The 2R has powerful lows and clear highs that are better than most earphones in its price range.
The Nord Buds 2R are excellent for anyone who likes a lot of bass. The HeyMelody app’s equalizer presets let you change many things, even if you don’t have any advanced tuning tools. The “Bold” setting noticeably boosts mid-bass frequencies without making voices sound muddy. This is excellent for anyone who likes EDM, hip-hop, or Bollywood music.
The Nord Buds 3, on the other hand, make the sound even better. The size is still 12.4 mm; however, the drivers are now Titanized Diaphragm Drivers for more clarity. The sound is richer, and the singing seems more real. BassWave 2.0 makes the bass response not just louder but also tighter and more controlled.
The Buds 3 also have 3D Audio, which is only available on OnePlus phones. This makes movies and music seem like they’re coming from different places. The OnePlus Nord Buds 3 are the best choice if you want immersive sound and depth.
The Titanized drivers in the Nord Buds 3, on the other hand, make the treble range sound cleaner. The soundstage feels big because the 3D audio effect makes cymbals, guitars, and piano keys sound clearer. When you switch between the two, you can hear the difference. The Buds 3 sound more open and natural, while the 2R has a warmer, bass-heavy tone.
Value for Money
OnePlus Nord Buds 2r True Wireless in Ear Earbuds with Mic, 12.4mm Drivers, Playback:Upto 38hr case,4-Mic Design, IP55 Rating [Triple Blue]
- [Enhanced Sound Experience]: The buds comes with 12.4mm driver unit, which delivers crisp clear and enhanced bass quality sound experience
- [Sound Master Equalizers]: For the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r, you get to choose how heavy or light you want your sound with the help of sound master equalizer s 3 unique audio profiles -Bold, Bass & Balanced
- [Battery Life]:The flagship-level battery life for the all-new OnePlus Nord Buds 2r delivers up to 38 hrs of non-stop music on a single charge.; [IP55 rating]: IP55 Water & Sweat Resistance
List Price :
Offer: 1399.00
View Deal on AmazonFor UAE Buyers:
If you’re shopping from the United Arab Emirates, you can view or purchase the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R directly from Amazon UAE using the button below.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery performance is one of the biggest reasons both these models dominate the sub-₹3,500 range. In daily use, you’ll find that either pair can easily last several days between charges — ideal for travelers or those who frequently forget to plug in their earbuds overnight.
Battery life is a strong point for both earbuds.
The OnePlus Nord Buds 2R deliver up to 38 hours of total playback (including the case). On moderate use — say 3 to 4 hours of daily listening — you can easily go almost a week before needing to recharge.
The Nord Buds 3, though slightly pricier, push that even further with up to 43 hours of playback. What really stands out is the fast charging feature — just 10 minutes of charge gives you 11 hours of listening time. That’s a lifesaver when you’re in a rush.
If long endurance and charging speed matter most, the Nord Buds 3 come out ahead by a fair margin.
The TÜV Rheinland Battery Health certification on the Nord Buds 3 is an underrated advantage. It guarantees at least 80% battery capacity even after 1,000 charging cycles. For someone who uses earbuds daily, that means consistent performance for years, not months.
Premium Sound Experience
OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Truly Wireless Bluetooth in Ear Earbuds with up to 32dB Active Noise Cancellation, 10mins for 11Hours Fast Charging with Up to 43h Music Playback -Chromatic Blue
- [Enhanced Sound Experience]: The buds comes with 12.4 mm Titanized Diaphragm Drivers with which you can enjoy music with deeper bass and pure clear treble, immersing in the audiophile-grade sound experience. It has 3D audio specifically for OnePlus smartphone users.
- [32dB Active Nosie Cancellation]: – With up to 32dB Active Noise Cancellation one can maximize the audio enjoyment of music, allowing an immersive listening experience virtually.
List Price :
Offer: 1799.00
View Deal on AmazonFor UAE Buyers:
If you’re shopping from the United Arab Emirates, you can view or purchase the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 directly from Amazon UAE using the button below.
Connectivity & Controls
Both earbuds function well together and are easy to use every day.
The OnePlus Nord Buds 2R connect to Bluetooth 5.3 all the time and can be used with OnePlus phones using the HeyMelody app. You can easily play, pause, and change music with the touch controls.
The Nord Buds 3 also respond better to touch. Double-tapping to go to the next track or long-pressing to change ANC modes works better and faster, especially when your hands are a little wet or sweaty. This is a little but crucial improvement for anyone who wants to use their gadget without having to grab their phone.
The Nord Buds 3 make things easier. You may stay connected to two devices at once using Dual Connection. For example, you can connect your smartphone and laptop at the same time. Pairing is almost instant with Google Fast Pair, and switching between devices is simple.
If you use more than one gadget at a time or move constantly between them, the Nord Buds 3 are the clear winner in this area.
Even in situations where there are a lot of other Bluetooth devices, including on public transit or in offices, the Nord Buds 3 stay connected. People who use public transportation a lot would welcome the improved antenna design because it helps cut down on dropouts.
Extra Features (ANC, Water Resistance, etc.)
This is where the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 really stand out.
They have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that works up to 32 dB, which shuts out background noise quite well. This makes them ideal for travel, commutes, or focusing. You also get AI-powered noise cancellation, which makes calls clearer.
Both earbuds can take perspiration well because they have an IP55 rating. This makes them ideal for working out or running. The Nord Buds 2R, for example, offer a gaming mode that minimizes latency, making them great for mobile gamers who need auditory cues in real time.
The Nord Buds 2R don’t have ANC, but they do have an IP55 rating, which means they can handle water and sweat. This makes them ideal for working out or jogging. They also have a gaming mode that lowers audio latency, which gamers would like.
If ANC and smarter features are important to you, choose Nord Buds 3. The Nord Buds 2R is fine for gaming or simply basic sweat resistance, though.
The Nord Buds 3, on the other hand, have Active Noise Cancellation, which transforms the whole experience. It doesn’t simply filter out background noise; it also helps you concentrate better whether you’re on the phone or listening to podcasts in noisy places. It may not be the best ANC on the market, but it’s still excellent for the price.
Watch OnePlus Nord Buds 2R in Action
Before finalizing your decision, check out the detailed hands-on review video below to see how the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R perform in real-world scenarios. You’ll get a better sense of the sound signature, comfort, and battery performance beyond what’s on paper. After watching, come back to continue reading and compare it with the Nord Buds 3.
Video Credits: Mr LazyTech
Price & Value for Money
When deciding between these two, price often becomes the biggest factor. The Nord Buds 2R cater perfectly to users who just want reliable audio without extra bells and whistles. The Nord Buds 3, on the other hand, offer a glimpse of what premium earbuds can do — but at a price that still feels accessible.
This is where personal preference comes into play.
The OnePlus Nord Buds 2R usually retail between ₹1,199 to ₹1,399, while the Nord Buds 3 are priced slightly higher, around ₹1,699 to ₹1,799.
If your main focus is clean sound and long battery life at the lowest price, the Nord Buds 2R are unbeatable for their value. But if you want ANC, dual pairing, 3D Audio, and faster charging, the Nord Buds 3 justify their higher price with meaningful upgrades.
In short:
- Budget buyers → Nord Buds 2R
- Feature-seekers → Nord Buds 3
Overall, both earbuds deliver excellent returns for what you pay. If you’re someone who values durability and consistent quality, you won’t feel shortchanged with either option. OnePlus’s reputation for after-sales support also adds peace of mind, which isn’t always guaranteed with smaller audio brands.
Pros and Cons
OnePlus Nord Buds 2R
OnePlus Nord Buds 3
While both sets clearly target different audiences, what makes this comparison interesting is how close they are in real-world performance. The Nord Buds 2R punch above their price category, offering sound and comfort comparable to models nearly double the price. The Nord Buds 3, meanwhile, feel like a step toward flagship-grade earbuds — bridging the gap between budget and premium.
Price Disclaimer
Prices mentioned in this article are as of the publishing date and may vary across platforms or due to promotional offers. Check the latest prices here:
Watch OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Review
To get the complete picture, also watch the in-depth review of the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 below. The video showcases how features like Active Noise Cancellation, 3D Audio, and BassWave 2.0 make a difference in everyday use. Once you’re done, return to the article to read the final verdict and see which model suits you better.
Video Credits: DeviceBAR
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FAQs
1. What is the difference between Nord Buds 2R and 3?
The Nord Buds 3 have ANC, dual pairing, BassWave 2.0, and longer battery life. The 2R lacks ANC but is more affordable.
2. Is OnePlus Buds 3 better than Buds 2?
Yes, Buds 3 offer Active Noise Cancellation, improved bass, and faster charging.
3. Is OnePlus Nord Buds 2R worth buying?
Definitely, if you want great sound and long battery life at under ₹2,500, they’re one of the best options.
4. Do Nord Buds 2R have noise cancellation?
They don’t have Active Noise Cancellation but provide good passive isolation due to their snug fit.
5. Which OnePlus Buds are best overall?
If you want maximum features for a small price jump, the Nord Buds 3 are the best choice. For pure affordability, go with the 2R.
6. Are both waterproof?
Yes, both have IP55 ratings, making them resistant to sweat and splashes.
Q7. How do the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R and 3 perform for calling?
Both perform well for daily calls. The 2R’s 4-mic system offers clear pickup, while the Nord Buds 3’s AI noise cancellation makes conversations crisper, especially outdoors or in noisy places.
Q8. Are the Nord Buds 3 worth upgrading if I already own the 2R?
Yes, if you frequently take calls, travel, or value ANC. However, if your 2R still works fine and you mostly use it indoors, upgrading might not bring a dramatic change.
Value for Money
OnePlus Nord Buds 2r True Wireless in Ear Earbuds with Mic, 12.4mm Drivers, Playback:Upto 38hr case,4-Mic Design, IP55 Rating [Triple Blue]
- [Enhanced Sound Experience]: The buds comes with 12.4mm driver unit, which delivers crisp clear and enhanced bass quality sound experience
- [Sound Master Equalizers]: For the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r, you get to choose how heavy or light you want your sound with the help of sound master equalizer s 3 unique audio profiles -Bold, Bass & Balanced
- [Battery Life]:The flagship-level battery life for the all-new OnePlus Nord Buds 2r delivers up to 38 hrs of non-stop music on a single charge.; [IP55 rating]: IP55 Water & Sweat Resistance
List Price :
Offer: 1399.00
View Deal on AmazonFor UAE Buyers:
If you’re shopping from the United Arab Emirates, you can view or purchase the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R directly from Amazon UAE using the button below.
Conclusion & Verdict
Both earbuds do the essentials well, but they are made for different types of people.
The OnePlus Nord Buds 2R are still the best wireless earbuds for the price if you want excellent quality and battery life without spending a lot of money. They’re easy to use, dependable, and great for listening to music or working out.
Keep in mind that both earbuds are just as reliable as OnePlus. This means you can expect regular upgrades, long-term software support, and good hardware quality. Both models will still work well a year from now; thus, they are secure long-term investments in the budget TWS market.
The OnePlus Nord Buds 3 are well worth the modest investment if you want a better experience with ANC, dual connectivity, faster charging, and better sound.
Verdict:
- For students, people who go to the gym, and people who just listen. → OnePlus Nord Buds 2R
- For people who travel, work in an office, or love music → 3 OnePlus Nord Buds
OnePlus keeps showing that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have excellent sound.
In short, this comparison reveals that OnePlus has made two devices that are perfect for two different types of listeners. The Nord Buds 2R are the most popular choice because they are cheap, and the Nord Buds 3 are a step up because they give you a taste of the luxury experience without the high price. No matter what you choose, you’ll get good value, great sound, and OnePlus-level craftsmanship.
Premium Sound Experience
OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Truly Wireless Bluetooth in Ear Earbuds with up to 32dB Active Noise Cancellation, 10mins for 11Hours Fast Charging with Up to 43h Music Playback -Chromatic Blue
- [Enhanced Sound Experience]: The buds comes with 12.4 mm Titanized Diaphragm Drivers with which you can enjoy music with deeper bass and pure clear treble, immersing in the audiophile-grade sound experience. It has 3D audio specifically for OnePlus smartphone users.
- [32dB Active Nosie Cancellation]: – With up to 32dB Active Noise Cancellation one can maximize the audio enjoyment of music, allowing an immersive listening experience virtually.
List Price :
Offer: 1799.00
View Deal on AmazonFor UAE Buyers:
If you’re shopping from the United Arab Emirates, you can view or purchase the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 directly from Amazon UAE using the button below.
Please tell others if our extensive comparison of the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R and OnePlus Nord Buds 3 helped you make the right choice. Many people are still having trouble choosing between these two models. Your share could help them make a better choice as well. Share it on your social network or forward it to friends who are considering getting new earphones. It’s a tiny thing for you to do, but it will benefit someone else who needs honest, clear advice.
About the Author
Hari Prasad is the editor of AudioPick.in and a lifelong audio enthusiast. He writes detailed, honest reviews and guides to help everyday users pick the right gear without tech jargon. His personal interest in Bluetooth audio, neckbands, and codecs comes from testing dozens of devices over the past few years.
