If you’ve been scrolling through Amazon wondering whether the OnePlus Buds 3 are worth ₹4,799, you’re not alone. Everyone wants that perfect mix of deep bass, smart noise cancellation, and long battery life — but without paying a premium like for AirPods or Sony.
In this review, we’ll dive into real-world performance — not just specs — and see if the OnePlus Buds 3 truly deliver on what they promise. By the end, you’ll know exactly whether they’re worth buying in 2025 or if there’s a better deal waiting for you.
Many buyers today are becoming cautious before spending even a few thousand on audio gear. That’s because flashy specs can often hide weak performance. The OnePlus Buds 3, however, show that affordable doesn’t have to mean average. Backed by OnePlus’s consistent track record in audio design and tuning, they promise a balanced experience — not just louder music, but a genuinely refined sound profile.
What makes them stand out is their practical mix of everyday usability and smart technology. Instead of trying to compete only on paper, OnePlus focused on how these earbuds feel in daily life — during travel, at work, or even while relaxing. This review explores those little details that truly decide whether the OnePlus Buds 3 are worth buying or not.
Check one more flagship earbuds review from OnePlus: OnePlus Buds 4 Review: Flagship Sound and 55dB ANC Under ₹5,299
Editor’s Pick – Best Premium TWS Under ₹5000 (2025)
OnePlus Buds 3 TWS in Ear Earbuds with Upto 49dB Smart Adaptive Noise Cancellation,Hi-Res Sound Quality,Sliding Volume Control,10mins for 7Hours Fast Charging with Upto 44Hrs Playback (Splendid Blue)
- [Best-in-class Sound Quality]: 10.4mm+6mm dynamic dual driver, LHDC5.0 Bluetooth CODEC and high resolution certification makes the product best in its sound quality with deeper bass, delicate treble and clear vocals
- [Sliding Volume Control]: Slide on the surface of touch area of buds to adjust the volume.Sliding up increases the volume, while sliding down decreases the volume
- [49dB Adaptive Nosie Cancellation]: Advanced noise-cancelling technology,coupled with a high-performance chip,elevates the depth of noise cancellation upto 49dB.This reduces noise and blocks out chaos and allows users to enjoy music immersively
List Price :
Offer: 4999.00
View Deal on AmazonKey Specs of OnePlus Buds 3 | |
|---|---|
| Feature | Specification |
| Drivers | Dual Dynamic (10.4mm + 6mm) |
| Noise Cancellation | Up to 49dB Smart Adaptive ANC |
| Codec Support | LHDC 5.0 (Hi-Res Audio Certified) |
| Playback Time | Up to 44 Hours (with case, ANC off) |
| Charging | 10 mins = 7 hours playback |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3, Dual Device Connection |
| Controls | Touch + Sliding Volume Control |
| Water Resistance | IP55 Rating |
| Colours | Blue, Black, Green |
| Price | ₹4,799 (at the time of review) |
| Model | E509a |
Specs are important, but numbers only tell part of the story. The real beauty of the OnePlus Buds 3 lies in how these features work together in daily use. For instance, the combination of Hi-Res certification and LHDC codec means that listeners get more than just volume — they get texture, like hearing subtle guitar strings or the crisp breath behind a vocal track.
These earbuds don’t just deliver technical strength; they translate it into everyday convenience. The IP55 rating may seem like a small addition, but for gym users or commuters in unpredictable weather, it’s what keeps the Buds 3 safe and reliable long after the novelty fades.
Sound Quality: Powerful Dual Drivers with Real Detail
The OnePlus Buds 3 feature a dual-driver setup — a 10.4mm woofer and a 6mm tweeter — that works like a team. The larger driver handles bass, while the smaller one manages highs and vocals. This creates a clear separation of sound layers.
When you play a bass-heavy track like Blinding Lights or an acoustic song like Let Her Go, you can actually feel the difference — strong low-end beats without losing clarity in vocals.
One of the underrated aspects of these buds is the tuning. The sound signature is slightly bass-boosted but still manages to keep mids and highs in balance. That means Bollywood tracks sound energetic without drowning out vocals, and podcasts remain crisp even in noisy environments. You won’t find that muddiness often seen in cheaper TWS earbuds.
There’s also a surprising amount of depth in the soundstage. When watching movies or concerts, you can sense instruments placed in different directions. It’s not full “spatial audio,” but the stereo imaging is impressive for this price range, giving a mini-theatre-like experience when paired with a good phone.
The LHDC 5.0 codec (a fancy term for high-quality Bluetooth transmission) ensures minimal sound loss, so if you’re using a OnePlus phone or another LHDC-compatible device, you’ll experience near lossless sound.
In short: music feels richer, calls sound clearer, and you get a studio-like experience for under ₹5000 — impressive.
Also Read: Realme Buds Air 7 Pro Review: AI Meets Premium Sound
Design & Comfort: Minimal, Light, and Premium
The OnePlus Buds 3 follow the familiar OnePlus design language — minimal yet elegant. The case feels solid with a soft matte finish, and the buds sit comfortably even during long sessions.
Each earbud weighs around 4.8 grams, which means even after hours of listening, there’s no ear fatigue. The silicone tips form a nice seal, improving both comfort and passive noise isolation.
The best part? The sliding volume control on the earbuds. Instead of tapping multiple times, you just slide your finger up or down to adjust volume. It’s surprisingly accurate and practical, especially during workouts or calls.
Comfort goes beyond fit — it’s also about control and simplicity. The magnetic closure of the charging case feels sturdy and opens easily with one hand, while the buds snap in neatly. Even small touches like the LED indicator placement make daily handling effortless.
In terms of aesthetics, the glossy finish on the stem combined with the matte texture of the earbud body gives them a classy, modern look. The Blue variant, in particular, has a subtle metallic tone that stands out without being flashy. For anyone who values minimalism with a hint of style, the OnePlus Buds 3 check every box.
Check similar post: Realme Buds Air 7 Review: Premium Sound Meets Powerful Noise Cancellation
Battery Life & Charging: Fast and Reliable
OnePlus claims 44 hours of playback (with ANC off) and up to 28 hours with ANC on, and in real-world use, it comes close.
A 10-minute charge gives around 7 hours of playtime, which is perfect if you forget to charge before heading out.
Battery consistency is another highlight. Even after a few months of use, users report only minimal degradation — meaning your earbuds won’t lose their endurance quickly like many budget models. The charging case itself recharges in roughly an hour via USB-C, which is fast enough for most users.
And for people who often forget to plug in devices overnight, this is a blessing. You can top them up while getting ready in the morning and have a full day’s backup ready before you step out. The combination of long playtime and fast refuelling makes the Buds 3 genuinely practical.
Example: You’re leaving for office and realize your buds are dead. Plug them in for 10 minutes — by the time you finish your coffee, they’re ready for your commute.
This level of fast charging is still rare in this price range and makes the OnePlus Buds 3 a great travel companion.
Connectivity & Controls: Dual Device Connection That Actually Works
Thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, connection speed and stability are excellent. The buds connect almost instantly when you open the case — especially with OnePlus or Oppo phones.
You can also connect to two devices simultaneously — say, your laptop and phone. Imagine watching YouTube on your laptop and suddenly getting a call; the earbuds automatically switch to your phone, then switch back when you’re done.
The touch controls are smooth and customizable via the HeyMelody app. You can play/pause, skip tracks, toggle ANC, or activate transparency mode easily.
OnePlus also deserves credit for its seamless app integration. Using the HeyMelody app, you can tweak equalizer presets, toggle ANC modes, and even update firmware wirelessly. The interface is clean and beginner-friendly, so even non-tech users can make the most of their earbuds.
The sliding volume gesture stands out as a simple but game-changing feature. Instead of fumbling to reach your phone, you just swipe your finger along the stem. It’s intuitive, reliable, and once you get used to it, you’ll miss it on every other earbud you try.
Extra Features: ANC, Transparency Mode & Water Resistance
Smart Adaptive ANC (up to 49dB)
The ANC performance is one of the highlights of the OnePlus Buds 3. It automatically adjusts noise cancellation based on your surroundings.
In a noisy café, it blocks chatter effectively; in quieter areas, it tones down to save battery.
Check ANC Neckband from Realme: Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC Review: Is It Worth Buying in 2025?
Transparency Mode
When you enable Transparency Mode, external mics let ambient sounds in — great for staying aware of your environment without removing the buds.
The OnePlus Buds 3 also come equipped with smart wear detection. Music automatically pauses when you remove one earbud and resumes when you put it back. This small addition saves battery and feels incredibly natural once you get used to it.
Another noteworthy feature is the customizable ANC levels. You can manually choose from mild, moderate, or maximum noise cancellation modes depending on where you are. This level of control is rarely found in mid-range earbuds and adds to the product’s sense of refinement.
IP55 Rating
You can wear them during workouts or light rain without worrying about damage. The rating covers both dust and water resistance.
Low Latency Mode (for gaming)
When paired with a OnePlus phone in Pro Gaming Mode, latency drops significantly. Footsteps in BGMI or COD Mobile feel more synced with what you see on screen.
Check Budget-friendly earbuds from OnePlus: OnePlus Nord Buds 2r Review: Is It Worth Buying?
Editor’s Pick – Best Premium TWS Under ₹5000 (2025)
OnePlus Buds 3 TWS in Ear Earbuds with Upto 49dB Smart Adaptive Noise Cancellation,Hi-Res Sound Quality,Sliding Volume Control,10mins for 7Hours Fast Charging with Upto 44Hrs Playback (Splendid Blue)
- [Best-in-class Sound Quality]: 10.4mm+6mm dynamic dual driver, LHDC5.0 Bluetooth CODEC and high resolution certification makes the product best in its sound quality with deeper bass, delicate treble and clear vocals
- [Sliding Volume Control]: Slide on the surface of touch area of buds to adjust the volume.Sliding up increases the volume, while sliding down decreases the volume
- [49dB Adaptive Nosie Cancellation]: Advanced noise-cancelling technology,coupled with a high-performance chip,elevates the depth of noise cancellation upto 49dB.This reduces noise and blocks out chaos and allows users to enjoy music immersively
List Price :
Offer: 4999.00
View Deal on AmazonPros and Cons
Overall, the OnePlus Buds 3 feel like a product carefully balanced between premium features and realistic pricing. The small compromises, like the absence of wireless charging, are easy to overlook considering the impressive ANC, audio clarity, and unique volume control. They may not outperform ultra-high-end earbuds, but for their price bracket, they’re easily among the best.
Real-Life Experience: Everyday Convenience
Using the OnePlus Buds 3 for a week reveals how thoughtfully they’ve been designed for daily use. They connect instantly when you open the lid, and switching between devices feels effortless. Whether you’re watching reels on your phone or joining an office call on your laptop, the transition is smooth and lag-free.
Even in outdoor environments like buses or cafes, the adaptive ANC does its job brilliantly. You can tune out background chatter while still hearing a friend calling your name thanks to transparency mode. During workouts, they stay snug and never feel heavy, which is a relief compared to many bulky earbuds.
Price Disclaimer
The price of ₹4,799 is at the time of publishing and may change depending on ongoing offers or platform discounts.
👉 Check latest price on Amazon
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Watch OnePlus Buds 3 in Action
Before you continue reading, take a moment to watch this detailed hands-on review of the OnePlus Buds 3. The video gives you a closer look at the design, fit, and real-world performance — perfect for understanding how they sound and feel before you buy.
Once you’ve watched it, come back to this article to explore our in-depth written review covering battery life, comfort, ANC, and overall value.
Video Credits: Trakin Tech English
Amazon User Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Amazing Sound Quality”
Loved the clarity and bass. The dual drivers really make a difference, especially for vocals and instruments.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great ANC, but battery could be better”
Noise cancellation is top-notch. Battery life is good but drops quickly when ANC is on all the time.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Comfortable and stylish”
Fits perfectly in the ear. Can wear for hours without discomfort. The sliding volume feature is just brilliant!
⭐⭐⭐ “Connection issues sometimes”
Sound is excellent, but once in a while, it disconnects from my laptop. Works fine with my OnePlus phone though.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Value for money”
Overall, these are fantastic for the price. Feels like a flagship product under ₹5000.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for Calls and Online Meetings”
The triple-mic setup really helps during Zoom calls. People on the other side say my voice sounds clearer than with my old wired headset.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Strong Build and Premium Feel”
The earbuds and the case feel premium. I accidentally dropped the case once, and it didn’t even scratch. Definitely feels durable and high-end.
FAQs about OnePlus Buds 3
1. Is OnePlus Buds 3 worth buying?
Yes, for ₹4,799, they offer premium sound, strong ANC, and long battery life — excellent value for money.
2. When was OnePlus Buds 3 launched?
They were launched in early 2024 and remain a top pick through 2025.
3. Is OnePlus Buds 3 waterproof?
They’re IP55 rated, so they can handle sweat and light rain but not full immersion in water.
4. Which is better, OnePlus Buds 2 or 3?
Buds 3 offer better ANC, improved soundstage, and sliding volume control — a clear upgrade.
5. What is the disadvantage of OnePlus Buds 3?
No wireless charging and slightly faster battery drain with ANC on.
6. How do Buds 3 compare to AirPods?
AirPods still lead in ecosystem integration, but Buds 3 come close in sound and ANC at half the price.
7. Do OnePlus Buds 3 have a mic?
Yes, they have triple-mic setup with AI noise reduction for clear calls.
8. Is OnePlus Buds 3 good for gaming?
Yes, in low latency mode with OnePlus devices, they perform smoothly for gaming.
9. Do Buds 3 have ANC?
Yes, with up to 49dB adaptive noise cancellation.
10. Does OnePlus Buds 3 support Dolby Atmos?
Yes, when paired with supported OnePlus phones.
11. Do OnePlus Buds 3 support voice assistants?
Yes, you can activate Google Assistant or Alexa directly through touch controls or the HeyMelody app.
12. Can you use OnePlus Buds 3 with non-OnePlus phones?
Absolutely. They work smoothly with all Android and iOS devices, although features like Dolby Atmos and ultra-low latency are optimized for OnePlus devices.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the OnePlus Buds 3?
If you want premium sound, adaptive ANC, and a stylish design without spending a fortune, the OnePlus Buds 3 are an easy recommendation.
They’re great for daily use — whether you’re commuting, gaming, or working from home. The sliding volume control, dual device connection, and Hi-Res Audio quality make them stand out from most earbuds in this price range.
If you’re already using a OnePlus smartphone, these buds will integrate perfectly and feel like a natural extension of your device.
✅ Verdict: Excellent balance of performance and price. Worth every rupee under ₹5000.
👉 Check latest price & offers on Amazon
Editor’s Pick – Best Premium TWS Under ₹5000 (2025)
OnePlus Buds 3 TWS in Ear Earbuds with Upto 49dB Smart Adaptive Noise Cancellation,Hi-Res Sound Quality,Sliding Volume Control,10mins for 7Hours Fast Charging with Upto 44Hrs Playback (Splendid Blue)
- [Best-in-class Sound Quality]: 10.4mm+6mm dynamic dual driver, LHDC5.0 Bluetooth CODEC and high resolution certification makes the product best in its sound quality with deeper bass, delicate treble and clear vocals
- [Sliding Volume Control]: Slide on the surface of touch area of buds to adjust the volume.Sliding up increases the volume, while sliding down decreases the volume
- [49dB Adaptive Nosie Cancellation]: Advanced noise-cancelling technology,coupled with a high-performance chip,elevates the depth of noise cancellation upto 49dB.This reduces noise and blocks out chaos and allows users to enjoy music immersively
List Price :
Offer: 4999.00
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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.
OnePlus Buds 3
The OnePlus Buds 3 are true wireless earbuds with dual dynamic drivers, up to 49dB adaptive noise cancellation, Hi-Res LHDC 5.0 audio, and up to 44 hours of total playback. They deliver deep bass, clear vocals, and smart features like sliding volume control, dual-device connection, and IP55 water resistance — all for under ₹5000.
Product Brand: OnePlus
Product Currency: INR
Product Price: 4799
Price Valid Until: 2026-11-30
Product In-Stock: InStock
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