OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Review: Premium Sound Meets Practical Price

Anyone who has used OnePlus audio products knows how good they are at balancing quality and affordability. The OnePlus Nord Buds 3 continue that trend — promising premium sound, powerful ANC, and long battery life for under ₹2,500.

At first glance, they look like a natural upgrade from the Nord Buds 2. But are they really a meaningful leap forward or just another yearly refresh? That’s what we’ll find out.

In this detailed review, I’ll walk you through how they perform in daily use — sound, comfort, battery, and more — so you’ll know whether they’re worth your money.

And if you’ve been comparing them with other models like JBL Wave Buds or Realme Buds Air 5, stick around till the end — I’ll tell you which one delivers better value in real-world use.

For anyone switching from wired earphones or entry-level wireless models, the Nord Buds 3 feel like a major step up. The sound is cleaner, the connection is faster, and the overall experience feels premium without being overpriced. What’s also refreshing is how OnePlus has kept things simple — no unnecessary flashy gimmicks, just practical improvements that matter in day-to-day use.

The timing of this launch also makes sense. With so many brands flooding the sub-₹3000 market, OnePlus needed something that could hold its own against popular picks like the Realme Buds Air 5 and JBL Wave Buds 2. The Nord Buds 3 do exactly that — and perhaps even set a new standard for what affordable ANC earbuds should feel like.

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Top Pick – Best ANC Earbuds Under ₹2500

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.
• [BassWave️ 2.0]: Users can enjoy more powerful bass with our new BassWave algorithm dynamically enhances your sound for a balanced listening experience with deeper bass and crisp, clear vocals to keep you dancing to the beat.

List Price : 2799

Offer: 2299.00

View Deal on Amazon

For 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.

One interesting detail is the BassWave 2.0 algorithm, which dynamically adjusts low frequencies depending on the track you’re playing. This means softer songs won’t sound overly heavy, while EDM or bass-heavy tracks still pack that satisfying thump. It’s a clever touch that keeps your listening experience balanced across genres.

The TÜV Rheinland Battery Health certification also isn’t just marketing talk — it assures long-term users that the earbuds won’t degrade rapidly. Many cheaper TWS lose battery strength within a year, but OnePlus clearly designed these for endurance, both in performance and lifespan.

Sound Quality: Crisp, Deep, and Clean

This is where OnePlus Nord Buds 3 truly shine. The 12.4mm titanized diaphragm drivers deliver a sound that’s surprisingly full and balanced. You get tight bass, clear vocals, and detailed treble — a rare trio at this price point.

In songs like Heat Waves by Glass Animals, the deep sub-bass has that “kick” you expect, but it doesn’t drown out the mids. Vocals stay clean and forward, which makes podcasts and acoustic tracks sound warm and lively.

The BassWave 2.0 algorithm deserves special mention — it enhances low frequencies without turning them muddy. Even at higher volumes, the audio doesn’t distort, which is a big plus for budget earbuds.

Vocals, especially female voices in songs like Let Me Down Slowly or Kesariya, come through beautifully with a slight warmth that adds emotion to the sound. There’s an overall clarity that makes speech crisp, making them just as good for podcasts and audiobooks as they are for music.

While the focus is clearly on delivering consumer-friendly tuning (strong bass and sparkling highs), audiophiles will still appreciate the clean midrange. Instruments like guitars and pianos sound full-bodied and natural, without the harshness you often find in cheaper earbuds.

If you own a OnePlus phone, the sound gets even better. Features like Dolby Atmos and 3D Audio integration kick in automatically, adding more depth and width to your soundstage.

In short: these buds punch way above their weight when it comes to sound quality.

Recommended for You: OnePlus Buds 3 Review: Smart ANC, Deep Bass & All-Day Battery (2025)

Design & Comfort: Minimal Yet Premium

OnePlus has always nailed the design language — sleek, modern, and comfortable. The Nord Buds 3 continue that with a matte finish case and soft edges that feel premium in hand.

The buds are lightweight, sitting comfortably in the ear even during 2-hour binge sessions or a workout. They fit snugly without slipping, thanks to the ergonomic shape and soft silicone tips.

The color options also deserve a nod — the Harmonic Gray has a subtle metallic shimmer, while the Melodic White looks clean and classy. The charging case opens and closes smoothly with a firm magnetic lock, something that cheaper models often miss.

Realistically, these buds strike the right balance between style and practicality — compact enough for pockets, yet premium enough to show off.

Even small design touches make a difference — the matte finish on the stems hides fingerprints, and the buds don’t attract dust as easily as glossy ones. This gives them a cleaner look over time, especially if you’re someone who uses them daily.

OnePlus has also improved the internal balance of the earbuds, meaning they don’t feel heavy in the ear despite the large drivers inside. You can comfortably wear them during workouts or long train rides without the feeling of constant pressure in your ears.

Explore Next: OnePlus Buds 4 Review: Flagship Sound and 55dB ANC Under ₹5,299

Battery Life & Charging: Efficient and Fast

Battery life is where the Nord Buds 3 make a strong impression. You get 43 hours of total playback (with the case) and around 8 hours on a single charge with ANC off.

Even with ANC on, expect about 6 hours of continuous playback — more than enough for a full workday or travel.

The fast charging is the cherry on top. Just 10 minutes of charge gives 11 hours of playback, making them perfect for people who forget to charge their earbuds before leaving home.

It’s also the first TWS globally to receive TÜV Rheinland Battery Health Certification, meaning the battery retains at least 80% capacity even after 1,000 charge cycles — excellent for long-term use.

What stands out most is the consistency of performance. Some earbuds drain unevenly between the left and right earpieces, but Nord Buds 3 manage their power evenly. After three days of use (about 4–5 hours daily), both earbuds retained almost identical charge percentages.

The USB-C charging is also fast and reliable. Unlike some budget TWS that use slow charging circuits, the Nord Buds 3 reach full capacity in about 45 minutes. You’ll likely find yourself charging them less frequently than your smartphone.

Top Pick – Best ANC Earbuds Under ₹2500

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.
• [BassWave️ 2.0]: Users can enjoy more powerful bass with our new BassWave algorithm dynamically enhances your sound for a balanced listening experience with deeper bass and crisp, clear vocals to keep you dancing to the beat.

List Price : 2799

Offer: 2299.00

View Deal on Amazon

For 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: Smooth and Smart

The Bluetooth 5.3 connection is rock-solid. Pairing takes seconds, especially with Google Fast Pair on Android phones. On OnePlus devices, it’s almost instant.

You also get dual-device connectivity, which means you can connect to both your laptop and smartphone at the same time. Watching a YouTube video on your laptop and switching to a call on your phone feels seamless.

The touch controls are responsive — single tap to play/pause, double tap to skip, long press for ANC, and so on. You can customize these gestures through the HeyMelody app for Android and iOS.

There’s also low-latency gaming mode, which keeps audio-video delay minimal while gaming.

The HeyMelody app is straightforward and adds value even for non-OnePlus users. It lets you fine-tune the EQ, toggle ANC levels, and even locate your earbuds using the “Find My Buds” feature. For those who frequently misplace their TWS case, that feature alone can be a lifesaver.

Latency during video playback is impressively low — YouTube and OTT platforms maintain perfect sync between visuals and sound. Even while switching between apps, there’s no delay or stutter, showing that the software optimization is spot-on.

Keep Reading: OnePlus Nord Buds 2r Review: Is It Worth Buying?

Extra Features: Thoughtful and Practical

The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) works surprisingly well. While it won’t silence airplane engines entirely, it cuts down consistent hums like fans, traffic, and chatter effectively.

It also comes with Transparency Mode, letting you hear outside sounds without removing the earbuds — useful during commutes or office use.

IP55 rating ensures protection from sweat and light rain, so they’re gym-friendly too.

And for OnePlus smartphone users, features like Dolby Atmos, 3D Audio, and Dirac Sound Tuning add layers of customization and immersion that take the experience further.

The Transparency Mode in Nord Buds 3 feels natural. Unlike some earbuds that amplify outside sounds too harshly, these maintain a realistic balance — you’ll hear announcements or conversations clearly without the artificial hiss. It’s great for walking on busy roads or working in shared spaces.

Another neat addition is the Adaptive Sound Mode, which automatically adjusts ANC intensity depending on your surroundings. For instance, it increases cancellation when you’re in traffic and eases off when you’re indoors, saving battery and keeping the experience more comfortable.

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Real-World Usage: Everyday Performer

Using the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 daily feels effortless. The case fits easily into your jeans pocket, the pairing happens instantly, and the audio doesn’t stutter even when switching apps or devices.

Call quality is clear, thanks to the quad-mic setup and AI noise reduction. During outdoor calls, your voice remains crisp, though strong wind can slightly affect clarity — expected at this price range.

Whether you’re watching long Netflix sessions, gaming, or attending back-to-back Zoom meetings, these buds stay comfortable without ear fatigue.

These earbuds are also great travel companions. During a recent flight test, the ANC managed to block a large portion of the cabin noise, allowing for distraction-free music playback. While not at flagship level, it’s remarkable at this price point and good enough to make your travel playlist truly immersive.

Even after hours of continuous wear, there’s no noticeable heat or discomfort — a common issue with lower-quality buds. The ear seal stays intact, ensuring consistent sound and bass response no matter how much you move.

Pros and Cons

Overall, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 manage to deliver a polished experience that feels both refined and dependable. None of the drawbacks are dealbreakers, especially when you consider how many premium-grade features OnePlus has squeezed into such a competitive price segment.

How Nord Buds 3 Compare with Nord Buds 2 and Rivals

Compared to the Nord Buds 2, the new model feels like a big leap forward. The ANC is stronger, the battery lasts longer, and the sound tuning is more balanced. The older model leaned heavily toward bass, but Nord Buds 3 introduce better clarity and cleaner mids.

Against competitors like the Realme Buds Air 5 and Boat Airdopes 170, OnePlus comes across as the more consistent performer. It might lack flashy designs, but it wins in build quality, mic clarity, and charging efficiency — the three things that matter most for everyday users.

Price Disclaimer

The OnePlus Nord Buds 3 are priced at ₹2,299 on Amazon at the time of writing.
Prices may vary based on offers and sales.

👉 Buy Now on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3WJpCnH

Top Pick – Best ANC Earbuds Under ₹2500

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.
• [BassWave️ 2.0]: Users can enjoy more powerful bass with our new BassWave algorithm dynamically enhances your sound for a balanced listening experience with deeper bass and crisp, clear vocals to keep you dancing to the beat.

List Price : 2799

Offer: 2299.00

View Deal on Amazon

For 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.

Amazon User Reviews

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Sound quality is crystal clear, and bass is powerful but balanced. I didn’t expect this level of clarity under ₹2,500!”
• ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “ANC works surprisingly well for this price. I use it for calls and commute daily, and it performs better than most mid-range earbuds.”
• ⭐⭐⭐ “Great design and comfort. Battery life is good, but I wish the case had wireless charging.”
• ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Very comfortable for long wear. Switching between phone and laptop is super smooth. Ideal for office use.”
• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “OnePlus has nailed it again! Deep bass, good clarity, and fast charging are lifesavers. Totally worth it.”
• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I use these daily for work calls and travel. The noise cancellation is legit and the mic clarity is better than my older JBL pair.”
• ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Sound is rich and immersive, but I wish the app offered a few more custom EQ presets. Still, best TWS I’ve owned under ₹2500.”

Watch the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 in Action

Before diving deeper into the details, take a moment to watch this hands-on video review by DeviceBar. It gives you a clear visual look at the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 — from design and comfort to sound and ANC performance — so you can see exactly how they perform in real life.

After watching, come back here to explore our full in-depth review, where we break down the pros, cons, and real-world usage insights to help you decide if these earbuds are worth buying.

Video Credits: DeviceBar (YouTube Channel)

FAQs

Verdict: Should You Buy the OnePlus Nord Buds 3?

If you’re looking for premium sound, solid ANC, and long-lasting battery under ₹2,500, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 deliver unbeatable value.

They’re perfect for daily commuters, students, and professionals who want something stylish yet reliable. Add to that the fast charging, dual connection, and trusted OnePlus build — and you get a pair that performs far above its price tag.

For OnePlus phone users, it’s a no-brainer purchase. For others, it’s still one of the most capable and refined earbuds you can get in this price range.

The Nord Buds 3 perfectly capture what OnePlus stands for — clean design, high efficiency, and everyday practicality. They may not be revolutionary, but they deliver consistently strong performance across every category that matters: sound, comfort, and endurance.

For students, office-goers, or travelers, these are reliable, stylish, and future-ready earbuds that won’t need replacing anytime soon. OnePlus has clearly listened to user feedback and refined the formula to near perfection with this model.

Top Pick – Best ANC Earbuds Under ₹2500

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.
• [BassWave️ 2.0]: Users can enjoy more powerful bass with our new BassWave algorithm dynamically enhances your sound for a balanced listening experience with deeper bass and crisp, clear vocals to keep you dancing to the beat.

List Price : 2799

Offer: 2299.00

View Deal on Amazon

For 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.

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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.