True wireless earbuds under ₹10,000 often blur into each other—basic design, average battery life, and unremarkable audio. However, the OnePlus Buds 4, priced at ₹5,999 in India, manage to break that monotony. While they may look familiar, what’s inside sets them apart—particularly in active noise cancellation (ANC) and bass-heavy sound.
Design and Build: A Touch of Premium for Less
At first glance, the Buds 4 resemble the more expensive OnePlus Buds 3 Pro, especially in their overall silhouette. However, subtle changes make them distinct. The stems are shorter and flatter, giving them a more compact appearance.
The charging case ditches luxury materials for high-quality plastic with a metallic finish that feels far from cheap. It’s lightweight, yet solid in hand. With an IP55 rating, the Buds 4 are resistant to sweat and light rain—ideal for workouts or daily commutes.
The in-ear fit is comfortable, with three sizes of silicone tips provided. The earbuds sit snugly, providing decent passive isolation. That said, touch controls remain a bit finicky. Accidental taps are common, and some users may find the controls less intuitive than buttons or app-based commands.
Active Noise Cancellation: Surprisingly Effective
The standout feature of the OnePlus Buds 4 is its active noise cancellation. For a pair of earbuds priced under ₹10,000, the ANC performance is genuinely impressive.
In real-world use—on crowded streets, public transport, or bustling cafes—the Buds 4 manage to block out around 80% of ambient noise. Whether you’re a student, traveler, or someone working in noisy environments, these buds perform beyond expectations in this department.
Sound Quality: Designed for Bass Enthusiasts
The OnePlus Buds 4 lean heavily into bass-forward sound. If you’re into hip-hop, EDM, or pop, the punchy low-end will be satisfying. However, if you prefer balanced audio or enjoy genres like classical, jazz, or rock, the mids and highs may feel underwhelming.
The overall tuning favors casual listening. While vocals are audible and treble is present, the audio lacks the finesse and clarity of more premium options. Complex tracks may sound a bit muddled.
Despite this, the three-microphone setup ensures good call clarity, and background noise is reduced significantly, even during outdoor conversations.
Battery Life and Smart Features
The Buds 4 offer a battery life of about 5 hours with ANC enabled, and the charging case provides an additional 2–3 full charges. On a moderate usage cycle, this translates to 2–3 days of use without needing a full recharge. Plus, fast charging support adds convenience—just a few minutes of charge can give you hours of playback.
Users of OnePlus smartphones get bonus features:
- Steady Connect with an extended Bluetooth range of up to 250 meters
- Real-time AI translation, which can be useful during travel or multilingual meetings
These integrations make the experience more seamless if you’re already in the OnePlus ecosystem.
Final Verdict: A Great Value for ANC on a Budget
The OnePlus Buds 4 strike an impressive balance between affordability and performance. While audiophiles may crave more refined sound, everyday users will appreciate the solid ANC, bass-rich tuning, comfortable fit, and smart extras.
At just ₹5,999, they’re among the best options available for budget-conscious buyers seeking active noise cancellation without compromising on design and convenience.
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