In 2017, Google introduced the first-generation Pixel Buds, signaling its foray into personal audio devices. These earbuds featured real-time language translation and seamless integration with Google Assistant. The subsequent release of the Pixel Buds Pro series further solidified Google’s presence in the competitive true wireless earbuds market, offering features such as Active Noise Cancellation and spatial audio. To enhance its audio technology capabilities, Google acquired several audio-related startups, including Dysonics and Tempow, in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Also, in late 2020, Google acquired certain assets from Synaptics’ audio hardware division for $35 million. This transaction included patents related to audio hardware and active noise-canceling earbuds, as well as the integration of Synaptics’ staff into Google’s team. A combination of all these factors have now led to the creation of one of the most comfortable true wireless earbuds ever made, and that is the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2. Let’s dive in and find out what the latest audio product from Google means for us.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 compares favorably with leading competitors like Apple AirPods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM5 in terms of features, including ANC, spatial audio, and hands-free integration with Google Assistant. Google is capitalizing on innovations such as the Tensor A1 chip for advanced noise cancellation and integration with the Google ecosystem. Till now, customers have praised Google’s audio products, for their seamless integration with Android devices, good sound quality, and effective noise cancellation. However, some have noted occasional connectivity issues or software glitches. Have those issues been fixed? How good is the integration with Google’s services?
Build Quality and Design
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 use a combination of polycarbonate and soft silicone materials for the earbuds, while the charging case is constructed with a durable polycarbonate shell. This combination ensures both lightweight comfort and durability, with the materials resistant to everyday wear and scratches. The build quality has been designed for long-term use, leveraging Google’s expertise, enhanced through assets acquired from Synaptics, Dysonics, and Tempow, to deliver a durable and user-friendly product.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 earbuds weigh 5.4 grams each, making them lightweight enough for extended use without causing fatigue. They feature pressure relief vents and come with multiple sizes of customizable ear tips, ensuring a comfortable fit for different ear shapes. Due to these features, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is one of the most comfortable earbuds we have ever used, topping the ranking for fit, comfort, and weight balance. The pressure relief is also perfect, unlike last year’s Pro model where the pressure was a bit too much with ANC on. The ergonomic design, optimized through data from Dysonics and Google’s own ear shape studies, ensures stability during movement and reduces discomfort during prolonged usage.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 have an IP54 rating for the earbuds and an IPX4 rating for the charging case. This means the earbuds are resistant to dust and can handle splashes of water, making them suitable for workouts, light rain, and general use without degradation. The charging case’s IPX4 rating protects against water splashes, ensuring that it is safe to carry during wet conditions but not designed for heavy dust exposure.
Audio Performance
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 use custom-designed 11mm dynamic drivers. Dynamic drivers are well-known for delivering powerful bass while maintaining clarity across mids and highs, resulting in an immersive listening experience. These drivers ensure that the earbuds produce a well-balanced sound profile, providing deep bass without overwhelming the mids and highs, making them suitable for genres ranging from bass-heavy tracks to vocal-centric music.
The frequency response range of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is 20Hz to 20kHz, covering the full spectrum of human hearing. This range provides sufficient bass depth for an impactful low-end experience, while also extending into the higher frequencies to offer crisp and detailed treble, ensuring a rich listening experience for all types of music.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 support SBC, AAC, and Bluetooth LE Audio codecs. AAC ensures high-quality audio on both Android and iOS devices, while Bluetooth LE Audio provides low-latency and energy-efficient audio streaming, which is beneficial for users who want to save battery life without sacrificing sound quality. The lack of aptX or LDAC means that audiophiles looking for higher resolution audio streaming might find alternatives more suitable, but for typical use cases like streaming music or watching videos, the provided codecs deliver excellent performance.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 come with a 5-band EQ available in the companion app, allowing users to customize their sound profile to suit their preferences. Whether you prefer enhanced bass for electronic music or more emphasis on vocals for podcasts, the built-in EQ provides a versatile range of adjustments. The customization options enable users to create the optimal sound signature for different genres, enhancing the overall listening experience.
Noise Cancellation and Transparency
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer up to 40 dB of noise reduction, effectively minimizing background noise across a wide range of frequencies. The ANC system is particularly effective in environments like airplanes and offices, where low and mid-frequency noise is prevalent, making it easier to focus or enjoy media without distraction. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 feature adaptive ANC that continuously adjusts to environmental sounds in real-time. The transition between noise cancellation and ambient modes is smooth and automatic, providing an intuitive listening experience without the need for manual adjustments. Truth be told, the ANC is not as strong as the previous Pro but thanks to “Silent Seal” tech, it is more natural.
“Silent Seal” works by optimizing the earbud fit and creating a more effective seal in the ear canal, which greatly enhances passive noise isolation. This ensures that even without the most aggressive ANC levels, the earbuds provide an immersive experience by effectively blocking out unwanted ambient noise. Additionally, Silent Seal reduces the pressure commonly associated with ANC, making prolonged use more comfortable compared to previous models. This makes it perfect for those who found earlier iterations to be uncomfortable during long listening sessions, especially with ANC activated.
The transparency mode on the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is designed to sound natural and clear, amplifying external sounds without noticeable distortion. This allows users to engage in normal conversations or stay aware of their surroundings while wearing the earbuds, making them ideal for situations like jogging in urban areas or interacting with others without removing the earbuds. In our experience, it works great in normal scenarios.
Connectivity and Latency
Although the design of the case which is the nerve center of the connectivity experience remains the same, there is a new in-built speaker that helps in finding the case if it is lost. It also has the low battery indication sound and helps as a beeper. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 use Bluetooth 5.4, which provides a stable connection with an extended range and improved energy efficiency. The earbuds support multipoint connections, allowing users to seamlessly switch between devices like a phone and a laptop. The transition is smooth, with minimal delay, making it convenient for users who frequently move between work and personal devices. The measured latency for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is approximately 70 milliseconds, which is low enough to ensure audio sync with video content. While not specifically marketed as low-latency gaming earbuds, the performance is suitable for casual mobile gaming, where synchronization between visuals and audio is important. The connectivity issues are largely fixed and because there is no high res mode, the range is also good but it’s not entirely error-free. There were some minor connectivity problems, like a bump, we faced but we are sure it’s not widespread because may be 5% of the time of usage, we experienced these issues.
Battery Life and Charging
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 provide up to 12 hours of listening time with ANC off and 8 hours with ANC on. With the charging case, the total listening time extends to 48 hours with ANC off and 30 hours with ANC on. This battery life is competitive compared to similar premium products, making the Pixel Buds Pro 2 a reliable option for extended use throughout the day. The earbuds take approximately 1 hour to fully charge, while the case takes around 2 hours via USB-C. A quick 5-minute charge provides up to 1.5 hours of listening time with ANC off, making it easy to quickly top up the battery when needed. The charging case supports Qi wireless charging, allowing for convenient charging without the need for cables. The wireless charging process is efficient, though slightly slower compared to wired charging, making it a practical option for overnight charging or topping up during the day.
App Support and Gemini Features
The companion app for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offers a range of features, including firmware updates, ANC control, sound profiles, and touch control customization. Google releases firmware updates regularly, focusing on improving performance, adding new features, and fixing bugs. The app supports integration with Google Assistant, allowing users to control their music, check notifications, or get directions hands-free. The responsiveness of the assistant is fast and reliable, enhancing the overall convenience of using the earbuds in day-to-day life. With Gemini AI, they offer hands-free, voice-activated assistance whenever you need it. Whether you want directions to the nearest transit stop, a reminder of your next appointment, or new music recommendations, Gemini can help—all while your phone is locked and in your pocket.
Gemini Live takes it further by allowing in-depth conversations with your earbuds. You can discuss new ideas, practice interview questions, or just chat while on the move. Simply unlock your phone, say “Hey Google, let’s talk live,” and continue your conversation with Gemini even when your phone is locked. These features might require a Google Gemini subscription but since ecosystem users already have it, it makes more sense for Google hardware users.
Call Quality and Microphone Performance
Each earbud features three beamforming microphones, combined with a voice accelerometer to enhance call clarity. The microphones work together to reduce background noise, ensuring that the user’s voice is clear during calls, even in noisy environments. The microphones use AI noise reduction to isolate the user’s voice from background noise effectively. This technology ensures that calls are clear, even in challenging environments like busy streets or cafes. In our experience, it seemed like we, the user who uses Pixel Buds Pro 2, had the best noise cancellation, meanwhile the call receivers on the other end reported that they were still able to hear some amount of noise. Even when clear calling is on. So it is not 100% in noisy environments but it works well enough. Because the earbuds feature wind-blocking mesh covers, it helps to reduce wind noise during calls. The adaptive algorithms also adjust to sudden loud environmental sounds, ensuring that call quality remains consistent regardless of the surrounding conditions. But again, be sure it is not the most sophisticated in the world.
User Interface and Controls
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 use touch-sensitive controls, which are responsive and intuitive. The touch gestures allow users to control playback, adjust volume, and switch between ANC and transparency modes with ease, providing a seamless user experience. The interaction design, the sounds and the touch and feel are all top notch, and have taken the experience up a notch. The controls can be customized through the companion app, allowing users to assign different functions to gestures. However, there are some limitations on the remapping options, as certain actions like volume control are fixed and cannot be reassigned. The earbuds support automatic play/pause when removed or inserted, using infrared sensors to detect placement. The response is accurate and fast, ensuring that users do not miss a beat when taking the earbuds out or putting them back in.
Special Features and Innovation
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer spatial audio with head tracking, providing an immersive listening experience. This feature is particularly effective when watching movies or listening to live recordings, as it creates a sense of being surrounded by the sound, enhancing the realism of the audio. One of the unique selling points of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is the integration of Google’s Tensor A1 chip, which powers advanced features like adaptive ANC and spatial audio. The seamless integration with Google services, combined with the innovative features, sets the Pixel Buds Pro 2 apart from competitors and makes them a strong choice for users invested in the Google ecosystem.
Warranty, Support, and Longevity
Google offers a one-year warranty for the Pixel Buds Pro 2, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Customer support is accessible through multiple channels, including online chat and phone support, providing users with quick assistance for any issues that may arise. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are built to last, with high-quality materials and regular software updates that enhance performance over time. The earbuds are designed for long-term use, with repairability options available for common issues like battery replacement, ensuring that they remain functional and relevant for years.
Pricing and Value Proposition
Priced at $229, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer a competitive feature set compared to similar premium earbuds. In India, the pricing is Rs. 22,900, positioning them as a premium option. Google occasionally offers promotions and discounts, especially during major shopping. These offers make the Pixel Buds Pro 2 more accessible and provide an opportunity for users to get a premium product at a reduced price. Best to buy from a deal.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are an excellent choice for users who value comfort, high-quality audio, and seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem. The advanced features, such as adaptive ANC, spatial audio, and customizable sound profiles, make them a versatile option for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
After evaluating all technical aspects, we highly recommend the Pixel Buds Pro 2 for purchase, especially for those who are already invested in the Google ecosystem. The comfort is best in class and possibly the best in the industry, making them a standout choice for long listening sessions. However, the lack of high-resolution audio options might be less attractive for audiophiles, particularly given the premium pricing in India. Despite this, for Google ecosystem users who are interested in the new Gemini features, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are a strong option, providing a well-rounded experience with advanced noise cancellation and seamless integration.