Google Pixel Buds Pro Review: Better Than Last Year!

Google Pixel Buds Pro Review: Better Than Last Year!

Google's Pixel Buds Pro arrive with enhanced AI-driven audio quality, building on the success of the previous generation's 11 mm drivers, robust active noise cancellation, and commendable battery life. This year's model takes things up a notch with new features for an immersive audio experience. The question is whether the significant investment in these high-end earbuds justifies the price tag. This review explores every aspect to determine if they are the right choice for those seeking a premium audio experience.

Google's focus on AI-powered improvements makes these earbuds smarter and more capable than before. From clearer calls to adaptive sound and hearing protection insights, the Pixel Buds Pro aim to be more than just wireless earbuds. They are designed to integrate seamlessly into the Pixel ecosystem while remaining compatible with a wide range of devices.

Design and Build Quality

The Pixel Buds Pro maintain continuity with their predecessors, offering a familiar yet refined aesthetic. The iconic egg-shaped case remains, fitting perfectly in a pocket. The compact earbuds feature a minimalist in-ear design without additional connectors or ear locks found in other Google models. The case's robust magnetic seal ensures a secure closure.

The front displays a white LED for connection indications, contributing to a clean, uncluttered appearance. There is no logo on the back, providing a sleek finish. Colors include Bay, Porcelain, Charcoal, Limegrass, and Fog, all with a minimalist matte finish. While lacking the glossy allure of some competitors, the design exudes simplicity and practicality.

The earbuds weigh 6.2 grams each, and the case weighs 62.4 grams. Google emphasizes environmental responsibility through recycled plastic in the construction. The case has an IPX2 rating, resistant to water at a 15-degree angle or less, while the earbuds offer superior IPX4 protection against water and splashes from all directions. This dichotomy ensures resilience to the elements, though the case leans toward basic water resistance.

Comfort and Fit

The in-ear design sits comfortably for extended listening sessions. The lightweight construction reduces ear fatigue, and the multiple color options add personality. The matte finish resists fingerprints and looks understated. While the design is similar to last year's model, the comfort and build quality remain strong points.

Controls and App Usage

Touch controls remain consistent with the previous model. A single tap plays, pauses, and answers calls. Double-tapping advances to the next track or ends and rejects calls. Triple-tapping returns to the previous track. Touch and hold activates or deactivates active noise cancellation and transparency modes, and grants access to Google Assistant.

The companion Google Buds app complements the controls. It displays battery levels for both earbuds and case, and provides control over Adaptive Sound, in-ear detection, find device, Google Assistant, and spoken notifications. Users can customize touch settings, toggle Adaptive Sound, and manage notification preferences. The app adds meaningful value, turning the earbuds into a customizable audio tool.

Sound Quality and Performance

Sound quality is a highlight. The 11 mm speaker drivers produce powerful, nuanced music with a balanced profile. Highs are clear, mids are present, and bass is satisfying without overwhelming vocals. Music sounds lively without becoming harsh, and podcasts remain intelligible in noisy environments.

Active noise cancellation, enhanced by Silent Seal technology, effectively reduces background noise. The three-microphone array with AI algorithms ensures clear calls with double the bandwidth, making conversations more natural. Ambient and transparency modes let you hear your surroundings when needed. The overall performance is impressive, especially for users invested in the Google ecosystem.

Call Quality and Connectivity

Call quality is strong thanks to the AI-powered microphone array that reduces background noise. Multipoint connection allows pairing with two devices simultaneously, switching seamlessly between them. Bluetooth connectivity could be better, as some users report occasional drops, but for most scenarios it performs reliably. The earbuds support AAC and SBC codecs for broad compatibility.

Battery Life

Battery life is a standout feature. The Pixel Buds Pro offer up to 31 hours of total listening time with the charging case. A quick charge provides several hours of playback from just a few minutes. Individual earbud battery life is solid, and the case provides multiple full recharges. Wireless charging adds convenience, eliminating the need for cables. For users who forget to charge overnight, the long battery life and quick charging are genuine lifesavers.

Specifications at a Glance

• Drivers: 11 mm dynamic drivers
• Codecs: AAC, SBC
• Microphones: 3 with AI noise reduction algorithm
• Noise cancellation: ANC with Silent Seal, transparency mode
• Battery: up to 31 hours total with case, wireless charging
• Water resistance: IPX4 earbuds, IPX2 case
• Weight: 6.2 g per earbud, 62.4 g case
• Features: multipoint connection, Adaptive Sound, in-ear detection, find device, Google Assistant
• Colors: Bay, Porcelain, Charcoal, Limegrass, Fog

Verdict

The Google Pixel Buds Pro are a strong, well-rounded pair of premium true wireless earbuds. Their active noise cancellation, balanced sound, long battery life, comfortable design, and ecosystem integration make them compelling for Pixel users and Android enthusiasts. Bluetooth connectivity could be more reliable, and the design is similar to last year's model, but these are minor complaints. If you want a premium audio experience with smart features and long battery life, the Pixel Buds Pro are worth the investment.

FAQ

Does the Pixel Buds Pro have active noise cancellation?

Yes. It features active noise cancellation with Silent Seal technology and a transparency mode.

Are the Pixel Buds Pro waterproof?

The earbuds have an IPX4 rating for water and splash resistance. The case has an IPX2 rating.

How long does the battery last?

Up to 31 hours of total listening time with the charging case, plus wireless charging support.

Do the Pixel Buds Pro support multipoint connection?

Yes. They can connect to two devices simultaneously and switch between them.

Does it support wireless charging?

Yes. The case supports wireless charging for added convenience.

Who should buy the Google Pixel Buds Pro?

Users seeking premium sound, effective noise cancellation, long battery life, and seamless Google ecosystem integration.