Pixel Buds Pro 2 Review: Google’s Smartest Earbuds Sound Great and Feel Comfy but There’s One Big Caveat

They also offer multipoint connectivity and supports Google's Fast Pair and Find My Device. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the smartest earbuds on the market thanks to Gemini Live, which gives you access to Google Assistant and ask various queries by simply saying, " Ok Google, let's talk."

Gemini Live does have its limitations and can't be used to set reminders or send texts. It can answer some basic questions, although the replies aren't always helpful. However, it does have immense potential and could be one of the highlights of the Buds Pro 2 in the future. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also support Spatial sound on some Pixel phones.

Google's Conversation Detection feature switches between ANC and transparency for unexpected interactions, but the transition isn't always smooth. It activates only when you speak, which can be inconvenient-like when singing along to your favourite track, as it triggers transparency mode.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 can be paired with Bluetooth 5.4 and offer a nice wireless range. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 come with Bluetooth LE and Super Wideband for better connectivity, but they only support basic audio formats like AAC, SBC, and Opus with HD audio. Adding advanced, lossless options like LDAC or LHDC would have been a welcome improvement for audiophiles.

Software

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 can be used on both Apple and Android devices, although app support is only available on the latter. The app comes with an equalizer with five presets. Additionally, you can also check battery percentage or switch between the noise cancellation, transparency, or turn both off. You can also toggle Conversation Detection, Multipoint support, and touch controls through the app.

Pixel Buds can connect to an iPhone via Bluetooth, but only with basic functionality and no feature customization. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also features easily accessible touch controls to adjust volume, control playback, switch tracks, answer calls, adjust noise cancellation and transparency modes, and more. Moreover, the touch controls can be cusomtised as per your convenience through the app.

Performance

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 deliver an impressive listening experience, thanks to new drivers and Google's upgraded Tensor A1 chip. While they don't support high-end LDAC or AptX codecs, Google sticks with AAC and SBC, which still sound great for most listeners. I especially enjoyed how they handled acoustic, rock, and pop music.

The sound is clear and natural, with detailed vocals and a solid bass that's powerful but not overwhelming. Instruments stand out clearly, even in complex tracks, and the improved treble adds energy to upbeat songs. I found the balanced sound profile perfect for most genres, though you can tweak it with the equalizer.

Spatial audio makes movies and shows feel more immersive, though I didn't use it much for music. Despite lacking a dual-driver setup found in pricier earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 deliver rich, punchy sound that's sure to please. Overall, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 sound excellent across various genres.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 handle calls well, with clear sound on both ends, though windy conditions can affect voice clarity. Beamforming mics perform decently, and features like super wideband and Clear Calling enhance quality but require newer Pixel phones. Video and gaming calls sound great, and a future Voice Isolation update could further improve call performance.

ANC and Transparency Modes

Google also steps up its game with noise cancellation on the Pixel Buds 2 Pro. The combination of the new A1 chip, larger mics, and a tight in-ear seal results in solid passive noise cancellation. Moreover, turning on ANC tunes out most ambient sound.

While jogging, the earbuds cancelled out most noises apart from the honks of passing vehicles. Noise cancellation here significantly reduces the roaring of engines, offering an immersive listening experience. When switching to transparency mode, background noises sound more natural, making it easy to forget you're wearing earbuds.

Battery

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 is touted to deliver up to eight hours of battery life with ANC. I found Google's claims to be more or less accurate, which is quite impressive. Moreover, the case also holds around 30 hours of battery life, taking the total to around 38 hours.

However, turning off active noise cancellation increases the overall battery life by around 10 hours with the case. The case also supports fast charging, offering up to 1.5 hours of playback without ANC on a 5-minute charge. Additionally, the Buds Pro 2 also supports Qi-wireless charging.

Verdict

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer a premium listening experience with clear sound, punchy bass, and natural vocals, though audiophiles may need to fine-tune the equalizer for the best results. The improved ANC, comfortable fit, and advanced features like multipoint connectivity and spatial audio enhance their appeal.

However, the lack of lossless audio codecs and some quirks with conversation detection may deter purists. Although the biggest caveat here is the lacklustre iOS support. These are clearly not intended for Apple users. At ₹22,900, they're pricey but deliver solid performance, especially for Android users. If you prioritize balanced sound, seamless integration with Google features, and excellent battery life, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are worth considering.