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Apple AirPods 3 vs OnePlus Buds Pro 4: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the OnePlus Buds Pro 4 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: OnePlus Buds Pro 4 - Great overall at around $130.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Apple AirPods 3
Sound7.5
Battery7.0
Calls8.0
Value7.0
OnePlus Buds Pro 4
Sound8.5
Noise cancelling8.0
Battery8.5
Calls7.5
Value9.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Apple AirPods 3 vs OnePlus Buds Pro 4
SpecApple AirPods 3OnePlus Buds Pro 4
TypeTrue WirelessTrue Wireless
Price (USD)$84$130
HearWiki score76 / 100 · Great84 / 100 · Great
Released20212026
Audio
Driverdynamicdual drivers; 11mm woofer + 6mm tweeter
Driver size-11 mm
Drivers per side21
Frequency response0Hz-0kHz10Hz-40kHz
Wireless
Bluetooth5.05.4
Bluetooth version5.0-
CodecsSBC, AACSBC, AAC, LHDC 5.0
Multipoint pairingNoYes
Latency-47 ms
Wireless range-10 m
Battery
Battery life6 h13 h
Battery life (ANC on)-7 h
Battery incl. case30 h45 h
Full charge time-70 min
Quick charge-10 min = 11 hours playback
Wireless chargingYesYes
Features
Active noise cancellingNoYes
ANC typenoneadaptive
Transparency modeNoYes
Companion appNoYes
Custom EQYesYes
Wear detectionYesYes
Controlsbothtouch
Voice assistantSiriyes
Design
Weight4.28 g4.73 g
Case weight37.91 g50.62 g
Water resistanceIPX4IP55
FoldableNo-
Detachable cableNo-
USB-CNoYes
Model code-OnePlus Buds 4
Calls
Microphones33

What reviewers said

Apple AirPods 3

The Apple AirPods 3 are a notable step up from earlier models, offering richer sound, longer playback, and a more secure fit, all wrapped in a familiar design. They excel at calls and integrate seamlessly with Apple devices, but their open fit and lack of noise cancellation mean they won't suit everyone, especially those seeking isolation or heavy bass. For Apple users upgrading from older AirPods, they're a solid choice, though competitors offer more features at similar prices.

  • Pro:Improved sound clarity and detail
  • Pro:Excellent call quality with multiple mics
  • Pro:Comfortable, secure fit for many
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Open fit lets in ambient sound
  • Con:Limited to Apple devices for full features

OnePlus Buds Pro 4

The OnePlus Buds Pro 4 are a well-rounded pair of true wireless earbuds that deliver impressive audio, adaptive noise cancellation, and strong battery life for their price. They're particularly suited for active lifestyles thanks to their IP55 rating and secure fit, with a feature set that includes multipoint, wireless charging, and customizable EQ. Overall, they offer excellent value and perform above their price point across most key areas.

  • Pro:Rich dual-driver sound with LHDC support
  • Pro:Effective adaptive ANC and transparency mode
  • Pro:Long battery life with wireless charging case
  • Con:Touch controls may require a learning curve
  • Con:No official mention of wear detection
  • Con:Slightly bulky case compared to rivals

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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