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Nothing CMF Buds 2a vs QCY T9S: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Nothing CMF Buds 2a comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 78. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Nothing CMF Buds 2a - Great overall at around $42.

Score breakdown

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

Nothing CMF Buds 2a
Sound8.0
Noise cancelling7.5
Battery7.0
Calls6.5
Value9.0
QCY T9S
Sound6.5
Battery5.0
Calls7.0
Value7.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Nothing CMF Buds 2a vs QCY T9S
SpecNothing CMF Buds 2aQCY T9S
TypeTrue WirelessTrue Wireless
Price (USD)$42$25
HearWiki score78 / 100 · Great62 / 100 · Average
Released20242020
Audio
Driver12.4mm Bio-fibredynamic
Driver size12.4 mm6 mm
Drivers per side22
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz20Hz-20kHz
Sensitivity-104 dB/mW
Wireless
Bluetooth5.45.0
Bluetooth version5.45.0
CodecsAAC, SBCSBC, AAC
Multipoint pairingYesNo
Wireless range-10 m
Battery
Battery life8 h4.5 h
Battery life (ANC on)5 h-
Battery incl. case35.5 h20 h
Full charge time89 min120 min
Quick charge10 min = 5.5 h-
Wireless chargingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingYes-
ANC typefeedforwardnone
Transparency modeYesNo
Companion appYesYes
Custom EQYesNo
Wear detectionNoNo
Controlstouchtouch
Voice assistantYes-
Design
Weight4.28 g4.97 g
Case weight42.75 g31.2 g
Water resistanceIP54IPX4
Detachable cable-No
USB-CYesNo
Calls
Microphones41

What reviewers said

Nothing CMF Buds 2a

The Nothing CMF Buds 2a deliver a compelling mix of solid audio performance, adaptive noise cancellation, and long battery life at a very accessible price point. They are a practical pick for budget-conscious listeners who want reliable everyday earbuds with app-based customization, though they come with some expected trade-offs in materials and features.

  • Pro:Strong value for the price
  • Pro:Adaptive ANC with 42 dB reduction
  • Pro:Good battery life with case
  • Con:Plasticky build quality
  • Con:No in-ear detection
  • Con:Limited codec support (AAC, SBC)

QCY T9S

The QCY T9S are true wireless earbuds designed with sport wings for a secure fit, making them suitable for both workouts and daily use. They deliver an energetic, uplifting sound and perform well for calls, though their compact 6mm drivers and lack of features like ANC or transparency mode keep them firmly in the budget category. Overall, they're a decent pick for those with larger ears seeking affordable, versatile earbuds.

  • Pro:Secure sport-wing design for active use
  • Pro:Lively and engaging sound signature
  • Pro:Good call quality for the price
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or transparency mode
  • Con:Short 4-hour battery life per charge
  • Con:No USB-C or wireless charging

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

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