The new Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are here and promise an even better listening experience. But do the small in-ear headphones deliver what they promise? I have tested the Buds Pro 2 extensively over the last few weeks in order to be able to answer this question.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 in the color rose were provided by Google itself, thank you very much for that. However, this has no influence on the test result.
Scope of delivery
When you unpack the Pixel Buds Pro 2, you can expect a simple but high-quality design. In addition to the headphones themselves, the scope of delivery also includes the wireless charging case and four pairs of ear tips in different sizes to ensure a perfect fit. The included quick guide will guide you quickly and easily through the first steps.
The heart of the set is undoubtedly the wireless charging case. It’s not only a storage place for your headphones, but also a practical power bank. Thanks to the Qi standard, you can simply place the case on a wireless charging station and recharge your headphones on the go.
So that you can enjoy the best possible sound and wearing comfort, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 come with four pairs of ear tips in different sizes. Whether you have small or large ears, there is a suitable pair for everyone. The medium-sized ear tips are already attached to the headphones so you can try them out straight away.
What: Google
Specifications
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4; LE Audio, Super Wideband
- Speakers: Specially designed 11mm dynamic speaker driver
- Processor: Tensor A1
- Codec support: SBC, AAC, Opus
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours with ANC on, 12 hours with ANC off
- Laden: USB-C, Qi charging support
- Active noise cancellation with Silent SealTM 2.0
- App support: Pixel Buds-App
- Microphone: Three microphones per earbud
- Durability: Earbuds: IP54 housing: IPX4
- Mass: Headphone: 22.74mm × 23.08mm × 17.03mm at 4.7g; Charging case: 49.9 mm × 63.3 mm × 25.0 mm at 65 g (with earphones)
Design and comfort: smaller, lighter, better?
Google has launched a new attempt at creating the perfect wireless earbuds with the Pixel Buds Pro 2. The Buds are smaller and lighter than their predecessor, but do they offer the same comfort and sound quality?
The new Pixel Buds Pro 2 are more compact and lighter than their predecessors, which significantly increases wearing comfort. The new rubber wing ensures a secure fit in the ear. However, the touch controls can be a bit sensitive and the buds can move slightly when operated.
Visually, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are a real eye-catcher. The simple yet elegant design and bold colors make the buds a fashionable accessory. The workmanship is high quality and the charging case sits comfortably in the hand.
Quelle: Schmidtis Blog
Sound and noise cancellation: A significant leap
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 impress with a significantly improved sound. The bass is stronger, the treble is clearer and overall everything sounds more balanced. The new Tensor A1 chip ensures even better audio processing. Active noise cancellation (ANC) has also increased. Ambient noise is dampened more effectively and the transparency mode makes the environment sound more natural.
Compared to the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, they lack depth and clarity. The Samsung headphones score particularly well in the bass and treble ranges. However, the sound profiles of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 can be adjusted using the equalizer in the app, so you can optimize a lot here.
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The fit of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is a matter of taste. However, they fit me perfectly, the best of all the in-ears I’ve tested so far. There is no pressure in my ear, even after listening for a long time I don’t get any unpleasant feeling.
A clear plus point of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is the active noise cancellation; Google promises active noise cancellation that is twice as strong as its predecessors. It effectively filters out ambient noise and offers an excellent soundscape for music and podcasts. Even loud ambient noises are reliably dampened.
The new Silent Seal 2.0 technology is intended to effectively block out ambient noise. In practice, the noise suppression is convincing in many situations. Whether in the office, in a café or on public transport – the Pixel Buds Pro 2 create a pleasant quiet zone. The technology shows its strengths particularly at low frequencies.
Courage to color | Source: Schmidti’s blog
However, noise suppression reaches its limits at high frequencies. Shrill sounds such as a baby crying or a loud siren sometimes penetrate. Wind noise can also affect the sound quality in strong winds, but you can hear it very clearly when it gets a little gusty.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2’s transparency mode allows you to clearly hear surrounding sounds without having to remove the headphones. Whether crossing a street or talking to colleagues – the mode works reliably and offers natural sound reproduction. The main advantage here is that music playback pauses when you start a conversation.
Connection and Compatibility: Not quite perfect
Many features such as voice assistant integration and automatic adaptation to the environment are only available for Android users. iOS users have to forego some features. Therefore, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 can only be recommended to Android users.
The call quality of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is quite satisfactory in quiet environments. The interlocutor’s voice comes through loud and clear. In louder environments, however, background noise can impair speech intelligibility. Although Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) filters out most ambient noise, some noise comes through and can make conversation difficult.
Pairing with Android devices is incredibly easy thanks to Google Fast Pair. Apple users will also appreciate the seamless connection to their iOS and macOS devices.
The multipoint function allows you to connect to two devices at the same time. No matter whether Android or iOS – the Pixel Buds Pro 2 switch back and forth between the devices without any problems. The Bluetooth multipoint function is convenient, but the range could be better. If the distance is greater, the connection may be interrupted.
Gemini an Bord
The new Pixel Buds Pro 2 promise a new dimension in voice assistance with Gemini Live. But does reality live up to the promise?
Google also introduced a new voice assistant called Gemini Live with the Pixel Buds Pro 2. This should enable natural conversations and go far beyond the capabilities of conventional voice assistants. But how well does Gemini Live work in practice?
You can start a conversation with Gemini Live at any time with a simple “Hey Google, let’s talk.” The AI assistant is available for questions, discussions and even brainstorming. But the initial enthusiasm quickly gives way to disillusionment.
While Gemini Live is capable of answering complex questions and adapting to conversations, it quickly reaches its limits. The AI is formulated very carefully and avoids making clear statements on political or controversial topics. While this is understandable, it limits the opportunities for interesting conversations.
In addition to the content limitations, there are also some technical deficiencies. You cannot set reminders or send messages with Gemini Live. Integration into other apps is also still very limited.
Battery life
Battery life is a deciding factor for many of us when choosing new headphones. Google promises a battery life of up to 12 hours with Noise Canceling (ANC) disabled and 8 hours with ANC enabled. I can confirm these values. This means that you can easily get through the day on a single charge without constantly having to think about the next power outlet.
Anyone who is in a hurry will appreciate the quick charging function: just 5 minutes on the charger is enough for 1.5 hours of playtime. Perfect if you notice that the battery is empty shortly before leaving the house.
The included charging case offers additional charging cycles so you can always recharge your headphones on the go. According to the manufacturer, you can use the headphones for up to 48 hours with one battery charge in the case.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are a clear improvement over the first generation. The sound is excellent, the ANC function is convincing and the wearing comfort is high. However, there are still some weaknesses, such as limited iOS compatibility and the less than perfect Bluetooth range. For Android users who value good sound and easy operation, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are a good choice.
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