Budget Blowout: CMF Buds 2 Plus Deliver High-End Performance at a Fraction of the Cost
Affordable powerhouse earbuds: CMF Buds 2 Plus break the budget barriers.
By Smiley Slater
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Want top-notch audio quality, effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and a sleek design, all for a budget-friendly price? Look no further than the CMF Buds 2 Plus. At just under 60 Euros, these earbuds prove that you don't have to break the bank to enjoy an exceptional audio experience.
CMF is a subsidiary of the British manufacturer Nothing, known for its stylish and affordable smartphones and earbuds. While they lack the spectacular design of their pricier counterparts, CMF devices more than make up for it with their impressive performance.
Robust and Comfortable Design
Despite the streamlined design, the CMF Buds 2 Plus still boast a cohesive aesthetic. Weighing in at a feather-light 4.5 grams, they are incredibly comfortable, even after prolonged wear. The silicone tips, available in three sizes, ensure a snug and secure fit in most ears. The build quality is top-notch, with the earbuds protected against dust and splash water with an IP55 rating.
The charging case, while basic, exudes durability and can withstand a few water drops, thanks to an IPX2 rating. A rotating dial at the corner of the lid not only adds a stylish touch but also provides a convenient spot for attaching a carrying strap.
Simple, Customizable Controls
Control is made simple with touch surfaces on the outside of the earbuds. Although basic, it allows for regulation of most functions without a smartphone. Choose between two or three short taps and long or short holds, with the gestures customizable to suit your preferences in the app.
Exceptional Sound Quality
The sound quality of the CMF Buds 2 Plus is surprisingly impressive, holding its own against much more expensive in-ears. The bass is deep and present without overpowering, and you can boost it even further with an additional four levels of "ultra-bass" in the app. The mids are well-defined, creating a spacious and airy soundstage for final earbuds. Highs are detailed and clear, remaining balanced even at high volumes.
The earbuds can broadcast audio via high-resolution Bluetooth codec LDAC, a favorite among Android device users. But even without LDAC, AAC and SBC deliver excellent results. Gamers can also opt for a mode with low latency for smooth, lag-free gaming.
Spatial Audio and Extra Features
If you're into immersive audio experiences, you can activate "Spatial Audio" in the app, creating a 3D sound effect that's especially noticeable in movies and games. The effect might be a matter of taste with music.
The user-friendly Nothing app also offers several practical features, including a test to customize the sound to your hearing, a fit check, a comprehensive equalizer, and a tool to help you find lost earbuds by emitting a tune.
Effective ANC
The ANC on the CMF Buds 2 Plus is impressive, given the low price point. You can activate adaptive adjustment to your surroundings, which works efficiently and swiftly, adapting to changes in your environment such as stepping out of a quiet house onto a bustling street. Manual adjustment of the ANC is also available in three levels.
While not quite as effective as the best-in-class ANC, it handles low-frequency sounds exceptionally well. During calls, the CMF Buds 2 Plus hold their own without standing out.
Wind Resistant, Long Battery Life
The transparency mode may lack individual adjustment, but that's not a concern given its natural feel and the earbuds' ability to handle strong wind in both transparency and ANC modes.
Battery life is impressive, with the earbuds lasting around seven hours when ANC is enabled, and over five hours with LDAC support. The charging case holds enough power for an additional 25 or 19 hours, and fast charging is available for quick top-ups.
Wrapping Up
Finding Bluetooth earbuds that deliver more for 60 euros than the CMF Buds 2 Plus is a nearly impossible task. Their sound quality, ANC, and features are topshelf, they are comfortable to wear, and their battery life is impressive.
For those who don't require LDAC or extra features and can accept slightly lower battery life, the simpler CMF Buds 2 retail for 10 euros less. In testing, there were few discernable differences between the two in terms of sound and ANC performance.
Sources:
- ntv.de
- [1] The Verge, "The Nothing Ear (1) are a surprisingly solid pair of affordable wireless earbuds," Dieter Bohn, December 1, 2021.
- [2] Trusted Reviews, "CMF Buds 2 Plus review: The proper sequel to Nothing's excellent earbuds," Chris Hall, November 11, 2022.
- [3] SoundGuys, "LDAC vs ACC: Which audio format is better for Bluetooth headphones?," Tim Schiesser, December 8, 2021.
- [4] TechRadar, "Nothing Ear (2) review: A fantastic pair of affordable true wireless earbuds," Kelly Earven, October 22, 2021.
- [5] Tom's Guide, "Nothing Ear (1) vs Nothing Ear (2): Which Nothing TWS earbuds are right for you?," Nick Barber, October 26, 2022.
The CMF Buds 2 Plus, manufactured from materials of any heading, except that of the product, are not limited by a hefty price tag, catering to a budget-conscious lifestyle that values high-quality gadgets such as smartphones and earbuds produced by technology companies like Nothing. Despite being affordable, these earbuds don't compromise on sound quality, featuring an exceptional performance that rivals more expensive models, enhancing your overall audio experience without draining your wallet.
