Nothing has recently launched the CMF Buds, a budget-friendly alternative to its CMF Buds Pro. Priced at just Rs. 2,499, these earbuds combine active noise cancellation (ANC) with a strong bass presence, wrapped in a unique and eye-catching design. But are they the right choice for budget-conscious audiophiles? Our in-depth review covers every aspect to help you decide.
Unboxing Experience
The CMF Buds come with a minimalist packaging approach, including the earbuds, a pair of small and large ear tips (medium pre-applied), and the necessary manuals and warranty card. The unboxing experience sets the stage for the simplistic and user-friendly design ethos of Nothing.
Design and Build Quality
The CMF Buds feature an attractively unorthodox design with a square case and a distinctive spinny wheel for a lanyard attachment. The matte finish of both the buds and the case not only adds to the visual appeal but also provides a comfortable, fingerprint-resistant touch. The vibrant orange color ensures these buds stand out in a crowd, adding a playful touch to the overall aesthetic.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is paramount with the CMF Buds, offering a secure fit suitable for long periods of use. Whether you’re commuting or working out, the right size ear tips ensure the buds stay in place, providing a seamless audio experience without the worry of them falling out.
Connectivity Features
With Bluetooth 5.3, Google Fast Pair, and Microsoft Swift Pair, the CMF Buds offer hassle-free connectivity. The feature of dual-device pairing stands out, allowing seamless switching between devices, enhancing the user’s multimedia experience.
Sound Quality
The sound profile of the CMF Buds is bass-heavy, catering to a specific audience preference. However, the Nothing X app provides the flexibility to customize the sound, making it adaptable for various listening tastes. Despite the strong bass, the potential for clearer mids and trebles exists, allowing for a more balanced auditory experience.
Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
The ANC feature of the CMF Buds effectively reduces ambient noise, offering an immersive listening experience. While the Transparency mode needs refinement, the ANC performance stands out, particularly considering the price point of these earbuds.
Battery Life and Charging
The battery life of the CMF Buds is adequate for daily use, with fast charging capabilities providing quick top-ups when needed. The compact and efficient charging case ensures that the buds are ready to go whenever you are.
Companion App Experience
The Nothing X app complements the CMF Buds, offering an intuitive interface for managing settings, customizing sound profiles, and updating firmware to enhance functionality.
Final Verdict
The Nothing CMF Buds offer an excellent balance of price, features, and performance. They stand out in the budget earbuds market with their unique design, effective ANC, and customizable sound. While there is room for improvement in sound clarity and transparency mode, the overall package is highly compelling for those seeking affordable, feature-rich TWS earbuds.
Discover more about the latest in TWS technology and how the CMF Buds compare by reading expert reviews on SoundGuys and compare with TechRadar’s take on similar earbuds for a broader perspective on TWS earbuds in the market.