It took four years for Google decided to launch a new version of its affordable wireless earbuds series aat least compared to the other model available in its catalog, the Pixel Buds Pro 2. But the truth is that the Pixel Buds 2a They represent a significant leap in value that It is very close to what the top model offers and for 100 euros less. More than the competition, the one who should be worried is Google itself, because if any product threatens to cannibalize sales, it is the Buds Pro 2.
The Buds 2a are very similar to these in almost everything and provide a very similar experience that makes it difficult to justify the expense of €249 in the model launched a year ago now. They have a practically identical design and the same ergonomics. Except for the color – a dark gray that Google calls moss green or a cute lilac color – and because the G for Google It is more prominent in the 2a, it is very easy to confuse them. Furthermore, the charging casea little wider and less tall, also shares the same appearance and is valid for both models.
And they have few characteristics that differentiate them. They both use the same Tensor G1 processor and a dynamic transducer (the miniature speaker in a headphone) whose diaphragm measures 11 millimeters in diameter. Google claims that it has redesigned the acoustics of the Buds 2a and the truth is that they offer a sound quality that differs little from the Buds Pro 2, which has a little more punch. But come on, it is difficult for the average consumer to be disappointed in this aspect.
Additionally, the Buds 2a are the first in the a series to incorporate active noise cancellation (ANC). Here the technology is called Silent Seal 1.5while in the Buds Pro 2 Google uses Silent Seal 2.0but, again, there are no appreciable differences and both are very effective. The Buds 2a also offer a clearer sound on calls thanks to AI and the possibility of using GeminiGoogle’s chatbot.
If we look at the differences that justify the price jump of 100 euros, there are few. The main one, the autonomy. The 30 hourswith the charging case, of the top model remain in 20 on the Buds 2a. They also lose the wireless chargingthe option to slide your finger on the earpiece to lower or raise the volume -something really practical-, and functions that the Buds Pro 2 have just received through a firmware update, such as the Adaptive Audiowhere the device automatically switches from ANC to ambient sound depending on the context, and the protection against loud noise. Lastly, the spatial audio It does not follow the movement of the head like the Buds Pro 2.
Leaving aside, perhaps, the autonomy, it is difficult for the rest of the characteristics that are gained in the Buds Pro 2 can be decisive in choosing them.
In summary, the Pixel Buds 2a offer a superior value for money to the Buds Pro 2which are still some excellent headphonesbut now they are seen lackluster by Google’s new offer. By €149you get everything important of what it costs €249which points to a sales success.