Carl Pei's technology company Nothing has expanded its affordable sub-brand CMF with three new wireless earbuds, all featuring active noise cancellation and targeting different price points in the budget segment. The new lineup aims to make quality audio accessible to more consumers while maintaining a balance between performance, design, and smart features.
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| Introducing the CMF by Nothing Buds 2 Plus: Affordable quality audio at your fingertips |
Three Models for Different Budget Levels
The CMF Buds 2025 lineup consists of three distinct models: the entry-level CMF Buds 2a at $49, the mid-tier CMF Buds 2 at $59, and the premium CMF Buds 2 Plus at $69. Each model offers active noise cancellation technology, but with varying levels of effectiveness and additional features that justify their price differences. The strategic pricing puts these earbuds within reach of most consumers, with only $20 separating the base model from the top-tier option.
Battery Life and Performance
Battery life appears to be a significant differentiator between the three models. According to the specifications, the CMF Buds 2a offer up to 8 hours of playback time (extending to 35 hours with the charging case) with ANC turned off. The mid-range Buds 2 significantly improve on this with up to 13.5 hours of listening time (55 hours with the case), while the Buds 2 Plus push this even further to 14 hours (61.5 hours with the case). Curiously, Nothing hasn't disclosed battery performance figures with ANC enabled, which would be crucial information for potential buyers.
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| Close-up of the sleek design and features of CMF by Nothing Buds 2 Plus |
Sound Quality and Features
The CMF Buds 2 feature Dirac Opteo tuning and 48dB hybrid active noise cancellation, along with spatial audio effects. Moving up to the Buds 2 Plus adds support for the Hi-Res LDAC codec, hearing compensation features, and full EQ customization for a more personalized listening experience. The entry-level Buds 2a, while more basic, still offer 42dB active noise cancellation and feature 12.4mm bio-fibre drivers that the company claims deliver deep bass suitable for all-day listening.
Call Quality Improvements
Call quality also varies across the lineup. The Buds 2a come equipped with four HD microphones and use older voice processing technology. In comparison, both the Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus feature six HD microphones and employ more advanced voice algorithms, which should theoretically provide clearer calls and better wind noise reduction during conversations.
Design and Controls
The design of the earbuds, particularly the Buds 2 Plus, appears to be a stripped-down version of Nothing's more premium transparent earbuds. The charging case features a rotating dial that serves more as a fidget toy than a functional control, unlike the smart dial on previous models. The earbuds themselves have touch-sensitive controls on their stems for controlling playback, adjusting noise cancellation, or even activating voice assistants like ChatGPT.
Real-World Performance
Early hands-on experience with the Buds 2 Plus suggests they deliver decent audio quality for their $69 price point. They handle bass-heavy tracks and pop music reasonably well, though their active noise cancellation capabilities fall noticeably short of premium models that cost over $100. The ANC struggles with louder environmental noises like subway screeching, though this limitation is expected given the price point.
Availability
All three new CMF earbuds will be available for pre-order starting today, April 28, 2025, through Nothing's website and retail partners. General sales will begin on May 6, 2025. The CMF Buds 2a are priced at $49/£29/€39, the CMF Buds 2 at $59/£39/€49, and the CMF Buds 2 Plus at $69/£49/€59.
