OnePlus has announced new entry-level wireless earbuds to coincide with the global launch of its new flagship OnePlus 12 series. For example, this time last year, the OnePlus Buds 2 Pro wireless earbuds were announced at the same time as the OnePlus 11 series. However, we did not expect to see a new entry-level model below the price of the previous model, nor did we expect it to be packed with so many "pro" features.

OnePlus continually aims to push their models to the next level, and while the OnePlus Buds Pro 2 fell short in terms of overall sound quality for the price, the Buds 3 entry-level model is quite similar, bringing pro-style features at an exciting new price point. In fact, the feature set and specs we have seen so far may make it a strong contender for the best inexpensive wireless earbuds.

Battery life has been fairly consistent over the last few years for even the best wireless earphones, and mediocre capacity was one of my criticisms of the 2023 OnePlus Buds 2 Pro flagship earphones. However, according to specs published in a post on X (formerly Twitter), the OnePlus Buds 3 can provide 44 hours of playback on a full charge and 7 hours of listening on just a 10-minute charge.

Presumably this is the total capacity from the charging case with ANC turned off, but we will be able to clarify these specs in an upcoming review.

Of course, it is always desirable to have longer battery life if the additional features that have been hinted at are to be included. These include spatial audio support for 3D immersive listening, Bluetooth LE Audio, and the ability to handle 96 kHz audio sampling rates at up to 1 Mbps transfer rates from OnePlus phones and similarly compatible payback devices Includes high-resolution audio support with LHDC 5.0.

The dual dynamic drivers that take advantage of the high quality audio features are said to combine a 10.4mm woofer and a 6mm tweeter to deliver a frequency range of 15Hz to 40kHz. This is impressive sound comparable to OnePlus' flagship wireless earbuds, but even more appealing is the adaptive noise cancellation feature, which claims to block up to 99.6% of external noise and provide up to 49 dB of active noise cancellation.

The buds are IP55-rated dustproof and waterproof, providing ample protection from sweat when used at the gym or running. In addition, Bluetooth 5.3 is included for seamless connectivity.

The drop-stem design features improved sliding touch controls for more precise volume adjustment and is said to combine a metallic coating with a matte finish. Color options include "brilliant" blue and metallic gray.

The OnePlus Buds 3 wireless earbuds are priced at $99/£99 and are available for pre-order at the OnePlus store; they will ship on February 5.

Stay tuned for a review to be published soon.