Budget earbuds. It’s a very difficult segment because you know compromises need to be made to keep the pricing low. But how big are these compromises? OPPO has a good track record when it comes to inexpensive earbuds. We received for review, OPPO Enco Air3, which is the successor of Air2 that was launched last year.
It's one of those few brands that have been working on new designs or at least something that distinguishes the earbuds from a sea of options. You get a translucent case that looks way better than the earlier version. The case is good to hold and slips into any trouser pocket. It has a glossy finish and I am not sure how long it can resist scratches. The buds themselves have excellent magnets to them, ensuring they don't fall out of the case. I liked how the case easily opens up and it's easy to work around the earbuds.
The earbud design mirrors Apple AirPods but then, most brands do this. One thing you need to remember is that this is an outer-ear design, so eartips are missing. Before you make a purchase, ask yourself if an outer-ear design suits you because once you buy it, there won’t be a way to attach eartips.
Good soundstage
Let’s talk about the things that really matter. First, there is IP54 rating, which means water resistance. Second, it has a 13.4mm driver, which is more than many rival brands. What is also important is how sound gets processed on the earbuds. There is a new digital signal processor that uses Tensilica Cadence HiFi 5 architecture. OPPO claims it has 25 times more processing power (over the previous generation) for more accurate performance. I am not sure about the 25-times more part but I do feel that the level of bass is quite good and it doesn’t overpower the overall sound. The technology also helps the earbuds offer better battery life.
The earbuds are light and fit well
Take for example the disco-pop of Lizzo. Listening to her album Special using this pair of earbuds, I am reminded of Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince’s Summertime and the flexibility of the beats. Or take the old-school drum ’n’ bass powering Ravin from Kelela’s new album. I In case you are not happy with the level of bass, you can increase it through the equalizer on the app.
What about voice calls? The good thing is that there is a degree of noise reduction using AI tech chops but in way of clarity, I would like to see more of it, especially in windy situations. Having eartips would have helped with that but implementing more AI-based algorithms may help.
Should you buy it?
You will get around six hours of battery life, which largely depends on the volume you prefer. In case you keep it around 50-60 per cent volume, it's achievable. Above 80 per cent, the sound quality remains more or less stable and the sound signature is enjoyable. With the case, you will get up to 25 hours of AAC music playback at 50 per cent volume. I wouldn’t suggest using these earbuds for gaming. There is also support for dual connection, so you can connect to two devices.
I am someone who gets worked up over losing earbuds but people will lose them, especially while exercising. Having an inexpensive pair of earbuds without making too many compromises on the sound helps. And that way, OPPO Enco Air3 is perfect for a digital beat workout.
At a glance
Use the HeyMelody app to get the most out of the earbuds
Device: OPPO Enco Air3
Price: Rs 2,999
High notes
- Good sound for a set of budget earbuds
- Well-thought-out design
- Excellent battery life
Muffled note
- Call quality can be improved upon
