Introduction
The true wireless earbuds market is fiercely competitive, with brands like Apple, Sony, and Samsung dominating. However, Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 2 has emerged as a strong contender, offering active noise cancellation (ANC), high-resolution audio, and a sleek design. But does it live up to the hype? In this in-depth Huawei FreeBuds Pro 2 review, we’ll examine its sound quality, battery life, comfort, features, and how it compares to rivals like AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM4.
Huawei FreeBuds Pro 2: Key Specifications
Before diving deep, here’s a quick look at the specs:
- Drivers: Dual drivers (11mm dynamic driver + planar diaphragm)
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Up to 47dB reduction
- Battery Life: 6.5 hours (ANC off), 4 hours (ANC on) + 30 hours with case
- Bluetooth: 5.2, supports LDAC, AAC, SBC codecs
- Water Resistance: IP54 (splash-proof)
- Microphones: 3 mics per earbud + bone sensor for clear calls
- Weight: 5.1g per earbud, 52g case
Design & Comfort: Premium Build, Secure Fit
Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 2 features a glossy pebble-shaped charging case with a matte finish on the earbuds themselves. The stem design resembles AirPods Pro, but with a more angular look.
- Ergonomics: Comes with 3 silicone ear tip sizes for a snug fit.
- Controls: Touch & squeeze gestures for playback, ANC toggle, and volume.
- IP54 Rating: Protects against sweat and light rain.
Verdict: Comfortable for long sessions, though some may prefer a fully matte finish to avoid fingerprints.
Sound Quality: Dual Drivers Deliver Rich Audio
The dual-driver setup (dynamic + planar) provides crisp highs, deep bass, and a wide soundstage.
- LDAC Support: Enables high-res audio (up to 990kbps) for Tidal, Deezer HiFi.
- EQ Customization: Adjust via Huawei AI Life app.
- Comparison:
- vs. AirPods Pro 2: More bass-heavy, better for EDM/hip-hop.
- vs. Sony WF-1000XM4: Slightly less ANC but more balanced sound.
Verdict: One of the best-sounding TWS earbuds under $200.
Active Noise Cancellation: How Effective Is It?
Huawei claims 47dB noise reduction, competing with Sony and Bose.
- ANC Performance: Blocks low-frequency hums (airplanes, traffic) well but struggles with sharp noises (baby cries, keyboard clicks).
- Transparency Mode: Natural-sounding, good for conversations.
Verdict: Top-tier ANC but not class-leading.
Battery Life & Charging
- Single Charge: 4-6.5 hours (ANC on/off).
- With Case: Up to 30 hours total.
- Fast Charging: 10 mins = 3 hours playback.
- Wireless Charging: Supported.
Verdict: Decent but not outstanding (Sony WF-1000XM4 lasts longer).
Call Quality & Connectivity
- Microphones: 3 mics + bone sensor for clear voice pickup.
- Bluetooth 5.2: Stable connection, minimal latency for videos.
Verdict: Great for calls, better than AirPods Pro 2 in windy conditions.
Software & Features
- Huawei AI Life App: EQ adjustments, ANC modes, firmware updates.
- Dual-Device Pairing: Switch between phone and laptop seamlessly.
- Find My Earbuds: Helps locate lost earbuds.
Verdict: Feature-rich but app limited on non-Huawei phones.
Price & Alternatives
- Price: ~150−180 (often on sale).
- Alternatives:
- Sony WF-1000XM4 ($278): Better ANC, longer battery.
- AirPods Pro 2 ($249): Smoother iOS integration.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro ($229): Strong ANC, good for Android.
Verdict: Best value for audiophiles on a budget.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Huawei FreeBuds Pro 2?
✅ Pros:
- Excellent sound quality (LDAC support).
- Strong ANC for the price.
- Comfortable, premium design.
❌ Cons:
- Battery life could be better.
- App functionality limited outside Huawei ecosystem.
Who Should Buy It?
- Android users wanting high-res audio without breaking the bank.
- Commuters needing good ANC.
Who Should Skip It?
- iPhone users (AirPods Pro 2 integrate better).
- Those needing all-day battery life.
Where to Buy?
Check latest deals on:
- Amazon (often discounted)
- Best Buy
- Huawei’s Official Store