CMF by Nothing Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus review

As the name suggests - there’s no ‘Pro’ here - the CMF Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus are a step lower than the CMF Buds Pro 2 which was launched in 2024. The naming conventions can be a bit confusing, but consider these two headsets as a more ‘budget’ option meant for buyers looking at value. Understandably, there are a few features that get a skip on these new earphones.

While there is active noise cancellation, and the Buds 2 Plus also get LDAC Bluetooth codec support, there is a pretty significant change in the functionality of the charging case. The dial on the cases of the two new headsets doesn’t have any functionality such as volume or playback control, and is purely tactile - sort of like a fidget spinner. 

There is a loop to attach a cord if you want, but it does nothing else really. That’s not to say it isn’t nice to have, and is actually quite fun to fiddle with, and the Buds 2 Plus gets a slightly nicer dial. In classic Nothing and CMF fashion, it’s a rather nicely made charging case, with decent texture and shape, and convenient positioning of the useful bits such as the charging port and indicator light. 

 

 

 

 

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The CMF Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus earphones are practically identical in terms of design, but feature completely different colourways which help to differentiate between the two. The fit is comfortable and secure, with proper noise isolation to aid in the active noise cancellation. Both headset have touch controls, and have identical battery capacities for both the earpieces and the charging case. Both also get six microphones for ANC and voice, IP55 dust and water resistance, and multi-point connectivity for up to two devices simultaneously.

It’s the specification sheet that differentiates the CMF Buds 2 and CMF Buds 2 Plus. The Buds 2 has 11mm dynamic drivers with support for the SBC and AAC Bluetooth codecs, and up to 48dB active noise cancellation. The Buds 2 Plus gets 12mm drivers, LDAC Bluetooth codec support in addition to SBC and AAC, and 50dB active noise cancellation which promises to be ever-so-slightly better than on the Buds 2.

You might believe that CMF’s products are all about the looks, but there’s a fair bit of work that’s gone into making the Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus capable in practice as well. It’s also safe to say that the Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus aren’t similar, and there is an audible difference in performance with the more expensive Buds 2 Plus headset, both when it comes to sound quality and active noise cancellation.

The CMF Buds 2 come in slightly more adventurous colours, but are otherwise a bit more budget oriented. That said, the more affordable pair still holds its own when it comes to performance, offering workable active noise cancellation and decent sound. It’s a sonic signature that’s geared towards the lows, delivering a sound that’s warm but usually a way from sounding muddy. 

ALSO SEE: CMF Phone 2 Pro vs Nothing Phone 3a

Turning up the volume does also pronounce the bass a bit, so it’s best to listen at reasonable volume levels. Active noise cancellation comes in three different intensity levels, and works well enough for indoor and occasional outdoor use. It’s a good pair of earphones, but the CMF Buds 2 Plus is a fair bit better for just a bit more money.

Coming to the CMF Buds 2 Plus, there’s a clear and noticeable difference in the sound, most audible when you turn up the volume. Support for the LDAC Bluetooth codec seems to help here, as does the driver tuning which delivers a bit more definition and poise across volume levels. There’s still a definite push for the lows and bass is audibly punchy, but it doesn’t hold back the mids or highs in the slightest.

ALSO SEE: Nothing Phone 3a review

Understandably, the CMF Buds 2 doesn’t completely match up to more expensive options, including some from Nothing itself. However, it comes incredibly close on sound quality, despite a price tag is about half of most headsets with similar features and performance. Don’t expect sparkling clarity or revealing sound, but you’ll have it loud, intense, punchy, and enjoyable on the whole for most popular modern genres.

 

 

 

 

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Active noise cancellation is also a smidge better on the CMF Buds 2 Plus, although you’re unlikely to notice the difference in most situations. It seems to be a bit more effective in public transport, making listening to anything in general a bit easier even in loud spaces.

Battery life on both headsets is fairly decent, offering close to seven hours of listening per charge on the earpieces and an additional three charges from the boxy cases. Expect relatively fast charging as well, especially if you want a burst of quick power to go.

The CMF Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus are impressive for the price, and each seem to fit into specific niches. In a market as price sensitive as India, the CMF Buds 2 offers a lot, including useful features, good design, and decent performance at under Rs. 3,000. Get it if you have a firm budget cap and it fits into that.

Between the two though, the Buds 2 Plus is definitely better value for money. It obviously costs a bit more, but what you get for that additional Rs. 600 is noticeably better audio performance, especially when it comes to listening at high volume levels. ANC and other bits help as well, but get the CMF Buds 2 Plus if you can get your budget to just under Rs. 3,500.