If the easy integration with Android and Google Assistant appeals to you about the Google Pixel Buds A-Series, try the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2. The Google Pixel Buds A-Series really aren't audiophile-grade earbuds and don't hold up to the highest-end earbuds in terms of audio quality. The buds, meanwhile, are incredibly small and stay in your ears with the help of a little nub-like protrusion that rests inside the outer ear.

The Pixel Buds A-Series aren't the end-all, be-all in terms of great-sounding true wireless earbuds, but they are a big step up from the bass-less Pixel Buds 2. The case supplies an extra 13 hours of playtime (ANC on), and you can recharge the case via USB-C or wireless charging mat—the latter of which is absent from the A-Series. On average, people check their smartphones almost 100 times a day, and more than half of those interactions—playing a song, setting a reminder or getting directions—are less than 30 seconds. Most people wouldn’t notice a difference between codec performance on the A-Series, particularly if you’re streaming lossy audio.Pixel Buds Pro was the first generation to introduce Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes; in ANC mode, the Pixel Buds Pro will reduce background noise, while in transparency mode, the Pro will amplify external noises to facilitate conversations without removing the earbuds. After placing your earbuds in their pockets, secure the cord by wrapping it around the rim of the charging case so you can carry Pixel Buds while they are charging. You don’t have much choice in the matter: Google makes you download the Pixel Buds app (Android only). Pros: small, stable, open fit with eartip, good sound, good case, solid battery life, good gestures, Fast Pair, Google Assistant, USB-C, AAC. The Pixel Buds charging case can charge via USB-C, or you can charge wirelessly (without paying as much for AirPods with the wireless charging case).

Voices come through sounding more or less like how they sound in real life, with a drop in overall resolution. The treble frequencies past 3kHz are a little wonky, while mids and bass below 400Hz are surprisingly quiet. Google Assistant activates through voice commands or by pressing and holding either earbud’s G logo. The box and supplied guide provide very little information for a company whose mainstay is organizing information. You cannot replace the battery either, which makes them ultimately disposable and loses them a star.However, if you’re deep into Google’s Android ecosystem, you won’t hate these earbuds — you may like other pairs better. The first-generation Pixel Buds consist of two earbuds linked by a fabric-covered cord, which connect wirelessly over a Bluetooth 4.

Like the majority of true wireless earbuds, the Pixel Buds are not repairable, making them ultimately disposable. The earbuds are slightly smaller and the stabilising wing is a little softer, which makes them a bit more comfortable to wear than their predecessors.The buds hold enough power for up to five hours of listening time (or, heaven forbid, two and a half hours’ talk time), and the case has enough juice for up to four charges, giving around 24 hours of charge all-in.