Nothing’s recent foray into the affordable smartphone market with the Phone (2a) wasn’t their only play. They’ve also unveiled a new line of budget-friendly earbuds under their “CMF” series. Today, we’ll be focusing on the CMF Buds, a more affordable version of the Nothing CMF Buds Pro. With a price tag of Rs 2,499, these true wireless earbuds (TWS) compete in India’s fiercely competitive budget segment. Let’s see how they stack up against the competition.
Design & Build: Simple Yet Functional
The CMF Buds boast a clean and straightforward design, available in Dark Grey, Light Grey, and Orange. The charging case features a smooth, smudge-resistant matte finish and a rotary dial on top for attaching a lanyard (sold separately). Strong magnets keep the buds secure within the case, and the lid snaps shut firmly.
The case also sports a USB Type-C charging port, a pairing button, an LED indicator, and the “CMF” logo. The earbuds themselves combine matte and gloss plastic with an in-ear design. During testing, they provided a secure and comfortable fit, even while cycling on uneven terrain. Additionally, the CMF Buds boast an IP54 rating, making them resistant to light splashes of water and sweat.
While the earbuds and case are plastic, the matte finish elevates their look beyond their budget price point. However, the lack of a bundled lanyard is a minor oversight.
Touch Controls: Customizable for Your Needs
The top of each earbud stem houses touch controls for various functions:
- Play/pause playback
- Adjust volume
- Answer/reject calls
- Activate voice assistant
- Switch between noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency mode
These controls can be fully customized within the Nothing X app, allowing you to tailor them to your preferences.
Software and Features: Packed with Value
The Nothing CMF Buds pair seamlessly with your phone using the Nothing X app. This app unlocks a surprising array of features for a budget offering. Here’s a breakdown:
Customizable Touch Controls: As mentioned earlier, the app allows you to personalize the touch controls for each earbud.
Equalizer Presets: Choose from six preset EQ options to optimize the sound signature for different genres (e.g., bass boost, balanced, vocals).
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The CMF Buds offer ANC, a rarity in this price range. While not the most advanced system, it effectively reduces low-frequency ambient noise.
Transparency Mode: Need to stay aware of your surroundings? Transparency mode lets in external sounds, perfect for conversations or situational awareness.
In-Ear Detection: Playback automatically pauses when you remove an earbud and resumes when you put it back in.
This feature set is impressive for a budget TWS pair, offering functionalities often found in more expensive models.
Audio Quality: Balancing Price and Performance
Considering their price point, the CMF Buds deliver decent audio quality. The sound leans slightly towards the bass-heavy side, but the overall audio profile is balanced and enjoyable for casual listening. Don’t expect audiophile-grade detail, but for everyday use, they hold their own.
Call Quality: A Room for Improvement
Call quality is an area where the CMF Buds fall a bit short. While microphone clarity is acceptable in quiet environments, background noise can be noticeable during calls in noisier settings. If frequent calls are a priority, you might want to consider other options.
Battery Life: Lasting Throughout the Day
The CMF Buds offer a respectable battery life. The earbuds themselves last for about 4 hours on a single charge with ANC enabled, and the case provides an additional 2 additional charges, bringing the total playtime to around 12 hours. With ANC turned off, you can expect even longer playback time.
FAQs
Q: How do the CMF Buds compare to the Nothing CMF Buds Pro?
A: The CMF Buds Pro offers several advantages over the standard CMF Buds. These include:
- More advanced ANC technology for superior noise cancellation
- Longer battery life (up to 6 hours per charge with ANC on)
- Wireless charging capability
- Different color options
However, these features come at a price, with the CMF Buds Pro costing slightly more than the standard CMF Buds.
Q: Is the sound quality of the CMF Buds good for all music genres?
A: The CMF Buds’ sound profile leans slightly towards the bass-heavy side. While enjoyable for casual listening and genres like pop or hip-hop, audiophiles or those who prefer a more neutral soundscape might find them lacking in detail.
Q: How comfortable are the CMF Buds for extended wear?
A: The in-ear design and lightweight build of the CMF Buds generally provide a comfortable fit for most users. However, ear shapes vary, so it’s always recommended to try them in person if possible to ensure a good fit for extended wear.
Q: Are the CMF Buds waterproof?
A: No, the CMF Buds have an IP54 rating, which means they are resistant to light splashes of water and sweat. However, they are not submersible and should not be used in heavy rain or during showers.
Q: What’s the best way to clean the CMF Buds?
A: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the earbuds and charging case. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the delicate components.
