The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 represents the tech giant’s latest attempt to perfect their wireless earbud formula. Building on the strengths of the original Pixel Buds Pro while addressing some of its shortcomings, these premium earbuds aim to compete directly with industry leaders like Apple‘s AirPods Pro and Sony‘s flagship models. After two weeks of testing across various scenarios, here’s my comprehensive verdict on Google’s newest audio offering.
Specs
- Driver Technology: 11mm dynamic drivers with custom transducer
- Bluetooth: 5.3 with Google Fast Pair and multipoint connection
- Active Noise Cancellation: Enhanced ANC with wind noise reduction
- Battery Life:
- 8 hours with ANC on (earbuds)
- 30 hours total with case
- 15-minute charge provides 4 hours of playback
- Water Resistance: IPX4 earbuds, IPX2 case
- Audio Features: Spatial audio with head tracking, Conversational Awareness
- Controls: Touch panels with customizable gestures
- Additional Sensors: In-ear detection, pressure relief vents
- Connectivity: Google Fast Pair, Audio Switching, FindMy support
- Weight: 6.2g per earbud, 52g case
Key Features
Advanced Noise Cancellation: The Pixel Buds Pro 2 features significantly improved ANC technology that adapts to your environment in real-time. Google has enhanced the algorithm to better cancel low-frequency rumbles and high-pitched noises, while a new wind-noise reduction system helps maintain clarity in blustery conditions.
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking: Google has introduced full spatial audio support with dynamic head tracking, creating an immersive surround sound experience that adjusts as you move your head, enhancing movies and supported music content.
Conversational Awareness: A standout feature that automatically lowers your music volume and enhances external voices when it detects you’re speaking or someone is talking to you, eliminating the need to manually toggle transparency mode.
Refined Google Integration: Seamless Google Assistant activation with hands-free “Hey Google” support, instant translation capabilities, and deep integration with Android devices provide a cohesive ecosystem experience similar to what Apple offers with AirPods.
Comfort-Focused Design: Redesigned ergonomics with pressure relief vents reduce the plugged-ear feeling during extended wear, while multiple ear tip sizes ensure a secure fit for different ear shapes.
Pros/Cons
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with rich bass and clear treble
- Best-in-class Google Assistant integration
- Impressive noise cancellation that rivals industry leaders
- Comfortable for extended wearing periods
- Strong battery life exceeding most competitors
- Seamless Android ecosystem integration
- Multipoint connectivity works reliably across devices
Cons
- Premium pricing puts them among the most expensive options
- Limited customization options compared to some competitors
- Bulkier case than some alternatives
- Some features limited to Android devices
- Touch controls occasionally too sensitive
Who Should Buy?
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 is ideal for:
- Android users seeking the most integrated wireless earbud experience
- Google ecosystem loyalists who use Google Assistant frequently
- Commuters and travelers who will benefit from the enhanced noise cancellation
- Audio enthusiasts who appreciate detailed sound but need practical features
- Professionals who take frequent calls and need clear microphone quality
These might not be the best choice for dedicated iOS users (who would benefit more from AirPods) or extreme budget-conscious shoppers who don’t need all the premium features.
Takeaways
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 represents Google’s most refined audio product to date, successfully addressing most criticisms of previous models while introducing genuinely useful new features. The improved noise cancellation now competes with industry leaders, while the sound profile strikes an excellent balance between consumer-friendly warmth and analytical detail.
What sets these earbuds apart is their thoughtful integration of Google’s AI capabilities—features like Conversational Awareness and enhanced translation feel genuinely useful rather than gimmicky. For Android users, particularly those with Pixel phones, these provide the seamless ecosystem experience that was previously Apple’s domain.
While the premium price point places them among the more expensive options, the comprehensive feature set and performance improvements justify the cost for those embedded in Google’s ecosystem. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 finally gives Android users a flagship earbud option that doesn’t feel like a compromise compared to what Apple offers its customers.
