The Google Pixex Buds 2a are the latest addition to the Pixel line up and a welcome addtion coming in at an affordable price bringing ANC on board which is actually great you will see this the minute you put them on, well I did in my case anyway and on first setting up you will be prompted to do an update.
Before moving on you should look through the app and check the seal is correct and you have the right tips in for the best experience. There is a simple seal test to take and should be done it takes seconds.
The 2a adopts a compact, lightweight design that closely mirrors the higher-end Pro model, making them noticeably smaller than their A-Series predecessors. The highlight of the physical design is the twist-to-adjust stabilizer, a small, semi-circular fin that secures the bud in the outer ear, offering both all-day comfort and a secure fit for exercise.
They boast an IP54 rating for the earbuds (sweat and water resistant) and an IPX4 rating for the case, making them durable companions for daily commutes and workouts. The pebble-shaped charging case is small and pocketable, though it now charges exclusively via USB-C, dropping the wireless charging feature found in previous premium models.
There is also a replaceable battery in the charging case, a fantastic move toward repairability and extending the product’s lifespan.
The Pixel Buds 2a are powered by the Google Tensor A1 chip and feature a custom-designed 11mm dynamic speaker drivers. The audio profile is generally clear and well-balanced, with a satisfying, punchy bass response that doesn’t overwhelm the mids or highs. Users can fine-tune the sound signature using the five-band equalizer in the Pixel Buds app. There is no tinny sound either when maxed out on volume or lag latency notice during my testing and calls clear.
The inclusion of Spatial Audio is a win for immersion, though it only works on newer Pixel devices and does not support the head-tracking feature of the Pro model but still work well after my testing.
For the first time in the A-series line, the 2a includes Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal 1.5. This feature is surprisingly capable for a mid-range bud, effectively drowning out low-frequency rumbles like vehilces and airplane noise.
Transparency Mode also performs well, letting in environmental noise naturally for situational awareness this ideal for those who commute of for those who jog or walk late at night or early mornings in the dark.
Smarts
- Gemini AI: They offer hands-free access to Gemini (Google’s AI assistant) by simply saying “Hey Google” or using a press-and-hold gesture. This integrates deeply with your phone for real-time information retrieval, directions, and more.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth Multipoint allows connection to two devices simultaneously, and Audio Switch handles seamless transitions between compatible Pixel devices (phone, watch, tablet) based on what you are listening to.
- Clear Calling: Google’s AI-powered call technology, enhanced by wind-blocking mesh, delivers clear voice pickup, even in noisy outdoor environments.
Overall for the money here you cant go wrong and if you are into a ecosystem of products and you have a pixel device like the watch and phone you will love them and how seamlessy everything works.
The App
Features
- Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal™ 1.5 + Transparency Mode
- Twist-to-adjust stabiliser for a secure, personalised fit
- Google Tensor A1 chip for enhanced audio and call clarity
- Immersive sound with 11 mm dynamic speaker driver and spatial audio
- Clear Calling and hearing wellness alerts
- Hands-free Gemini voice assistant with Live Extensions
- Up to 27 hours of total listening time with charging case
- Replaceable charging case battery for long-term use
- IP54 sweat and water resistance
- Made with recycled materials and 100% plastic-free packaging
