Calling all sound enthusiasts and tech-savvy folks! CMF, the sub-brand of Nothing, has unleashed the True Wireless Stereo ‘CMF Buds Pro’, and they’re packed with features that might just win you over. But are they worth your hard-earned cash? Let’s dive deep into the review.
Design and Aesthetics:
First things first, these buds aren’t shy about making a statement. The sleek, round case with a matte finish screams sophistication, while the metal hinge adds a touch of robustness. The case of the CMF Buds Pro takes the form of a hockey puck, especially in the Dark Gray variant, exuding a rugged appeal. While the Light Gray and scorching Orange options offer alternatives, the overall design and material choices of the CMF Buds Pro do not push any boundaries in the realm of industrial design.
A conveniently placed USB-C charging port sits beneath the hinge, and a pairing button hides inside the case.
While the case might feel a bit on the larger side, it certainly inspires confidence in terms of protection.
Comfort and Practicality:
Comfort and Practicality Boasting an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, the CMF Buds Pro prove comfortable for prolonged use. Their small, lightweight build, combined with soft and pliant silicone tips, sets them apart in terms of wearability within this price segment. Comfort is key, and the CMF Buds Pro don’t disappoint. They snugly fit your ears without feeling loose or uncomfortable, even during intense workouts. This makes them a perfect choice for active individuals.
Sound Quality:
Strap yourselves in for an immersive audio experience. The CMF Buds Pro boast deep, punchy bass thanks to the 10mm liquid crystal polymer (LCP) and polyurethane (PU) bass driver in each earbud. The treble is crisp and clear, though some might wish for a touch more sparkle. Don’t worry about call quality either – the six built-in microphones (three per earbud) ensure your voice comes through loud and clear during calls and audio recordings.
Equipped with a single dynamic liquid crystal polymer + polyurethane driver and supporting SBC and AAC codecs over Bluetooth 5.3, the CMF Buds Pro showcase a v-shaped tuning. The aggressive bass response, compromised low mid-range, and occasional hot upper mid-range and treble contribute to an energetic yet imperfect audio profile. Despite the ANC’s impact on the sound, the overall performance proves good.
Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode:
CMF brings noise-cancelling with three distinct modes: low, medium, and high. Each mode effectively shuts out unwanted ambient noise, letting you truly soak in your music or podcasts. And when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, the transparency mode comes in handy. However, this feature works best during calls or music-free moments. While it allows loud sounds like honking to pass through, other vehicle noises tend to get filtered out. So, using it on busy streets or while driving isn’t recommended. Overall ANC is good on these buds for the price point they’re at.
Connectivity:
These earbuds seamlessly connect to your smartphone, laptop, or other compatible devices the moment you open the case. This magic is thanks to a trifecta of tech heroes: Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, and Bluetooth 5.1. Bonus points for the smart sensor that automatically plays or pauses music when you take the earbuds out of your ears. Pairing process is easy and super fast.
Battery Performance:
The CMF Buds Pro deliver up to 11 hours of playtime without ANC and a solid 7 hours with ANC on. But the real star of the show is the case. With ANC activated, it provides 17-20 hours of additional playtime, and without ANC, it stretches to a whopping 36-38 hours. And even when drained, these bad boys only take around 2.5 hours to fully recharge.
App Customizations:
The Nothing X mobile app seamlessly integrates with these earbuds, allowing you to adjust the equalizer for bass, mid-tones, treble, and more. You can even customize the touch controls for each earbud (left and right), setting single taps, double taps, triple taps, tap & holds, and double tap & holds to your preferred commands.
The Verdict:
So, should you buy them? Absolutely! The CMF Buds Pro are a compelling option for budget-conscious audiophiles looking for long-lasting battery life, effective ANC, comfortable fit, and customizable controls. While the transparency mode could be improved, the overall package is impressive. If you’re seeking stylish earbuds with substance, the CMF Buds Pro deserve a serious look.
