Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 review: The bite-sized buds with one drawback
GOOGLE’s revamped premium earbuds pack a punch in a small package.
But do they live up to the hype? In this Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 review, I’ve tested them to see if they’re worth the investment.
Disclaimer: The Pixel earbuds are tailored for the Android market, and as such, full specifications were not accessible during the testing phase.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, £219
Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the latest addition to the popular Pixel audio series.
I’ve been testing out the best wireless headphones for running, and the Pro 2 Pixels hold their own in the Android camp.
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Released in 2024, these buds have been revamped with a host of improvements to the original , with improved audio and a sleeker, more refined design.
But are the new bells and whistles worth the steep asking price? I’ve used them for the past few weeks to find out.
As an iPhone user, I’m particularly curious to see how the Pixel Buds Pro 2 performs outside its native environment.
Read on to see if the can live up to the hype and its limitations.
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Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality
- Impressive noise cancellation
- Lightweight and comfortable for long-wear
- Minimalist, ultra-compact design
Cons:
- Limited functionality for iOS users (no transparency mode)
- Small size may not be ideal for all ear shapes
- On the pricier side for wireless earbuds
Rating: 4.5/5
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: how I tested
I’ve been giving Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 a thorough test drive over the past couple of weeks, swapping out my trusty AirPods to see how these Android earbuds stack up.
From sound quality to comfort and staying power, I’ve tested how they hold up in everyday situations.
They’ve accompanied me on everything from casual listening sessions to evening dog walks, and I’ve even taken them on a few weekend jogs.
If you’re considering giving them a try, keep reading for everything you need to know about how they perform in the real world.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: quick summary
Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 deliver impressive sound in a small package and excellent noise cancellation, making them a strong contender in the premium earbud market.
They’re lightweight, comfortable, and offer intuitive touch controls, with active noise cancellation rivalling Apple’s AirPods.
During exercise, the earbuds performed well in terms of comfort and sweat resistance, thanks to their IPX4 water resistance rating.
That said, their compact size and relatively small wing support didn’t always inspire confidence.
While they stayed in place most of the time, high-impact activities like running occasionally made them feel slightly unstable.
iPhone users face limitations, which is to be expected. But without a dedicated app, they miss out on key features like transparency mode and adaptive audio.
At £219, they’re a solid choice for Android users and a great option for those tied into Google’s ecosystem.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: full review
First impressions
This was my first venture into Google’s audio gear, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, though I’d heard some good things (no pun intended).
When the box arrived, I was struck by how small it was, and the Pixel Buds themselves were smaller than I’d imagined.
That aside, the minimalist design and classy porcelain colour give these buds a premium feel without being flashy.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, £219
As an iPhone user, I was braced for potential pairing pains, but it couldn’t have been easier.
I popped the earbuds in, opened my Bluetooth settings, and there they were, ready to go.
That said, while the setup was simple enough, I quickly discovered that some features aren’t available for iOS users, but more on that later.
Performance
It’s not every day an Apple user dips their toe into Android waters, so I’ll admit I approached the Pixel Buds Pro 2 with some trepidation.
I’ve tested plenty of headphones in my time, but none specifically designed with Android devices in mind.
On the whole, they impressed me, and they'd be a 5 out of 5 were it not for the limitations I faced with my iPhone.
Let’s start with the positives; I'm all about clean, fuss-free aesthetics, and the Pixel Buds Pro 2 nails it with its sleek, minimalist design that gets a big thumbs up from me.
Comfort is another win, as they sat snugly in my ears without ever causing that familiar ache that bulky earbuds tend to bring after long listening sessions.
Sound quality is where they shine, delivering a rich, well-balanced audio experience that makes them a solid choice for everyday listening.
The active noise cancellation (ANC) is top-notch and easily on par with what I’ve experienced from Apple’s offerings, plus it’s switched on by default.
That said, ANC has never been my favourite feature because, personally, it makes me hyper-aware of my breathing rather than helping me focus on the music.
So, while the ANC itself was solid, I missed being able to toggle transparency mode or adjust settings to suit my needs.
And here’s where my biggest gripe comes in: as an iOS user, I couldn’t access the full range of features.
There’s no Pixel Buds app for iPhone, which meant I couldn’t customise ANC, use adaptive audio, or enable a voice assistant like Google or Siri.
This limitation was especially noticeable when I wore the buds while walking the dog or exercising.
I rely on transparency mode to stay aware of my surroundings, and without it, I felt a bit disconnected, and not in a good way.
To be fair, this isn’t Google’s fault, these earbuds are designed with Android users in mind, much like Apple’s AirPods are optimised for iOS.
Still, it’s frustrating that cross-platform compatibility isn’t better.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, £219
Now, about the fit. On one hand, the earbuds were comfortable, and the IPX4 water resistance gave me peace of mind during workouts.
On the other hand, they’re very small, and while they stayed in place most of the time, I couldn’t shake the paranoia that they might fall out if I pushed things too hard.
The small wing for added support felt more decorative than functional, which made me a little hesitant to fully trust them for intense activities.
But let’s end on a high note: the battery life is fantastic, even with ANC on, I consistently got over 8 hours of listening time, which matches up with other premium earbuds.
The haptic touch controls were another standout. They’re responsive and intuitive; double-tap to skip tracks, single-tap to pause or play, and swipe to adjust the volume.
It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference in day-to-day use.
Audio Quality
When it comes to sound quality, I’ve got no real complaints; the Pixel Buds Pro 2 deliver impressive audio, especially given their size.
I wouldn’t call myself an audiophile, but even I could pick up on the deep, punchy bass in my favourite tracks, and the overall sound felt crisp and well-balanced.
I’d confidently put these up against my AirPods any day and wouldn’t hesitate to use them as a solid alternative.
The adaptive ANC does a decent job of blocking out background noise, though it’s not the most powerful I’ve come across.
And, as I mentioned earlier, being locked out of certain settings as an Apple user was a bit of a frustration.
But for Android users, that’s a non-issue, and if I weren’t so tied to my iPhone, I could easily see myself wearing these daily.
The sound quality alone makes them a strong contender at their price point
Design
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, £219
This is Google's second generation of Pro earbuds, and while I can’t compare them to earlier models, these deliver on wearability and looks.
The matte white charging case is smooth, sturdy, and compact enough to toss into your pocket without a second thought.
The earbuds are discreet and sit fully inside the ear, relying on a small wing for stability.
Google includes a selection of ear tips, from extra-small to large, so it’s easy to find a fit that works.
Admittedly, I’ve got generously sized ears, so I wasn’t entirely confident they’d stay put, but thankfully, they felt secure.
That said, the ear tip options might not cover everyone’s needs. I didn’t run into any issues, but it’s something to bear in mind.
How much are the Pixel Buds Pro 2?
The typically retail for £219, which feels fair for a premium offering from Google.
These earbuds have standout features, including impressive noise cancellation, and a stylish, modern design. If you’re after high-quality earbuds, they’re a solid bet.
However, they’re not the most budget-friendly option, so it’s worth watching out for deals.
I’d recommend keeping tabs on major sale events like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday, where you might score an even steeper discount.
Where to buy Google Pixel Buds
You can grab the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 directly from the official Google store, with the option to spread the cost over 24 months for just £9.13 a month.
The benefit of big-name brands like Google is you’ll find the Pixel Buds Pro 2 widely stocked, so shopping around for the best deal is definitely worth your time.
Here’s where you can find them:
Google Pixel Buds alternatives
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 have plenty to offer, but it’s always worth exploring the market to find the perfect match for your needs.
Whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to splurge, there’s something out there for everyone.
If you're keeping costs low, the is a steal at just £17.49. It delivers a secure fit and impressive battery life without breaking the bank.
For fitness enthusiasts, the is a top-tier choice. Typically priced at £219, they're currently available on Amazon for £199.
The strikes a perfect middle-of-the-ground buy at around £90, featuring an ear-hook for a secure fit and a familiar in-ear design.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: the verdict
Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 sound fantastic, block out noise as well as any other high-end offering, and feel great to wear, making them an easy win for Android users.
They handle workouts well on the durability front, though they’re not the most secure fit for high-impact exercise.
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At £219, they’re a top choice if you’re in the Android camp, and deliver value for money.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, £219