OPPO might make some decent smartphones across multiple price points, but it’s worth noting, that they’ve gotten pretty good at earphones too. We checked out the Enco X2 earbuds last year and were pleasantly surprised. Put it this way; I still use them as my daily drivers.
The OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro earbuds might sound fancy, but they’re actually one of the newer entry-level models out there, and certainly more affordable at an enticing A$99. While they don’t include any noise-cancelling perks or software support for the sake of customisation, they do provide some decent audio quality with a generous amount of bass, along with impressive battery life and a sleek and stylish design.
Design
The OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro feels like a safe bet at times, but it’s hard to argue with the results. The pill-shaped charging case is lightly specked for a textured look. There is a single light up front indicating active charge and battery life, along with a USB-C port around the back.
Inside, the two-tone colourway is a nice touch. We got a look at the Granite White option, which seems to be the only colour available for purchase at this time. I like the inner side of the buds being grey and the outer edge white, as it creates a great contrast, without highlighting the discolouration that these can get over time. Trust me, I tried my hardest to keep my AirPods (and ears) clean, but it just doesn’t last.
Other than this sleek design feeling comfortable in the ears, there’s not really much to write home about. That’s not necessarily a criticism, and I do respect OPPO playing things safe here. Unfortunately, however, OPPO is now removing pretty much everything else from their earbuds, including a charging adapter and cable, so you’ll need to have something ready to charge these at home.
Sound
The OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro earbuds pack in 12.4mm dynamic drivers, which is actually quite impressive for earbuds at this price. It provides a larger, broader soundstage with deeper levels of bass, which for the most part, work a treat. The bass is probably the best thing about it, with lower levels feeling relatively full and bouncy.
The mids are also decent, but I feel as though the higher notes get a little lost at times. I’m going to chalk it up to the bass overpowering those levels that the driver can’t compensate for, but I’ll give it a pass as the overall crackling and distortion is nonexistent.
You won’t find any noise cancelling here, which is to be expected, but the overall fit does a great job of isolating noise while remaining nice and snug in the ear. The package does include small and large silicone tips inside, with the medium tips on and ready to go as standard.
It’s admittedly a great everyday option for most music genres, that provides a nice, comfortable fit and quality sound. Bass lovers will be surprised, even if you won’t get the noise cancelling at this price.
Battery & Performance
With 8 hours of battery life from the buds themselves and a total of 38 hours of listing time via the charging case, you’ll be hard-pressed to find much better at this price. While the mileage can vary between listing times and call times, you’re bound to get around 7 hours of listing time from the buds with balanced use, which is still super impressive.
That reduction in battery life most likely stems from the Dual Mic and AI Clear Call Algorithm, which works automatically to block out background noise and amplify your voice during phone calls. It also works pretty well but can halve battery life to 4 hours, if you’re doing nothing but taking calls.
They’re also a great option for working out, complete with an IP55 water and swear resistance rating. While I wouldn’t be jumping into a pool or taking a shower with these anytime soon, it’s nice to know a hearty workout or walk in the rain won’t ruin the experience.
The OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro also provides lossless gaming with a 94ms response time, mainly thanks to the latest generation Bluetooth 5.3. The only real downside here is that the included Enco Mater Equalizer software only works with OPPO phones via ColorOS.
OPPO users can take advantage of three unique profiles that can be used to tailor the sound and experience to their liking. But as they’re not compatible with the standard HeyMelody app available on everything else like iOS and Android, there’s nothing you can do to customize the experience if you’re using an iPhone or Samsung for example.
Verdict & Value
For just A$99, the OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro earbuds provide decent sound quality and punchy bass, along with a sleek design and impressive battery life. The lack of any real software support on non-OPPO phones is a little disappointing, but I would be lying if they weren’t already fine out of the box.
The noise-cancelling microphone IP55 water and sweat resistance rating certainly help with the overall value on offer here, even if I would recommend this to more casual users who want something quick and easy to get the job done.
THREE AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Highlights: Sleek and stylish design; Fantastic battery life; Decent bass
Lowlights: Hiugher notes get a little lost in the mix at times; No software support on non-OPPO phones for customisation
Price: A$99
Review based on unit supplied by OPPO and available now via their official website.
