The Feature-Packed Pixel Buds 2a Earbuds Are Now $20 Off.
Google Pixel Buds have long been popular with Android users who want the convenience of AirPods without the premium price of flagship models, and the new Google Pixel Buds 2a continue this trend, offering several significant improvements over the older Pixel Buds A series. They’re currently marked down from $129 to $109 on Amazon, the lowest price yet, according to price tracking sites . This discount makes them an easy recommendation for those looking for everyday earbuds with “near-pro features, but at a much lower price,” as our reviewer put it.
One of the reasons the Pixel Buds 2a stand out is that Google didn’t treat them as cut-down budget earbuds. PCMag even called them the best earbuds for Android users , and the hardware helps explain why. Google added active noise cancellation to the A-series for the first time, improved battery life, and redesigned the design, allowing the earbuds to sit deeper in the ear canal and provide a more secure fit, just like the more expensive Pixel Buds Pro 2. They also use the same Tensor A1 chip as the Pro model, meaning features like Gemini voice access, adaptive sound processing, and a customizable five-band equalizer are just as good.
As for sound, the 11mm drivers deliver a balanced sound that’s particularly well-suited for podcasts, pop, hip-hop, and streaming, even if these headphones aren’t designed for audiophiles seeking the most detailed sound. Comfort is another strong point, especially considering Google offers four sizes of silicone ear tips, and a proper fit significantly improves both fit and noise cancellation. Incidentally, the active noise cancellation system does a fairly good job of blocking out jet engine, subway, and traffic noise, though voices are still clearer than with premium headphones from Sony or Bose. Battery life is decent—up to seven hours with active noise cancellation enabled and around 20 hours with the charging case.
There are some compromises, including the lack of wireless charging and a charging cable. Furthermore, compared to the Pro model, some additional sensors and a microphone are missing, resulting in slightly inferior call quality and fitness tracking.