OnePlus Buds 4 Launch: High-Spec Dual DAC Design Impresses Audiophiles

On June 16, 2025, OnePlus unveiled its latest audio product, the OnePlus Buds 4, during an exclusive reveal to TechRadar. This launch coincided with the introduction of the OnePlus Nord 5 series smartphones, the OnePlus Pad Lite, and a new smartwatch model, the OnePlus Watch 3. Unlike previous models, the Buds 4 drop the 'Nord' prefix, signifying a shift towards a flagship positioning in OnePlus's audio lineup.

The OnePlus Buds 4 come equipped with advanced audio technology, featuring dual drivers and dual Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs). This architecture aims to enhance sound quality significantly, making them a compelling choice for audiophiles. The earbuds support LHDC 5.0, a high-resolution audio codec that allows for 24-bit/192kHz audio playback, a feature that promises to elevate listening experiences, especially for streaming music services like Spotify.

OnePlus claims that the Buds 4 will also include a 3D Audio software feature, previously praised in the OnePlus Buds 3, designed to improve the quality of lossy audio files. For gaming enthusiasts, the new earbuds are said to offer an ultra-low latency of 47 milliseconds in Game Mode, a feature that was well-received in the Buds Pro 3.

However, the absence of active noise cancellation (ANC) has raised questions among potential buyers, a feature that has become a standard expectation in high-end earbuds. As of the launch, OnePlus has not provided further details regarding pricing or additional specifications.

The Buds 4 are positioned within a competitive market where brands such as Apple, Sony, and Samsung dominate. Apple’s AirPods and Sony’s WF series have set a high bar, particularly in terms of noise cancellation and sound quality. According to Dr. Emily Roberts, an audio technology expert at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, "The advancements in audio codecs like LHDC 5.0 could position OnePlus more favorably against its competitors, provided that the overall sound quality meets consumer expectations."

In the context of the broader audio technology market, the move to include high-spec components in the Buds 4 aligns with current consumer trends favoring premium audio experiences. According to a report by Grand View Research published in March 2025, the global wireless earbuds market is expected to grow significantly, driven by demand for high-quality audio and advanced features.

Industry analysts have noted that OnePlus’s strategy appears to focus on capturing a segment of consumers willing to invest in higher-end audio solutions without stretching their budgets excessively. "The decision to omit the Nord branding from the Buds 4 could indicate a shift in OnePlus’s marketing strategy, aiming to attract higher-end consumers," states Mark Thompson, Senior Analyst at Canalys.

Looking ahead, the implications of this launch could be significant for OnePlus. If the Buds 4 can deliver on their promises of high-quality sound and performance, they may well carve out a larger share of the audio market, particularly as consumers increasingly seek out premium audio experiences. As competition intensifies, the pressure will be on OnePlus to ensure the Buds 4 not only meet but exceed the expectations set by their predecessors and competitors alike.

In conclusion, the OnePlus Buds 4 represent a strategic move towards establishing a more competitive presence in the high-end audio market. As more details emerge leading up to their July 8 release, industry watchers and consumers alike will be keenly observing whether OnePlus can deliver on the hype surrounding their latest offering.