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Get AirPods Pro 2-level ANC for less than 1/3 the price with these earbuds
May 27, 2025
I recently finished testing the CMF Buds 2 Plus, the latest budget wireless earbuds from Nothing’s sub-brand. At just $69, they offer some of the best price-to-performance value we’ve seen, especially when it comes to active noise canceling (ANC). In our lab tests, they delivered ANC performance that rivals Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 ($189.99 at Amazon).
So, is Apple’s premium price still justified? Or are you just paying the iOS tax?
What the measurements show
As with any earbuds, achieving a proper fit is critical for optimal noise canceling. The CMF Buds 2 Plus include three sizes of silicone ear tips, while the AirPods Pro 2 come with four. Once sealed properly, both earbuds offer similar levels of isolation, and that’s when the ANC can really shine.
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As you can see in the chart above, the AirPods Pro 2 block 20 to 30dB of outside noise, performing best in the midrange frequencies, great for consistent background noise like engines or AC units. The CMF Buds 2 Plus, however, reach up to 40dB of attenuation, especially in higher-pitched frequencies like voices and traffic that can become a bother while out and about.
Overall, both earbuds reduce the perceived loudness of outside noise by an average of 83%. That’s not unusual for high-end ANC buds, but it’s remarkable for something that costs less than a third of the price.
Is Apple’s price worth it?
Yes, the AirPods Pro 2 pack some impressive features: seamless iCloud device switching, always-on Siri, Find My integration, adaptive transparency, and even hearing aid functionality. If you’re deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, those extras can add value.
But for most people, the essentials matter more. The CMF Buds 2 Plus block just as much noise, scored identically in our sound quality testing, and offer longer battery life with ANC on — around 8 hours, compared to Apple’s 6.
So if you’re not going to use all the iOS bells and whistles, and just want a solid pair of earbuds that nails the basics — great sound, strong ANC, and all-day battery — there’s no reason to spend $250 anymore. Your ears (and your wallet) will be much happier with the CMF Buds 2 Plus.
