Packaging (⅘)
Affordable Headsets doesn’t have many accessories, the ZTE Buds are no exception. In the box is the charging case, 2 earpieces and a USB A to USB C charging cable.
Build Quality (⅘)
The case is in a very good shape, it is similar to the realme Buds Air Neo case when it comes to grades and gaps, the only difference is that it feels a little bit like velvet because of its surface. The Earpieces could also be compared with the realme Buds Air Neo. They are not only similar in shape, but also for the gap at the top where you can feel a little grade when sliding over it. This is also not measurable while wearing them.
App (⅗)
The Android App is called ZTE Live Buds Pro, but it is also used for the ZTE Buds. maybe ZTE could have used a better name for that. For the reason the App is only used for ZTE Buds it is sleekier than the realme app has been. Unfortunately the gestures could not be set, which is a disappointing decision. The only possible task in the app is a overview of the gestures, and if you select one a animation shows where you need to tap. I like the animation, despite it is not the usefulliest thing because the gestures are easy to understand.
So take a look at the screenshot to see the gesture overview.
As they are chosen wisely, I’m fine with that, but being able to set them up yourself would be a more satisfying experience. The Battery Status is also not visible in the app.
Case (⅘)
Like the mentioned realme case the ZTE Buds Case is in a similar size, but it is a little bit smaller. for that reason it is 0.7mm thinner than the nothing ear (1). As you might Imagine it would fit in literally any pocket, and its pebble like form factor will help to not notice it.
Pulling the buds out of the case and putting them back is quite simple, also a magnet would help them slip into the charging position. It is the same as it has been for the realme Buds, when the slipped in the wrong position you need to pull them out because they could not be turned in the charging case. Another thing I Like about them is the Charging indicator LED which is blinking while charging, blinks 4 times if the Cases battery is getting empty and is solid for 4 seconds if the case is charged up. the only thing to get this information is to open the lid or by putting the buds back into the case.
A big plus for the ZTE Buds, especially when compared to the realme Buds Air Neo is the USB Charging dock.
Earpieces (⅘)
The earpieces are doing a good job in addition to its costs. They could get very loud, but despite the realme they wont make any noises while they are at the maximum volume. Game Mode, enhancement for Sound or Bass is nothing they could offer, but their sound is a little bit fuller. The bass is not only loud, the trebles are also a bit more present. Even though they don’t fall out easily, exercising would make it happen from time to time. The gestures work flawlessly and are well chosen. the volume down and volume up is a good function. The Battery should last for 5 Hours, and could also be charged slightly more than 4 Times until the case needs to be put back to a cable. I also only use them constantly for about an hour and my ears still felt comfortable, unlike the realme I didn’t feel any pressure. ANC seems to be a foreign word, isn’t it? As expected the ZTE Buds don’t offer ANC, the only use ENC which is used for calls.
Overall Score: 3.8/5
Final Thoughts
The ZTE Buds are a cost effective variant, i would rather use them as a short time companion. a Plus is the well working Gestures and the USB C Plug.
A little Disadvantage is the lack of configuration for the gestures, but it doesn’t bother me very much as i found the gestures well chosen.
While they are sold for 29,90€ they are very affordable, but maybe it would be worth to take some extra money and buy a better option as for me the ZTE LiveBuds would be, they are sold for 39.90€ and offer a better sound and a better user experience. These are better known as 1More PistonBuds, because the ZTE LiveBuds are a re-branded version of the 1More.
