Google's latest Pixel Buds 2a are shaking up the budget earbud game with a compelling proposition: all the essential features of premium models at just $129. WIRED's Parker Hall calls them the best AirPods alternative for Android users, praising their reliable active noise canceling and surprisingly comfortable fit that rivals much pricier competition.
Google just delivered what might be the most compelling argument against buying premium earbuds. The new Pixel Buds 2a, priced at $129, pack nearly everything you'd expect from high-end models into a package that won't break the bank.
WIRED's Parker Hall didn't mince words in his review, calling them "my favorite earbuds for Android, and for anyone looking to spend under $129." That's a bold claim in a market flooded with budget options that often sacrifice key features for affordability.
The Buds 2a deliver where it matters most. They offer reliable active noise canceling, instant pairing with Android devices, and seamless integration with Google's AI services including Translate and Gemini. The comfortable in-ear design features silicone "shark fins" that keep them secure during workouts or daily commutes.
Google clearly learned from the premium Pixel Buds Pro 2, scaling down the design while keeping the core functionality intact. Hall notes they "look like little buttons that twist into your ear canals" with a fit that rivals much more expensive options.
What's missing tells the story of smart compromises. There's no wireless charging case, no multiple drivers, and the noise canceling isn't best-in-class. But as Hall puts it, "If you can't get good battery life, decent noise canceling, and a good, life-proof fit for under $150, you're simply buying broken headphones."
The timing couldn't be better for Google. Apple's AirPods 4 recently launched at a similar price point, but Hall suggests the Pixel Buds 2a are so good that "If a pair of AirPods 4 were this good, nobody would buy the AirPods Pro 3."
This isn't just about audio quality - it's about ecosystem play. The Buds 2a work "decently" with iPhones but truly shine with Android devices, offering the kind of seamless integration that's made AirPods so popular with iPhone users.
Google's strategy here is clear: make premium features accessible at budget prices while leveraging their AI advantage. The integration with Google Translate alone could be a game-changer for travelers, while Gemini AI support hints at future capabilities that could justify the purchase beyond just music listening.
