If you’re in the market for a pair of affordable earphones, most of the options are just about average – both in form and function. There’s cheap in-ear design and bass-heavy music that makes you question your love for music, and gives masses the perception that you need to spend big bucks for a great audio experience.

OnePlus wants to change that. Just like with the OnePlus 3/3T, the operative word for the company is ‘best value’, and while they’ve been successful in delivering that with smartphones, are they third time lucky with headphones?

The $49.99 OnePlus got all the hype, but didn’t impress many. Then there were the OnePlus Silver Bullets. Both of these weren’t bad earphones, mind you, but weren’t groundbreaking either. That changes with the second-generation Bullets, the OnePlus Bullets (V2).

OnePlus Bullets (V2) Earphones Specifications

Impedance: 24Ω

Coil Material: Copper-clad aluminum

Diaphragm: Aryphan Polyarylate

Wire Core Material: Enamelled copper wire

Driver Unit: 9mm dynamic

Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <1% (1000Hz, 1mW)

Sound Pressure Level (SPL): 107dB

Rated Power: 3mW

Frequency Range: 20 – 20,000Hz

Cable Length: 1.25m

Weight: 14g

Design

At first glance, the Bullets (V2) absolutely impress. From the elegant packaging to the fact that how well made they are, it looks like a pair of premium earphones. The brushed metal finish with the aluminum casing sporting chamfered edges is stylish and classy.

The silicone tips fit nicely and the earbuds are very light – I could wear them for long stretches without any discomfort or them falling out. The in-line remote has large, practical buttons with a fine tactile feedback. It looks like it’s nicely built, and can last much longer than most headphones.

The Bullets (V2) sport flat cables that are generally tangle-free. However, it tends to retain the bends when I take them out of my backpack’s pocket. The bends don’t straighten out by themselves, while the cable keeps picking up new ones. Also, the 3.5mm plug is a straight one instead of an L-plug. I don’t mind it, but I know a lot of people prefer the latter.

Overall, the OnePlus Bullets (V2) are nicely made, and can take a stretch here and there. They fit comfortably and look quite good.



Performance

The Bullets (V2) look great, yes, but the performance is what blows your mind considering the price they come at.

They offer a well-balanced audio experience and exhibit a wide soundstage. There’s a restrained bass that allows the mids and highs to shine through without being overshadowed. The sound envelops the listener with its richness, and offers a fair bit of detail.

The Bullets (V2) are one of the most natural sounding earphones out there, and you can listen to practically any kind of music on these, and it offers a very enjoyable experience. For any price range, that is.

Summary

The OnePlus Bullets (V2) offer a terrific sound signature, and are one of the best affordable earphones out there. That they come for only $19.99 (₹1,199 in India) is indeed incredible value, and you should just order one for yourself while I hit publish and get back to listening some classic rock on these. Come as you are.