Since their zenith in the TWS era, neckband earphones have taken a backseat—until OnePlus relaunched the category. Enter the Bullets Wireless Z3, debuting on June 19 in India at just ₹1,699. Lightweight, powerful, and feature-rich, this refreshed version is packed with improvements over its predecessor, the Z2. Here’s a deep dive into what makes the Z3 a strong contender for daily audio enthusiasts.
Design, Fit & Comfort: Featherweight Simplicity
At 26 g, the Z3 is ultra-light—a mere whisper around your neck. The flexible silicone neckband and streamlined in-line remote deliver comfortable wear for long sessions. Magnetic earbuds snap together to trigger auto-pause/play, and available in Mambo Midnight (black) and Samba Sunset (red), they cater to both understated and bold tastes.
Physical controls—volume buttons, multifunction, and USB‑C port—reside on the right, while support for Google Fast Pair ensures seamless and immediate Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity.
Audio Performance: Deep Bass Meets Surround Sound
Housed inside each bud are 12.4 mm dynamic drivers tuned with OnePlus’s BassWave algorithm for punchy low-end without overpowering vocals or treble. Z3 supports AAC and SBC codecs, ensuring clean streaming.
What’s new? OnePlus 3D Spatial Audio simulates surround effects, providing richer sound immersion—impressive given the mid-budget tag. A Sound Master EQ with Balanced, Serenade, Bass, and Bold presets, plus customization via Hey Melody app, lets users tailor audio to their liking.
Calls & Convenience: Smart, Not Studio‑Level
While there’s no ANC, the Z3 features AI-powered Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC), along with an advanced mic array that notably enhances voice clarity during calls—even if it doesn’t match premium studio mics. Physical buttons also support voice assistant access, adding to hands-free ease.
Battery & Charging: Marathon‑Level Endurance
Battery life is the Z3’s headline feature:
- 36 hrs playback on a single full charge
- 21 hrs continuous talk time
- 27 hrs playback from just 10 min fast charge via USB‑C
This is a significant leap over the Z2 (20 hrs from 10 min, 30 hrs full charge). The neckband supports IP55 splash/dust resistance, making it ideal for workouts and outdoor use.
Everyday Use: Reliability Over Gimmicks
Enjoy low latency in gaming—Bluetooth 5.4 keeps sync tight for casual titles like BGMI and COD Mobile. The magnetic earbuds provide hassle-free pause/play, while preset EQs and auto-pause add usability. And unlike many TWS earbuds, there’s no need to constantly recharge—perfect for binge-listening sessions or back-to-back meetings.
Pros & Cons: Where Z3 Shines & Stumbles
Pros
- Exceptional 36 hrs battery and fast charging
- Punchy bass with spatial audio immersion
- Ultra-light at 26 g, flexible and comfortable
- IP55 rating for durability
- Affordable—just ₹1,699
Cons
- Lacks Active Noise Cancellation—only ENC
- Audio apps show Z2-level codec support (AAC/SBC)
- Mid-tier call clarity—not studio-grade
- May not satisfy purists seeking extra detail in high frequencies
Comparison with Budget Alternatives
At its price (~₹1.7k), the Z3 surpasses many TWS rivals like Boat Airdopes/Airdopes 171 Pro and Redmi Earbuds 3 Pro, particularly in battery life and spatial audio, while delivering far more convenience and comfort than low-tier picks.
Competitors like Cosmic Byte Blitz or Redgear Pro may offer ANC or gaming extras, but they usually lack Z3’s combined endurance and lightweight design.
Final Verdict: Neckband Wonders Are Back
The OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3 debuts as the definitive pick for users preferring neckbands: ultra-light, fuss-free, long-lasting, and built for modern audio needs. Its spatial audio and bass tuning deliver engaging sound, and the AI call features ensure clarity on the go. While it forgoes ANC and ultra-audio fidelity, its dependability and battery reign supreme.
If your priority is longevity, comfort, and simple yet effective sound for daily routines, the Z3 delivers volumes far beyond its price tag.
