Pixel Buds 2a vs Fairbuds: The Hidden Feature You Didn’t Notice
Google is about to drop the Pixel Buds 2a, priced around $129. They’re small, sleek, stemless, and come in subtle colors like Iris and Hazel. But what really has tech fans talking isn’t the design, it’s the hidden feature in the charging case.
More Than Just a Battery
The Pixel Buds 2a aren’t just about repairability. They pack:
Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal 1.5
Gemini AI integration for messages, notifications, and real-time info
Compact, lightweight design at just 4.7 grams per earbud
Battery life: 7 hours with ANC on, 20 hours total with the case
It’s a combo of features that usually only appears in premium earbuds, but at a much lower price.
The Secret Feature Everyone Missed
Here’s the kicker: the charging case has a user-replaceable battery. Most earbuds today are completely sealed, meaning once the battery dies, your only option is a new pair. Not with the Pixel Buds 2a. Swap the battery in the case, and you’re good to go. The earbuds themselves? Still sealed, but that little tweak could save you hundreds of dollars over time.
Credit: Michelle Ehrhardt
Now Here’s the Competition: Fairbuds
The Fairbuds take repairability to the next level. Priced at $175, they’re slightly bulkier than the Pixel Buds 2a, but both the case and earbuds have removable batteries.
Fairbuds Features You’ll Actually Use
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with wind reduction for clearer audio
Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) for calls
Battery life: 5 hours with ANC on, 20 hours total with the case
Design: Modular, slightly bulkier than Pixel Buds 2a, with customizable tips
Colors: Black and White
Weight: Slightly heavier than Pixel Buds 2a but designed for comfort
Smart Features: None like Gemini AI, but fully modular for repairs
Why Fairbuds Are Built to Last
Most earbuds like AirPods only last around three years. The Fairbuds are designed to last much longer thanks to replaceable batteries in both the case and the earbuds. Sound-wise, they’re decent, around 7/10 but the longevity is the real selling point.
Pixel Buds 2a vs Fairbuds: Full Comparison
| Feature | Pixel Buds 2a | Fairbuds |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129 | $175 |
| Replaceable Battery | Charging case only | Case + earbuds |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes (Silent Seal 1.5) | Yes (with wind reduction) |
| Battery Life | 7h (ANC on) + 20h (case) | 5h (ANC on) + 20h (case) |
| Water Resistance | IP54 (earbuds) / IPX4 (case) | IP54 |
| Design | Stemless, compact, lightweight (4.7g) | Modular, eco-friendly, slightly bulkier |
| Colors | Iris, Hazel | Black, White |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.0+ | 5.3 |
| Smart Features | Gemini AI integration | None |
| Repairability | Case battery only replaceable | Case + earbuds fully replaceable |
| Longevity Potential | Moderate (case battery replacement helps) | High (replaceable batteries extend lifespan) |
| Comfort & Fit | Ergonomic, lightweight | Modular tips, customizable |
Which One Should You Pick?
Pixel Buds 2a: Great for ANC, Gemini AI, and a replaceable case battery. Perfect for casual users who want modern features at a lower price.
Fairbuds: Ideal for longevity and repairability. If you care about keeping earbuds alive for years, these are the earbuds to consider—even if they cost a little more.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the takeaway: most people are going to see the Pixel Buds 2a and think, “Nice earbuds.” But the replaceable case battery is a hidden game-changer. It’s a small tweak with huge long-term benefits and it might be the future of mainstream earbuds.
Why does this matter? Because in a world of disposable electronics, replaceable batteries are the secret feature no one talks about.
And that’s it for this showdown, see you in the next article!
