The HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 (55031990) in Ceramic White arrived on my desk promising a premium audio experience, boasting cutting-edge technology like the world’s first certified BT/BLE dual-mode Bluetooth 5.1 SoC and the Kirin A1 chip. After weeks of rigorous testing, involving everything from intense workout sessions to long commutes, here’s my comprehensive review.

The FreeBuds 3 are undeniably stylish. The ceramic white finish is sleek and resistant to smudges, a welcome contrast to many easily-marked earbuds. The charging case is equally impressive, compact and aesthetically pleasing. Beyond the looks, the features are compelling. Active noise cancellation is a definite highlight, effectively muting the drone of city traffic and airplane cabins. The touch controls, while initially requiring some adjustment, proved responsive and intuitive for volume control and call management. The built-in microphones offered clear call quality in most environments, though occasionally struggled with strong winds.

The audio quality is where the FreeBuds 3 truly shine. The 14.2 mm dynamic drivers deliver rich, detailed sound across the frequency spectrum. Bass is punchy without being overwhelming, and the mids and highs are crisp and clear. I tested them with a wide variety of genres, from classical music to heavy metal, and they consistently impressed. However, the stated battery life of “less than 8 hours” proved accurate in my testing. While acceptable, it falls short of the competition in terms of longevity. The active noise cancellation did impact battery life slightly, a common trade-off.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Excellent sound quality, stylish design, effective active noise cancellation, comfortable fit, intuitive touch controls, good call quality (in most conditions).
• Cons: Battery life could be improved, occasional microphone struggles in windy conditions, initial learning curve with touch controls.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 (55031990) offer a compelling blend of style, sound quality, and convenient features. While the battery life isn’t class-leading, the exceptional audio performance and effective noise cancellation make them a strong contender in the crowded wireless earbuds market. If you prioritize sound quality and aesthetic appeal, these earbuds are a great choice. For users who need exceptionally long battery life, you might want to consider other options. Overall, I recommend the HUAWEI FreeBuds 3, particularly if you appreciate a premium listening experience paired with a stylish design.