Discover the OnePlus Type-C Bullets, a new in-ear headphone option that replaces the traditional 3.5mm jack with a USB-C connector. These earphones take design cues from the OnePlus Bullets V2, maintaining a cylindrical shape and robust metal construction.

The Type-C Bullets feature a tangle-resistant flat cable, with a remote module positioned on the right side. This module includes large buttons for easy control of playback, volume, and calls.

The main difference in design is the Type-C connector replacing the conventional headphone jack. This connection potentially houses audio processing components like the DAC, ADC, and amplifier. Additionally, the cable splitter is now circular, and the earphones are offered in an elegant black finish.

Given that the design mirrors the Bullets V2, the comfort level remains unchanged. If you found the V2 uncomfortable, the Type-C Bullets may not resolve that issue. Some users report discomfort from the earphone housing digging into their ears.

As active digital earphones, the Type-C Bullets incorporate built-in audio processing hardware. They require a direct data output from the connected device for operation and were successfully tested with various recent Android smartphones and a Windows 10 PC.

However, older devices may face compatibility issues. USB-C connections demand ongoing power from the host device, which can lead to the earphones becoming unresponsive if idle power is cut off. In such cases, unplugging and reconnecting may be necessary.

For OnePlus models like the 3/3T/5/5T/6, enabling OTG Mode in Settings is a prerequisite. The 6T functions seamlessly, while earlier models received a patch for call support with the Type-C Bullets.

In terms of audio quality, expectations were high for the Type-C Bullets given their shared driver design with the Bullets V2. However, the built-in DAC and amplifier lead to noticeable sound differences, often to the detriment of quality.

Notably, the Bullets V2 are respected for their sound profile, which is neutral and accommodates various listening preferences. In contrast, the Type-C Bullets present a darker sound, primarily emphasizing mid-bass, with some mid-range sounds feeling recessed and a lack of high-end detail.

This results in a sound that can feel muddy and congested. In side-by-side comparisons, the Bullets V2 offered a brighter and more detailed high-end response with a wider soundstage.

Testing was conducted using the LG G7 via the Tidal app, with consistent results on other devices like the Samsung Galaxy S9+. The Type-C Bullets' lack of high-end detail may necessitate listening at higher volumes to perceive clarity, which could be mitigated with an equalizer. However, USB-C audio accessories often disable device audio processing, limiting adjustments.

OnePlus does provide solutions for its devices, as the OnePlus 6T allows access to system EQ settings even when using the Type-C Bullets. This feature enhances frequency response by balancing bass and raising higher frequencies.

While call performance shows slight improvement over the Bullets V2, microphone recordings were quieter on the Type-C Bullets, though background noise suppression was effective.

After three hours of playback, the LG G7’s battery drained to 92% with the Type-C Bullets compared to 96% with the Bullets V2, indicating some added power consumption.

In conclusion, the OnePlus Type-C Bullets lack certain advantages over the Bullets V2. Potential compatibility issues arise from the USB-C standard's inconsistencies, and increased power usage is a consideration since charging ports become inaccessible during use.

However, these drawbacks are common across USB audio accessories, akin to the drawbacks of Bluetooth headphones. Effective audio quality could outweigh these inconveniences, but the Type-C Bullets fall short in this respect.

The sound quality is distinctly inferior to that of the now-discontinued Bullets V2, likely due to the quality of the built-in DAC. In isolation, their performance is moderate, somewhat resembling bundled earphones rather than a dedicated product.

Comfort can be an issue as some users experience discomfort from the edges of the metal body. Overall, the OnePlus Type-C Bullets are suitable for basic phone calls or casual listening, but fall behind in sound quality, not sufficiently compensating for the inherent limitations of USB-C earphones.

Pros

Stylish design
User-friendly remote
Affordable price

Cons

Average audio quality
May not be comfortable for everyone

OnePlus Type-C Bullets Earphones Compatible with OnePlus Models 7 Pro, 7, 6T, 6, 5, 5T, 3, 3T, 10R, 10 Pro, 10T, 9RT, 9 Pro, 8T, 8 Pro, 7T Pro