While truly wireless earbuds continue to dominate headlines, neckband-style headphones still enjoy a loyal following—especially among users who prioritize battery life, comfort during workouts or commutes, and the convenience of magnetic clasps. OnePlus’s Bullets Wireless series has historically targeted this niche by blending premium design cues with aggressive pricing. The Bullets Wireless Z3 continues that tradition, arriving at a time when many brands have largely shifted focus to TWS (true wireless stereo) earbuds. By doubling down on neckbands, OnePlus is signaling there’s still room in the market for focused, battery-rich, comfortable audio accessories. For readers wondering why we’re still talking neckbands: apart from battery benchmarks, they often offer simpler controls for calls or voice assistants, and they’re less likely to go missing compared to tiny earbuds.

OnePlus has officially announced the Bullets Wireless Z3 in India, priced at INR 1,999, with a launch offer price of INR 1,699. Sales begin June 24, 2025, at 12 pm IST through multiple channels. This pricing places the Z3 firmly in the budget-to-midrange bracket for neckbands, undercutting many rivals while promising features often reserved for higher tiers.

It’s worth noting that OnePlus’s own product page lists an M.R.P. of ₹1,999 but confirms the promotional launch price of ₹1,699, reflecting OnePlus’s usual strategy of offering an introductory discount to spur early adoption. For Indian consumers, this pricing can be compelling: around $20–23 at current exchange rates, it’s pitched as a “budget-friendly” way to get long playback, quick charging, and features like AI call noise cancellation and spatial audio.

On paper and in hand, the Bullets Wireless Z3 closely resembles its predecessor, the Z2 from early 2022. The neckband weighs approximately 26g and retains a slim silhouette that sits lightly around the neck, intended for extended wear during commutes, desk work, or exercise. The magnetic earbuds automatically power off when clipped, a feature carried over, which users have appreciated for convenience and to prevent accidental battery drain when not worn.

Color options for the Z3 are “Mambo Midnight” (a dark tone) and “Samba Sunset” (an orange-ish shade), with the latter replacing the blue seen on the Z2. This bolder accent may help the Z3 stand out visually and appeal to younger buyers who like a pop of color. Build materials appear similar—soft-touch plastic or rubberized finishes—providing sweat and dust resistance (rated IP55) for workouts or rainy commutes. The ergonomic shape and lightweight design aim to reduce fatigue over long listening sessions, a key selling point in the neckband category.

OnePlus retains a 12.4mm dynamic driver in the Z3, matching the Z2’s driver size, tuned for “deep, punchy bass” yet aiming for balanced mids and highs for podcasts, calls, and varied music genres. Support for SBC and AAC codecs ensures compatibility across Android and iOS devices, though audiophiles might note the absence of higher-end codecs like aptX or LDAC; at this price point, SBC/AAC is standard.

Crucially, the Z3 introduces OnePlus’s “BassWave” feature and 3D Spatial Audio. BassWave (sometimes referred to as part of Sound Master EQ) is marketed as an adaptive tuning engine that enhances low-frequency response without overwhelming clarity in the mids. Spatial Audio attempts to simulate a wider soundstage, giving a more immersive listening experience for movies or certain music mixes. While these software-driven enhancements can’t replace true multi-driver or open-back designs, they offer perceived improvements in a budget neckband. Independent listening tests (e.g., early reviews) suggest that while the bass remains the highlight, the Z3’s tuning is generally balanced enough for daily use, though heavy bass-lovers may still crave separate equalizer tweaks or dedicated apps.

A key upgrade over the Z2 is Bluetooth 5.4 (versus Bluetooth 5.0 on the Z2), promising slightly enhanced connection stability, potentially lower latency, and marginally better power efficiency. While real-world experience with Bluetooth versions can vary depending on device synergy, OnePlus’s emphasis on Google Fast Pair for Android phones simplifies initial pairing. Voice assistant shortcuts (e.g., long-press to summon Google Assistant) and AI call noise cancellation are highlighted: AI-driven noise reduction for calls aims to keep your voice clear in windy or noisy settings, a welcome feature for frequent callers or remote workers. However, the effectiveness of AI noise cancellation can depend on firmware maturity; early user feedback often helps refine these features post-launch.

3D Spatial Audio is another software layer intended to simulate surround-like effects, though expectations should be tempered: it’s not true surround sound but an enhanced stereo processing. Casual listeners may appreciate the novelty; audiophiles might take it with a grain of salt unless the implementation is notably effective.

Battery life is arguably the headline feature: OnePlus claims up to 36 hours of playback on a full charge at 50% volume, versus 30 hours on the Z2. Fast charging remains a highlight: a 10-minute charge yields up to 27 hours of playback, up from 20 hours on the Z2. These figures come from OnePlus lab tests (50% volume, stable conditions), so real-world results may vary with volume levels, codecs, phone models, and environmental factors. Nevertheless, even conservative use should see users through several days between charges, a big advantage over many TWS earbuds requiring daily top-ups.

The 220mAh battery size matches the Z2, meaning OnePlus optimized power management through chipset improvements (in the Bluetooth SoC) and software tuning to eke out extra hours. For frequent travelers, heavy commuters, or those who dislike frequent charging rituals, this endurance is a differentiator.

Z3 vs. Z2: is the upgrade worth it?

• Bluetooth version: Z3’s Bluetooth 5.4 vs. Z2’s 5.0; minor but positive for stability and efficiency.
• Battery: Upgraded endurance (36h vs. 30h) and fast-charge gain (27h from 10-minute charge vs. 20h). For many, this jump justifies an upgrade if they already owned the Z2.
• Software features: Introduction of BassWave and 3D Spatial Audio, and AI call noise cancellation. These weren’t available on Z2.
• Design: Mostly unchanged ergonomics and weight; new color replaces blue with orange accent for freshness.
• Drivers & codecs: Same 12.4mm dynamic drivers, SBC/AAC support. No new higher-bitrate codecs.
• Price point: Z2 launched around similar price in 2022; Z3 maintains aggressive pricing in 2025 edition, making it accessible.

For existing Z2 users, the decision hinges on whether longer battery life and the new software suite matter enough. For new buyers, the Z3 offers a compelling package in its segment, especially given the launch pricing and availability across online/offline channels.

In the Indian market, neckbands under ₹2,000 are plentiful, from brands like Realme, Redmi, Noise, and boAt. However, many rivals may compromise on battery endurance, app integration, or software-driven features. OnePlus leverages brand perception (“flagship lineage”) and often smoother integration with OnePlus phones (e.g., Fast Pair) to stand out. Competitors might offer ANC (active noise cancellation) in some models, which the Z3 lacks; but ANC typically drains battery faster. Thus, OnePlus positions the Z3 for users who prioritize battery, comfortable design, reliable voice calls, and occasional “immersive” audio via spatial processing over ANC.

From a broader perspective, the neckband trend persists because many consumers find true wireless buds too easy to lose, less comfortable during workouts, or poorer in battery longevity. OnePlus’s marketing highlights these user pain points: “fast charging for long trips”, “magnetic earbuds to avoid misplacement”, and “AI call noise cancellation for clear conversations”.

For INR 1,699 (launch price), the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z3 offers standout battery life, quick charging, and a suite of software-driven features (BassWave, 3D Spatial Audio, AI noise cancellation) that distinguish it from many budget neckbands. The Bluetooth 5.4 upgrade over the Z2 and fresh color options keep it relevant. While audiophiles may lament the absence of higher-end codecs or ANC, the Z3’s balanced everyday performance, comfortable design, and aggressive pricing make it a strong contender for those seeking reliable, long-lasting wireless neckbands.

In a market saturated with options under ₹2,000, OnePlus leverages its brand cachet, ecosystem integrations, and marketing around endurance and convenience. If you’re someone who values marathon listening sessions without daily charging, a fuss-free wearing experience, and occasional immersive audio features, the Bullets Wireless Z3 warrants a close look.