CMF Buds Pro 2

CMF, Nothing's sub-brand, positions the Buds Pro 2 at $59 as a direct competitor to the Space A40 while targeting younger buyers prioritizing customization. The standout feature is physical design modularity: interchangeable accent dials let owners swap colors without replacing the entire case. Review sentiment suggests this appeals strongly to Gen Z buyers, though the scoring also accounts for solid acoustic fundamentals. The 11mm drivers and ANC implementation perform within 10% of the Space A40 in buyer-reported noise reduction scenarios, making this a legitimate budget contender rather than a compromise pick.

The companion app includes functional AI-powered features—ambient sound enhancement and voice isolation for calls—that work reliably according to verified reviews. Battery life hits 11 hours with ANC off, 8 with ANC active, landing it mid-pack in this cohort. The case provides 43 total hours, adequate for weekly charging cycles. The USB-C port supports fast charging, though not as rapid as the Liberty 4 NC's implementation.

IPX4 rating handles typical moisture exposure, and the hinge mechanism shows low defect rates in early ownership data. The touch controls respond accurately, with minimal false triggers reported. Call quality meets expectations for the price, though reviewers note the Space A40 edges ahead in windy outdoor scenarios. The budget rank reflects the CMF's ability to match pricier models in core ANC and audio performance while adding design flexibility that specific buyers prioritize. Its algorithmic score benefits from strong early adopter sentiment and competitive pricing that undercuts alternatives by $20-30 while maintaining quality benchmarks.