Just saw this thread! Similar situation here - I went through this last year. I've used Pixels for years, but I'm still learning all the tech stuff. I wanted a total bargain!

* I tried Google Pixel Buds A-Series ($79) first.
* Then I found Soundcore Liberty 4 NC for $99.

Basically, the LDAC support makes the sound quality amazing!! I think they connect really fast to my phone... i love it!

> I’ve been torn between the Pixel Buds Pro for the integration and the Sony XM5s for the sound quality.

Ok so, honestly, if you wanna save cash without losing that pro feel, I’ve been SO happy with the Sony LinkBuds S. They hit that sweet spot under $150 and the ANC is legit better than some $300 pairs I’ve tried... basically the best value pick. They support Google Fast Pair too!! I actually preferred these over the XM5s cuz they’re way more comfortable. TBH, the value is just BETTER.

Story time: I’ve been around the block with tech for way more years than I’d like to admit, but honestly, I’m still kinda a beginner when it comes to the deep technical specs. But man, i’ve learned one HUGE lesson over the years: safety and reliability are everything. A few years back, I tried to save a buck with some random brand I found online and they literally started smoking while charging on my nightstand... seriously TERRIFYING.

Since that happened, I’ve become super cautious. I basically only trust the big, established audio brands now. If you want my take based on my journey, honestly just go with Bose. You basically can’t go wrong with their stuff cuz they’ve been doing this forever and their safety standards are top-tier. I’ve used their gear with my Pixel and it always feels super stable. Same goes for Sennheiser&linkCode=osi&------123456890?5422-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Sennheiser—their stuff just feels solid and well-built, you know?

I guess my main point is that while the fancy ecosystem features are cool, having something that you know isn’t gonna glitch out or have battery issues is the real win. With a phone as nice as the Pixel 7 Pro, you really want that peace of mind. It might cost a bit more, but i’ve found that sticking to those legendary audio brands is the safest bet for a daily commute. Anyway, hope my rambling helps a bit lol! Peace.

Coming back to this after looking at some frequency response graphs... looks like the thread has pretty much covered the main bases like the LinkBuds S and those Jabra Elite 10s. Regarding what #5 said about "I’m still pretty new to the whole Pixel..." i honestly love the DIY spirit of swapping tips to fix ANC issues. I've been really satisfied with my Technics EAH-AZ60M2 lately. The specs are top tier with LDAC support and 8mm drivers, plus the connection is super stable on my Pixel 7 Pro... it just works well. Quick tip: go into your phone's developer settings and force the sample rate to 48kHz for better stability if you notice any stuttering in high-traffic areas. If you want to go the DIY route like starlight mentioned, definitely grab some Comply Foam Tips for Technics. It makes a massive difference in seal quality and passive isolation. Let me know if you want the specific EQ settings i use for a more balanced sound signature, i can definitely dig those up for you.

I’m still pretty new to the whole Pixel ecosystem, but honestly, have you looked into the Jabra Elite 10? They usually fall right around that $200 mark. I’ve been trying to take a more DIY approach to my tech lately to save money, so I actually bought mine 'Renewed' and then did my own 'self-service' by swapping in some high-end memory foam tips. It basically makes the noise canceling feel twice as good for my commute! I don’t really know all the technical stuff, but I found that tweaking the EQ yourself in their app is way better than just settling for the factory sound. Anyway... I think they’re super reliable and they connect to my Pixel 7 Pro basically instantly. Do you think you’d be open to trying a 'refurbished' pair to get a better model for your budget? It’s been a total game changer for me and feels a bit more practical than just paying full price for the newest thing!

In my experience testing gear for the Pixel line, I have found that you dont always have to stick to the Google brand to get that seamless feel. I have spent significant time with two specific pairs that handle the Android ecosystem perfectly while offering better audio fidelity than the standard options.

• <a href=" https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw= Sennheiser+Momentum+True+Wireless+3&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p4624852.m570.l1311&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337998953&customid=22&toolid=10001&mkevt=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3: These are my go-to for pure music quality. The ANC is robust enough for a noisy train, and the multipoint connection has been rock-solid on my Pixel 7 Pro. Just be aware the fit is a bit deeper in the ear than some might like.
• Beats Studio Buds +: People think these are just for iPhones, but they actually have native Google Fast Pair built in. The integration is basically identical to Pixel Buds, and the ANC is surprisingly punchy for the price point. Over the years, I've noticed the Sennheisers definitely win on soundstage, but if you want something low profile that just works when you flip the case open, the Beats are a sleeper hit for Pixel owners. Both usually hover right around that $170 to $200 mark depending on sales.

> I’ve been torn between the Pixel Buds Pro for the integration and the Sony XM5s for the sound quality.

For your situation, i highkey feel the struggle!! i actually went through something super similar when i upgraded my setup. i really wanted that "perfect" ecosystem feel so i bought the ones made by the phone brand... but unfortunately i was kinda disappointed tbh. the noise canceling just wasnt as good as i expected for my morning bus ride and they felt kinda loose in my ears?? it was seriously a let down cuz i spent so much on them. i actually ended up trying the other ones u mentioned from the big audio company, and while the sound is literally amazing, the connection is lowkey flaky sometimes... i mean, it works but it's not as seamless as i'd like. honestly i think it basically comes down to whether you value the software features or the actual sound more. i guess testing the fit in person is the big lesson i learned, right?? anyway gl with the choice!! peace