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Google Pixel Buds A-Series vs Google Pixel Buds (2017)

The Pixel Buds A-Series are the better pick for most people: truly wireless, with a secure stabilizer-arc fit, Adaptive Sound and IPX4 water resistance. The GA01470 is the older neckband model, with a cable between the buds, no charging case and no multipoint. Both are passive-isolation only, so neither blocks noise like an ANC model. Owners praise the A-Series fit and call its battery average; the neckband is a niche choice for people who don't want loose buds.

  • Choose the Pixel Buds A-Series if you want truly wireless buds with a charging case, a stable fit for runs and Adaptive Sound that adjusts volume as you move around.
  • Choose the GA01470 if you prefer a neckband that keeps the buds tethered around your neck and you don't mind charging it more often.

Prices

  • Google Pixel Buds A-Series: $73.99 at Newegg.com (checked today)
  • Google Pixel Buds (2017): $156.99 at Staples (checked today)
  • Difference: the Google Pixel Buds A-Series is $83.00 cheaper than the Google Pixel Buds (2017) today
Google
Google Pixel Buds A-Series wireless earbuds

Google Pixel Buds A-Series

Google Pixel Buds A-Series wireless earbuds

4.1(3,400 ratings)
$73.99at Newegg.comChecked 11 h ago
See all prices and details
Visit Newegg.com
Pros
  • Truly wireless with a pocketable charging case
  • Secure fit from three tip sizes and a stabilizer arc
  • Adaptive Sound raises and lowers volume with your surroundings
  • IPX4 handles rain and workouts
  • Fast Pair makes Android setup one tap
Cons
  • No active noise cancellation
  • About 5 hours per charge, average for the class
  • Talk time is only about 2.5 hours
  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi can cause interference
Google
Google Pixel Buds Wireless Bluetooth Stereo Headphones GA01470

Google Pixel Buds (2017)

Google Pixel Buds Wireless Bluetooth Stereo Headphones GA01470

$156.99at StaplesChecked 11 h ago
See all prices and details
Visit Staples

Store links may earn us a commission. Price via Klarna.

Pros
  • Neckband keeps the buds from getting lost
  • Physical buttons are easy to find without looking
  • Google Assistant voice control built in
  • Light at about 2.4 oz
Cons
  • No charging case, so total listening time is short
  • Older design with no multipoint
  • No active noise cancellation
  • Cable can snag during activity

What separates them

Google Pixel Buds A-SeriesGoogle Pixel Buds (2017)
Form factorTruly wireless, no cable between budsNeckband with a cable linking the two buds
Charging caseCase extends total listening time to about 24 hoursNo case; about 5 hours per charge
Noise handlingPassive isolation plus Adaptive Sound volume adjustmentPassive noise cancelling only
Fit and stabilityThree ear tip sizes plus a stabilizer arc for a secure sealIn-ear tips held by the neckband
Water resistanceIPX4 rated for rain and sweatListed as water resistant, rating not stated
MultipointNot listedNot supported
ControlsTouch controls and press-and-hold for Google AssistantPhysical answer/hang-up and play/pause buttons
BluetoothBluetooth 5.0 with Fast Pair on AndroidBluetooth 5.0

Price history

$139.95$73.99
Nov 3Nov 10
  • Google Pixel Buds A-Series: lowest $73.99 on Nov 3 at Newegg.com; $73.99 on Nov 10.
  • Google Pixel Buds (2017): lowest $139.95 on Nov 10 at Walmart.

Prices at every store

Google Pixel Buds A-Series

  • Best BuyNew

    In stock

    $74.99Free shippingChecked 11 h ago
    Visit Best Buy
  • Newegg.comNew

    Availability unknownSold by DISCOUNT TECH

    $73.99Checked 11 h ago
    Visit Newegg.com
  • eBayNew

    Availability unknownSold by 508zack (99.4% positive, 8,300 ratings)Returns: Set by the eBay seller; the eBay Money Back Guarantee covers an item that doesn't arrive or isn't as described.

    $74.98Free shippingChecked Nov 9
    Visit eBay
  • MercariNew

    Availability unknown

    $75.00Checked 11 h ago
    Visit Mercari

Also available at

  • WalmartCheck price at Walmart
  • eBayCheck price at eBay

Store links may earn us a commission.

All 15 stores and price history →

Google Pixel Buds (2017)

  • StaplesNew

    In stock

    $156.99Free shippingChecked 11 h ago
    Visit Staples
  • eBayPre-owned

    Availability unknown

    $48.98Free shippingChecked 11 h ago
    Visit eBay
  • MercariPre-owned

    Availability unknown

    $54.15+ $8.10 shippingChecked 11 h ago
    Visit Mercari
  • WalmartNew

    Out of stockSold by Home Above

    $139.95Free shippingChecked 11 h ago
    Visit Walmart

Store links may earn us a commission. Some prices via Klarna.

All 5 stores and price history →

Specs compared

SpecGoogle Pixel Buds A-SeriesGoogle Pixel Buds (2017)
Headphone Cup TypeIn-earIn-ear
Body Part UseEarEar, Ears
Noise Cancellation TypePassiveNo
Max Battery Life2.5 hours (talk time)5 hours
Recharge Time15-minute charge of Buds yields 3 hours listeni…1 hour
Rechargeable BatteryYesYes
Driver Size12 mm0.472
Sound OutputStereoStereo
Audio HighlightsAdaptive SoundAdaptive Sound
Total Harmonic DistortionMost frequencies fall within good limitsNoticeable jump in the mid-range at higher volu…
Water ProtectionIPX4Sweat and water resistant
WaterproofNoNo
Show all 40 specsShow fewer specs
SpecGoogle Pixel Buds A-SeriesGoogle Pixel Buds (2017)
Water ResistantYesYes
Connectivity TechnologyWireless, BluetoothWireless
Wireless TypeBluetoothBluetooth
Bluetooth Version5.05.0
Compatible DevicesiPhone, Android devicesAndroid phones
Ports And InterfacesUSB-CUSB-C
WirelessYesYes
MicrophoneYesYes
BluetoothYesYes
Battery Time (in use) (h)

What reviewers say

Google Pixel Buds A-Series

  • 4.1 / 53,400 ratings

Owners rate the A-Series around 4.1 out of 5, mostly for comfort, fit and sound quality at the price. Complaints center on battery life and the lack of ANC, and some mention connection hiccups.

What people mention
  • FitPraisedOwners say the flush design and stabilizer arc keep the buds in place through runs and long wear.
  • SoundPraisedReviewers call the 12 mm drivers rich and balanced for the price.
  • BatteryCriticisedFive hours per charge and 2.5 hours of talk time fall short of many competitors.
  • Noise cancellationCriticisedBuyers miss ANC; isolation depends on getting a good ear tip seal.

Google Pixel Buds (2017)

Owners liked the Assistant integration and the secure neckband fit, but many found the battery short and the sound average next to rivals. Complaints centered on the fit of the earbuds and the lack of noise isolation.

What people mention
  • BatteryCriticisedOwners say the roughly 5-hour runtime means frequent charging.
  • AssistantPraisedReviewers like starting Google Assistant with a tap on the earbud.
  • FitMixedThe neckband stays put, but some find the earbuds themselves loose.
  • SoundMixedSound is fine for podcasts and casual listening but not a standout.
Reviews
  • Google Pixel Buds A-Series review, price & specs - SoundGuys - Browse earbuds

Questions and answers

Which is better for running and workouts?
The Pixel Buds A-Series. The stabilizer arc and three tip sizes hold the buds in place, and IPX4 covers sweat and rain. A neckband cable can bounce and snag while you move.
Which has longer battery life?
The A-Series, because of its charging case. It gives about 5 hours per charge and roughly 24 hours total with the case. The GA01470 is about 5 hours per charge with no case to top it up.
Do either of these cancel noise?
No. Both rely on passive isolation from the ear tips. If you need active noise cancellation for flights or trains, look at a model that lists ANC.
Is the neckband worth stepping up to?
Only if you want tethered buds and physical buttons. The A-Series is newer, truly wireless and comes with a case, so most shoppers get more from it.
Will the A-Series work with an iPhone?
Yes. They pair over standard Bluetooth with iOS, though Fast Pair and hands-free Google Assistant work best on Android.

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Buying guides that pick them

  • Best Google Pixel Buds
5.0
5.0
NFCNoNo
Buttons & ControlsAnswer/Hang Up, Skip Song, Volume, Play/PauseAnswer/Hang Up, Play/Pause
Simulated Surround SoundNoNo
Weight (oz)1.92.353
Voice AssistantGoogle AssistantGoogle Assistant
FoldableNoNo
Type of HeadphoneIn-EarIn-Ear
ColorGreenBlack, White
Speaker Configuration2.0 (stereo)2.0 (stereo)
Construction & ElementsDynamicDynamic
Detachable CableNoNo
MultipointNoNo
Background Noise ActivationNoNo
Noise CancellingPassive Noise CancellingPassive Noise Cancelling
Wireless TechnologyBluetoothBluetooth
Voice ControlYesYes
Active Noise CancelingNo—
Water Resistant RatingIPX4—