Pixel Buds arrive in UK and AU: Google's answer to Apple AirPods are now on sale

Google Pixel Buds
(Image credit: TechRadar)

The true wireless Google Pixel Buds are now available to buy in the UK and Australia, arriving more than two months after their introduction in the US – which itself was some time after their initial reveal back in October 2019.

It's been quite a wait for those of us in the island nations keen on getting their hands on the Pixel Buds, but that wait is now over.

Priced at £179 / AU$279, these true wireless earbuds are more expensive than the second-generation Apple AirPods with wireless charging case and Samsung Galaxy Buds Plus in the UK, while offering similar features to both. In Australia, though, the 2019 Apple AirPods with wireless charging case and the Samsung competition are more expensive than the Pixel Buds, making Google's 'buds a very compelling alternative.

You'll be able to pick them up in two colours, although initially you'll only be able to pick up the Clearly White model, with Almost Black arriving later this year. 

This means the UK and Australia aren't being treated to the more interesting Oh So Orange and Quite Mint shades that are available in North America.

The Pixel Buds feature 12mm drivers, up to 24 hours of playback (with the charging case), wireless charging, real-time translation (with a paired smartphone), water and sweat resistance, touch controls and the Google Assistant ready and waiting for you to say 'Hey Google' at any time.

Google Pixel Buds

(Image credit: TechRadar)

Should you buy the Google Pixel Buds?

Have the Google Pixel Buds caught your eye? Before you splash the cash, you may want to consider your options.

In our Pixel Buds (2020) review we said: "the new Google Pixel Buds are feature packed, but aren't exactly the 'AirPods for Android' you've been waiting for" as they lost points for mediocre battery life and a fit that is less than snug.

However, they are among the easiest earbuds to pair to Android phones, come with a wireless charging case and have slick touch controls for easy music manipulation. If their design has struck a chord with you, and you're willing to shell out the cash, the Pixel Buds may be for you.

John McCann
Global Managing Editor

John joined TechRadar over a decade ago as Staff Writer for Phones, and over the years has built up a vast knowledge of the tech industry. He's interviewed CEOs from some of the world's biggest tech firms, visited their HQs and has appeared on live TV and radio, including Sky News, BBC News, BBC World News, Al Jazeera, LBC and BBC Radio 4. Originally specializing in phones, tablets and wearables, John is now TechRadar's resident automotive expert, reviewing the latest and greatest EVs and PHEVs on the market. John also looks after the day-to-day running of the site.