If you invested in the ROG Cetra True Wireless that we’ve reviewed back in January 2023, you might want to brace yourself for a potential new purchase. Our review of the ROG Cetra True Wireless Speednova reveals how this latest model elevates audio performance to an entirely new level. Apologies in advance for the upcoming temptation to upgrade!

Specifications

Connectivity

I’ve been using the ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova earbuds for a few weeks now, and they’ve truly enhanced my daily routine in unexpected ways. One of the standout features is their dual-mode wireless connectivity, which allows me to seamlessly switch between Bluetooth® and 2.4 GHz modes. This flexibility has been incredibly convenient, especially when I’m working on my PC and need to quickly switch to my phone without any hassle. The low-latency 2.4 GHz connection has made a noticeable difference during gaming sessions, providing a smooth and uninterrupted experience.

Game Audio Quality

The audio quality during gaming is where these earbuds really shine. With the high-resolution 24-bit 96 kHz sound, every detail in my games comes through crystal clear. The Dirac Opteo™ technology enhances the audio, making explosions more impactful and ambient sounds more immersive. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my gaming experience, as I can hear even the faintest footsteps and distant gunfire, which helps me react more quickly and strategically. The low-latency connection ensures that there’s no delay between the action on-screen and the sound in my ears, which is crucial for competitive gaming.

Music Audio Quality

When it comes to music, the ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova earbuds deliver a rich and dynamic listening experience. The sound is full-bodied, with deep bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs. Whether I’m listening to classical music, rock, or electronic tracks, the earbuds provide a well-balanced sound profile that brings out the best in every genre. I often find myself noticing new details in my favorite songs that I hadn’t picked up before, thanks to the high-resolution audio capabilities.

Call Quality

For phone calls, I’ve paired the earbuds with my ROG Phone 8, and as usual, ROG devices really pair well with each other in terms of ecosystem and functionality. The Bone-Conduction AI Microphones have been a standout feature for call quality, ensuring that my voice is picked up clearly and accurately. I’ve received compliments from friends and colleagues about how clear I sound, even in noisy environments. The seamless integration with my ROG Phone 8 makes managing calls easy and intuitive, further enhancing the overall experience.

Noise Cancellation

The Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) feels incredibly natural with these earbuds. It’s impressive how it seamlessly adjusts to the surrounding noise levels, creating a balanced listening environment that feels both immersive and comfortable. Whether I’m in a bustling cafe or a quiet room, the transition is smooth and unobtrusive, allowing me to stay focused on my music or work without feeling isolated or overwhelmed.

Battery Life and Ergonomics

Battery life is another area where these earbuds shine. Based on my testing, the charging case carries up 46 hours of use on a single charge (as advertised), I rarely find myself worrying about running out of power. Even when I do need a quick recharge, the fast in-case charging gets me back up and running in no time. Plus, the ASUS Aura RGB lighting adds a nice personal touch, allowing me to customize the look of the earbuds with different lighting effects – but of course with a sacrifice of a slightly short battery life.

When it comes to ergonomics, I find the ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova earbuds to be generally comfortable for extended use. The earbuds fit securely in my ears, and I can wear them for long periods without experiencing discomfort. However, it’s important to note that earbud comfort can be quite subjective. What feels comfortable to me might not be the same for someone else, as everyone’s ear shape and size are different. I recommend trying them out if possible to see how they fit for you. The earbuds come with multiple ear tip sizes, which can help achieve a more personalized fit for different users.

What I Liked

• Great improvement in audio quality – on par with top tier earbuds
• RGB – What’s not to love?
• Come’s in White (Subjective)
• Comfortable for long hours
• Great ecosystem integration
• 2.4Ghz dongle enables multi platform (I’m looking at you PS5)

What’s not desireable

• With cheaper alternatives in the market, the price tag is really not for everyone.

Verdict

Overall, my experience with the ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova earbuds has been overwhelmingly positive. They’ve become an essential part of my daily life, offering convenience, exceptional audio quality, and reliable performance. The flexibility of dual-mode connectivity, natural-feeling ANC, and impressive battery life make them a standout choice for anyone seeking high-quality wireless audio. While the retail price of RM 928 is on the higher side, it’s a fair investment given that their quality rivals even more expensive earbuds on the market. As with nearly everything in Malaysia, it’s worth keeping an eye out for platform campaign sales, where you might snag them at a better price. For those who value top-notch sound and versatile features, these earbuds are definitely worth considering.

Final Score : 8/10 (The price tag isn’t for everyone)