Amazon Prime Day is one of the best times of the year to upgrade your gear, and if you’re looking for budget-friendly ANC earbuds, TOZO’s NC series is hard to beat. Two of the most popular models, the TOZO NC3 and TOZO NC9, are both expected to be on sale, but which one is right for you? Both offer impressive noise cancellation, customizable EQ settings, and sleek wireless designs, but they shine in different ways. In this article, we’ll break down their similarities and differences so you can make the best pick this Prime Day.
What NC3 and NC9 Have in Common?
TOZO's NC3 and NC9 may differ in design and sound, but they share a strong foundation of features that make both models reliable and appealing. Both offer Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to block out unwanted background noise, as well as a Transparency Mode that allows you to hear your surroundings when needed—ideal for staying safe and aware.
They each feature Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) during phone calls, ensuring your voice remains clear even in busy environments. Both earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3, which enables a fast and stable connection with reduced power consumption.
In addition, both the NC3 and NC9 are IPX6 water-resistant, making them suitable for light workouts or daily commutes in unpredictable weather. They also work seamlessly with the TOZO app, giving users access to custom EQ settings, firmware updates, and touch control adjustments. In short, both models deliver a premium wireless audio experience without the premium price.
Key Differences Between TOZO NC3 and NC9
Design & Fit
The NC3 is designed with minimalism in mind—it’s lighter and smaller, making it a great fit for users with smaller ears or those who prefer barely-there earbuds. The oval-shaped buds sit comfortably and securely, even during long listening sessions. They’re especially great for people who wear earbuds throughout the day, whether for work calls or music on the go.
In contrast, the NC9 has a bulkier body, offering more passive noise isolation due to its deeper in-ear fit. It may feel more secure for workouts, commuting, or environments where a more sealed-in feeling is preferable. Some users might prefer its slightly thicker construction for a sturdier in-ear feel, especially during active use.
Sound Quality
Sound tuning is another key difference. The NC3 leans toward a V-shaped sound profile: crisp highs and boosted bass, ideal for pop, EDM, or casual podcast listening. Its sound is energetic and lively, adding extra punch to up-tempo tracks.
Meanwhile, the NC9 offers a warmer and fuller sound, with smoother mids and slightly more detail across the spectrum. This makes it better suited for users who prefer a more balanced or natural tuning. It excels with acoustic genres, classical pieces, and vocal-heavy content. Listeners who enjoy nuanced audio will likely favor the NC9.
ANC & Transparency Performance
Both earbuds offer ANC, but the NC9 edges ahead with stronger hybrid ANC technology. It blocks more background noise and performs better in louder environments like subways, buses, or busy offices. The ANC is more refined and more effective at removing low-frequency rumble.
The NC3's ANC is still effective, but optimized for moderate environments such as cafes, libraries, or working from home. It's a more lightweight solution that performs well when total silence isn’t essential. Both models feature transparency modes, though the NC9's ambient sound comes through more naturally and with less digital distortion.
Battery Life & Charging
The NC3 outperforms here, offering 13 hours of playtime on a single charge and up to 40 hours with the case. This makes it ideal for travelers, professionals, or anyone who doesn’t want to constantly recharge their earbuds.
The NC9 offers around 8 hours per charge, totaling 24 hours with the case. While still respectable, it's better suited for daily commutes or shorter listening sessions. However, the NC9's case is slightly more compact, which might appeal to users looking for portability.
Both earbuds charge via USB-C and feature LED battery indicators on the case, ensuring you're never caught off guard without power.
Which One Should You Buy This Prime Day?
If you want lightweight earbuds with long battery life and a crisp, energetic sound signature, go for the TOZO NC3. It's especially great for casual listening, smaller ears, or anyone needing all-day comfort. The extended battery life makes it ideal for workdays, long flights, or back-to-back meetings.
If you prioritize stronger ANC, richer sound, and a more secure fit, the TOZO NC9 is your winner. It’s a better pick for commuters, students, or users who want better environmental noise reduction and enjoy a warmer, more natural sound profile.
During Prime Day, both models are likely to be discounted, making either an excellent investment. Consider your lifestyle: do you need earbuds that last all day without recharging? Or do you prefer immersive sound with top-tier ANC performance? Both NC3 and NC9 are strong contenders in the budget ANC category, and Prime Day pricing allows you to grab one or both at an unbeatable value.
If you’re buying earbuds as a gift, NC3 might be the safer universal pick thanks to its lightweight feel and longer playtime. For yourself, NC9 delivers an immersive sound experience that punches well above its price.
Conclusion
The TOZO NC3 and NC9 are both excellent choices, each catering to slightly different needs. Prime Day is the perfect moment to make a smart audio upgrade. Go for the NC3 if you value comfort and battery endurance, or pick the NC9 for immersive sound and stronger ANC. Either way, you're getting outstanding value in a compact, stylish package that competes with brands twice the price.
