Redmi Buds 5 Review: Pocketfriendly Music
It wasn't that long ago that truly wireless headphones were a new product - not a new product, of course, but budget constraints made them unaffordable for many people. Since Apple introduced the AirPods in 2016, TWS headphones have become increasingly popular, with more and more brands entering the market to offer convenient pocket options. However, the quality is still lacking. That has now changed: Cheap TWS headphones offer almost the same sound quality as more expensive headphones. The latest and frankly impressive addition to this segment is the Redmi Buds 5.
Although it may seem redundant, the Redmi Buds 5 are a symphony of affordability and style. Priced at $2,999, this little wonder offers a premium look that can easily make it seem like it costs more than it actually does. But that's just on the surface, and appearances can take you far. Do the Buds 5 work as well as they seem? Let's find out.
After opening the packaging, I noticed a small but thoughtful detail - a protective sticker that protects the charger contacts and prevents unnecessary removal. In my opinion, such details speak volumes about the ideas expressed in the user experience.
Connecting the Buds 5 was easy – when I opened the lid, my Android phone appeared at the bottom. I met a few and that's it. Google Fast Pair does the rest, easily syncing your headphones with all Android devices you're signed in to with the same Google ID. The Buds 5 experience can be customized and controlled via the Xiaomi Earbuds app, which allows you to change gesture controls, ANC/transparency settings and EQ settings.
Now to the design: The plastic charging case, especially the lid, feels a bit fragile at first glance, but this contributes to the overall lightness of the case. However, be careful not to put too much pressure on the cap when it is in your pocket.
Let's talk about the tone. Speakers with a diameter of 12.4 mm inside the Redmi Buds 5 ensure a balanced range of sounds in high, low and medium frequencies. The Buds 5 support active noise cancellation (ANC) of up to 46dB, and while it works in most scenarios, higher frequencies can occur, as is the case with most, if not all, TWS earbuds. Transparency mode, on the other hand, maintains sound quality without missing a beat (pun intended).
And the battery life?
Redmi claims a battery life of up to 38 hours with the charging case. In my experience, the headphones last about six hours before needing to be put back in the charging case. However, they work very quickly and are ready for use in no time.
Now let me pick a few nits. The touch control setup feels a bit awkward when working - you control music playback by double and triple tapping the headphones, which can easily irritate your ear canals as well as. I also encountered this problem when using the more expensive first and second generation Apple AirPods. I would have preferred to use touch controls or touch controls, but again this is a small problem.
But the quality of the connection? Transparent. I've received dozens of calls using the Buds 5 and not once have I been told that my voice isn't being heard properly.
Finally
In my opinion, the Redmi Buds 5 are a great product that fits comfortably in your pocket and delivers great sound. Despite some peculiarities in the implementation of the controls, these headphones offer excellent listening quality. If you're looking for affordable TWS headphones that don't compromise on style and content, the Redmi Buds 5 might be right for you.
(Edited by: Shoma Bhattacharjee )