Redmi Buds 5 Review: best TWS under 3k with ANC?

PROS

• Loudness
• Dual Device Connectivity
• IP54 Rating
• Effective Voice Call Quality
• Intuitive App

CONS

• Custom EQ is unavailable
• Mediocre Noise Cancellation
• Lack of Low-Latency Mode

We're putting the Redmi Buds 5 TWS to the test. Are they the wireless earbuds you've been waiting for, or just another overhyped gadget? From jaw-dropping features to unexpected drawbacks, we'll spill all the juicy details you need to know before making your next audio investment. Let's dive in and uncover the truth about the Redmi Buds 5!

Redmi Buds 5: Design

First things first, the soft-close of the charging case is incredibly satisfying. Despite the build being plastic and the design reminiscent of the OnePlus Buds 3, this one small attention to detail on the charging case definitely adds a touch of sophistication to the Redmi Buds 5.

Moreover, the case is quite pocket-friendly and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. It's also equipped with charging indicators both inside and outside the case, providing clear updates on the battery status and the status of the earbuds themselves.

The Redmi Buds 5 feature a metallic strip on the stem of the TWS, which can definitely contribute to the overall vibe you're going for. Though, one thing to note is that after some use, fingerprints become quite noticeable on it, which is my main concern as it tends to overshadow the appearance, in my opinion.

Redmi Buds 5: Xiaomi Earbuds App

The app is intuitive and has a neatly organized menu with distinctive icons for every function.
Battery status indicator is right on the top followed by the noise cancellation profile and then we have a few additional settings like gesture and audio effects.

The gesture control feature is wonderfully customizable. You have the freedom to map single, double, triple, and hold options according to your preference. Xiaomi has smartly disabled single tap controls by default to prevent accidental triggers, but you can easily enable them once you've installed the app.

The Redmi Buds 5 come packed with some handy features like in-ear detection, dual connections, and auto call connect, all of which can be easily toggled on or off based on your preferences. Plus, there's the ear tip fit test to ensure optimal comfort and sound quality.

What's really cool is the "find your earphones" feature in the main menu, perfect for those moments when your TWS decides to go on an adventure of its own.

Also, the "About Device" section offers a comprehensive overview of the Redmi Buds 5, making it easier to explore and get the most out of your new buds.

Redmi Buds 5: Audio Quality

The Redmi Buds 5 are power packed with 12.4mm Dynamic Titanium Drivers and it's no surprise that the loudness on these earbuds is off the charts.

When it comes to my audio preferences, I'm all about that bass. So naturally, the first thing I do is tweak the sound signature to match my taste. I was a bit surprised to find that the app only offers four presets: Standard, Enhance Treble, Enhance Bass, and Enhance Voice, without an actual equalizer. Each preset does what it promises, with slight volume boosts to the respective frequencies.

Taking a dive back into albums like Utopia by Travis Scott and Sempiternal by Bring Me The Horizon, I noticed the crispness of the treble and the well-rounded bass, but the mids sounded a bit hollow for some reason. Still, the Redmi Buds 5 managed to exceed my expectations overall. Personally, I tend to scoop out the mids and boost the bass, but for those seeking a more balanced sound, the scooped mids might be a drawback.

Redmi Buds 5: ANC, Latency, Transparent Mode

The 46dB ANC feature excels in effectively reducing low-frequency rumbles and bass-heavy tones, providing a serene listening experience. However, its performance in cancelling higher frequency tones falls within the realm of average. With three distinct modes for ANC-light, balanced, and deep-it offers users flexibility to tailor their noise cancellation preferences to their environment and personal preferences.

In my experience, the overall effectiveness of the cancellation fell a bit short of expectations. Comparing it to the Realme Buds Air 5, which come at a higher price point (currently 200 bucks more than Redmi Buds 5), the difference is noticeable. The optimization on the Buds Air 5 is notably superior, not just because it boasts a higher 50dB ANC capability.

It's evident that the Redmi Buds 5 prioritize content consumption, and they excel in fulfilling that role. When it comes to gaming, they lack a dedicated gesture or in-app control to minimize latency. While they might suffice for casual gaming, they're not suitable for competitive gaming due to this limitation.

The transparent mode feature offers some versatility with its three modes: regular, enhance voice, and enhance ambient sound. Each mode brings a noticeable difference in how you perceive your surroundings. Although, there's room for improvement in the microphone input quality, which could enhance the overall experience further.

Redmi Buds 5: Call Quality

The calling experience with the Redmi Buds 5 is really impressive. The AI noise and wind reduction feature does wonders in cutting down background noise during calls. Plus, having dual mics on each earbud enhances voice pickup while effectively minimizing ambient noise. Whether you're indoors or outdoors, the Redmi Buds 5 prove to be reliable companions for taking calls.

Redmi Buds 5: Battery

In my experience, I mainly used the Redmi Buds 5 for watching YouTube videos, scrolling through Instagram, taking calls throughout the day, and wearing them during my workout sessions, switching between ANC on and ANC off as needed. The battery life is impressive, lasting around 31 hours on a single charge with the case. Xiaomi's claim of providing 2 hours of playback with just 5 minutes of charging, which fits perfectly into my daily routine, keeps me powered up efficiently.

Verdict

The Redmi Buds 5 offer a decent array of features with some notable trade-offs. While their sleek design and user-friendly app interface enhance their appeal, the absence of a custom EQ and limited noise cancellation capabilities may hinder their performance for discerning users. Nevertheless, their reliable call quality and long-lasting battery life position them as a practical option for everyday use, particularly for those prioritizing convenience and affordability.

The Redmi Buds 5 boasts impressive loudness, dual device connectivity, IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, effective voice call quality, and an intuitive app. The customizable gesture controls and in-ear detection add to the user experience.

However, there are some notable drawbacks. The absence of a custom EQ limits audio customization, and the noise cancellation performance is only mediocre. Additionally, the lack of a low-latency mode makes them less ideal for gaming enthusiasts.

Despite these drawbacks, the Redmi Buds 5 excel in several areas, particularly in their design with attention to detail, the functionality of the Xiaomi Earbuds app, and the reliable call quality. The long-lasting battery life and quick charging capability further enhance their appeal for daily use.

In conclusion, while the Redmi Buds 5 may not be perfect, they offer a solid option for users looking for affordable yet feature-rich wireless earbuds.