When it comes to choosing between the Realme Buds Air 5 and the CMF by Nothing Buds Pro, the decision is like picking between two equally tempting desserts.
Both have their own flavor, and both promise an experience that’s hard to resist.
Let’s dive into the specifics to help you decide which set of earbuds is the right treat for your ears.
Realme Buds Air 5 vs Nothing CMF Buds Pro: Specs comparison
| Specifications | Realme Buds Air 5 | CMF Buds Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Driver | 12.4mm titanized driver | 10mm Dynamic bass boost |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, AAC, SBC audio codec | 5.3, AAC, SBC, compatible with Android 5.1 and later and iOS 13 and later, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair |
| Touch Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Noise Cancellation | 6-mic design AI ENC call noise reduction | Up to 45db ANC, Frequency range: 5000Hz, Noise cancellation with 2 modes (High, Mid, Low) |
| Gaming Mode | 45ms Super Low Latency Gaming Mode | Low Lag Mode (Automatically enabled in Nothing smartphones) |
| App Support | realme Link app for customization and updates | Nothing X |
| Dual Device Connection | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IPX5 | IP54 for buds |
| Battery Life (Earbuds) | Up to 7h (without ANC) / 4.5h (with ANC) | Up to 11 hours (without ANC) / 6.5 hours (with ANC) |
| Total Playback Time (with Case) | Up to 38h | 39h (without ANC) / 22h (with ANC) |
| Fast Charging | 10 min charging for up to 7h playback | 10 mins for 5 hours (without ANC) |
| Dimensions | 30.8 x 20 x 24mm | Earbud: 31.6 x 21.6 x 22.5mm; Charging box: 58 x 58 x 24mm |
| Weight | Earbud: 4.4 grams | Earbud: 4.8g; Charging box: 44.5g |
Realme Buds Air 5 vs Nothing CMF Buds Pro: In-depth review
Design: The First Impression
Starting with design, both the Realme Buds Air 5 and the CMF Buds Pro understand that a good pair of earbuds must not only sound great but also look the part.
The Realme Buds come with a sleek, minimalist design that’s both practical and stylish, fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle whether you’re at the gym, in the office, or just chilling at home. They’re like that reliable friend who never lets you down.
On the other hand, the CMF Buds Pro opts for a more unique look with their distinctive circular case, making a statement every time you pull them out. It’s like wearing a piece of futuristic jewelry that also plays music.
Waterproofing: For Life’s Little Spills
Life can be unpredictable, and both sets of earbuds come prepared. The Realme Buds boast an IPX5 water and splash resistance rating, ready to face a bit of sweat or a sudden drizzle.
The CMF Buds Pro, with their IP54 rating, offer protection against dust in addition to water, making them a slightly better companion for your outdoor adventures or dusty environments.
Sound: The Heart of the Matter
At their core, earbuds are all about sound. Both these contenders offer quality audio experiences, but they have their own ways of delivering it.
The Realme Buds Air 5 are equipped with coated drivers, while the CMF Buds Pro feature 10mm dynamic drivers, both aiming to fill your ears with rich, clear, and immersive sound.
With support for AAC and SBC codecs, they ensure that whether you’re an Android user or an Apple devotee, you won’t miss a beat.
Noise cancellation technology in both models means you can dive into your music without the world interrupting.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) helps drown out the background noise, while the transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings when needed. It’s like having a volume knob for the real world.
Battery Life: Keeping the Music Going
Nothing kills the vibe faster than your earbuds dying in the middle of your favorite song.
Thankfully, both the Realme Buds Air 5 and the CMF Buds Pro understand the assignment. The Realme Buds promise substantial playback time, with their case providing additional full charges, ensuring that your music marathon can go on for days.
The CMF Buds Pro slightly edge out with their 9 to 11 hours of playback time on a single charge, making them the marathon runners of the earbud world.
Both sets support fast charging, so even if you forget to charge them, a quick top-up will have you ready to roll in no time.
Connectivity and Customization: Making It Yours
Ease of use is crucial, and both earbuds shine in this department. They connect to your device effortlessly, thanks to their instant wake-and-pair technology, sparing you from the frustration of fiddling with settings.
The accompanying apps for both models allow you to tweak the EQ settings to your liking, update the firmware for new features, and customize the touch controls, making sure your earbuds work just the way you like them.
Price & Avialiblity
Both earbuds are positioned in a similar price range, making them competitive options for those looking for quality audio experiences without breaking the bank.
However, depending on the region you’re in and the offers available at the time of purchase, you might find slight variations in pricing that could sway your choice one way or the other.
The Realme Buds Air 5 is available in two appealing colors: Deep Sea Blue and Arctic White. The price range for these earbuds is set between $45 and $50, making them an affordable option for users seeking a blend of performance, style, and comfort.
On the other hand, the CMF Buds Pro is offered in three distinct colors: Dark Grey, Light Grey, and Orange. These earbuds come with a price tag of $49, placing them at the higher end of the similar price bracket shared with the Realme Buds Air 5.
Where to buy?
| Model | Best Deal |
|---|---|
| Realme Buds Air 5 | View on AliExpress |
| CMF Buds Pro | View on AliExpress |
Final Verdict: Which One to Choose?
Choosing between the CMF Buds Pro vs Realme Buds Air 5 is no small task, as both offer compelling reasons to take them home.
If you’re someone who values standout design and slightly better durability against dust, the CMF Buds Pro might be your match. Their unique look and feel make them more than just earbuds; they’re a fashion statement.
On the other hand, if you prefer something more understated with equally impressive features and a friendlier price tag, the Realme Buds Air 5 could be the way to go. They offer a solid, no-fuss experience that focuses on delivering great sound and functionality without drawing too much attention to themselves.
In the end, it’s all about what matters most to you. Whether it’s the unique design and extra dust protection of the CMF Buds Pro or the sleek practicality and cost-effectiveness of the Realme Buds Air 5, you’re getting a set of earbuds that promises to enhance your audio experience without breaking the bank. The choice, as they say, is yours.
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- Realme Buds Air 5 vs Realme Buds Air 3
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Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
