When it comes to affordable audio gear, the Realme Buds T100 and Redmi Buds Essential are two top contenders competing for the title of the best earphones within the 20 to 25 USD price range.
Both brands are known for their value-driven products, making this comparison even more intriguing.
For those looking to make an informed purchase decision or simply curious about how these two models stack up against each other, this article provides you clear verdict.
Realme Buds T100 vs Redmi Buds Essential: Specs Comparison
| Feature | Realme Buds T100 | Redmi Buds Essential |
|---|---|---|
| Build Material | Plastic with superior finish | Plastic |
| Case Design | Thicker, USB Type-C port, LED indicator for battery and pairing | Compact, micro USB port, LED indicator for charging |
| Headphone Size | Larger | Smaller |
| Controls | Customizable via app, touch area | Clickable buttons, basic functions |
| Water Resistance | IPX5 | IPX4 |
| Battery Life (Earbuds + Case) | 6 hours + 28 hours | 5.5 hours + 18 hours |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3, AAC codec, better Android compatibility | Bluetooth 5.2, SBC codec |
| Sound Quality | 10mm titanium-plated drivers, better bass control and detail | 7.2mm drivers |
| Additional Features | Customizable touch controls, dedicated app (not iOS compatible) | Limited to basic functions |
| Price | around $25 | around $20 |
Realme Buds T100 vs Redmi Buds Essential: In-depth review
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to design, both the Realme Buds T100 and the Redmi Buds Essential are made of plastic, which is expected at this price point.
However, the Realme Buds T100 takes the lead with a superior finish that feels more solid and better built.
The case of the Realme Buds T100, despite being thicker and slightly less comfortable, offers a more premium feel compared to the Essential’s.
Notably, the Realme case features a USB Type-C port, an upgrade from the micro USB port found on the Essential, highlighting a trend towards modern connectivity options.
Headphone Features and Usability
Size-wise, the Realme Buds are larger, which may affect fit and comfort differently across users.
Both models offer touch controls, but the Realme Buds T100 offers customizable controls through an app, providing a more tailored user experience.
]Additionally, the Realme earbuds boast IPX5 resistance, slightly better than the IPX4 rating of the Essentials, offering peace of mind during workouts or in light rain.
Unfortunately, neither model includes a proximity sensor for automatic play/pause, a feature missed by many users.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery performance is crucial for wireless earbuds, and here the Realme Buds T100 outshines the Redmi Buds Essential.
With 6 hours of continuous use and up to 28 hours with the case, the Realme offers significantly longer listening times compared to the Essential’s 5.5 hours per earbud and a total of 18 hours with the case.
Furthermore, the Realme Buds T100 supports Bluetooth 5.3 and AAC codec, ensuring better sound quality and connectivity compared to the Bluetooth 5.2 and SBC codec of the Essential.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is often the deal-breaker, and the Realme Buds T100, with its 10-millimeter titanium-plated dynamic drivers, provides a superior auditory experience.
The Realme earbuds offer better bass control and detail, standing out in comparison to the 7.2-millimeter drivers of the Redmi Buds Essential.
While mid and high frequencies are comparably handled by both, the Realme Buds T100 edges ahead with better overall sound quality.
Where to Buy?
| Model | Best Deal |
|---|---|
| Realme Buds T100 | View on AliExpress |
| Redmi Buds Essential | View on AliExpress |
Realme Buds T100 vs Redmi Buds Essential: The Verdict
Considering all the factors, the Realme Buds T100 emerges as the clear winner in this comparison.
With its better battery life, modern USB Type-C connectivity, superior sound quality, and additional features like customizable touch controls and a dedicated app, it offers a more comprehensive package.
While the Redmi Buds Essential are by no means a poor choice, they fall behind when directly compared to the Realme Buds T100.
For those in the market for budget-friendly earphones that do not compromise on quality, the Realme Buds T100 is the preferable option. It’s a testament to how far budget earphones have come, offering features and performance once reserved for higher-priced models.
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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.
