In this article, I will compare Redmi’s budget-friendly wireless earbuds, the Redmi Buds 4 Active, and the Redmi Buds 4 Lite.
Both earbuds are quite affordable and offer excellent value for money. However, there’s one that stands out as the clear winner in this comparison, which I’ll discuss in this post.
So, let’s get comfortable and dive in.
Redmi Buds 4 Active vs Redmi Buds 4 Lite: Specs Comparison
| Features | Redmi Buds 4 Active | Redmi Buds 4 Lite |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Matte finish, in-ear design | Glossy finish lid, semi-in-ear design |
| Battery Life | 5 hours (earbuds), 28 hours (with case) | 5 hours (earbuds), 20 hours (with case) |
| Charging | USB Type-C (no cable included) | USB Type-C (cable included) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3, SBC codec | Bluetooth 5.3, AAC codec |
| App Compatibility | Compatible with Xiaomi and Airbuds app | No app connectivity |
| Sound Quality | Basic quality, SBC codec limits performance | Superior sound quality with AAC codec |
| Pricing | 19.99 euros | 29.99 euros (often found around 20-25 euros) |
Redmi Buds 4 Active vs Redmi Buds 4 Lite: In-Depth Comparison
Design and Build Quality
First off, let’s talk about design. Both the Redmi Buds 4 Active and the Redmi Buds 4 Lite come with distinctly different charging cases.
The Buds 4 Lite features a superior build quality for its price range and is also more compact.
While both models use plastic construction, the Buds 4 Active has a matte finish, and the Buds 4 Lite sports a glossy finish on the lid, providing a better feel in hand.
When it comes to the earbuds themselves, they are relatively similar in size and shape.
The primary distinction is that the Buds 4 Active are in-ear, and the Buds 4 Lite are semi-in-ear, which impacts how they isolate external noise.
Both feature external touch zones and various microphones distributed across the body.
However, the comfort in the ear is notably different, with the Buds 4 Active feeling more comfortable due to their silicone tips.
Battery Life and Charging
Moving on to battery life, the Buds 4 Active has a 34 mAh capacity per earbud, with the case offering an additional 440 mAh.
This theoretically provides around 5 hours of playback time, extending up to 28 hours with the case.
Xiaomi doesn’t specify the mAh for the Buds 4 Lite, but they claim approximately 5 hours of playback on a single charge and up to 20 hours with the case.
Both models charge via USB Type-C, but only the Buds 4 Lite includes the cable.
Connectivity
In terms of connectivity, both models are equipped with Bluetooth 5.3.
However, the Buds 4 Active supports only the basic SBC codec, while the Buds 4 Lite can handle the AAC codec, providing a slightly better audio transmission.
Both pairs are compatible with Google Fast Pair for quick connectivity with Android devices.
Interestingly, the Buds 4 Active can connect to the Xiaomi and Airbuds app, which is not possible with the Buds 4 Lite.
However, the app’s functionality is limited to checking battery life, updating firmware, and enabling low-latency mode.
Sound Quality
Now, let’s talk about the most critical aspect: sound quality. Both models have a 12mm dynamic driver, but they are tuned differently.
The Buds 4 Lite significantly outperforms the Active in audio quality, offering higher volume with less distortion.
The sound detail and clarity are notably better in the Buds 4 Lite. The Buds 4 Active’s sound can feel a bit boxed in and lacks the clarity and finesse that the Buds 4 Lite offers.
Pricing
In Europe, the Buds 4 Active is priced at $19.99, and the Buds 4 Lite at $29.99, often found for around $20-$25.
Redmi Buds 4 Active vs Redmi Buds 4 Lite: Final Verdict
In conclusion, while both the Redmi Buds 4 Active and the Buds 4 Lite are similar in price and features, the Buds 4 Lite is the clear winner. It excels in design, connectivity, and most importantly, sound quality.
So, if you are looking for an affordable, high-quality earbud option, the Redmi Buds 4 Lite is undoubtedly the way to go. Remember, if you have any questions or need further details, feel free to ask in the comments below.
I hope you found this comparison helpful, and I look forward to seeing you in the next comparison. Until then, take care!
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.
Thank you very much in deed! A real pleasure to read a rigourous comparison between 2 devices, without any crappy marketing; allow me to congrat you; first time I ever leave an opinion, but a lot of times “arena” has helped me, and in this opportunity, it made my buying decision.
Thanks again and sorry my crappy english xD!