Redmi has undoubtedly made a significant impact in the world of wireless earbuds with its exceptional and pocket-friendly products.
Two of its popular offerings are the Redmi Buds 5 and Redmi Buds 4 Pro. While both earbuds have a lot in common, they also have distinct features that set them apart.
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of these two models.
Redmi Buds 5 vs Redmi Buds 4 Pro: Specs Comparison
| Features | Redmi Buds 5 | Redmi Buds 4 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Slightly larger, matte finish case | Glossy finish case |
| Battery Life | Up to 8 hours (ANC on), 10 hours (ANC off), 40 hours with case | Up to 9 hours, 36 hours with case |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3, AAC codec | Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC codec |
| App Integration | Compatible with Xiaomi Earbuds app | Compatible with Xiaomi Earbuds app |
| Sound Quality | Single 12.4 mm driver | Dual-driver (10 mm and 6 mm) |
| Noise Cancellation | Up to 46 decibels | Up to 43 decibels |
| Color Options | Purple, Black, White | White, Matte Black |
| Price Range | $35 to $40 | $60 to $70 |
Redmi Buds 5 vs Redmi Buds 4 Pro: In-Depth Review
Design and Comfort
Both the Redmi Buds 5 and Redmi Buds 4 Pro boast sleek designs, with the charging cases being relatively similar in dimensions.
The Buds 5 case has a matte finish, making it more appealing and comfortable to carry in a pocket compared to the glossy finish of the Buds 4 Pro case.
Each case features a USB Type-C connector and a small button for resetting the pairing with the phone.
The earbuds themselves in both models are almost identical, with the Buds 5 being slightly larger.
However, this size difference is barely noticeable. They both have touch-sensitive controls, and automatic play/pause sensors and are equally comfortable to wear.
Both models are IP54 rated, ensuring good performance even during runs or in the rain.
The Buds 5 are available in three colors: a striking purple, classic black, and white.
The Buds 4 Pro, on the other hand, comes in a white and a matte black finish, with the latter being more resilient to wear and tear.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for wireless earbuds, and both models excel in this department.
The Buds 5 offers up to 8 hours of playback with noise cancellation on and 10 hours with it off. Including the charging case, they can last up to 40 hours.
The Buds 4 Pro, meanwhile, offers 9 hours of playback and up to 36 hours with the charging case.
In real-world use, the Buds 5 slightly outperforms the Buds 4 Pro in battery life, particularly with noise cancellation activated.
Unfortunately, neither model supports wireless Qi charging.
Connectivity and App Integration
Connectivity is another strength for both models. The Buds 5 features Bluetooth 5.3 and supports the AAC codec, which is reasonable for their price range.
The Buds 4 Pro also has Bluetooth 5.3 but boasts the LDAC codec, offering superior audio transmission, especially with Android devices.
Both models are compatible with the Xiaomi Earbuds app available on Android and iOS.
The app allows users to customize touch controls, activate or deactivate noise cancellation, configure cancellation levels, update firmware, and more.
Interestingly, both models can connect to two devices simultaneously, allowing easy switching.
This feature, along with low latency in videos and a moderate lag in gaming, makes them versatile for various multimedia experiences.
Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation
When it comes to sound quality, both models have dynamic drivers but differ in configuration.
The Buds 5 has a single 12.4 mm driver, while the Buds 4 Pro features a dual-driver setup (10 mm and 6 mm), which provides better balance and control across all frequency ranges, especially at higher volumes.
The noise cancellation feature is impressive in both models. The Buds 4 Pro can cancel up to 43 decibels, while the Buds 5 go up to 46 decibels.
In practical use, both are effective in noisy environments, though the Buds 5 offers slightly better performance for their price.
Price
The Redmi Buds 5 are typically priced between $35 to $40, offering excellent value for money.
The Buds 4 Pro, being slightly older and more feature-rich, are priced around $60 to $70. Your choice between these two will likely depend on your budget and specific needs.
Final Thoughts
If sound quality is a priority, the Buds 4 Pro might be worth the extra investment.
However, for most users, the Buds 5 offers an excellent balance of features, quality, and affordability, making them an attractive choice for everyday use.
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.
