Xiaomi’s Redmi lineup has always been about getting the best bang for your buck, and that’s especially true when it comes to their budget earbuds.
The Buds 6 Active quickly became a favorite for many, thanks to their decent sound quality, appealing design, and a price that felt almost too good to be true.
Now, with the arrival of the Buds 8 Active, the big question on everyone’s mind is whether it’s worth making the switch or if the older model still holds its ground.
After spending some quality time with both, it turns out the answer is a bit nuanced — and honestly, that makes things more intriguing than just having a clear winner.
Look & Feel
One of the most eye-catching changes is in the design language.
The Redmi Buds 6 Active really stood out with its playful and unique aesthetic, especially with that transparent lid and the fun stem accents. It had a character that’s not often found in ultra-budget earbuds.
With the Redmi Buds 8 Active, Xiaomi has chosen a more classic route. The charging case is now more streamlined, featuring a glossy plastic finish and a compact design. It feels solid and well-constructed, but visually, it doesn’t have the same charm as its predecessor. This more straightforward design approach also applies to the earbuds themselves. While they still offer a similar shape and comfort, the transparent elements have been swapped out for a more subtle look.
In terms of comfort, both models are nearly the same. They’re lightweight, semi-in-ear earbuds that you can wear for long periods without much discomfort. However, if you’re planning to use them for vigorous workouts, they might not provide the most secure fit.
One clear upgrade, though, is in durability. The Buds 8 Active boast an IP54 rating, which means they offer better protection against dust and splashes compared to the IPX4 rating of the Buds 6 Active.
Connectivity and Features
On paper, both models share Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring stable connectivity and low power consumption. However, the real upgrade comes in codec support.
The Redmi Buds 6 Active are limited to the basic SBC codec, which is serviceable but not particularly impressive. The Buds 8 Active, on the other hand, add AAC support. While AAC isn’t high-end, it offers noticeably better audio quality, especially on compatible devices.
Both earbuds support Google Fast Pair and Xiaomi’s companion app, allowing users to customize touch controls and access preset EQ modes. The newer Buds 8 Active go a step further by introducing a customizable equalizer, giving users more control over their sound profile—something that was missing on the older model.
Latency performance is also slightly improved on the Buds 8 Active, making them a better option for casual gaming or video playback, although the difference isn’t huge.
Microphone Performance
You might be surprised by the call quality on both models, especially considering their price point. Each one shines in its own way depending on the environment.
The Redmi Buds 6 Active really excel indoors, particularly in places where echoes can be a problem. You’ll notice that voices sound clearer and more natural.
On the other hand, the Buds 8 Active are the go-to choice for outdoor use, as they do a fantastic job of cutting down on background noise and picking up voices more clearly in bustling settings.
In short, neither is perfect, but both are more than acceptable for everyday calls.
Sound Quality
This is where the Redmi Buds 8 Active start to shine a bit more. Both models come equipped with 14.2mm dynamic drivers, but the newer version boasts a titanium coating that enhances performance, especially at higher volumes.
On the other hand, the Buds 6 Active really emphasize a bass-heavy sound. They’re lively and fun, but sometimes they can sound a bit muddy and lack detail. Plus, the volume levels can feel somewhat restricted, often pushing you to crank them up for a more satisfying experience.
The Buds 8 Active, however, provide a more balanced audio profile. With AAC support and an upgraded driver design, they deliver better clarity and a touch more refined tuning. That said, they do have their quirks—there’s a noticeable sharpness in the higher frequencies that might lead to some listening fatigue after a while.
Just a heads up, it’s good to keep your expectations realistic. Neither of these earbuds is aimed at audiophiles. At this price range, the goal is to offer decent, enjoyable sound rather than pinpoint accuracy or depth.
No ANC, No Surprises
It’s no shocker that both models skip on active noise cancellation, especially given their budget-friendly price.
Plus, since they’re semi-in-ear earbuds, they don’t do a great job at blocking out noise passively. If you really want to drown out the sounds around you, you’ll have to check out some higher-end options.
Battery Life
Battery life is another area where Xiaomi has made some nice little improvements. In practical terms, the Redmi Buds 8 Active hold up a bit better on a single charge.
The Buds 6 Active typically give you around 5.5 hours of playback at a moderate volume, while the Buds 8 Active can push that closer to 6 to 6.25 hours under the same conditions.
It’s not a massive upgrade, but that extra 30 to 45 minutes can really come in handy for your daily commute or those extended listening marathons.
Pricing
You can typically find the Redmi Buds 8 Active priced at around $20, whereas the Buds 6 Active often drop to about $15 or even lower during sales.
Redmi Buds 8 Active vs Buds 6 Active: Specs Comparison
| Category | Redmi Buds 8 Active | Redmi Buds 6 Active |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Semi in-ear | Semi in-ear |
| Driver | 14.2mm dynamic (titanium diaphragm) | 14.2mm dynamic driver |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Codec | SBC, AAC | SBC |
| Battery (Earbuds) | 37mAh | 37mAh |
| Battery (Case) | 475mAh | 475mAh |
| Playback (Single Charge) | Up to 7 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Total Battery | Up to 37 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Water Resistance | IP54 (dust & splash) | IPX4 (splash only) |
| Weight (Earbud) | 3.8g | 4g |
| Charging Port | USB Type-C | USB Type-C |
| Extra Features | AAC, custom EQ, AI noise reduction, low latency | AI noise reduction, basic EQ presets |
Should You Upgrade?
The Redmi Buds 8 Active are definitely the superior earbuds, but the difference isn’t huge. They enhance the listening experience with better sound quality, support for AAC, longer battery life, and improved durability.
On the other hand, the Redmi Buds 6 Active still shine as a fantastic budget-friendly option. They provide great value, a distinctive design, and reliable everyday performance without breaking the bank.
If you find both models at a similar price point, the newer Buds 8 Active are the way to go. But if the Buds 6 Active are significantly cheaper, they’re still a fantastic choice and will meet the needs of most users.
In the end, this isn’t a massive upgrade—it’s more of a thoughtful progression. And in the ultra-budget category, that’s often what really counts.
Best Deal:
- Redmi Buds 8 Active: View on AliExpress
- Redmi Buds 6 Active: View on AliExpress
Related:
- Redmi Buds 8 vs 8 Pro — I Didn’t Expect This Result
- Redmi Buds 8 vs Redmi Buds 6: Worth the Upgrade or Skip It?
- Xiaomi Redmi Buds 8 Pro vs Buds 6 Pro: What’s Really New?
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.
