The Redmi Buds 5 Pro and QCY HT05 are two great options if you’re in the market for affordable wireless earbuds.
Both offer features like active noise cancellation and app compatibility at budget-friendly prices.
But which one is the better buy? Let’s compare the two across key factors to help you decide.
Before diving into the details, let’s take a quick look at the key differences between the Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5 Pro vs QCY HT05:
| Category | Redmi Buds 5 Pro | QCY HT05 |
|---|---|---|
| ENC Status | Yes | Yes |
| Charging Interface | Type C | Type C |
| Model | Redmi Buds 5 Pro | HT05 |
| Battery Capacity | 160mA | 700mA (Case) | 350 mAh (Case) |
| ANC Status | Yes | 52dB flagship ANC | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Driver Size | 11mm extra large titanium-coated woofer | 10mm ultra-thin piezoelectric ceramic tweeter | 10mm Dynamic Driver |
| Sweat & Water Resistance | IP54 | IPX5 |
| Playtime | 10 hours (Buds) | 38 Hours (with Case) | 30 hours of long Battery life |
| Price | Check on AliExpress | Check on AliExpress |
Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5 Pro vs QCY HT05: Key Differences Explained
Comfort and Fit
Both earbuds are comfortable to wear, but the Redmi Buds 5 Pro have a more secure and cozy in-ear fit. This makes them better suited for active use.
The QCY HT05 are still pleasant for extended listening, just not quite as snug.
Connectivity
The Redmi Buds 5 Pro supports Bluetooth 5.3, while the QCY HT05 uses the slightly older Bluetooth 5.2 standard.
In testing, both earbuds connected quickly and maintained a stable connection to a smartphone.
The Redmi model is compatible with the Xiaomi AirBuds app, and the QCY works with the QCY app for customizing settings.
Overall, Bluetooth performance is good on both, with a slight edge to the Redmi Buds 5 Pro.
Active Noise Cancellation
With 40dB active noise reduction, the QCY HT05 do a decent job blocking out background noise.
However, the ANC on the Redmi Buds 5 Pro is noticeably stronger at 52dB – among the best in this price range.
If noise cancellation is a priority for you, the Redmi Buds are the clear winner.
Sound Quality
The Redmi Buds 5 Pro delivers excellent audio, with powerful bass, high maximum volume, and support for customizing the EQ through the Xiaomi AirBuds app.
Even at max volume, the sound remains crisp and distortion-free. These are some of the best-sounding budget wireless earbuds available.
While not quite at the same level, the QCY HT05 still provides very good sound quality for the price. The bass is impactful and the volume gets a touch louder than the Redmi buds.
You can also tweak the sound profile in the QCY app. Most people will be more than satisfied with the audio from the HT05.
Battery Life
You can get significantly longer playtime on a single charge with the Redmi Buds 5 Pro – around 10 hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned off, depending on volume.
They also automatically pause music when removed from your ears to further extend battery life.
In comparison, the QCY HT05 last for approximately 7.5 hours with ANC off. They lack the auto-pause sensor found on the Redmi buds.
Pricing
At the time of writing this article, the Redmi Buds 5 Pro cost around $60, while the QCY HT05 is much cheaper at approximately $25.
Prices may fluctuate over time and vary by region. The Redmi earbuds command a significant price premium.
Best Deal:
Redmi Buds 5 Pro: View on AliExpress
QCY HT05: View on AliExpress
Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5 Pro vs QCY HT05: Final Verdict
The Redmi Buds 5 Pro are the superior product in this comparison, with advantages in Bluetooth version, battery life, wearing comfort, active noise cancellation, and sound quality. The case materials and build quality are also a step up from the QCY HT05.
However, the QCY HT05 remains an excellent value for the money, with good overall performance at a much lower price point. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate what the HT05 offers.
In the end, if you can afford the extra cost, go for the Redmi Buds 5 Pro for the best user experience. But if you want to spend as little as possible, the QCY HT05 are a great affordable alternative that doesn’t sacrifice too much in terms of core functionality and audio quality.
So, you can’t go wrong with either pair depending on your needs and budget.
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Redmi Buds 5 Pro vs Baseus Bowie MA10 Pro
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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.
