Xiaomi’s Redmi Buds series remains a strong contender in the budget wireless earbuds market, featuring models such as the Redmi Buds 6 Play and Redmi Buds 4 Active.
Both provide excellent value, but how do they compare?
If you’re having trouble choosing between these two affordable options, this article will explain their differences so you can make a well-informed decision.
Table of Contents
Redmi Buds 6 Play vs Redmi Buds 4 Active: Specs Comparison
| Feature | Redmi Buds 6 Play | Redmi Buds 4 Active |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Button-style design, compact, plastic matte finish | Stem-style design, lightweight, plastic matte finish |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 (resistant to sweat and light rain) | IPX4 (resistant to sweat and light rain) |
| Battery Life | 7.5 hours per charge, 36 hours with case (57mAh earbuds, 600mAh case) | 5 hours per charge, 28 hours with case (34mAh earbuds, 440mAh case) |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Multipoint Connectivity | Yes | No |
| App Support | Xiaomi Earbuds app (Android & iOS) | Xiaomi Earbuds app (Android & iOS) |
| Driver Size | 10mm dynamic drivers | 12mm dynamic drivers |
| Price Range | $10-€14 | $10-€15 |
Design and Build Quality
Both earbuds are made entirely of plastic, which is expected at their price point. The material, while lightweight and practical, is prone to scratches, so using a silicone case might be a good idea for long-term durability.
- Redmi Buds 6 Play: Compact with a button-style design that sits snugly in the ear. The case is slightly larger but includes a button to reset pairing, a feature missing in the 4 Active.
- Redmi Buds 4 Active: Features a stem design, which some may find more secure, especially during workouts. The case is slightly smaller and easier to carry in your pocket.
Both models have a matte finish, include USB-C charging, and come with an IPX4 water resistance rating, making them resistant to sweat and light rain.
If portability and comfort are top priorities, the 4 Active might edge out, but the 6 Play offers additional practical features like the pairing reset button.
Connectivity and Features
Both models share several connectivity features but differ in a few key areas.
Bluetooth Version:
- Redmi Buds 6 Play: Bluetooth 5.4 (more efficient and stable).
- Redmi Buds 4 Active: Bluetooth 5.3.
Multipoint Connectivity:
The 6 Play supports connecting to two devices simultaneously, a feature missing in the 4 Active.
App Integration:
Both models are compatible with the Xiaomi Earbuds app, available on Android and iOS. Through the app, you can customize touch controls, check battery levels, and select pre-defined equalizer modes.
Both lack advanced codecs and rely on SBC codec, which is standard in budget earbuds.
If multipoint connectivity is essential for you, the Redmi Buds 6 Play is the better choice. However, both provide stable connections and low latency, making them suitable for watching videos and casual gaming.
Audio Quality
Sound quality is where these earbuds cater to different preferences.
Redmi Buds 6 Play: Features a 10mm dynamic driver, delivering a more balanced sound profile with better clarity in mid and high frequencies. This makes them suitable for various music genres, especially if you prioritize vocals or treble.
Redmi Buds 4 Active: Equipped with a 12mm dynamic driver, they lean heavily on bass, offering more punchy lows. This is ideal if you enjoy bass-heavy tracks or want a fuller sound in low frequencies.
Both models perform well for their price, but if you prefer a balanced sound signature, the 6 Play is the way to go. For bass enthusiasts, the 4 Active provides a more satisfying experience.
Microphone Performance
Microphone quality is another area where the Redmi Buds 4 Active outshine the 6 Play.
Redmi Buds 4 Active: Thanks to the stem design, which positions the microphone closer to your mouth, they deliver clearer voice calls and better noise cancellation in outdoor environments.
Redmi Buds 6 Play: The microphone performance is decent but falls short in noisy environments.
If you frequently make phone calls or need earbuds for meetings, the 4 Active would be a better choice.
Battery Life
Battery life is one of the most significant differences between these earbuds.
Redmi Buds 6 Play: Equipped with a 57mAh battery in each earbud and a 600mAh charging case, they deliver up to 7.5 hours of playback per charge and up to 36 hours total with the case.
Redmi Buds 4 Active: Features a smaller 34mAh battery in each earbud and a 440mAh case, providing around 5 hours of playback per charge and 28 hours total with the case.
In real-world usage at 50% volume, the 6 Play lasts about 7 hours, while the 4 Active offers only 4 hours, making the 6 Play the clear winner in this category. However, neither model supports wireless charging—standard for this price range.
Pricing and Availability
Both earbuds are priced competitively, but their actual prices often fluctuate during sales or promotions:
- Redmi Buds 6 Play: Officially priced at $14.99, but frequently available for around $10-12.
- Redmi Buds 4 Active: Initially priced at $19.99, now often sold for $10-15.
Both are excellent value for their price, but the 6 Play generally offers better features and battery life for a similar cost.
Best Deal:
Redmi Buds 6 Play: View on AliExpress
Redmi Buds 4 Active: View on AliExpress
Which Should You Buy?
So choosing between the Redmi Buds 6 Play and the Redmi Buds 4 Active really comes down to what matters most to you.
Go for Redmi Buds 6 Play if:
- You need longer battery life.
- Multipoint connectivity is essential.
- You prefer a more balanced sound profile.
Go for Redmi Buds 4 Active if:
- You need better microphone performance for calls.
- You prefer a bass-heavy sound.
- Comfort during workouts is a priority.
Both models offer incredible value, but the Redmi Buds 6 Play edges out slightly for its overall practicality and versatility. If battery life and balanced audio are your main concerns, it’s the better pick. However, if you prioritize call quality and bass, the Redmi Buds 4 Active won’t disappoint.
Related:
- Xiaomi Redmi Buds 6 Active vs Redmi Buds 5: Which One Wins?
- Xiaomi Redmi Buds 6 Active vs Lite vs Play – What’s the Difference?
- Xiaomi Redmi Buds 6 Active vs Buds 4 Lite: My Pick
- Xiaomi Redmi Buds 6 Lite vs Redmi Buds 5: Which to Choose?
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.
