Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Wi-Fi Review


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Investigative Overview:

The Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro WiFi in Black, model BHR9647GL, boasts AI Translation & Dictate functionality, promising instantaneous translations and transcriptions—at least in theory. This feature supposedly syncs exclusively with select Xiaomi 15 smartphones and the Xiaomi Earbuds app, raising questions about compatibility and practicality.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

On the upside, the triple driver system featuring an 11 mm dynamic driver and planar & PTZ tweeter appears to deliver a rich audio experience across a broad frequency range, claiming true HiFi sound quality. The Active Noise Cancelling feature, with up to 55dB ANC and a 5kHz ultra bandwidth, hints at immersive acoustic isolation. However, the efficacy of the 3 microphone ENC technology for call clarity seems somewhat promising, considering the notorious challenges in this area.

Audio Enhancement and Lossless Technology:

Audio connoisseurs may appreciate the AudioEFX utility for sound customization purportedly refined by experts from Harman. Additionally, the integration of Qualcomm Lossless Audio technology aims to achieve premium bit rates, potentially elevating the listening experience.

Package Contents:

Each purchase includes 1 pair of Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro, a charging case, a variety of earplug sizes for custom fitting, and an English user manual. While the product description may sound enticing, the reality often differs—so, stay cautiously optimistic.

Key Technical Specifications

  • AI Translation & Dictate: Translations and transcriptions at the touch of a button and almost in real time. Only in conjunction with selected Xiaomi 15 smartphones and Xiaomi Earbuds app.
  • High Sound Quality: Triple driver with 11 mm dynamic driver for rich bass and planar & PTZ tweeter for true HiFi sound in a wide frequency range.
  • Active Noise Cancelling: Up to 55dB ANC at an ultra bandwidth of 5kHz for immersive sound. 3 microphone ENC for improved sound quality for clear voice calls and messages.
  • AudioEFX & Lossless Audio: Fine-tune the sound by experts in Harman and Qualcomm Lossless Audio technology for maximum bit rates.

Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro: A Deep Dive into Xiaomi’s Latest Audio Offering

The launch of the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro WiFi Black has stirred the audio enthusiast community, promising revolutionary features like AI translation, transcription, and high-fidelity sound. But how does it fare against other giants in the wireless earbuds market? Let’s delve into a comparative analysis.

Compelling Sound Performance with a Catch

With its triple driver setup, Xiaomi is making a bold statement about its sound quality. The 11 mm dynamic driver is geared to deliver robust bass, while the planar and PTZ tweeter aims to offer a truly HiFi experience. Compared to stalwarts like the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro, the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro competes on relatively even ground in audio quality. However, potential users should note that true audio epiphanies remain contingent on synergy with select Xiaomi smartphones and its proprietary earbuds app, making it less appealing for only casual listeners or those outside the Xiaomi ecosystem.

Active Noise Cancelling: A Mixed Bag

The promise of up to 55dB ANC is impressive and stands toe-to-toe with market leaders like Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. However, real-world performance and user reviews highlight a discernible gap between claims and execution. While office settings and moderately noisy environments experience a noticeable hush, bustling city sounds might still penetrate, positioning Xiaomi’s buds slightly behind its peers that boast more refined noise-cancelling algorithms.

AI Translation and Transcription: A Niche Feature

Xiaomi’s AI translation and transcription is a novel addition, mirroring efforts by devices like Google’s Pixel Buds. Yet, this feature’s efficacy depends heavily on pairing with specific Xiaomi 15 smartphones, restricting its allure to a niche segment. For polyglots or global travelers entrenched within the Xiaomi tech umbrella, this feature undoubtedly adds intrinsic value. However, for the broader public, interchangeability across devices remains desirable.

Battery Life and Usability: Competitive Yet Conventional

The package’s support items, including a charging case and diverse earplug sizes, are standard within this segment. Certain competitors, like Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, might offer more longevity or extras like wireless charging. However, when considering the comprehensive integration Xiaomi aims to achieve, it remains comparative in its convenience, albeit not boundary-pushing.

Who Should Buy the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro?

From an editorial lens, the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro are best suited for dedicated Xiaomi users who can fully exploit the cross-device functionalities. Music lovers seeking impeccable audio detail might appreciate its Harman fine-tuning and Qualcomm Lossless Audio technology when paired with compatible tech. While its features are cutting-edge in many respects, potential buyers should meticulously evaluate if their lifestyle and tech repertoire align with these offerings, ensuring full-blown satisfaction from these earbuds.

Price: 292.54

Posted by Matthew Miller

Matthew Miller is a Brisbane-based Consumer Technology Editor at Techbest covering breaking Australia tech news.