What is different from Earbuds Xiaomi: a full guide to models 2026

Xiaomi’s wireless headphones have long been synonymous with a combination of quality, technology and affordable price. But even experienced users often confuse the two popular lines of the brand, AirDots and Earbuds. At first glance, both types look the same: compact cases, no wires, Bluetooth support. But the difference lies in the details – from chips and codecs to ergonomics and the target audience.

In this article, we will analyze 7 key differences between AirDots and Earbuds, analyze current models of 2023-2026 (including AirDots 4 Pro, Earbuds 4 and Earbuds S), and give a checklist for choosing your tasks.

If you are already looking for a particular model, scroll to the comparative table or FAQ-And for those of you who are just starting to understand the topic, let's start with the basics of what these names mean and why Xiaomi splits the headphones into two lines.

1. Origin of Names: Why AirDots and Earbuds?

The term “earbuds” is used by Xiaomi to refer to basic models with a focus on accessibility and versatility. ANC (Active noise reduction) or adaptive equalizer, but offer stable sound quality and long-term autonomy. For example, Xiaomi Earbuds Basic 2 or Earbuds 3 Pro Lite are positioned as the “first wireless headphones” for users on a budget.

AirDots is a premium line (despite the affordable prices), where the emphasis is on:

• 🎵 Advanced Sound Technology: Codec Support LDAC, AAC, noise-canceling.
• 🔋 Fast charging and high battery capacity (for example, AirDots 4 Pro holds up to 30 hours in a case).
• 🤖 Deep integration with Xiaomi ecosystem: automatic switching between devices, voice assistant Xiao AI.

Interestingly, AirDots was originally a separate brand run by Xiaomi (like Redmi or Xiaomi). POCO), But since 2021, the line has been fully integrated into the company's main catalog, leading to confusion: some models (such as the AirDots 3 Pro) are still sold under the old brand, although in fact they are part of the Earbuds family.

⚠️ Note: If you see the word "Pro" in the model name, or «SE» — This is almost always a sign of AirDots, even if the description says "Earbuds". For example, Xiaomi Earbuds 3 Pro is actually renamed AirDots 3 Pro.

2. Technical differences: chips, codecs and sound

The main difference between AirDots and Earbuds is the hardware, the chips used and the sound formats supported, and let's look at how this affects sound quality and compatibility.

Earbuds base models (e.g. Earbuds Basic 2 or Earbuds S) are equipped with Realtek budget chips. RTL8763 or BES2300. They only support basic codecs:

• 🔊 SBC — standard Bluetooth codec, provides acceptable quality, but without the "depth" of sound.
• 🎧 AAC — It is better at transmitting high frequencies, but only on Apple devices (android often works worse). SBC).

AirDots models (such as AirDots 4 Pro or AirDots 3) use more advanced chips:

• 🎛️ Qualcomm QCC3040/QCC5141 — Support aptX Adaptive (for low latency) and LDAC (high-bitrate 990 quid).
• 🔇 BES2500 — It allows for hybrid noise reduction (ANC) and adaptive equalizer.

📊 Comparison of sound capabilities:

⚠️ Note: If you use AirDots with Apple devices (iPhone/iPad), codec LDAC It will not work, iOS will only support AAC and SBC. This means the sound will be worse than on an Android smartphone with the same headphone.

3. Design and Ergonomics: Which is more convenient for sport and everyday use?

The form factor of both types of headphones is similar — they are classic in-ears with silicone earbuds.

Earbuds are usually lighter (3–4 It's a little bit smaller, like the Earbuds S, it weighs just a gram. 3,7 They are very low in weight, but they can fall out when you're moving (running, exercising), and the manufacturer compensates for this with extra slacks in the kit (usually a slack). 3 size: S/M/L).

AirDots are heavier (4.5-5.5 g), but they have:

• 🏃 More reliable landing thanks to ergonomic shape and additional wings (for example, in AirDots 4 Pro).

💡 If you’re looking for sports headphones, look for models with ribbed texture on the body (like AirDots 3.

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Before buying, check for the compatibility of the earbags with your ear: take a cotton swab and measure the diameter of the ear canal. If it is already 5 mm, choose models with earbags of the size of the earbag. XS (For example, Earbuds Basic 2).

4. Autonomy and charging: who holds the longer?

Here, AirDots clearly benefit from more capacious batteries and optimized power consumption.

Earbuds (basic models):

AirDots (advanced models):

• 🔋 Headphones: 6-8 hours (with ANC — 5:00).
• 📦 Case: 20-30 hours (up to 4 full charges).
• ⚡ Type of charging: USB-C + Wireless charging (in AirDots 4 Pro).

📊 Comparison of charging time:

⚠️ Note: In Earbuds models with Micro-USB (e.g. Earbuds Basic), the connector often breaks after 6-12 months of use. USB-C (Even among the basic Earbuds).

Select a model with USB-C (not micro-USB)|

To clarify the actual working time with ANC (if necessary)|

View reviews about the durability of the battery|

Check for fast charging support (if important)

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5. Device Compatibility: Android vs iOS

Both lines work with any device via Bluetooth, but full-featured features are only available in the Xiaomi ecosystem.

On Android (MIUI):

• 🤖 Automatic connection to multiple devices (e.g. smartphone) + laptop).
• 🎛️ Set up the equalizer through the Mi Earphones app.
• 🔊 ANC Transparent mode (only in AirDots).

On iOS (iPhone/iPad):

• 🍎 No support. LDAC and aptX, the sound will be worse.
• 🚫 Automatic switching between devices does not work.
• ⚠️ Mi Earphones app is not available in the App Store – settings are limited to system.

💡 Key takeaway: If you have an iPhone, the difference between AirDots and Earbuds comes down to design and autonomy.The sound benefits of AirDots on iOS don't materialize.

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For iPhone owners, it’s better to choose Earbuds – they’re cheaper and the sound will be the same as AirDots due to iOS restrictions.

Price and target audience: what to choose in 2026?

Cost is the main factor that separates Earbuds and AirDots. Here are the current price ranges (at the beginning of 2026):

Earbuds (basic models):

AirDots (advanced models):

• 💰 4 000–7 000 ₽ — justifiably, if necessary ANC, High quality sound or sports design.
• 🎯 Target audience: music lovers, athletes, owners of Xiaomi devices (for full integration).

📌 Recommendations for 2026 models:

⚠️ Note: In 2026, Xiaomi began to gradually phase out the AirDots lineup, replacing it with Earbuds Pro. For example, AirDots 4 Pro is already sold under the name Earbuds 4 Pro in some regions!

7. Comparative Table: AirDots vs Earbuds (current models 2026)

For clarity, the key parameters were summarized in one table:

💡 Conclusion: If you only need headphones for subway calls and music, Earbuds Basic 2 is enough. If sound, noise cancellation and long work are important, take AirDots 4 Pro. For iPhone, Earbuds 4 is optimal - overpaying for AirDots does not make sense.

FAQ: Frequent questions about AirDots and Earbuds