Choosing wireless headphones from Xiaomi is not an easy task: the brand offers more than a dozen models in different price categories, from budget Redmi Buds to premium Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro 2. Each line is focused on specific use cases: some are ideal for sports thanks to IP54 moisture protection, others please audiophiles with the support of LDAC codecs and aptX Adaptive, others stand out with a record autonomy time of up to 30 hours.
In this guide, we analyzed 12 current models (June 2026 data) based on not only technical specifications, but also real-world user experience. You will learn which headphones are best for listening to music, which are best for calling in noisy conditions, and which will be the best choice for running or gym. Particular attention was paid to nuances that are often ignored in reviews: for example, why Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro can be uncomfortable for small ears, or how to properly configure ANC in FlipBuds Pro to avoid the effect of “congestion”.
We also debunk popular myths: Is it true that the Redmi Buds 5 Pro sound better than the flagship models of two years ago? Should you overpay for Bluetooth 5.3 if your smartphone only supports 5.0? And why even in headphones for 15 000? ₽ There may be no multipoint (simultaneous connection to two devices.
Key Choice Criteria: What to Look at First
Before comparing specific models, define your priorities. Here are 5 parameters that are really important:
- 🎧 Type of design: liners (for example, Redmi Buds 4 Lite) or intrachannel (like Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro). The former sit less tightly, but do not create pressure in the ear, the latter provide better noise insulation, but can cause discomfort when wearing for long periods of time.
- 🔋 Autonomy: in the budget segment (<5 000 ₽) norm — 5-6 on a single charge (with the case - up to the 20 Flagships (FlipBuds Pro) 2) hold up 9 clockwise ANC and 30+ case-hour.
- 🎵 Codecs: for Android smartphones critical aptX Adaptive (minimizes delays), for iPhone — AAC. Models with LDAC (For example, Buds 4 Pro transmit high-resolution sound, but quickly plant the battery.
- 🏃 Water protection: for sports you need a minimum IP54 (Sweat and splash protection. Redmi Buds 5 — IP55, FlipBuds Pro 2 — IP54, but with the specification "not for swimming".
- 📞 Microphones and ANC: The number of microphones is important for calls (optimum - 4).+ technologic ENC) And there's active noise reduction. ANC It is often “decorative” (for example, in Redmi Buds 4 Active).
A critical mistake most buyers make: choosing headphones only for the price, without considering compatibility with your smartphone. For example, Xiaomi Buds 3T Pro will not unlock the potential of sound on the iPhone due to the lack of support for aptX, and Redmi Buds 5 can “slow down” when connecting to old Android devices with Bluetooth 4.2.
⚠️ Note: If your smartphone is released before 2019 Check out Bluetooth support for the year 5.0+ In the specifications. Headphones with Bluetooth. 5.2/5.3 will work, but without the benefits of low power consumption and stable connection.
Top.-5 Xiaomi models 2026 year: comparative table
We selected the 5 most balanced models in different price categories, taking into account the price/quality ratio, user reviews and test results (data from GSMArena, RTINGS.com and 4PDA).
| Model | Price (June 2026) | ANC | Autonomy (with ANC) | Codecs. | Better for you. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro 2 | 14 990 ₽ | ✅ (48 dB) | 6 h/24 h/ | LDAC, aptX Adaptive, AAC | Audiophiles, calls, ANC |
| Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro | 9 990 ₽ | ✅ (43 dB) | 7 h/28 h/ | LDAC, aptX Adaptive, AAC | Music, games, universal use |
| Redmi Buds 5 Pro | 6 490 ₽ | ✅ (35 dB) | 5 h/22 h/ | aptX Adaptive, AAC | Sport, budget ANC |
| Xiaomi Buds 4 | 4 990 ₽ | ❌ | 8 h/30 h/ | AAC, SBC | Long listening, podcasts |
| Redmi Buds 4 Active | 2 490 ₽ | ❌ | 5 h/20 h/ | SBC | Minimalism, second set of headphones |
Note: Autonomous time is indicated with active use in mind ANC (Without noise reduction, all models are operated on the 1.5-2 And the table doesn't include promotions like Buds. 4 Pros are often sold on 7 990 ₽ during sales on AliExpress or in the official Xiaomi store.
💡
FlipBuds Pro 2 is the only model in the lineup with Bluetooth LE Audio support, which guarantees minimal sound delays and improved call quality.
Best headphones for music: Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro vs FlipBuds Pro 2
If your priority is sound quality, the choice comes down to two flagship models, both of which support LDAC (lossless audio transfer up to 990 kbps), but there are nuances:
- 🎶 Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro: Warmer sound with a focus on low frequencies (ideal for hip-hop, electronic music). 11 mm speakers with titanium coating - better work bass. Support for aptX Adaptive for Android and AAC iOS.
- 🎶 Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro 2: Balanced sound with a focus on medium and high frequencies (suitable for vocals, classics, jazz). Dual Dynamic Drivers technology (dual speakers) - wider sound scene. Bluetooth support LE Audio (the future of wireless sound).
In RTINGS.com tests FlipBuds Pro 2 assessed 8.1/10 squirm 7.8/10 buds 4 Pro. The difference is subjective, however: if you like a powerful bass, the first model may seem "empty." EQ-settings in the Xiaomi Earbuds app (available for Android).
How to check the sound before buying? In official Xiaomi stores (for example, at the Mi Store in the shopping center), there are often test stands. Take a high-quality track with you (for example, FLAC 24-bit) and compare:
- Bass: Seven Nation Army - The White Stripes (100 Hz)
- Middle Frequency: "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen (vocals by Freddie Mercury)
- High frequencies: "Clocks" - Coldplay (the piano at the beginning of the track).
⚠️ Attention: In headphones with LDAC (For example, FlipBuds Pro 2) when connecting to a Windows PC, there may be no sound. The problem is solved by installing a Bluetooth Audio Driver from Qualcomm (download on the official website).
Budget choice: Redmi Buds 5 Pro or Xiaomi Buds 4?
If the budget is limited to 7,000 ₽, These two models are the best candidates, but they solve different problems:
- 💰 Redmi Buds 5 Pro (6 490 ₽): There is. ANC (It's a simple one, 35 dB vs. 43 dB for flagships, and it's a call-friendly stable design, and it's aptX Adaptive support. ~80 ms. Water protection IP54 — can be used in the rain.
- 💰 Xiaomi Buds 4 (4 990 ₽): Record autonomy - up to 30 hours with a case (without a case) ANC). Lightweight (4.1 grams per earpiece) - can't be felt in the ears. Simple design without legs - less dust is collected. No ANC, Passive noise insulation at Sony level WF-C700N.
Who's gonna do what?
- 🏃 Redmi Buds 5 Pro – for those who often call, play sports or want to play sports ANC for minimal money.
- 🎧 Xiaomi Buds 4 – for music and podcast lovers who care about autonomy and comfort.
Secret Life Hack: Redmi Buds 5 Pro can manually disable the ANC via the app to save charge. Buds 4 doesn't have that option - noise insulation is always passive.
How to reset Redmi Buds 5 Pro headphones to factory settings?
Headphones for sports: what to pay attention to
For the gym or running, three parameters are critical: water protection, fixation and weight.
- 🏋️ Redmi Buds 5 (4 490 ₽): Waterproofing IP54 — It can withstand sweat and splashes, weighing 4.6g per headphone. + Ergonomic design. ENC For calls (useful if you train with a video coach).
- 🏃 Xiaomi Buds 3T Pro (5 990 ₽): ANC 40 dB -- blocks noise in the hall. Pressure sensor -- automatically adjusts sound when you change height (relevant for running in the stadium). AptX supports video synchronization without delay.
What's more important: ANC or waterproofing? If you're in a noisy gym (crossfit, group training), ANC will help you concentrate. For street jogging, IP54+ is the priority and reliable fixation. Note the package: Redmi Buds 5 has 4 pairs of embroideries (including the size XS), and Buds 3T Pro only 3.
⚠️ Note: Do not use headphones with ANC When you're running down the street, it blocks external sounds (like car signals), which is dangerous. ANC fully.
Make sure there are ambushes of your size in the kit.
Check the fixation - shake your head, headphones should not fall out
Test moisture protection - drip water on the body (not on the speaker!)
Compare weight - optimally up to 5 g per headphone
-->
Hidden functions and settings: how to unlock the potential of headphones
Even Xiaomi’s budget models have hidden features that are not mentioned in the manual. Here are 5 useful tips:
- 🔊 Setting up ANC (For models with noise reduction: In the application Xiaomi Earbuds you can select the level ANC: Light (for office), Balanced (for general), or Deep (for airplanes) FlipBuds Pro 2 also has Adaptive mode. ANC, which automatically adjusts to the surrounding noise.
- 🎛️ Control Customization: For example, in Redmi Buds 5 Pro, you can assign a double touch to the left/right ear to call a voice assistant, switch tracks, or enable Transparency Mode.
- 🔋 Fast charging: In Buds 4 Pro and FlipBudds Pro 2 5 briefcase 2 To activate, connect the case to the power source. 9V/2A (smartphone adapter).
- 📱 Multipoint (Simultaneous Connection to Two Devices): Supported only in FlipBuds Pro 2 and Buds 4 Pro. To connect the second device, hold the button on the case for 3 seconds until the white indicator flashes.
- 🎧 Seat test: Xiaomi Earbuds app has a built-in test that checks if the headphones are sitting correctly. If the tightness is below 80%, the sound will be worse - try other earbuds.
For models without an official application (for example, Redmi Buds 4 Active), you can use third-party utilities like MaterialPods (Android) or EarBuddy (iOS).
- Set up an EQ (Equalizer) setting.
- Monitor the level of charge of each headphone separately.
- Update the firmware (if available).
For most models, the update is automatically done when you connect to the Xiaomi Earbuds app. However, Redmi Buds 5 and Buds 4 sometimes require a manual update:
- Open the application and go to Settings → Firmware Update.
- Make sure the headphones are connected and charged at 50%+.
- Don't interrupt! In case of a failure, the headphones may stop turning on.
💡
If after updating the firmware headphones began to sound worse, reset to factory settings (see spoiler above) and set up EQ again.
Frequent Problems and How to Solve Them
Even the top Xiaomi models have common bugs, and we've compiled solutions to 5 of the most common problems:
- 🔌 Headphones do not connect to the phone: Remove the device from the list of conjugated in Settings → Bluetooth. Reset your headphones (see spoiler instructions above) Check if Search Mode is on (white flashing on the case).
- 🎵 The sound is interrupted or slowed down: Turn it off. ANC — It consumes a lot of resources. SBC (Make sure there are no obstacles between the phone and the headphones (walls, furniture).
- 🔋 Battery goes down fast: Turn it off ANC And Transparency Mode when you don't need them. SBC instead LDAC Or aptX. Store your headphones in a case — they discharge even when they're off.
- 📞 The person who's not hearing well on the calls says, Clean the microphones (they're on the headphone leg). ANC — It can suppress your voice. Use only one earpiece (left or right) to make the microphone work better.
- 🎧 Headphones fall out while running: Try other sized embusheries (usually included) 3-4 Check the fixation - "pin" the earbud in your ear until you feel a "vacuum." Use sports tape for additional fixation (sold separately).
If the problem is not solved, check the warranty card. In Russia, the official warranty for Xiaomi headphones is 12 months (when buying in authorized stores).
⚠️ Warning: Don't buy Xiaomi headphones on Avito or Yula without checking! Frequently sell fakes (especially Buds 3 Pro and FlipBuds Pro models). ~40 g, the presence of a hologram on the box, a brand font on headphones.