Why Xiaomi Headphones Are Still the Best Choice in 2022
Xiaomiβs wireless headphones have been leading the market for several years thanks to an optimal combination of price, sound quality and innovative features. In 2022, the company released several models that compete not only with budget counterparts, but also with flagships from Sony and Apple. However, a variety of lines β Redmi Buds, Xiaomi Buds, Haylou β often puzzles customers: which model to choose for music, sports or calls?
In this guide, we analyzed the TOP-5 model 2022 They tested them on real-world scenarios, from listening to music in the subway to hours of use in the hall. Not only technical specifications, but also unique Xiaomi chips that are rarely mentioned in reviews were taken into account - for example, compatibility with the Mi Earphones proprietary application for equalizer settings or codec support. LC3 If you're looking for headphones for a specific task, read on.
Key selection criteria: what to look for in 2022?
Prioritize before you buy, and in 2022, even Xiaomiβs budget models got features that were previously only available in the premium segment.
- π΅ Sound quality: dynamic drivers (from 10 mm) vs balance fittings, codec support AAC/aptX/LC3.
- π Autonomy: real working time (not passport!) with the regime in mind ANC and volume.
- π Convenience: weight, shape (inlays vs vacuum embushures), degree of protection IP54/IP55 sport.
- π Microphones: quantity (2 vs 4), noise cancellation ENC call-in.
- π° Price/Quality: In 2022, the gap between the 3,000 and 8,000 models β½ minimal.
Expert lifehack: If you listen to music in traffic often, ANC (active noise cancellation) is the priority. IP55 and a reliable landing are more important for sports. Gamers need LC3 or aptX Low Latency codecs to synchronize sound with video.
TOP-5 wireless headphones Xiaomi 2022: a comparative table
We selected the best models for price/quality based on sound, ergonomics and autonomy tests, and the table shows real data, not the manufacturer's claims:
| Model | Type | ANC/ENC | Autonomy (h) | Protection | Price (2022), β½ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Buds 4 Pro | Inlays | ANC (40 dB), ENC | 9 (with ANC)/36 (case) | IP54 | 5 990 |
| Xiaomi Buds 4 | Inlays | ANC (35 dB), ENC | 8 (with ANC) / 30 (case) | IP54 | 6 490 |
| Haylou GT6 | Inlays | ENC (no ANC) | 10/40 (case) | IP55 | 3 290 |
| Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro | Full-size | ANC (42 dB), ENC | 11 (with ANC) / 28 (case) | IP54 | 7 990 |
| Redmi Buds 3 Lite | Inlays | No. | 5/20 (case) | IP54 | 1 990 |
β οΈ Attention: data on autonomy are given at volume 60% and on ANC (In conversation mode, the working time is reduced by 20-30%.
Best Music Choice: Xiaomi Buds 4 vs Redmi Buds 4 Pro
If your priority is sound quality, then in 2022 two models are leading: Xiaomi Buds 4 and Redmi Buds 4 Pro. Both are equipped with 12 mm speakers with titanium coating, but there are key differences:
- πΆ Xiaomi Buds 4: Support for the LDAC (990 kbps, more balanced high and low frequencies, ideal for classical and jazz.
- π§ Redmi Buds 4 Pro: codecs AAC/aptX Adaptive, reinforced bass. Better for electronic music and hip-hop.
- π Both models support ANC, But Buds 4 has a softer performance (35 dB vs 40 dB for Redmi).
π‘
To activate LDAC mode on Xiaomi Buds 4, go to Bluetooth Settings β Sound Quality β Sound Priority on Xiaomi smartphone.
The Xiaomi Buds 4 is better at delivering sound details, but the Redmi Buds 4 Pro is better at autonomy and price. If you listen to music through Spotify or Apple Music, the difference will only be noticeable at high volumes.
π‘
For audiophiles, Xiaomi Buds 4 with LDAC. For bass music and economy, Redmi Buds 4 Pro.
Budget segment: Haylou GT6 and Redmi Buds 3 Lite
Not ready to spend 6,000.+ β½? In 2022, even for 2,000-3,500 β½ You can get decent headphones:
- π° Redmi Buds 3 Lite (1 990 β½): Minimalist design, Bluetooth 5.2, but no ANC and ENC. Suitable for rare calls.
- π Haylou GT6 (3 290 β½): defence IP55, ENC for calls, 10 hours autonomy. Best choice for sports.
β οΈ Attention: Redmi Buds 3 Lite weak noise insulation β in the subway or aircraft will have to raise the volume to 80%, which reduces the working time to 3-4 hours.
How to check the originality of the Haylou GT6?
If your budget is tight but you need fitness headphones, take the Haylou GT6 - they don't fall out when running and have sweat protection. Redmi Buds 3 Lite is enough for rare use, but prepare for compromises on sound.
For calls and conferences: what to choose?
If headphones are needed mainly for calls, pay attention to:
- The number of microphones (optimally β 4, like the Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro).
- ENC (noise reduction at the microphone level)
- Bluetooth 5.3 support for stable connection
Best Option in 2022: Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro (7,990) β½). They are equipped with hybrid ANC (up to 42 dB) and 4 microphones with technology AI Noise Cancellation: In tests, the voices of the participants were clear even in noisy cafes or on the street.
The Redmi Buds 4 Pro (5,990) β½). Theirs. ENC worse suppresses background noise, but for home use or office calls, this is enough.
Test in a noisy place (street, subway)
Wind Check (should suppress wind noise)
Comparison with wired headphones (clearness of voice)
-->
Compatibility with devices: what do you need to know?
All Xiaomi 2022 headphones support Bluetooth 5.2/5.3 and are compatible with Android, iOS and Windows.
- π± On smartphones. Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO Extended features available: quick pair (Mi Pop-up), gesture settings in Mi Earphones.
- π The iPhone doesn't work. LDAC (only AAC), ANC may be delayed.
- π» Windows PCs may have problems with aptX β a separate Bluetooth 5.0 adapter is required+.
β οΈ Warning: If you use headphones with MacBook, turn off ANC Bluetooth settings β this will solve the problem with the sound breaks.
For full use of functions (for example, firmware or equalizer), install official applications:
Mi Earphones (for Xiaomi Buds and Redmi Buds)
Haylou Fun (for Haylou GT6)