Selection of budgetary TWS-The headphones turned into a real quest in 2026, especially when it comes to classic models from Xiaomi. Users are often lost in titles, since the AirDots S and AirDots 2 models (also known as Redmi AirDots 2) are visually almost identical. However, the internal filling and software they have significantly different, which directly affects the sound quality and stability of the connection.
The main confusion is that both models come in the same compact cases and have similar ergonomics. Many buyers buy the device believing it is the same, but are faced with different response rates or microphone quality. In this article, we will conduct a deep technical analysis to let you know exactly what you are paying for.
We'll look at the key differences in Bluetooth protocols, game delays, and real-time battery life, and understanding these differences will avoid disappointment after buying, and let's figure out which of these two sisters deserves a spot in your pocket right now.
Design and Ergonomics: Are There Differences?
At first glance, it seems almost impossible to distinguish between the AirDots S and AirDots 2 bodies. Xiaomi engineers have retained the recognizable glossy plastic and minimalist shape of the beans. Each headphone weighs about 4.1 grams, making them almost weightless in the ears even when worn for long periods.
However, if you look at the labeling, you can see the difference: the MW300TB model designation is often found on the inside of the AirDots 2 cups, whereas the predecessor labeling may differ depending on the region of supply. The build quality of both models remains high for the budget segment, but the back cover of the case in the newer version (AirDots 2) is subjectively felt slightly less due to the modified hinge.
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to disassemble the headphones yourself to check the model inside.This will lead to loss of warranty and can damage the fragile membranes of the speakers.
The ergonomics of the fitting are the same for both versions, because they use the same silicone fitting pattern, they are securely fixed in the ear, but with active sweating they can slide, and for sports it is better to use additional fixers or replacement mounts of larger size, if they come with a kit.
Specifications and Bluetooth versions
The main argument for the newer model is support for modern communication standards. Xiaomi AirDots 2 is equipped with a chip with Bluetooth 5.0 support, which provides a more stable connection and less power consumption compared to previous versions, this is especially important in noisy air conditions, for example, in the subway or shopping centers.
The AirDots S, while popular, builds on earlier solutions that may have a shorter range, and the difference in confident signal reception distance can be anywhere from 5 to 10 meters in open space, and when used with a smartphone in a pants pocket, this difference can be noticeable.
The comparison of key technical parameters is presented in the table below:
| Characteristics | Xiaomi AirDots S | Xiaomi AirDots 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth version | 5.0 (implementation may vary) | 5.0 (optimized) |
| Codec | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Moisture protection | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Headphone weight | 4.1 g | 4.1 g |
Importantly, both devices support AAC codec, which is critical for iOS users, allowing sound to be transmitted with minimal quality loss on Apple devices. However, for Android devices, the difference in implementation of the Bluetooth stack may be more pronounced.
AAC sound quality and codec
Both models feature 7.2mm dynamic drivers tuned to a balanced sound, and the AirDots 2 basses sound a little more assembled and less buzzing than the first version, the result of a fancy-tuning acoustic camera inside the body.
Use of a codec AAC It unlocks the potential of high-bitrate tracks, and if you listen to music through streaming services in high quality, the difference between the two is that you're not a good player. SBC and AAC It's going to be visible even on budget acoustics, and the sound scene is going to be quite narrow, which is typical for a small audience. TWS-The form factor, but the detail of the average frequencies is pleasing.
Secrets of equalizer setting
Both models have the maximum volume for urban use, but the power reserve may not be enough in very noisy places, and distortions at maximum volume appear later on AirDots 2, which indicates a better performance of the amplifier.
Sound delays in games and video
One of the most painful issues for gamers is latency. In AirDots 2, engineers have managed to reduce latency to about 120 ms in game mode if it is supported by a particular app or smartphone. For AirDots S, this figure may be higher, as seen in dynamic shooters like PUBG or Call of Duty Mobile.
When you watch videos on YouTube or Netflix, there's little or no sense of sound or picture desynchronization in any of the models, because modern players can buffer the flow, and the problems begin in real time, when buffering is impossible.
- 🎮 AirDots 2 is better for gaming because of the streamlined data protocol.
- 🎬 For movies and TV shows, you probably won’t notice the difference between the models.
- 📞 For video calls, both models work stably, but the microphone of the second version better cuts off background noise.
If you play professionally on a mobile phone, even 120 ms can be tangible, so it’s worth considering models with a game mode and even lower latency, but in comparison of these two brothers, the second version wins.
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To reduce latency, close all background apps on your smartphone before you start the game, which will free up the resources of the Bluetooth module.
Autonomy and working time
The battery is the Achilles heel of many TWS-Headphones, but Xiaomi is doing well here. 2 can work before 4 The case provides more than one continuous playback on a single charge at medium volume. 2-3 full charge, which in total gives about 12-16 hours.
The AirDots S model is showing similar results, but battery degradation can occur more quickly over time due to a less efficient power controller. Real-world run time is heavily influenced by volume: at 100% volume, the headphones will run out in about 2.5 hours.
Charging is done via a Micro-USB port, which is already a morally obsolete solution in 2026, and the lack of fast charging and the use of modern USB Type-C makes it possible to put up with a long energy recovery time of about 1.5 hours to full charge.
☑️ Checking battery status
Management and compatibility with smartphones
Both models are controlled through mechanical buttons on the headphone body, which is more reliable than touch control in the budget segment, because it eliminates accidental triggers from touching hair or clothing. Presses are clear, with a pleasant tactile response.
For full configuration and firmware updates, it is recommended to use the Mi Earbuds application (or built-in functionality in the app). MIUI/HyperOS). It's a good way to go through it:
- 🔄 Update firmware to improve stability.
- 🔊 Configure button functions (for example, activation of voice assistant).
- 🔋 Control the charge of the left and right headphone separately.
⚠️ Note: When updating the firmware, make sure that the case and headphones are at least 50% charged. interruption of the process can lead to a brick of the device.
Compatibility is high with any Android or iOS devices. However, owners of Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones get an additional bonus in the form of an instant pop-up with a battery charge when opening the case.
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The presence of a companion application significantly expands the functionality of headphones, allowing you to customize the control to your needs.
Final verdict: what to choose?
To sum up, the Xiaomi AirDots 2 is an evolutionary evolution of the lineup, offering slightly more stable connectivity, improved audio processing and lower latency, and the price difference between them and the S version is often minimal, making the two-piece choice obvious.
The AirDots S is still a good option if you found it at a very good price or it came as a gift.It’s still a working horse for podcasts, audiobooks and casual music.
In 2026, it’s worth buying new hardware with an eye on the relevance of standards. So if you have to choose either-or, take AirDots 2 for a more modern chipset and better optimization.