79
Samsung
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
- Excellent value for money at budget price point
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Solid active noise cancellation for the price
Xiaomi
Xiaomi Buds 5
Best Value
0 /100
Our Verdict
Excellent value for money with impressive noise cancellation and audio quality that rivals more expensive competitors. A solid choice for budget-conscious listeners who don't want to compromise on features.
Detailed Scores
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional value for money with premium features at budget price
- Up to 10 hours battery life with case (40 hours total)
- Effective active noise cancellation with multiple modes
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes and secure design
- Dual drivers for balanced audio across frequencies
Cons
- Noise cancellation slightly less effective than premium models
- Touch controls can be inconsistent at times
- Limited companion app features compared to competitors
- Microphone quality adequate but not outstanding for calls
Specifications
Driver 10mm dual drivers
Connectivity Bluetooth 5.3
ANC Up to 40dB reduction
Battery Life (Buds) 10 hours (ANC on), 14 hours (ANC off)
Battery Life (Case) 40 hours total
Charging 2.5 hours (case)
Water Resistance IP54
Weight 4.2g per earbud
Codecs LDAC, AAC, SBC
Frequency Response 20Hz - 20kHz
Where to Buy
Amazon.co.uk
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Compare With
93
Sony
Sony WH-1000XM6
- Industry-leading noise cancellation
- 40-hour battery life
- Exceptional sound quality
92
Bose
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation with multiple modes
- Exceptional audio quality with deep bass and crisp highs
- Ultra-comfortable ear cups with memory foam padding
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
The Xiaomi Buds 5 offer 10 hours of playback with ANC enabled and up to 14 hours with ANC disabled. The case provides an additional 30 hours of battery, for a total of 40 hours.
Are these earbuds water-resistant?
Yes, the Xiaomi Buds 5 have an IP54 rating, which means they can withstand splashes and light rain, making them suitable for workouts and casual water exposure.
How effective is the noise cancellation?
The ANC provides up to 40dB of noise reduction, which is effective for everyday use like commuting and office work. It's not quite as strong as premium models, but it's excellent for the price point.
What devices are compatible?
The Xiaomi Buds 5 work with any device that supports Bluetooth 5.3, including iPhones, Android phones, tablets, and computers. They're fully cross-compatible.
Can I use these for phone calls?
Yes, the Xiaomi Buds 5 have dual microphones for call quality. While adequate for most calls, they're not specialized for call clarity like some business headsets.