Redmi Buds 5C Review: Amazing sound on a budget

The truly wireless earbuds space is one of the most competitive segments in the market, with brands fighting to get the most market share. Although this competition is good for customers, it does make choosing the right earbuds harder, as people have to go through multiple listings. So when Redmi sent their all-new Buds 5C for a review, I was quite excited. The Buds have 12.44mm titanium drivers and support for 40dB of hybrid noise cancellation for just Rs. 1,999. After testing them for a week, here is my review of the Redmi Buds 5C.

Redmi Buds 5C Review: Design & Comfort

I love pill-shaped cases! They are practical, look better, and can be opened with one hand. This form factor instantly made the Redmi Buds one of my favorites. Even if you don’t share the same enthusiasm, the practicality of a pill-shaped case is definitely a big advantage. I tested the frosted blue variant of the Buds, and it’s the best option of the bunch. The unique color is a conversation starter, and its frosted finish prevents fingerprints and smudges.

Thankfully, the case also includes a physical pairing button at the bottom, which makes pairing the earbuds to a new device pretty straightforward.

The earbuds themselves feature a standard glossy body with a stem, which also doubles as a touchpad. In terms of comfort, they are top-notch. The buds are lightweight, making them comfortable for long periods, even for those with sensitive ears. Plus, you get two additional ear tips in the box if the standard ones don’t fit well.

Redmi Buds 5C Review: Controls & Companion app

While sound quality is the main judging factor, controls are also essential, as no one likes to fiddle with their earbuds. Unlike the Nothing Ear (a), the controls on the Redmi Buds 5C, which work by tapping or long-pressing the stem, function smoothly. Users can configure up to eight different actions, ranging from a single tap on either earbud to triple tapping and holding to perform specific tasks.

As you might expect, all customization is done through the Xiaomi Earbuds app, which is packed with additional features. You can tweak their soundstage using the built-in equalizer and adjust how your earbuds sound to suit their preferences. However, if you’re unsure which settings to change, you can choose from four pre-set options, such as Enhance Treble or Enhance Bass.

Additionally, the app includes toggles to turn noise cancellation on or off and a “Find Your Earphone” feature, which plays a high-volume sound from both earbuds to help you locate them if they’re lost.

Redmi Buds 5C Review: Sound Quality & ANC

When testing budget earphones, the first thing that often comes to mind is the bass, as companies sometimes use it to mask other shortcomings. Surprisingly, the Redmi Buds 5C doesn’t have an overpowering bass at all. It is adequate and doesn’t interfere with the clarity of the notes.

Speaking of sound clarity, I tested the buds with tracks like “Oxytocin,” “Like That,” “Bye Bye Bye,” and “Like a Prayer” and found the sound quality to be top-notch for the price. Paired with Apple Music, I could hear all the instruments clearly, and the buds managed the highs very well. Although the lows were a bit lacking, this won’t be an issue for the average listener.

Xiaomi claims that the hybrid system can block up to 40 dB of sound. In my testing, the ANC was effective at reducing most household noises, such as a fan, AC, or road noise while traveling. Additionally, it proved useful during phone calls, helping to minimize background distractions.

Finally, the call quality on the Redmi Buds 5C is decent. It’s comparable to other buds in this price range—your voice will come through clearly, though it might not sound entirely natural to the person on the other end.

Should you buy the Redmi Buds 5C?

Starting at Rs. 1,999, the Redmi Buds 5C are among the best budget earphones available. With excellent sound quality, a fantastic design, and functional controls, they are a solid choice for anyone wanting quality earbuds in this price segment.