Realme has officially introduced its latest neckband earphones, the Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC, to the Indian market. Launched alongside the Realme 14 Pro series, these earphones bring an impressive combination of hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC), 360° spatial audio, and extended battery life at a budget-friendly price. Aimed at audio enthusiasts and gamers alike, the Buds Wireless 5 ANC offers a robust feature set tailored to the mid-range audio segment.
Specifications of Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC
The Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC is equipped with a 13.6mm dynamic bass driver, which ensures a rich and immersive audio experience, especially for bass-heavy tracks. At its core is the BT8931H chipset, which guarantees balanced sound output and a stable Bluetooth connection.
One of the standout features is its 50dB hybrid active noise cancellation capability. This ANC system incorporates three adaptive noise reduction levels, allowing users to effectively block out external sounds, whether in noisy commutes, offices, or during outdoor activities. The hybrid ANC system makes the earphones ideal for creating a focused and immersive audio environment.
Gamers will appreciate the Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity paired with 45ms ultra-low latency mode. This combination minimizes lag and ensures a smooth gaming experience, syncing audio perfectly with visuals. Additionally, the earphones support dual-device connectivity, making it easy to switch between a smartphone and a laptop without the hassle of reconnection.
For a more immersive audio experience, the neckband features 360° spatial audio. This technology enhances sound directionality, making it a great companion for entertainment and gaming sessions, as users can enjoy a surround-sound-like experience.
Built to Withstand Tough Conditions
Designed with durability in mind, the Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC comes with an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance. This makes it a suitable choice for workouts, outdoor runs, or use in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The neckband itself is lightweight, weighing just 30 grams, ensuring maximum comfort even during prolonged usage.
The build quality extends to its microphone system as well. The device features a five-microphone setup with Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC), offering crystal-clear voice capture for calls. Additionally, it is equipped with 4000Hz ultra-wideband noise cancellation, which further enhances clarity, particularly in noisy environments.
The earphones also integrate seamlessly with the Realme Link app, giving users the ability to customize equalizer (EQ) settings, switch between ANC modes, and tweak other audio preferences to suit their needs.
Impressive Battery Performance
Battery life is one of the defining strengths of the Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC. With ANC turned off, users can enjoy up to 38 hours of uninterrupted playback, making it a reliable companion for extended use. When ANC is activated, the battery life still provides a respectable 20 hours of performance.
The neckband supports fast charging, offering 20 hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging. This feature ensures minimal downtime and keeps users connected to their music, games, or calls without long waits for recharging.
Pricing and Availability
Realme has set the price for the Buds Wireless 5 ANC at ₹1,799 ($20), with an introductory launch price of ₹1,599 ($18) for early buyers. The earphones will go on sale starting January 23, 2025, and will be available through multiple platforms, including Amazon, Flipkart, Realme’s official website, and offline retail stores.
The Buds Wireless 5 ANC is available in three elegant color options: Twilight Purple, Midnight Black, and Dawn Silver, catering to a wide range of style preferences.
Competition in the Audio Space
The Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC enters a competitive mid-range audio market with notable features that set it apart. However, rivals like Lenovo and Baseus are also upping their game with feature-rich products.
Lenovo recently launched the EA400 clip-on earbuds, which come with 13mm drivers, IPX5 water resistance, 24-hour playback, and spatial audio capabilities. Meanwhile, Baseus has introduced the BD1 TWS earbuds, featuring 8.6mm drivers, a 35-hour battery life, dual-mic ENC, and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity.
Final Thoughts
The Realme Buds Wireless 5 ANC is an impressive addition to the mid-range audio category, offering features typically found in more expensive products. With its hybrid ANC, spatial audio, low latency, and long battery life, it appeals to a broad audience, from gamers to casual listeners and fitness enthusiasts.
Coupled with its affordable pricing and durable build, the Buds Wireless 5 ANC is positioned as a compelling choice for anyone seeking high-quality audio on a budget. As it hits the shelves, it will be interesting to see how it fares against competitors in an increasingly crowded market.
